Masithembe Rhawe's journey from Mfuleni to the Mr Global South Africa stage

Mfuleni resident Masithembe Rawe, 31, has been named one of the top nine finalists in the Mr Global South Africa competition, set to take place on 26 July in Pretoria.

Mr Rawe was selected from 32 contestants across the country. The winner will go on to represent South Africa at the international Mr Global pageant in Thailand.

Mr Rawe said public support and votes are crucial to securing the national title. “I appeal to the public to support me because I’m just a young man from the township who dreams of becoming a beacon of hope in our township,” he said.

Rawe runs a non-profit organisation called Afterschool, which offers young boys and girls guidance in the creative industry. He believes a win would not only elevate his career but also benefit the youth he mentors by sharing opportunities and knowledge gained through the experience.

He said the title would be a major milestone in his modelling journey and a symbol of what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. “I have worked in corporations and retail, but I have always felt that I was missing something in my life,” he said.

Rawe first entered the modelling scene in 2016 through the Mr Justice competition. In 2020, he made it to the top 20 in Mr South Africa. He described 2023 as a breakthrough year, with several print and television campaigns to his name. "I’m from eKasi and I hope that could mean something,” he said.

Despite initial resistance from his parents, Rawe said he remained committed to pursuing a modelling career and hoped his journey would inspire others. “I believe that we were raised by Ubuntu values, which clearly state you are because of others,” he said.

"My parents were not quite supportive of this career path, but I knew that there was nothing else I could do besides following this burning passion. 

"I appeal to the public to support me because I’m just a young man from the township who dreams of becoming a beacon of hope in our township."