At the tender age of 23, James Mwaura has had to develop a thick skin thanks to the many misconceptions associated with what he does.

Despite graduating from the Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology (RVIST) with a degree in Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), he chose to dip his toe into the modelling industry, a career that is not taken seriously by many.

But through perseverance and unwavering support from his mother, James now walks with his head held high after being crowned Mr ManHunt Kenya 2024.

Looking at him, you could say that James is one of those people who does not need to do much to look good. With a fair complexion and chiseled features, you would think the title might have come easily to him, but he reveals that he has competed for the title twice before but has never come out on top.

Read: Introducing Mr ManHunt Kenya 2024

"I tried to be Mr ManHunt for three years in a row. In 2022, I competed and was named 1st runner-up. With the crown in mind, I competed again in 2023 and was named 2nd runner-up. It seems that 2024 is my lucky year," said James.

His modelling career began while he was still in high school. Professionally, however, he started in 2019.

After a nudge from his friend, he signed up for his first professional runway.

"Although I didn't know much about walking the runway professionally, I registered for my first competition, Mr Royalty Nakuru and started training for it," he shares.

He believes his confident walk, wit and dazzling smile won over the judges and secured him the title of Mr Royalty Nakuru.

Read: Body positivity: Embracing the curves, confidently!

"Winning the title in my first professional walk was a huge confidence booster. After winning, I started entering many other pageants," he said.

Other titles James holds are Mr RVIST 2021, Mr Campuses Nakuru 2023 and 1st runner-up Mr GIGI 2023.

James Mwaura walking the runway during a fashion show held at Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology (RVIST), he was Mr RVIST 2021.

Photo credit: Courtesy

When James talks about his modelling journey, he shares that his mother has been his biggest support system.

"My mum has never missed any modelling contest I have participated in, she is my biggest support system, I thank God for giving me an understanding mother who supports my artistic talents."

After this revelation, I quickly ask if his African mother has any feelings about her son walking the catwalk shirtless.

My question is met with a chuckle before he replies, "No. She is actually the loudest cheerleader, constantly encouraging me and telling me she is proud of the man I have become."

Read: Former Ms Egerton uses her own mental health experience to help young people

When asked about his future aspirations, James reveals that he has a vision for both his modelling career and ICT and business.

"I currently run a business. In the future, I plan to dominate more catwalks, have a successful ICT career and start my own clothing line in the near future," said James.

"The biggest assumption about models is that we are obsessed with our looks. We are not obsessed, we are confident. Confidence takes a while to build, but it is achievable. Mine was built on the catwalk, for which I am grateful. I am also grateful for those who have contributed to my many victories and experiences," James said.

diligenceodongo@gmail.com

James Mwaura: People see our chiseled abs first, but there is more to being a male model

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Diligence Odongo