Cosplayer Jaden Welgemoed (22) has been invited to attend the Villiers Festival in the Free State on November 21 as a special guest to help raise money for a school.

Following his success at Comic Con Africa, Welgemoed will showcase his Ice King cosplay at the festival, where he will perform special stunts and live shows.

Welgemoed placed second among about 30 participants in the Casual Cosplay competition at Comic Con Africa, held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec from September 24 to 27.

His Ice King costume helped him stand out among the competitors. He also won the SA Greenleaf title last year, his first time competing at Comic Con.

Now, he hopes to take his costume to the next level and is appealing to the community for assistance in bringing his vision to life.

He needs materials such as small plastic water bottles, white fabric and old yoga or gym mats to enhance the costume and create a more realistic and impressive version of the Ice King.

With mentorship and guidance from prop master and actor Jared Norman, Welgemoed is transforming the character to look more authentic.

“I’m deeply honoured to be invited as a performing celebrity guest, as I am now expanding to more events outside of Standerton,” said Welgemoed.

He said the invitation gave him even more reason to pursue his passion and opened the door to new adventures.

“It’s a whole new adventure now, because I will be travelling a lot more. It is a privilege to showcase my costumes outside of Standerton and Comic Con on another scale,” he said.

Welgemoed is grateful for the chance to attend more events, support businesses and bring his creative touch to other parts of the country.

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“Being invited to these events shows that my journey is continuing,” he said.

Although he did not win the armour champion title at this year’s Comic Con Africa with his General RAAM cosplay,

Welgemoed remains proud of his SA Greenleaf title and second-place finish in the Casual Cosplay competition.

“I am still holding strong. My career and passion as a cosplayer continue,” he said.

Welgemoed said he would keep creating costumes with the materials he has or can obtain, hoping to inspire others through his journey and by doing what he loves.

Those who wish to sponsor him or donate materials can contact him on 076 781 4748 or email jadenjneon@gmail.com

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