The new Mr Westrand 2021/22 was crowned at a prestigious event at the Unveiled Church in Ruimsig on February 26.

Liam van Vuuren, who matriculated from Hoërskool Riebeeckrand in Randfontein in 2005 is a 35-year-old entrepreneur within the marketing sector, presents the show Trending Africa on ImpulsRadio Africa, and is a dance instructor at The Dance Palace.

Liam, who lives by the saying ‘Know your Why’ aims to use this platform and opportunity to inspire those around him through community projects focused on local businesses and the youth. However, the issues surrounding male mental health are important to Liam.

Men have been raised to act and react in a certain way through traditional norms that do not allow them to really talk about their feeling. These are conversations we need to start having as stats indicate that the suicide rates are the highest amongst men, compared to women. Left untreated mental issues could lead to violent outrages (such as GBV), substance abuse and suicide.

Entering the Mr, Miss, Mrs Krugersdorp pageant hosted by Infinity Pageants was a completely new venture for Liam. “I entered this pageant with the hopes of challenging myself, as well as to give back to our communities. However, I received so much more in return. Through this platform I developed and discovered so much about myself, and instead of inspiring the community, they inspired me through their stories of struggle, triumph and perseverance.”

Working closely with charities such as Silver Wishes and Amandèri Charity Assist, Liam hosted various events on his journey as finalist. From the youth to the elderly, everyone was included in these efforts to make a change, even if just for a moment.

Looking at the future as Mr Westrand 2021/22, Liam hopes to work closely with community leaders and influencers to create awareness about mental health issues, as well as to start telling community stories of growth and overcoming, instead of focusing purely on the negative.

Krugersdorp is more than Devilsdorp and the West Rand is more than the wild side. These streets are filled with inspiration, hope and caring people who all contribute to who we are, and it is time that we start highlighting these stories and change the narrative of the West Rand.”

With the strong bond between the 2021/22 title holders of the Infinity Pageant, Mr, Mrs & Miss Westrand aims to leave behind not just a memory but change that will mark their reign. With a heart filled with gratitude Liam added that he couldn’t have accomplished so much without the continued support from family, friends and especially Ruan Sinden, who was crowned Mr Krugersdorp 2021/22.

“I appreciate everyone who supported my journey, who includes LaBianca who always makes sure I look my best, Healing Grace whose skin care range keeps me radiant and photo-ready, and of course Infinity Pageants who shared my passion and trusted me to represent their brand.”

Liam’s first charity event will be a joint effort with Karin Muller (Mrs Westrand) and Ruan (Mr Krugersdorp) in aid of #Girlstuff. The focus will be on women empowerment and will consist of a self-defence workshop. It will be held at The Dance Palace in Roodepoort on April 2, and R150 secures your spot. To reserve your ticket or for more information, simply send a WhatsApp to +27 78 877 1647 or +27 63 519 0721.