Mthandeni Buthelezi
Model | Entrepreneur | Son of God
About Me
Mthandeni Buthelezi is a young male from a town in KwaZulu-Natal known as Vryheid, grew up in the town but spent most of his holidays in Durban. He has a soft spot for the youth (esp. in high school) and loves to witness their development. He is currently doing his third year in B Com Entrepreneurial Management, a subcommittee member of the University of Johannesburg Consulting Club, an entrepreneur, model and now a Mr. UJ APK Finalist.
My journey to the crown
Applying for the Pageant-Mr. UJ APK
Throughout the year I closely followed the journey of Mr. and Miss UJ APK 2024 and found it inspiring. Their dedication and presence motivated me to enter the 2025 pageant. However, when applications opened, I continuously postponed my submission, promising myself I would apply the following day until the final day arrived.
I really wanted to participate but hesitated because of my introverted nature, and the fact that I had never entered a pageant before. What encouraged me to apply was a simple yet profound question which I asked myself:" If I apply what do I stand to lose?" The answer was nothing. Then I asked myself," If I don't apply what do I stand to lose?" The question led to a list of answers which I wasn't willing to lose out on and so I applied on the last possible day.
Making it to the top 10
Imagine staying behind during recess for an important interview, holding onto hope. Later, I received an email saying I didn’t make the Top 10 for the Mr UJ APK Pageant. That's exactly how I felt, disappointed and deflated as I quickly skimmed through the email. It was even harder because I was with my friend, someone who had supported me through every step of the journey. They understood how much effort I had put into this, making the moment even more challenging to handle.
After about two minutes of reading the email carefully, I realized I had made it. I was in! The wave of relief that washed over me was incredible. It completely changed my mood; I went from feeling crushed to utterly overjoyed in seconds.
“Thank you for visiting my page. This chapter is now closed, but the journey continues. Stay inspired.”