The organisers of Mr Gay World™ South Africa have announced that they’re doing things differently this year by hosting the contest online. The winner and contestant chosen will go on to represent South Africa at the Mr Gay World 2019 in Cape Town.
The organisers revealed that this year’s change in plans follows South Africa unexpectedly having to take on hosting duties for Mr Gay World 2019 after organisers for this year’s original Mr Gay World host city, Hong Kong, were forced to drop out after facing opposition from the authorities in China.
After Cape Town was handpicked to take on the task of hosting the international event once again, the local organisers decided to postpone Mr Gay World South Africa 2018 and to redirect their resources towards the international contest.
“Due to these challenges, we did not hold a physical competition last year, but will now instead run an online contest,” explains Johann van Niekerk, Director Mr Gay World South Africa.
“The winner will not only earn the 2018 title but will also have the honour of competing in Mr Gay World, which takes place from 28 April to 4 May 2019”.
A panel of judges will shortlist 10 entrants, who will be joined by two “wild card” contestants who won regional titles last year: Johannesburg Pride’s Mr Pride of Africa 2018, Wade Schaerer, and the Pink Loerie Festival’s Mr Mardi Gras 2018, Kevin Du Plessis.
The online voting will be opened for the public to choose their favourite to take the Mr Gay World South Africa title on Saturday February 2. The votes collected go on to be added to points earned by the 12 finalists in their online campaigns promoting a cause. The online competition will close on Thursday February 28.
“We wish everyone who enters the best of luck. South Africa has always had great success at Mr Gay World contests in the past, and we have no doubt we will once again,” says van Niekerk.
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