“Putting myself out there finally paid off,” says Nakuru based model James Ngunyi alias Jim Gatani, who was crowned second runners up in the just concluded Mr & Miss World Kenya 2024.

Gatani notes gracing and conquering grand runways has always been his dream. He has now lived the reality of this dream on the Mr & Miss World runway.

Mtaa Wangu caught up with Gatani on his win and lessons learnt as he participated in the national pageantry competition.

He starts by noting what an honour being part of the pageantry was, from the selection, boot camp, to him finishing as the second runners up.

“I couldn’t be prouder of myself. Seeing that I started this from high school to where I have gotten now. It is a story of determination and resilience,” says Gatani.

Jim Gatani (extreme right) with other winners at the Mr and Miss World Kenya pageantry.

Photo credit: COURTESY

For him, the competition offered him an opportunity to meet top models in the country and judges who he notes were incredible as he learnt a lot from them.

“Truth be told, seeing the other contestant being physically fit made me a bit worried. Gym is something I have always wanted to try, however I always put it aside. This competition has challenged me to start on it. I am definitely joining the gym now,” he says as he chuckles.

But who is Gatani away from the runway?

If you meet him on the streets of Nakuru or elsewhere your first guess would be, That’s a model.

His firm walk, complemented by his stylish look always carries the day.

Does he ever miss his date with his barber? I doubt it. Gatani is always groomed regardless of the occasion.

In a previous interview with Mtaa Wangu, Gatani said it is innate for him to look sharp. “Get me right, I didn’t say you break the bank to look nice. Just pair the fits well and you are good to go,” he notes.

“Position your brand so that people can notice you. Groom well at all times, and don't only show up all sharp on runaways and neglect your look on other days. It’s not about expensive outfits but dressing in a stylish way. You can always create an outstanding look on a budget,” he notes.

Jim Gatani has had a passion for modelling since he was in high school.

Photo credit: COURTESY

The 24-year-old, does not stop at just modelling. He has dug his feet into the acting industry featuring in the Gangster series a short film.

“I have always loved being on screen. Other than modelling, I have decided to push my acting career. I believe the big city (Nairobi) has great opportunities to be taken up,” says Gatani as he reveals his impending move from Nakuru to Nairobi.

Asked what his secret to success is, he notes that, “I believe in the power of prayers. My family and friends have also equally been supportive and I cannot be more grateful,” Gatani remarks.

Through modelling, Gatani has broken bread with the mighty in the industry. Evidently, he has met notable people in the fashion industry including Seth Gor and top modelling and pageantry experts like Leakey Odera.

Despite his sharp look and stunning appearance, Gatani has remained a humble guy pushing to grow his career.

This win, is just the beginning.

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Muthoni Wanjiku