Charl-Jaquairdo van Helsdingen from Johannesburg has been named Mr Gay World South Africa 2019.
The Mr Gay World South Africa competition strives to be a mentor in grooming gay leaders that will advance gay human rights both locally and throughout the world.
The 28-year-old muscle model will go on to compete in Mr Gay World 2020 in Knysna from 26 April to 3 May. Last year, 41-year-old Janjep Carlos from the Philippines competed against 21 delegates from around the globe, in Cape Town, ultimately securing the title of Mr Gay World 2019.
The organisation released a statement saying: "We are proud to have found such a strong, creative and talented individual that will be representing the South African LGBTQ+ communities."
George Ungerer from Nelson Mandela Bay (Port Elizabeth) was crowned the first runner-up, and Mojalefa Lekanyane from Pretoria was named second runner-up.
Kaye Alley (Chair, Pride of Africa), Chris Emmauel (Mr Gay World, South Africa 2018), Gavin Hayward (Exit Newspaper) and Gilbert Martin (Network Synergy), were this year's judges.
"Charl-Jacquairdo all the best in being the voice of the LGBTQ+ communities of South Africa during his reign in 2020," the statement added.
Compiled by Graye Morkel