Lesedi Molebatsi is a passionate model from Carletonville who was crowned Mr Elite Merafong 2026 on 18 July at the Merafong Civic Centre.

The competition was intense, according to the model, with the preliminary round taking place the day before the final, where contestants showcased their modelling skills on the runway.

“I’m honestly still shocked because the preliminaries were really tough for me. I wasn’t feeling my best, and in my mind everything felt rushed. A lot of uncertainty filled my heart that day, and it was a sad one for me,” he said.

Lesedi was also awarded the titles of Best Smile and Mr Congeniality.

He said the experience taught him that people value authenticity over perfection.

“I learned that people don’t vote for perfect; they vote for real. Winning Best Smile and Mr Congeniality means a lot to me because it shows that my heart and character were seen, not just how I looked on stage,” he added.

The ambitious model is determined to continue growing in the pageant industry. He believes his title is about more than glamour, as it also comes with the responsibility of serving the community through social outreach and making a positive difference locally.

“Many of us in Merafong have talent but little, if any, platform at all. I want to be that bridge. Contestant, servant and the standard,” he concluded.