Nerin hopes to make a difference
Nerin Govender was crowned the first runner-up in the Mr India South Africa pageant.
The competition took place on December 13, in Durban, and offers a platform to young businessmen to promote the Indian arts and culture to all South Africans.
“The priority of this event is the grooming and nurturing of each contestant, so that they may go out and be able to discuss issues that will help towards the development of our youth at schools, universities and communities,” said Nerin, of Westdene.
The 20-year-old former St Dunstan’s College learner was happy when his name was called out on the evening.
“It was an unbelievable feeling and I enjoyed every minute it,” he said.
He believes that this opportunity will allow him to have a voice in society, which is something he has always wanted.
Nerin is currently in his third year at the University of Pretoria, studying a Bcom Accounting.
He will use his newly acquired status to promote Indian culture and Africanism.
“It is important for us, as South Africans, to embrace it,” he said.
“I also plan to promote the fact that Indians have more to them than the commonly known stereotypes.”
Nerin and the two other top contestants (winner Israar Mohamed Osman of Cape Town and third placed Keegan Chetty of Durban) will work together on taking their journey as representatives, within society, to the next level.
“We are young, driven and can’t wait to make the most of the opportunities that come our way,” he added.
