Fonde Collins, the Cameroonian sensation, is making waves as one of the top contenders for Mister Africa International, set to dazzle in Nigeria this November. Already guaranteed a spot in the top three thanks to his people’s choice votes, Collins embodies the essence of African excellence. With a mission to empower African youth through fitness, education, and leadership, he’s not just competing for a crown, he’s building a movement.

Confident, grounded, and deeply connected to his African roots, Collins carries the pride of Cameroon and the continent with every stride. As he navigates the pressures of being a fan favorite, he turns expectation into fuel, driven by a purpose far bigger than himself.

TR: Why modeling, and how does your African heritage influence your work?
FC: Modeling became a natural extension of how I express purpose, discipline, and confidence. My African heritage is the foundation of that; it teaches strength, resilience, and storytelling through identity. Every time I step on stage, I carry the pride of Cameroon and the continent as a reminder that Africa’s beauty is not just physical; it’s spiritual and cultural.

TR: How do you prepare yourself for major competitions like Mister Africa International, and what sets you apart from other contestants?
FC: Preparation for me goes beyond the gym. It’s mental, emotional, and spiritual. I invest time in understanding my purpose, maintaining discipline, and staying humble. What sets me apart is my vision — I’m not just competing for a crown; I’m building a movement that empowers African youth to awaken their best selves through fitness, education, and leadership.

TR: The UAE is known for its diverse cultural landscape. How do you navigate and respect different cultural norms as a model based there?
FC: Living in the UAE has taught me the importance of respect and adaptability. It’s a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity has shaped me into a more mindful and respectful individual. I make it a point to learn, listen, and engage with people from all backgrounds — that’s how you build true global understanding.

TR: As one of the favorites to win, there’s likely a lot of pressure and expectation. How do you handle that, and what motivates you to keep pushing forward?
FC: Pressure reminds me that I’m on the right path. I turn it into fuel. What keeps me going is my purpose — knowing that my effort is bigger than me. I’m representing a whole generation of African youth who need to see that discipline, vision, and belief can take you anywhere in the world.

TR: Mister Africa International celebrates African beauty and culture. What do you bring to the table to promote African culture and values?
FC: I bring authenticity — the power of being proudly African. Through the Big Drive Movement, I want to showcase Africa’s strength in unity, innovation, and health awareness. Africa’s culture is rich, and it’s time the world sees that through a modern lens — not just as tradition, but as evolution.

TR: Modeling often involves working with various brands and designers. What collaborations excite you the most?
FC: I’m most excited about partnerships that align with purpose — brands that empower, educate, and elevate lives. Whether it’s fitness, fashion, or community-driven projects, I want to collaborate with people who share the same heartbeat: building Africa’s image with pride and impact.

TR: Your presence in the UAE provides a unique perspective on African culture in the Middle East. How do you bridge cultural gaps through your work?
FC: My journey in the UAE has been about connection. It’s shown me that Africans have so much to contribute to global culture. By embodying professionalism, integrity, and creativity, I’m showing that African talent can thrive anywhere. It’s about being a bridge between the continent and the world.

TR: What are the biggest challenges facing African models today, and how can they be addressed?
FC: Representation and opportunity. Many African models are talented but lack exposure and resources. The solution lies in building stronger networks, mentorship systems, and movements like Big Drive — creating platforms that help African talents tell their own stories proudly.

TR: Winning Mister Africa International could open many doors. What are your goals for the future, both personally and professionally?
FC: If I win, my goal is clear — to use this platform to expand the Big Drive Movement into a continental initiative. I want to create health and leadership programs for young Africans, build partnerships that promote wellness and education, and serve as a voice that inspires transformation across Africa.

TR: How do you stay true to yourself and your values in an industry that often emphasizes physical appearance?
FC: By remembering why I started. My worth doesn’t come from how I look, but from the impact I create. My values — discipline, humility, and authenticity — guide me in every decision. Staying true means leading with character, not just appearance.

With his sharp focus, infectious humility, and mission-driven mindset, Fonde Collins isn’t just a contestant — he’s a visionary shaping what it means to be an African role model. As he steps closer to the Mister Africa International crown, one thing is clear: win or not, his journey is already transforming hearts across the continent.