Cape Town - A 25-year-old Capetonian is on a mission of changing the narrative of children raised in broken families.
Kaylib Mango from Blackheath was crowned Mr SA Universal earlier this year, scoring bigger opportunities and taking on the burden of leading by example.
Explaining his passion for charity work, Mango said: “I grew up in Dennemere, raised by my grandparents. I never grew up with my mother, I was one years old when my mom left us with my father. However, that never stopped me from achieving my dreams.”
Mango lost his father while doing his first year in 2016, but his thirst for success pushed him further.
"I graduated in both marketing and human resources management and I am currently a Master’s student for human resources education.
“My next journey is to represent South Africa next year in Turkey for the international title, do charity work in Mozambique, then become the next Sir Africa and the new ambassador for Pageants SA and Mr South Africa, God willing.
“I am allowing society to move away from the understanding that pageantry is just a feminist sport, but a mixture of both sexes. We need to become more inclusive and work towards ending gender-based violence, and recognise and reward those who make a difference in our communities,” Mango said.
Since he is familiar with the struggles faced by the youths in Cape Town, he quickly fixed his crown, rolled up his sleeves and joined Standiwe People Solutions in its mission to feed and uplift the needy. They will be hosting an entertainment fund-raiser on September 30 in Bellville South to accumulate awards for 32 charities across the city.
“This event is more than just having fun, it is in aid of giving back and honouring those who gave up everything during the Covid-19 pandemic to feed and educate others.
“To me it is more than just a feeding scheme, it’s a safe haven for all broken to draw closer to people who are built with the fundamental aspects of tender love and care, and that is what Standiwe People Solutions is all about,” he said.
Cheryl Solomons du Toit, the founder of Standiwe, said they’re pleased to be part of Mango’s journey and value his and all their supporters contribution towards various charities. She pleaded with the public to help them raise the much-needed R8 000.
“There will be an entry fee at the door and we will be selling food and drinks and a band to keep guests entertained,” she explained.
Resident Cindy Andrews said Standiwe has been giving hope to many in the northern suburbs and “is worth all the support they can get as it goes back to the community”.