Having made it to the Top 5 of Mister South Africa, South African model Marnus Botha continues to pursue his dream of one day becoming a titleholder. That dream might soon become a reality, as he is currently competing in one of South Africa’s biggest male modeling pageants, Mister Global South Africa.

In an exclusive interview with My Afrika Magazine, Marnus Botha shares the main reason he is contesting in the pageant and also speaks about his charity work.

TR: What inspired you to participate in the Mister Global South Africa 2025 pageant?
MB: After placing in the Top 5 of Mr South Africa last year, I knew my journey was far from over. So many doors opened for me in the media and entertainment industry that I could not help but embrace every opportunity with open arms. What truly inspired me was the Mr Global South Africa platform’s commitment to empowering men to be leaders, role models, and advocates for change. It is not just about the title, it is about using that position to influence others and inspire them to take action toward important social issues. I see this exciting new journey as another great international platform and opportunity to motivate and inspire people to pursue their dreams regardless of their background or circumstances.

TR: Can you tell us about your charity work in Somerset West and how it has impacted the community?
MB: I love volunteering at the Somerset West Night Shelter, which was originally established in 1988 to serve single adults in the Helderberg area. Since 2020, their services have expanded to accommodate homeless families with children. The Family Shelter is the only one of its kind in the Western Cape, providing support for single mothers, single fathers, and couples with children. They offer a wide range of services, including skills training, rehabilitation, and counselling. Their programs also provide employment opportunities, school transport, social services, and education. Additionally, they offer baby and toddler daycare, health and wellness support, coaching, life skills training, and accommodation. One of the events I have supported so far was their Daycare Gardening Day, where we created a beautiful sensory garden for the babies and toddlers by planting flowers, upgrading and painting fences, and installing a sandbox. I also initiated a clothing drive in collaboration with Thrift Street Online, which operates from the same premises as the shelter. All proceeds from the sold clothing items are donated to support the shelter’s work. Supporting this charity energises me to make a difference in the community because I can physically see the positive impact it has on people’s lives. I have witnessed how stories of hope and resilience can inspire others to reignite their passion for change.

TR: How do you think your experience in Mister South Africa has prepared you for Mister Global South Africa 2025?
MB: The exhilarating journey of Mr South Africa definitely played a pivotal role in preparing me for Mr Global South Africa by fueling my passion and shaping my outlook for the challenge ahead. Competing in Mr South Africa was a transformative experience, one that pushed me to grow both personally and professionally. It taught me the value of resilience, discipline, and authenticity. The challenges I faced helped me discover strengths I never knew I had, and the connections I made along the way allowed me to grow in ways I had not anticipated. What stood out most was the platform it gave me to advocate for causes that matter deeply to me, like inspiring people from small towns who have big dreams. It was not just about the title; it was about becoming a leader and a role model. That experience gave me the confidence to take on even greater challenges. Now, as I step into the Mr Global South Africa competition, I feel more prepared than ever. The lessons I learnt from Mr South Africa, especially about perseverance, humility, and leadership have given me a renewed perspective. I am approaching this new chapter with a clear sense of purpose and determination, knowing I have already grown through the process. I am excited to continue the journey, embrace new lessons, and use this platform to amplify my voice and the causes I care about.

TR: What does giving back to the community mean to you, and how do you plan to continue doing so if you win?
MB: Giving back to the community means using my time, talents, and resources to uplift and empower others especially those who may not have had the same opportunities I have been blessed with. It is about creating lasting change, not just through charity, but through meaningful engagement, mentorship, and advocacy. If I win Mr Global South Africa, I plan to use the platform in combination with my current role as an Urban Planner at the City of Cape Town, to reach communities that are often left behind when it comes to infrastructure and basic service delivery. I also want to continue my work with the Somerset West Night Shelter by launching and supporting initiatives that address homelessness and help individuals who lack a safe and secure place to call home. For me, giving back is not just an obligation, it is a lifelong commitment.

TR: How do you plan to use your platform as Mister Global South Africa 2025 to make a positive impact?
MB: If I have the honour of being selected as Mr Global South Africa 2025, I intend to combine my current role at the City of Cape Town working in infrastructure planning and delivery with the Mr Global South Africa platform to reach communities that are being left behind and uplift those who feel they have lost all hope. The people of our country have the power to become anything they dream of, and I want to help provide the tools and opportunities they need to become positive role models in society. It is 2025, and I believe there should be no reason why any citizen in our country lacks access to basic services and infrastructure, fundamental building blocks for individuals and communities to thrive.

TR: What role do you see yourself playing in the modelling industry if you win the title?
MB: If I win the title of Mr Global South Africa, I see myself as a positive role model and changemaker in the modelling industry. I want to represent a new generation of models who stand for more than just appearance, individuals who use their platforms to advocate for diversity, body positivity, mental health awareness, and social responsibility. I aim to collaborate with brands and organisations that align with my values, and to inspire younger models to pursue their dreams while staying true to themselves. Through professionalism, authenticity, and leadership, I hope to help shape an industry that celebrates both outer beauty and inner purpose.

TR: How do you balance your charity work with your modelling aspirations?
MB: Balancing charity work with my modelling aspirations comes down to setting clear priorities and managing my time effectively. I believe both paths actually complement each other: modelling provides a platform and visibility, while charity work offers purpose and fulfilment. I plan my schedule carefully, ensuring I dedicate time to both professional growth and community involvement. More importantly, I strive to integrate the two: using my modelling career to raise awareness for causes I care about, and bringing my passion for service into the fashion and entertainment spaces. It is not about choosing one over the other, it is about using both to create a greater impact.

TR: Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
MB: My father has undoubtedly been my greatest inspiration on this journey. A few years ago, he suffered a severe stroke that left him in a coma for about a week and ultimately confined to a wheelchair, requiring daily care. Despite everything, he kept fighting to stay alive for his family. Through his strength and resilience, he has taught me to never give up and to pursue my dreams, no matter how big they are.

TR: How do you think you can represent South Africa on a global platform if you win Mister Global South Africa 2025?
MB: If I win Mister Global South Africa 2025, I will proudly represent our country by showcasing the true spirit of South Africa, a spirit of resilience, diversity, unity, and hope. I want to share our unique stories, rich cultures, and the beauty of our people with the world. Beyond simply carrying the flag, I will embody South African values through my actions: leading with humility, embracing diversity, and championing global causes such as the provision of infrastructure and basic services. I believe South Africa has so much to offer, and through this platform, I will work to build bridges between nations, inspire positive change, and leave behind a legacy that extends far beyond the stage.

TR: What message do you hope to convey to the world through your participation in Mister Global South Africa 2025?
MB: Through my participation in Mister Global South Africa 2025, I hope to convey the message that true strength lies in authenticity, compassion and purpose. I want to show the world that success is not just about personal achievements, but about how we uplift others along the way. By embracing who I am, standing proudly for my country and advocating for causes close to my heart, I aim to inspire others to believe in themselves, to embrace their differences and to use their voices for positive change. At the end of the day, it is not just about having a title, it is about carrying a message that makes a lasting impact.