Discover the inspiring journey of Marnus Botha (MB), the 1st runner-up at Mister Global South Africa 2025, as he opens up to Tapiwa Rubaya (TR) about his transformative experiences, passions, and aspirations. He also reflects on the mental impact of preparing for the competition and shares some of the initiatives he has already undertaken in his new role.

TR: Congratulations on being crowned 1st runner-up at Mister Global South Africa! What was going through your mind when you heard your name being called?
MB: Honestly, it was a rush of emotions all at once — pride, gratitude, relief, and a touch of disbelief. When I heard my name, I felt this wave of gratitude for everyone who had walked the journey with me — my family, friends, pageant coach, and supporters. In that moment, I wasn’t just thinking about the title; I was reflecting on the months of preparation, the late nights, the growth, and the moments where I pushed past my limits.
I also felt incredibly honoured, because standing among so many remarkable men and being recognised as 1st runner-up meant the judges saw something in me — my authenticity, my drive, and my commitment to making an impact beyond the stage. And of course, there was a spark of excitement, knowing that this isn’t the end, but a stepping stone to even bigger opportunities ahead.

TR: What was your experience like competing at Mister Global South Africa, and what did you learn from the experience?
MB: Competing at Mister Global South Africa was truly life-changing. It was more than just a competition — it was a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for making a difference. From the rehearsals to the challenges, every moment pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and bring the best version of myself forward.
I learned the value of resilience — that even when things get tough or don’t go exactly as planned, showing up with determination and a positive attitude makes all the difference. I also discovered the power of authenticity; the more I embraced who I truly am, the more confident and impactful I became.
Most importantly, I walked away with new friendships, invaluable skills, and a deeper understanding that the platform is about more than looks — it’s about purpose, influence, and using your voice to inspire others.

TR: You’ve recently been selected as a judge for the Face of Autism pageant. What inspired you to take on this role, and what did you bring to the competition?
MB: Being selected as a judge for the Face of Autism pageant was an honour I embraced wholeheartedly. What inspired me most was the pageant’s mission — to raise awareness and funds towards the individuality, talent, and strength of people on the autism spectrum. I’ve always believed that true beauty lies in authenticity and that everyone deserves the chance to be seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are.
I brought to the competition not just my pageant experience, but also a deep sense of empathy, respect, and a commitment to fairness. I focused on seeing each contestant’s unique qualities — their confidence, personal expression, and the courage it takes to step on stage. I wanted each participant to walk away feeling valued and proud, regardless of the results.
For me, it wasn’t just about judging; it was about being part of a space that fosters inclusion, spreads awareness, and reminds us that diversity is something to be embraced, not just acknowledged.

TR: How do you think your experience as a pageant contestant will help you in your role as a judge, and what qualities will you be looking for in the contestants?
MB: My experience as a pageant contestant gives me a unique perspective as a judge because I’ve stood exactly where the contestants will be — feeling the excitement, nerves, and hope all at once. I understand the preparation, sacrifices, and emotional investment that go into competing, so I can approach my role with empathy and respect for their journey.
As a contestant, I learned that winning isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about telling your story, owning your presence, and staying authentic under pressure. That’s what I’ll be looking for — contestants who radiate confidence, embrace their individuality, and connect with the audience in a genuine way.
I’ll also be paying attention to qualities beyond the stage — kindness, passion, and the ability to use the platform for a greater purpose. For me, a true winner is someone who not only shines under the spotlight but also inspires and uplifts others once the spotlight fades.

TR: What was the most significant thing you learned about yourself during your time at Mister Global South Africa?
MB: The most significant thing I learned about myself during Mister Global South Africa was just how much strength I have when I commit fully to something. I realised that I’m capable of pushing far beyond what I thought were my limits — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The journey taught me that confidence isn’t about having no fear; it’s about showing up despite the fear, trusting the work you’ve put in, and allowing your true self to shine. I discovered that my voice and my story have power, and that I can inspire others simply by being authentic and consistent.
Most importantly, I learned that growth often happens in uncomfortable spaces. Stepping out of my comfort zone not only transformed the way I see challenges, but also deepened my belief that with passion, discipline, and purpose, I can achieve far more than I once imagined.

TR: How do you think participating in pageants has helped you grow as a person, and what skills have you developed?
MB: Participating in pageants has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It’s helped me grow in confidence, self-awareness, and resilience. I’ve learned how to present myself with poise under pressure, communicate effectively with a diverse audience, and carry myself with authenticity no matter the setting.
The experience has sharpened my public speaking skills, improved my stage presence, and taught me the importance of storytelling — being able to share who you are in a way that connects with people on a deeper level. I’ve also developed time management, discipline, and adaptability, because pageant preparation demands juggling multiple commitments while staying at your best.
Most importantly, it’s taught me the value of purpose-driven leadership. Pageants aren’t just about the crown — they’re about using the platform to make an impact, inspire others, and be a role model. That mindset has shaped not just the way I compete, but the way I live every day.

TR: What’s next for you after your experience at Mister Global South Africa? Do you have any upcoming projects or competitions lined up?
MB: What’s next for me is all about building on the momentum from Mister Global South Africa and honouring the responsibilities that come with being crowned 1st runner-up. I’ll be fulfilling my duties by representing the title with pride, continuing to use the platform to inspire others and promote causes close to my heart.
My charity work at the Somerset West Night Shelter remains a big priority — it’s something deeply personal to me, and I’m committed to continuing the support, awareness, and fundraising efforts to help those in need. At the same time, I’m looking forward to slowing down in between events to spend more quality time with my wife and son, because they’re the heart of my motivation and my biggest supporters.
And as for what’s ahead… let’s just say this might not be my last time on a pageant stage. There could be another crown in sight — so stay tuned.

TR: What do you hope to achieve in the pageant world, and how do you see yourself contributing to the industry in the future?
MB: In the pageant world, my ultimate goal is to represent South Africa on an international stage — not just as a competitor, but as an ambassador who embodies the spirit, resilience, and diversity of our nation. I want to showcase our culture, our values, and our people to the world, proving that South Africa is rich in both beauty and heart.
Beyond competing, I see myself contributing to the industry by mentoring future contestants, sharing the knowledge and experience I’ve gained, and helping them step into their own power with confidence. I want to promote a culture in pageantry that celebrates authenticity, inclusivity, and purpose-driven leadership, so that it’s not just about winning titles, but about creating meaningful impact.
Ultimately, I hope my journey inspires others to dream bigger, work harder, and believe that they, too, can step onto the world stage and make their mark.

TR: Are there any specific causes or charities that you’re passionate about, and how do you plan to use your platform to support them?
MB: Yes; one cause that’s especially close to my heart is supporting the homeless through my ongoing charity work with the Somerset West Night Shelter. This organisation does so much more than just provide a roof over someone’s head; it offers hope, dignity, and the tools for people to rebuild their lives.
I plan to use my platform to raise awareness about the realities of homelessness, break down stereotypes, and encourage communities to get involved in meaningful ways — whether that’s through donations, volunteering, or simply showing compassion. My goal is to highlight the stories of resilience and strength that often go unseen, and to show that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves respect and the opportunity for a fresh start.
By combining the visibility I’ve gained through pageantry with my passion for this cause, I hope to inspire others to take action and create ripple effects of kindness and change.

TR: What advice would you give to young men who are interested in competing in pageants, and what qualities do you think are essential for success in the industry?
MB: My advice to young men interested in competing in pageants is simple: go in with purpose, not just ambition. Know why you’re stepping onto that stage and what you want to represent, because pageantry is so much more than suits, sashes, and titles — it’s a platform to inspire, lead, and create change.
Be prepared to work hard, both on yourself and your presentation. This means training your body, sharpening your communication skills, and developing the confidence to be authentic in every setting. Don’t try to be a carbon copy of someone else — your individuality is your biggest asset.
The qualities I believe are essential for success in this industry are confidence, resilience, humility, and a genuine passion for people. You need to be adaptable under pressure, willing to learn, and committed to using the spotlight for something bigger than yourself. If you lead with authenticity, stay disciplined, and treat every opportunity as a stepping stone, you’ll not only succeed in pageantry but in life beyond it.