In an interview with Arts&Culture, the newly crowned king said it is not often that they get such opportunities or have much support as opposed to their female counterparts. He explained that he encountered a few challenges while preparing and contesting for Mr International Africa. They include time slotting, as he had to juggle between his tight work schedule and preparing for the pageant. He said he had to enhance his preparation for his interviews for auditions. He explained that the demands were high, adding that he was not mentally prepared for it. But he had a good team behind him that worked well with him to ensure that he won. He said they understood his working conditions and were willing to work according to the schedule to meet the standards of the international organisation. Meanwhile, the pageantry director, Jomo Kgaolo, explained that there was a nationwide scouting, followed by a series of interviews with the aspirants. Kgaolo explained that from a field of 20 candidates, they were narrowed to 10, then later five and two in the finale where the winner was chosen.
“When judging, we were looking for someone who possesses the following qualities; poise, presence, ability to speak from the heart and the desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Mr International Africa gathers men from all corners of the continent to compete for one crown. The goal has always been to empower the boy-child and to cultivate self-aware men. This year will be the 12th edition,” he said. Furthermore, Kgaolo explained that Keokgale was currently undergoing a series of training sessions that will enable him to put his best leg forward such as fitness, presentation skills and public speaking. He added that above and beyond sightseeing, there was a series of preliminary competitions. He said that currently there is, ‘Fan vote’ where the public has to vote. He said voting is done through the Mister International Africa official Facebook page and Instagram to like, comment and share pictures from their king. He added that other activities that would be happening at Mr International Africa include the Top Model, Heart of Africa and Wellness. He further stated that Mr International Africa Botswana sponsors included Jacks Gym, The Hive, Nora Cosmetics, TK Designs, FIFIFAB Beauty, Unapologetic Statement, Panda BW, Paise Kit Collections, Johnson Photography and Urban Soul Apparel.
However, he stated that they were looking at widening the net of sponsors to give their new king the best experience. “Pageantry in Botswana has really not been that impactful but we are experiencing a shift. We are also seeing the success of recent queens who have done well internationally. For men, we should be mindful not to leave the boy-child behind. So far, 20 countries have confirmed participation. Pageantry is a field that gives people a platform to foray and forge ahead in fields they choose, not only that but to bring about meaningful changes. Our King will enjoy a lot of prizes as some sponsors are offering cash prizes that will only be announced at the end of his reign,” he said. “We plead with Batswana and sponsors to follow our representative’s journey on all social media pages, Mister Africa International Botswana and for sponsors to come on board so that we can not push this country forward on a continental stage but work together to create the change we want to see,” he added.
