Etete-born model and creative, Ntandoyesizwe Mhlongo, has defied stereotypes and social pressure to become a finalist in the prestigious Mr South Africa 2025 competition.

At just 21 years old, Mhlongo is one of only two contestants representing KwaZulu-Natal in the national pageant. His journey, however, has not been without challenges.

Mhlongo first entered the modelling industry as a teenager, and from the outset, his sexuality and passion for fashion were questioned by peers.

“Outside my home, people ridiculed me for wanting to walk in designer fashion shows instead of playing soccer or talking about cars,” he said.

Raised in the township of Etete, he said his family offered constant support and never judged his interests. But beyond his household, acceptance was harder to find.

Despite the criticism, Mhlongo stayed focused on his goals. He began entering pageants in high school, travelling to Umlazi to compete in the Mr Umlazi Summer competition in 2020, where he walked away with the title while still in Grade 11 at ML Sultan Secondary School.

“I had to travel because there were no local pageants for men in my area,” he said.

Today, he is signed with an international modelling agency and has worked with popular fashion brands, including Zara, Mr Price, S.P.C.C. and Markham. He has also walked at major fashion weeks and landed a role on e.tv’s Durban Gen at the age of 16.

In addition to modelling, Mhlongo works as a fashion director, actor and modelling coach.

While his creative career continues to rise, he hopes to use the Mr South Africa platform to address deeper social issues.

“I want to raise awareness around food insecurity, illiteracy and mental health, especially among young men,” he said.

“So many societal problems, including gender-based violence, are rooted in untreated mental health conditions. It’s time we start having those conversations.”

Mhlongo says he’s proud to represent the North Coast and hopes his story encourages other young people to pursue their dreams – even when they fall outside the norm.

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