Inaugural Mister Heritage SA pageant to light up Bay
In a first for the country, a new national pageant — Mister Heritage SA — will be staged in Gqeberha on Sunday.
Ushering in the inaugural event, 12 finalists from the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng will take to the stage in a dazzling display celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage at Boardwalk’s International Convention Centre.
Kwazakhele-born pageant director Luthando Siyeni said the city boasted breathtaking beaches, landscapes and historical sites mirroring Mister Heritage SA’s mission.
“From the iconic Donkin Reserve to the vibrant Boardwalk and historic St George’s Park, Gqeberha provides an enchanting backdrop for this prestigious occasion, making it the perfect host city for the inaugural showpiece,” Siyeni said.
He said, after purchasing a franchise licence in 2023 for SA to host the event under the Mister Heritage International organisation banner, the pageant promised an unforgettable spectacle.
Finalists, whom the organisers
decided they would not charge to enter the competition, will vie for the crown in four segments — swim, casual, formal and traditional attire.
“This event won’t be confined to the live audience in Gqeberha.
“It will be broadcast nationwide, offering viewers a front-row seat to a grand culture and beauty celebration.
“From showcasing the exceptional talents of SA men to igniting a sense of pride in our diverse heritage, it promises to leave a lasting impact.”
As an affiliate of Mister Heritage International, the Mister Heritage SA winner will carry the torch to the global stage.
“Beyond mere pageantry, the crowned Mister Heritage SA will become an ambassador, passionately advocating for the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage and tourism treasures on national and international platforms,” Siyeni said.
“With a prestigious showcase scheduled in Manila, Philippines, our ambassador will proudly spotlight our rich cultural [identity] with unparalleled prestige.
“The inaugural Mister Heritage SA marks a significant milestone in promoting cultural heritage and tourism.
“We hope the line-up of talented contestants captivate audiences and ignite a renewed sense of pride in SA’s cultural diversity.”
He said he envisioned the pageant as a flagship extravaganza to rival Mr SA.
“This should be a platform where everyone can showcase [their culture].
“There are lots of people who want to express who they are and where they come from.
“More than just a pageant, we want to make it educational and, hopefully, grow the brand.”