The name Kopano Alpha is currently among the most trending names in Africa’s youngest motivational speakers. With his passion for leadership and empowerment, Kopano Alpha dreams of inspiring not only South Africa’s youth but the entire African continent.

He shares his inspirational story with My Afrika Magazine, from overcoming challenges in his hometown of Rustenburg to embracing global opportunities.

TR: What inspired you to pursue modeling, and what drives your passion for the industry?
KA: What inspired me to pursue modeling is my love for clothes. I love the camera. By loving these two things, I found an industry that allows me to make a living and enjoy them in a fuller sense. I discovered modeling and fell in love with it. Right now, what drives me is that same love, and my personal development. I believe modeling is a platform for leadership. I get to grow as a person and as a leader, and I use that leadership skill to influence and impact young people, more importantly, to empower them to take the baton and run with it on their own.

TR: As Mr. Rustenburg 2024 1st runner-up, what was going through your mind during the competition, and how did it prepare you for future opportunities?
KA: What was going through my mind? Kkkk, winning (giggles). I really wanted to win. That was literally my main focus to win the crown and the pageant title, so I could use it as a tool to inspire more people. What I learnt through the journey is how much I developed and grew, and I’m truly grateful. By participating, I got the opportunity to learn how pageants work and how to use the title as a reference for future opportunities.

TR: Can you elaborate on the most significant hurdles in being a model in Rustenburg, and how you overcame them?
KA: The biggest challenge is financial opportunity. In Rustenburg, you do not get compensated for modeling gigs. That was one of the things I had to face, and eventually, I moved to Johannesburg. That is when I started earning money, being appreciated, and valued for what I bring as a model. It is also important to consistently grow and try to better yourself. Eventually, you will find people who are willing to pay you for your ability and skill.

TR: How do you think your experiences in Rustenburg have shaped your approach to modeling and personal growth?
KA: My experience in Rustenburg taught me that there are not many opportunities here. That is why I had to seek references outside of Rustenburg. Because of that, I now have a global view of modeling instead of just a regional one.

TR: What motivates you to share your story as a motivational speaker, and what message do you hope to convey to your audience?
KA: I believe people have great potential. I want to be the one who unveils that potential every time I speak or have a dialogue with an audience. Recently, I spoke to matric students attending a matric dance. I told them that they’re now at a stage in life where the playing field is level. Once you are done with matric as a Grade 12 learner, you are going to face many things. The key is to strive for greatness, no matter the challenges or obstacles you encounter. You must always believe that you are destined for greatness. That is the message I always want to leave behind, to inspire people.

TR: What drew you to fashion brand REL8, and how do you think your values align with theirs?
KA: REL8 is a smart, innovative brand that creates clothing serving more than one purpose.
It is a local brand that aligns perfectly with my views and beliefs, they focus on growing the local economy, inspiring entrepreneurs, and building something sustainable that will inspire future generations. That is something I personally relate to as a model.

TR: How do you incorporate REL8’s style and aesthetic into your modeling work, and what do you think sets them apart in the fashion industry?
KA: What I can say is, they have got the X factor and the cool factor, and I have that as well.
I do not even have to try hard to connect with them; we just naturally merge into one, them as a brand, and me as a model. What sets them apart is their focus on sustainability and innovation. They are always looking for ways to make clothing that is not just stylish, but also meaningful.

TR: What was your experience like participating as a Mister Supranational SA semi-finalist, and what did you learn from the process?
KA: Shout-out to Dr. Fezile Mkhize, our reigning Mister Supranational. He made history when he represented South Africa and became the first Black candidate to win the title. He was the best candidate. His motto ‘brick by brick’ really inspired me. For me, Mister Supranational SA prepared me for global opportunities and gave me a broader view of the modeling industry.

KA: Thank you My Afrika Magazine for telling my story. I hope my story motivates Africa not to give up.