South Africa: Major Clayton Mnise, a B Category instructor as well as a testing officer from Air Force Base Langebaanweg, has made it to the Top 10 Mr South Africa Competition on 19 August at a glitzy and luxurious event held at the Indaba Hotel & Spa, in Fourways, Sandton, Johannesburg.
He mentioned that he was a bit nervous, but as soon as he saw his supporting crew trickling in, he relaxed a bit and started remembering that he was just to hear his name being called to ascend the stage for the final step that would lead him to the crown that he is eyeing.
“In the end, a man that is going to do big things cannot let small things get to him; this day was meant to be one of joy and victory. There are goals to accomplish in life, be guilty of being confident, be guilty of being kind and of being wise.”
As he embraced his supporters who motivated him and encouraged him that he will take over that crown when the time comes, Major Mnise said he is embracing the Mr SA journey with a heart full of gratitude and a soul brimming with love.
“As petals of time before the crown comes to unfurl, I am reminded of the beautiful moments and the incredible people that have graced my journey thus far as a military pilot. I have brought the superstardom, with people like Colonel Lumkile August, (Acting Director of Human Resource Services) being here; I have the entire South African Air Force behind me for sure.
Colonel August recruited me into the South African Air Force many years ago. To see him here today, I think I have really come full circle.”
Seeing my friends here means the world. This is testimony that each passing day is a gift, and as I celebrate being part of the Top 10 finalists, I am humbled by the unwavering support and the kindness that surrounds me. Here is to another win of growth, laughter and cherished memories. Thank you to the South African National Defence Force for being part of my story.”
Major Mnise’s warm energy was observed by Lieutenant Colonel Michael Tau, a C130 pilot working at 28 Squadron, who described Major Mnise as someone who exudes grace, class and elegance. “We will one day narrate to our children that we once shined in the brilliance of a fellow pilot who dared to become a Top 10 finalist for Mr SA.
He is giving and sowing seeds for generations to come, and it is all fueled by a promise for a brighter future; these seeds can truly change the narrative; this is a celebration of growth, valuable lessons and abundant blessings. May he remain committed to nurturing these seeds of potential, and watching him get this far is a testament that nothing is unimaginable.
His precocious nature was already ingrained, he burst onto that stage, teaching all of us about his intention to follow the beat of his own music and we have been waltzing with him ever since he decided to take this journey. When you are the best, you inspire the best.”
Speaking to his sister, Nkateko Leballo, she mentioned that, “As his family, we honour Clayton first in the areas that are central to the many attributes through which we have so lavishly benefitted. He has been incredible at being a ‘first’ in our family, a servant leader, a confidante, a family man and a mentor to many young people.
He is a fierce force in our lives, publicly and privately. We couldn’t have even dreamed of being here had it not been for him, we thank him for the many thoughtful things he does and the moments he has encouraged us not to be discouraged or weary. In our eyes, he has already won, our biggest flex, and we adore him.”