Zimbabwe model Nkosikhona Kumalo is setting his sights on an international pageant title as he is representing Zimbabwe at the Mister Man of Africa Universe competition in Ghana.

The opportunity marks another important stage in his modelling career, which has seen him build experience through men’s pageantry after stepping onto the runway at this year’s Zimbabwe Fashion Week.

Kumalo’s selection for the Ghana competition follows his experience at Misters of Zimbabwe in 2024, where he finished as runner-up. The result gave him valuable exposure to competitive pageantry and the demands of presenting himself on a national platform.

Now, he has another opportunity to take that experience beyond Zimbabwe, with the ambition of bringing international recognition to his name and country. Organisers of Misters of Zimbabwe, in partnership with Man of Africa Universe, recently announced his participation in the competition.

The preliminary stages were conducted online. Kumalo believes, representing Zimbabwe comes with responsibility.

Beyond competing for the title, he will be carrying the country’s identity and showcasing the potential of its male modelling talent to an international audience.

“Representing Zimbabwe on an international platform is something I take seriously. I am grateful for the opportunity, and I want to make the most of the experience,” he told My Afrika Magazine.

“My journey has taught me that pageantry is about more than what people see on stage; it is also about discipline, confidence and how you carry yourself. I want to represent my country with pride and show what Zimbabwean talent has to offer.”

His participation comes shortly after his debut at Zimbabwe Fashion Week, where he modelled collections by Afro Jumbo, Needle Star and Seguru.

The experience allowed him to explore the fashion industry beyond pageantry, working with designers and presenting their creations on the runway. However, his attention now turns to a competition where the ultimate goal is to earn a continental title.

“Walking at Zimbabwe Fashion Week was a special experience for me. Coming from a pageantry background, I wanted to challenge myself and experience the industry from a different perspective,” he said.