From the dusty streets of Hlalanikahle to the pageant stage, eMalahleni has crowned a new king, Mxolisi Ntjani (24), who says his title is about service, not just a sash.

The Mr eMalahleni pageant took place at the New Life Church Hall on September 12.

Ntjani said the moment still feels unreal.

“When they called my name, I thought about Hlalanikahle – the dusty streets where I grew up and the kids who watch me. It’s proof that a boy from the kasi can dream and achieve. I’m honoured, grateful, and deeply humbled,” he said.

For him, modelling as a man is about breaking stereotypes.

“Modelling is not about gender; it’s about confidence, discipline, and representing who you are. As men, we are also allowed to be beautiful, to be soft, and to be proud of our culture. The stage belongs to us too,” he explained.

His journey was not without challenges, with his biggest battle being self-belief.

“Believing I was enough. People talk when a young man says, ‘I model.’ I had to keep showing up and fighting my own fear,” he said.

To him, being a king means responsibility.

“Being a king is not about the sash; it’s about service. I want to be a king who listens – a king who goes back to schools in Hlalanikahle and eMalahleni to talk to boys about self-love, gender-based violence (GBV), and purpose. A present king,” he said.

Read more:Relebohile and Mxolisi take top titles at Face of Emalahleni

Outside modelling, he describes himself as a community-minded boy at heart who is focused on youth work and his family. He credits his family, his pageant family- especially his sister – and the children in his community for keeping him motivated.

“When people watch you with hope, you can’t give up,” he said.

His message to other young men is simple: start.

“My brother, modelling is for you. Don’t let society define your path. Be brave enough to start. The stage needs more kings like you.”

For his 12-month reign, he has laid out a clear plan focused on addressing key social issues affecting the City of Coal.

“I am strongly committed to fighting GBV, drug and alcohol abuse, and sexual abuse. I want to join forces with the eMalahleni Municipality and the local private sector to bring more skills development programmes and opportunities to the City of Coal for the youth of eMalahleni, who are the leaders of tomorrow. During my reign, the king will be visible and ready to serve.”

VLU-takke span kragte saam vir groei en gemeenskapsimpak. Witbank News het ‘n paar oomblikke vasgevang. Kyk hier na die foto’s: https://t.co/84xTG7JvjM

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) October 26, 2026

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