The saying catch them young is common especially in Africa.For one to be a King he is trained at a tender age,that is the story of Manamike Whatmos,a pageant model and Miss Teen Zimbabwe International.In an exclusive moments he shares with us details about his modelling future.He also shares with us challenges and the future of a teen model in Zimbabwe.

Q:Can you introduce yourself to our readers by telling us your bio? A. I am Manamike Whatmos,aka SONz Manamike(IG/FB), a 21-year-old male model in Zimbabwe. I am currently holding the title of Mr. Teen Zimbabwe International king 2022. I have to say that it has been quite an honour. Growing up it has always been a dream of mine to become a role model and inspire young children and people of my age. First time being on television or YouTube was when I was part of a documentary known as ( EAGER Namibia-kids)Voice of southern Africa 5years ago. Filming felt good teaching people and helping other’s in different ways that one can know of.

Q:You are the reigning Mister Teen Zim International,what does it mean being a teen model in Zimbabwe?A:Being a teen model in Zimbabwe is a journey of self-discovery and resilience. It’s about representing the youth, their dreams, and their aspirations. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges such as lack of sponsorship, acceptance, and support.

Q:One might ask why pageantry and instead of commerical or fashion runway modeling?A:Pageantry allows me to showcase not just my physical attributes but also my personality, intelligence, and values. It’s a platform where I can inspire others, bring happiness and let them experience the moment in time, especially the youth. Commercial or fashion runway modeling, while also rewarding, does not provide the same level of personal engagement.

Q:Teen models have faced a number of challenges in Zimbabwe among them include sponsorship,has that been same issue with you?A:Yes, lack of sponsorship has been a significant challenge for me as well. It’s a common issue among teen models in Zimbabwe. However, I believe that with determination and hard work, we can overcome these obstacles. So I have personally decided to change the game. It’s time we Think out of the box and advance, introducing new activities and inspire more people while least embracing the culture of Modeling.. with God’s grace I will begin my journey of grooming young models into shining stars by the end of April 2024 ,come join and support… 

Q:What other challenges have you faced A:Apart from lack of sponsorship, acceptance, and support, I have also faced challenges in terms of balancing my modeling career with my studies and personal life. It’s a constant struggle to maintain a balance and excel in all areas.

Q:Who inspires you and why?A: I’am inspired by Ishmael Murangandi, aka The Crown Hunter is a well-known figure in the modeling industry, both nationally and internationally. He has achieved numerous titles and is the founder of the only male pageant in Zimbabwe. I see him as a role model because of his success, influence, and dedication to the industry.

Q:Tell us about your reign as the King how you received the news that you are the new King?A:Winning the title of Mr. Teen Zimbabwe 2022 was an overwhelming experience. I was filled with joy and gratitude. It was a validation of my hard work and dedication to modeling.

Q:Do you believe some teens of your age understand the meaning or role of a model?A: I believe that some teens do understand the role of a model, but there’s still a lot of misconceptions. A model is not just about physical appearance, it’s about inspiring others, representing a brand or a cause, and making a positive impact.

Q:Which title are you eyeing as you grow up?A:As I grow up, I am aiming for more prestigious international titles like Mr universe. I want to represent Zimbabwe on the global stage and make my country proud.

Q:Aside from model what great career are you planning to be in future ? A:Aside from modeling, I am studying to become a Certified diesel plant fitter. I believe in having a diverse skill set and I am passionate about this field as well as I call it THE GAME…

“Art in the Time of War” Exhibition by Multi-Talented Artist Kwanele Finch Thusi

Celebrated model, choreographer, and Mr. Africa International SA, Kwanele Finch Thusi, is set to unveil his latest artistic endeavor, “Art in the Time of War,” a captivating exhibition featuring a collection of powerful black and white self-portraits. The exhibition is scheduled to open its doors on January 26, 2024, inviting art enthusiasts and the public to witness a unique exploration of themes such as war, climate change, and technology.

Kwanele Finch Thusi, recognized for his multifaceted talents, brings a fresh perspective to the world of art with a collection that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. The self-portraits featured in this exhibition serve as a poignant reflection on the impact of war, climate change, and technology on our collective human experience.

Each meticulously crafted black and white self-portrait invites viewers into a world of emotion and contemplation, aiming to evoke a profound response that goes beyond the surface. Through his art, Thusi delves into the complexities of our contemporary existence, urging the audience to confront the stark realities of the world we live in.

The exhibition promises an immersive experience, allowing attendees to engage with the artist’s vision and delve into the layers of meaning embedded within each piece. “Art in the Time of War” is not just an exhibition; it’s a journey through the lens of one of South Africa’s most dynamic and thought-provoking artists.

The admission is free and open to the public
Kwanele Finch Thusi’s “Art in the Time of War” exhibition invites us to question, reflect, and ultimately, connect with the profound emotions that accompany the human experience during times of conflict, environmental challenges, and technological advancements.

THE RETURN OF KING NOBLE IN THE RAMP

With the absence of King Shadel Noble in the runway ramp, many had started to speculate that the King has retired from runway modeling.
And opted to focus on commercial modeling.

Noble is a multi-award winning model who has participated in online pageants earning him titles such as Mister Zimbabwe and Mister Globe 1st runner up.

He made his come back at the Bulawayo Fashion Week’s first edition which was hosted in Bulawayo on the 15th of December.

The former Mister Zimbabwe wh i catwalks during the show wearing BK designs a fashion brand owned by a Zimbabwean designer.
Informed that his participation at the runway as his come back in the ramp, was to put a statement to the world about his come back and what a better way to do that in his hometown.

Noble is among Zimbabwean models who have carried Zimbabwe’s flag in their shoulders at international modeling ramps.

The former Mister Zimbabwe has represented,the country in fashion shows such as Mpumalanga Fashion and Design show ;SA Mens Fashion Week;Fashion Without Borders;Swaziland Fashion etc.

He believes his come back will make a statement and a mouth piece for him to international fashion week organisers .

At the just ended , Bulawayo Models Awards during weekend.History was written,among those who were written in the history of modeling include,Mister Africa International first runner up,Future Nyoni.

Nyoni who was on cloud nine few months ago when he won,the Mister Africa International first runner title and Best Suit Dressed Gentleman during the Mister Africa International pageant 2023.

His celebration tripled when he was recognised as the Best Runway Model of the province,during Bulawayo Models Awards’s second edition.

In his accepting speech,King Nyoni appreciated the support that he has received from his wife,family and friends in his modeling career.

Nyoni in this season catwalked in a number of regional shows such as Beautiful Africa fashion show in Malawi and Global African Fashion Coalition in Botswana. He wore designs that were product of Blessing Munjeri a multi_award international Zimbabwean based designer.

Mister Africa International 1st runner up is eyeing in spreading his runway talent beyond the African continent next year

A busy week it is for the former Mister Zimbabwe title holder and fashion icon Shadel Noble.

The multi-award International model,is eyeing to walk away with gongs from different awards ceremony this weekend.

Mister Noble who is well known for being a history maker is nominated at the Top 100 Awards (Most Influential and Entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders awards).

The purpose of these awards is to identify,honour and celebrate a cross-section of the nation’s most influential and accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders from a wide range of industries.

The event usually attracts more than 250 delegates.

The event is set to be held on the 16th of December,in Bulawayo at the Derby Hotel.

Shadel Noble   is regarded by many as the King of modeling especially when it comes to runway modeling

While on the 17th of December,Mr Noble will be attending the Bulawayo Models Awards second edition.

His nominated under the category,model of the year category.

Noble in the past has scooped a number of awards and has been recognized of his work.
He has hold the titles such as Mister Zimbabwe,Mister Globe Africa ,Mister Zimbabwe International etc.

Mzolisi Mtshayisa,is among Bulawayo Models who are nominated at the 2nd edition of the Bulawayo Models Awards.In a dialogue with him,he explains what it means being nominated in three categories. He further informs what it will mean to win the three gongs after his nomination.

Q.What does it mean being nominated at Bulawayo Models Awards?A.It really means a lot, I’m honored and motivated to see that my hard work as a model has been noticed. And honestly I wasn’t expecting all these nominations it really caught me off guard but I’m very much grateful.

Q.Take us to the categories you are nominated in?A.Most Photogenic- my shoots have caught the eye of many, and I have my photographer to thank for bringing my ideas to life

Outstanding Newcomer- even though I’m rather still fresh and new in this industry, I’m already being noticed and I’m doubling quite well in building a name for myself.

Outstanding teenage model- I find this one very interesting as I am the only male nominated in this category. It’s such an honor to see that I came out Outstanding amongst all teens, which comes to show that, hard work really pays

Q.Winning the gongs?A.This will challenge me to be a better model than I am today as I know that people will now be more interested to see what more can I bring to the industry.