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Appearing in one of the biggest and most recognized pageants in his home country,Charlie Tinotenda James
‘s dream came true.As he became the second runner up for the Mister Zimbabwe International.
In a conversation with him, provides a brief insight of what the pageant was like and what motivated his journey during the competition.

Q : Can you provide a brief background about yourself?

A:My name is Charlie Tinotenda James aged 23years.I live in Norton with my beautiful parents and four handsome little brothers.l come from a good family with morals and l am always guided to do the right thing always,you know how parents are and special thanks to them because if it wasn’t for their good upbringing,l don’t know where l would be right now,truly l am guided by the best.As a person,l am very ambitious and life driven.l thrive on challenges and constantly set goals for myself so that I have important things to strive towards.

I am never comfortable in settling for less,that’s why l am always looking for opportunities to do better and achieve greatness just like l did at Mr Zimbabwe International awards.l am very punctual and loves to do my work at the right time.I like to eat healthy food,mostly the ones which are less than 500 calories because keeping myself in shape is my main priority as a fashion and commercial model.

I am currently studying towards my diploma in SAFETY,HEALTH & ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT.l have worked with ZIMPLATS & GLENRISE INVESTMENTS.Recently l got awarded TOP MODEL,2nd RUNNER UP & 2nd PRINCE  at  Mister Zimbabwe International 2022  which was held on the 30th of April,in The City of Kings & Queens.

Surely it is a City of Kings with our grand winner FRANCISCO KAMPIRA residing in Bulawayo.

In addition,apart from modeling,l am a cook.

l have a strong passion for food,l cook very well,my mom taught me when I was eleven.ln future when funds permit ,l would love to build a nice restaurant for my mom.She’s the best cook ever and l will strive with excellence so that one day,my dream of owning a restaurant comes to reality.

Q:Why did you enter Mister Zimbabwe International  and how did you get the message about auditions of the pageant? 

A:I joined Mr Zimbabwe  International to showcase my taste of fashion,talent,boost my confidence for future opportunities and also to learn new things.

l didn’t get the message from anyone but l just bumped into it on Instagram not knowing that others had already joined in January and when l saw it,it was early March.

 l followed the page and dm,fortunately l got a quick response and l was asked about my biography.l was given the number to call the director lshmael Murangandi,then l called and he nicely explained everything and the project l needed to do.That day marked a beginning of a great future for me.

Q:What was your greatest achievement throughout the competition ?

A:This was my very first time competing in a pageant,therefore my greatest achievements were the accolades l received through hard work and dedication.

However it proved to be a great opportunity for me to make connections and grow my network.

It also helped me improve my presentation skills,confidence and perseverance.At the end of it all,whether you win or lose, you realize what you have to offer and improve so that next time fortune favours you.

Q:How was your journey like?

A:Like the saying goes,‘There’s always a first for everything,’.

This was my first time and I believe you me,it wasn’t easy.At first l didn’t think that l was going to make it,because I had joined later than the other contestants.

Firstly l would like to acknowledge the wonderfully organized pageant ever seen  and also l want to thank all the kings for the love,memories and brothership shared and enjoyed.No one ever felt out of place because it was all love and respect.

l would love to appreciate the love and support l got from my one and only amazing director lshmael Murangandi.He would tell me that,son l cannot assure you that you will get the crown but if you put all your dedication and commitment to this,definitely you will get awarded and get recognition.On our first rehearsal,l was scared and all the way my heart was racing out of fear.

My whole life,l hate failing and loss,that’s me.

I managed to do my project and out of three of them,l chose to do charity programme.l donated stationery for grade ones.

I went to a local school,named Turf Primary School and l met the kids there,they were so happy and the teachers were very thankful as well.

Regarding this project l would like to thank one of my best friends,Macmelo Tembo who accompanied and supported me  on this journey.

Throughout this whole journey,director has been such a great friend,l testify.

May the good Lord continue to bless him and fulfill his desires.

In addition,the hospitality we received from his mom,Mrs Mandemwa ,wow! l was so impressed,no words can explain what a great mom she is.

Honestly l met an angel in person,she made my stay in Bulawayo,a memorable one.Words cannot express my gratitude but l know God will richly bless her. 

A job well done in grooming and mentoring me,all heartfelt gratitude goes to lshmael Murangandi.

Now l believe that l am one of the best contestants out there,through courage,dedication and confidence.

Greatest moments were when we showed each other love,not hate because we became real brothers and l am happy that my social circle got enlarged.I befriended everyone and l made a best friend and he actually proved me right by scooping BEST PERSONALITY award,his name is Trevor.Lameck.

I want to thank all the kings,starting with Tanaka the drama king,all he did was making us laugh the entire time,Ashwin was very helpful to me,especially on the final day,he helped me dress my outfits.Verve was always chilled and friendly,just to mention a few but not forgetting our thoughtful king Lashley,who couldn’t make it but had to send nice sashes for us,thank you king .

Fortunately l was awarded TOP MODEL,2nd RUNNER UP and 2nd PRINCE.

Special thanks to God Almighty who sailed me through and also the tireless efforts made by lshmael well known as THE CROWN HUNTER.

Q:What is next for you in terms of pageant competition?

A:In terms of pageant competition,my aim is to go big and bigger.l want to go to international level and showcase my style and talent.

I am looking forward to do pageants like Mister Supranational,Man of the Earth and Mister-Friendship because these shows are recognized globally and it gives me more opportunities to explore and gain exposure.

As a model it helps me to interact with other models from other countries.

From it all,l will attain knowledge,exposure and experience as well.

Q:Who inspired you through out the pageant competition?

A:Elton Chimhau inspired me throughout the whole journey.He could give me tips on how l should dress and present myself.Besides being my inspiration and a supporting brother,Elton is also my photographer well known as DREW.All the time he would tell me to be serious,dedicated,committed and strive for the best.He told me about questions that l will be likely to be asked and luckily from the chain of questions he told me,l got one there.However l also received immense support from all angles,starting with my very own family,which was my biggest strength and pillar.Friends and peers also showed me so much support.Lastly Thabang Molaba,a well known actor and a model,inspired me,through out the pageant competition.l would want to be where he’s now and probably exceed.

Q:What are the two words that define you..?

A:Organised and passionate are the two worlds that define Charlie James.However l am one dedicated and loyal model.

With me l carry  umbleness,honest,transparent,respect and always come ready to work and please my client.

Q:What sets you apart from other models,that made the judges to choose you as the runner up.?

A:My passion for clothing design,smartness,uniqueness and photography sets me apart from other models.

l would like to say that modeling is not one dimensional career path because the more l know about production,the better l can perform.Also my strength are my good features and intelligence which convinced the judges that l deserved the RUNNER UP award because we were given questions and l nailed it like a star.

Q:What lessons did you learn about other models and from them

A:Throughout this whole journey,l learnt a lot from my fellow kings.One of the most important life lessons you will always come across is the fact that you are never alone.The guys enriched my life,also increased my sense of belonging and purpose.Through them l improved my self confidence and self worthy.Among us it was all love,it was like we have known each other our whole lives because we bonded like one family.l learnt that we should always support each other no matter what and all in all l was told to work hard and always strive for the best.

Q:Any words to those who have been supporting you from day one 

A:First and foremost,l would like to thank God Almighty ,without whom l am nothing.

I received overwhelming support from different angles worldwide,mostly my family,friends and even strangers from social media.l just want to thank everyone for being with me throughout the whole journey,because for a team to win and stand it’s ground,the spectators needs to be present and cheering for their team.

Not forgetting Jemima,our current Miss Environment, Flora and Fauna 2022 and Thumi as well who won 2nd runner up for Miss royalty.

Guys l love and appreciate you so much for voting for me on People’s choice,thanks to Thandie,Clive,Robert and Russell just to mention a few for pushing the votes.

I appreciate you,you’re the best,l deeply appreciate you for the support and enabling atmosphere.

Q:Who are some of the models who are your inspiration in the world of modeling 

A:Tinotenda Chinyani,Zviko Motsi,Drnash,Bibo,Thabang Molaba and Jesse Suntele.

Believe me,l have been idolizing these guys and l would like to follow their footsteps especially Thabang,he’s my best.

Their dedication and giving back to the society has awaken a greater me.

We don’t need to be good and remember the society and the less fortunate just because we are in a pageant,it’s a must do.

Q:Companies or brands you would like to work with.

A:It will be an honor if l manage to work with old mutual,Nyaradzo,Jan-jam,Edgars,Jet,Venice men’s wear,Topics and Stylebyminieofficial,just to mention a few. 

It was a pleasure sharing a stage with such good looking,dedicated and humble kings.Personally I am greatly honored and humbled because l learnt notable and important things from each and every one of them.To those who didn’t make it,don’t give up,don’t be discouraged,together we are winners and like my friend Trevor said,’Winners don’t just get to the first possession but they finish what they have started.Special thanks to director Murangandi for such a nice platform created,time,sponsorship and resources invested to make the event a success.

• It’s always a privilege for a model to work with well established designers and models need to learn to appreciate that opportunity , however it’s not always the other way round . Without mo
• Q:   Adie Meshach can you tell us about yourself?              A:Adie Meshach is a published award winning Fashion model,A Fashion Stylist and an Entrepreneur . Currently working on launching his Fashion brand. (Walking Manikin Enterprises ) an upscale clothing line(ready to wear, high fashion, sustainable and eco-friendly pieces) targeted at males and females between the ages of 20 – 50yrs respectively, as an alternative to existing clothing Brand.

Q:What do you love about the Modelling industry?A:Basically I would say the shows, glamour and lifestyle.. Beautiful pieces on the runway. The leverage to travel round the world and work with amazing people in a short time. It’s a gateway to stardom for some models and a lot had leveraged on that opportunity to create something meaningful for themselves.

Q:Give us an insight background of the Modeling industry of your country ?    .The modelling industry in Nigeria is fast growing compare to 10 years ago. Models are getting placement in the abroad to walk bigger shows of the seasons.. Which is a dream come true for every model.

Q:At any point what are the challenges that young models from your country are facing and  how they can be solved?       A:Modelling in Nigeria as a career which  is difficult because of limited fashion Shows and bookings. Apart from Lagos where everything entertainment happens.. Models get paid peanut in other states,here in Nigeria . some hardly get paid… Some Designers would feel they are doing  models a favour by working with them. (some designers would tell the models, they would use the photos to update their portfolio) But they just concluded. Uyo Fashion Week was a beautiful show where models where treated of the international standard.. From booking of flights, reservations, transportation and feeding.. I respect the the organiser(s) of the show.
Models should be respected, not molested and being paid when booked accordingly. Freelance suffers the most. Becausein most cases there’s no agent /agency to speak on their behalf. So I think the best way to go, it’s to be represented, hence your interest as a model will be protected legally.

Q: Why did you join the Modeling agency Reivon Models agency ?  A: never knew I was going to be a model. I was scouted back then,when I was in the University in my 100 level by (REIVON MODELS MANAGEMENT) MOTHER AGENCY, and was placed to (CATCH 22 MODELS MANAGEMENT LAGOS) .

   Q: Headlining at Uyo fashion Week has been one if your greatest achievements what did you like mostly about the show ? A:The Uyo Fashion Week 2022 was an amazing experience full with fun and excitement. That wasn’t really my greatest achievements, I have done a couple of shows across the country and headline a few that made waves across national news papers such “Gaurdian and The Punch news Papers” in regards to the aforementioned show, it brought delight ,creativity, designers, public figures from far and near. The City of Uyo witnessed a great show and I bet they can’t wait for another season to come as the show was and it’s the talk of the town and other social media space . What I love most about the show like earlier stated, is the degree of hospitality and welfare shown to the models, it was top notch .Day one, I did 2 shows, and day two i did 5 shows. All designs were carefully curated to suit the taste of their market audience I would say. They were some established designers in the show, The likes of Ejiro Amos ,Millini Classics, Makamba and Boyedoe from Ghana has to be my all time favorite.. I’m a fan of Street Wear Fashion/ Jiggy Fits.

Q:During the show which collection did you like mostly?   A:Definitely has to be “Swanky Jerry”. A celebrity fashion stylist I consider a fashion god.

Q:Which shows are you planning to headline this year    A:Lagos fashion week and GT Fashion weekend will be upon us very soon from August to November.. And I I’m looking forward to walking the Shows.

Man of the Earth pageant is meant to advocate for the nature of the world such as clean air,water and above all for the Earth environment to be clean. Marvell Adhya Pratama is currently the reigning ,Mister Man of The Earth.In a chitchat with him, he provided as insight about himself and on what inspired him to take part in the pageant Mister Man Of The Earth .

Q:Can you tell us who is the Mister Man Of The Earth?A:My name is Marcell Adhya Pratama, from Indonesia. Graduated with a degree in Communication and Public Relation and work as a flight attendant in Batik Air Local Airlines, Indonesia. Winner of Man Of The Earth 2021.  

Q:How would you describe yourself? A:I describe myself as a young and ambitious man whose aim is to affect the lives of others who look up to me. A lover of environment and so keen about taking care of the mother Earth. A lover of Cats and fitness trainings. 

Q:What inspired you to take part in the pageant,Mister Man Of The Earth?A:Having a platform to represent my country in a world pageant and seeing a pageant that suites my personality. The advocacy of Man Of The Earth is a life transforming advocacy that can trigger the best in you and the love for environment.

Q:In terms of legacy, what type of legacy are you going to leave for the modeling industry?A:I don’t really need much. I just want a leave a legacy that people would look up to and say “Marcel Adhya was a great environmentalists and because of his love for environment, i also will work hard to protect mother Earth” 

Q:How have you managed to reach out to your community since you embarked in your journey as the king?A:I have done a project. I cleaned up the beach and had to invite some organization to help assist in the cleanup. Because i know its not about wearing a crown, its about actualizing the purpose for being crowned. 

Q:Many have been wondering what is the secret that has allowed, Male pageant models to be dominated by Pacific-Asian models?

A:I believe it all boils down to personal preparations before embarking on a journey. I can tell that if everyone uses the P-Factor(Proper Preparation Promotes Powerful Performance) i used while going on a pageant journey then it wouldn’t be only the Pacific-Asian models that would succeed.  

Q:What do you love about the modeling industry ?A:The pageant industry increases your sense of fashion. It creates a great portfolio for you as a person because almost everything is related to fashion. The modeling industry boosts your personality in terms of  self coordination. A model must be a role model to others. 

Q:Besides being a model what is your other occupation/profession?A:My other occupation is that I am a flight Attendant .

Q: The world celebrated world earth,water and forest days .What did it mean to you?A:It means a whole lot to me because our nature needs to be appreciated and celebrated even if i know global warming, earthquakes and other natural disaster are becoming worse but the earth still needs to be celebrated. The earth houses all human beings, the water sustains us which we use in cooking and used in doing practically everything and the forests gives us our books, meals and other resources. The Mother Earth Needs Celebration 

Q:After you hand over your title what is next for you as a model?A:I would like to give inspiration to all young model in the future which i know i have started affecting lives.

MOMENTS WITH KUNASHE KAYS ~HOW AFRICAN YOUTHS CAN FIGHT ENGAGING INTO DRUG ABUSES ACTIVITIES.

Kunashe Kays is a 27 year old model who participated at the recently pageant,Mister Zimbabwe International as one of the finalists.
We interacted with Kunashe about his modelling journey and his experience as part of the finalists of Mister Zimbabwe International.
In addition ,Kunashe Kays speaks out about what young African’s can do to fight drug abuse

Q:Who is kunashe kays?
A:Kunashe Kay’s is Petros Kunashe Makuwire.
Born on the 8th of february 1995, in the city of Harare.
I’m fortunate to have an extended family though I was raised by a single mom who has been my pillar of strength and my cheerleader.
I am a chef by profession and i have worked in several food outlets and restaurants.
I also gained my cooking and baking experience in TM Pick n Pay group of supermarkets. I have a strong passionate for food, this has clearly made me give back to the community by starting baking classes using YouTube.
I also have been doing different cakes for different occasions.
I strive with excellence so that one day my dream will come when I get to operate a big restaurant and eventually opening a culinary school.

Q:You are part of the Mister Zimbabwe International Finalist how had been your journey so far?
A:The day i met Mr Ishmael on instagram it was like a dream come true.
I was not expecting a quick response but he responded within the same hour of messaging him and luckily my journey began.
My journey has been really focused on growth, appreciation and humanitarianism.
I’ve learnt that having looks and a well masculined trimmed body isn’t what Mister Zimbabwe International is just all about, but rather it’s about your personality, tolerance, and the brains. These characteristics clearly speaks volume over Mister Zimbabwe International crown.
I have also learnt that being really doesn’t cost a thing, which others note that its only costs $0.00 to be a generous person, hence it’s one learned character as part of my journey so far.
I have learnt also on giving back to the community, we would get time to visit children’s homes and foster houses.
I was privileged to get to understand the other side of life, appreciating some people who are not having the basic commodities, so this has helped me discover that from the little thing that one can actually put a smile on someone’s face. I have learnt that I dont just have to be a model pageantry so that i can be able to give back to the community.

Q: Why do you believe you carry the characteristics of the king ?
A:The very first and vital charecteristic that I have is being assertive.
Assertive means showing that you respect yourself because you’re willing to stand up for your interests and express your thoughts and feelings, being confident in simple terms. As a model, confidence, excellent articulation and courage are, important, I believe I possess these qualities which are vital for one to carry the King crown.
As a model one has to be well represantable,an influencer in the community and someone who can impact positively in people’s lives. Criticism has been one of the drawbacks in most modeling peagants and it has impacted adversely hence, I’ve taken criticism as constructive and helps me to correct any lacking quality or performance. I’ve used it positively to come out stronger and better.

Q:What has been your greatest moment since your journey began?
A:Atfirst i was still doubting if i was going to sail through but all heartfelt gratitude goes to my Director Ishamael.
He has been patient with me, imagine starting to teach a 3 year old how to read and write, this was me at the beginning but now I believe I’m one of the best contestants through courage, dedication and confidence.
The greatest moment since my journey began would be when we (and other contestants) visited children’s homes for charity work/project and socializing.
It impacted positively to me and to the ophanes.
Generous, love and care is simply taught there. Seeing the jovial children just being delighted because of our presence, and charity work, was heart warming.

Q:What is your take of how African youths can fight against drug abuse?

A:I believe as a youth of today most have lost their morals, norms and values of our African culture.
As a modern era were things have become digitalized internet had become our parent and this has been influencing youth to indulge in hate crimes, drug abuse which have caused so many damages to youth and the society at large. In order to fight against drug abuse in africa , establishing rules and consequences and strict penalties on drug abuse, keeping track of prescriped drugs, providing support to those under depression, the government should create more job opportunities for the citizens and lastly, having more drug abuse campaign awareness against drug abuse.

Q:Who is your inspiration in the world of modelling?
A:I have two people that have been my inspiration which are Tinonetenda Chinyani(Zimbabwean) and Zozibini Tunzi (South African) formerMiss Universe 2019.
Tino Chinyanani is someone I’ve been idolozing, someone I’m following his footsteps, his admiration and dedication to modeling and giving back to the society is something I look up to.
Talking, of Zozibini she became the voice of every African girl child, upholding affirmative action, quota system and a free society for all, has greatly made a huge positive impact in the African society. In contrast, since Zozi has made huge impact in girl child, I believe I can collaborate with her and also make a huge difference I’m boy child especially in mental health.

Q:What words do you have to those that have been supporting you from day one?
A:Since i began, i never thought there will be overwhelming support, for someone who had insecurities over his body, would be criticised over my small thin body, but one thing is important, those who supported me through out. I’d like to thank everyone who has given me any sort of support.
Through the support I gained, it made me become confident, abondoning my insecurities and focus on what’s important.

Q:If given an opportunity to catwalk in any pageant show, which show will it be and why?
A:Given an opportunity in any pageant show I would wish to walk in Man of the earth show, its a show that’s recognized globally and it gives me opportunity to interact with other models, getting more depth knowledge and obviously being exposed, and experience too.

It was all cheers at the Blue Moon hotel Lekki when Mr Ideal Enugu , Ronald Shakur emerged the 13th Mr Ideal Nigeria on the 24th of April , 2022

Ronald is an IT consultant based in Làgos . When asked why IT consultants are perceived as boring , Ronald replied ‘ people often tend to see us in our most serious moments , i for example play rugby and also into 3D fashion design and a boring person cannot do all these ‘

The judges for the event include Actor Stan Nze , Pr consultant , Pexxy , BBN stars Boma and Yerins , and producer Victor Okpala

He wins the chance to represent Nigeria at the Mister Africa International . In addition , an official car , PR by Motomedia , year supply of Nutzy peanut butter , year supply of John Paul fragrance , Ambassadorial deal with Lena organics , scholarship to Royal arts academy , free international
Travel courtesy of Markman and Tours , outfits from different designers including SAj luxury , Blokes n divas , Majified , Itouche , reverse by Dede .

The runner ups include:

Mr Ideal Nigeria – Earth , Zander
Mr Ideal Nigeria – Tourism , Zeal
Mr Ideal Nigeria – 1st prince , Eugene
Mr Ideal Nigeria – 2nd prince , Eddie

Mr Anambra won the business icon and was awarded N100 k . Other winners of the night

Mr Physique – Mr Ideal Abuja , Henry
Top model – Mr Ideal Bayelsa , Stephen
Mr Friendly , Mr Ideal Kebbi , Fash
Mr Beach Body , Mr Ideal Kaduna , Maliq