Pageant promotes proper image etiquette in men

 

Founded by an inspired youngster last year Oratile Phofhedi, the Mr Gaborone pageant has grown in leaps and bounds. The pageant has gained recognition from individuals and groups locally and internationally. 

According to the pageant founding director Phofhedi, the main reason he started this competition was to assist the government in its drive to diversify the economy. He believes the country can build an everlasting and unshakable economy through arts and entertainment when everyone performs what resonates in him yet making a positive impact. 

Phofhedi says that the pageant’s motive is to empower male Batswana not only in Gaborone region but across Botswana through proper image etiquette while they tackle concerning social issues. They also give local designers an opportunity to showcase their fabric creations by partnering with them to dress different participants in the pageant.  

“Among other things we stage the pageant in order to have a male Motswana representing the country at the Mr Africa international to compete amongst the rest of African kings,” he said. Last year, the pageant winner went on to gain position three at the Mr Africa International event - a great achievement for the local pageant and sign they are doing the right thing. 

This year’s grand finale will be staged at Cresta Lodge Fairgrounds on the 16th June. Just like last year, the pageant has already embarked on a journey to find the suitable contestants to battle out for the Gaborone king crown, and many have thronged the audition halls to try their lack in the prestigious male pageant. 

Phofhedi says there will be different grading criteria this year. They will host boot camps and public participation voting system for contestants to gain points. The last lap of the auditions will be done this weekend in Gaborone.