Interview with IHope Moriarty, Mr Hartenbos 2023 –
By PPMC MAGAZINE
In the dazzling world of pageantry and modeling, where spotlights gleam and aspirations soar, one individual has emerged as a luminous beacon of inspiration. iHope Moriarty, crowned Mr. Hartenbos 2023, shares an extraordinary journey that encapsulates not only the glitz of the stage but the profound transformation that occurs when one embraces dreams and breaks barriers.
IHope’s venture into the world of Mr. & Miss Hartenbos Competition wasn’t a leap he initially contemplated. “I never thought I would ever be able to,” he confesses, underscoring the admiration he held for those immersed in the world of modeling and pageantry.
Yet, the support and motivation from fellow contestants sparked a flame of determination within him. The application, once a distant thought, became a tangible step towards the seemingly unreachable.
The workshop experience, orchestrated by Ace Models Mossel Bay, left an indelible mark on him. Expressing his profound admiration, he wishes for everyone to taste the professionalism and work ethic displayed by the organizers. The camaraderie that blossomed among contestants transformed what could have been a competitive battleground into a familial embrace.
Despite the impending competition, Moriarty describes the atmosphere as akin to a supportive family, each member cheering the others on, reminiscent of the familial camaraderie in a household, albeit with a humorous twist. “It didn’t feel like a fight but more like a big family,” he quips, adding a lighthearted touch to the arduous journey.
Motivation to participate in the competition burgeoned from the contagious enthusiasm of his fellow participants. “I wanted to be part of a group that lifts each other up and gives you an opportunity to better yourself,” he reflects, highlighting the allure of a community that fosters growth amidst the competitive backdrop. The Mr. & Miss Hartenbos Competition, he realized, wasn’t just a stage for individuals to showcase their beauty; it was a platform for collective improvement.
Challenges, an inevitable facet of any journey, presented themselves during the competition. For IHope, escaping the cocoon of his comfort zone proved to be the most significant hurdle. As a seasoned comedian, he found solace in the spotlight, but the transition to embodying traditional beauty standards brought forth a unique set of fears and uncertainties.
“To get on a stage and look beautiful was a new experience for me,” he confesses, unraveling the layers of vulnerability beneath the polished exterior.
The climactic moment of IHope’s journey unfolded when he was announced as Mr. Hartenbos 2023. Describing it as an emotional rollercoaster, he humorously details the whirlwind of emotions that surged within him. “I think I may have invented a new emotion,” he laughs, capturing the unpredictability of the moment.
The spectrum of feelings, from shock to confusion, happiness to a fleeting thought of April Fools, and ultimately, tears of pride, exemplifies the profound impact this triumph had on his self-perception.
orn as Thami Hopewell Nkambule and raised in Pretoria, Moriarty’s upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping his identity. Raised by a single mother who worked as a domestic worker for the DeClercq family, he found himself straddling two distinct worlds. The dichotomy between his black heritage and Afrikaans-speaking upbringing within the DeClercq household not only cultivated linguistic skills but also enriched his understanding of culture and community. iHope acknowledges the disparities that persist in South African society but sees his mission as bridging the gaps and fostering unity.
The title of Mr. Hartenbos 2023 holds profound personal significance for Moriarty. It not only resuscitated his wavering creative spirit but also acted as a tangible manifestation of resilience. “This title is proof to myself that my story isn’t over, and I can accomplish anything if I give it my all and never give up,” he asserts, reflecting on the impact of the title on his self-worth.
In the wake of this triumph, IHope’s life has undergone a transformative shift. Beyond the newfound confidence, the title has catapulted him into the spotlight of the industry, unlocking doors to endorsements that he eagerly anticipates sharing with the world. He speaks with enthusiasm about the forthcoming launch of “HopeCast,” his own YouTube show, hinting at the multifaceted career that lies ahead. The title, it seems, not only conferred a crown upon his head but also an array of opportunities to explore and conquer.
Away from the glamour and accolades, iHope finds joy in his work—creating content that allows him to assume diverse roles and personas, bringing him pure joy. Passionate about people, his travels across South Africa serve as windows into diverse cultures and experiences, enriching his understanding of the mosaic that is the motherland. In addition to his comedic prowess, Moriarty occasionally indulges in freestyling, a testament to his appreciation for hip-hop culture.
IHope’s commitment to making a positive impact extends far beyond the stage. He aligns himself with movements fighting against gender-based violence and empowers women in both the workplace and personal realms. His involvement with the NPO Siyakunakekela, providing sanitary products to young schoolgirls in rural areas, exemplifies his dedication to meaningful causes. With the Mr. Hartenbos title, Moriarty envisions motivating more men to stand up for women, recognizing the invaluable contributions of the female gender to society.
As Mr. Hartenbos 2023, Moriarty envisions using his platform to inspire and contribute to the local community. Reflecting on the struggles he faced before the competition, he plans to be a guiding light for those grappling with similar challenges, be it in mental health or the fear of taking risks. “I want to use my platform as an example that you are capable of doing and becoming anything you believe in,” he states, emphasizing the enduring message of perseverance.
This journey has not only been a path of external triumphs but also an internal metamorphosis for Moriarty. “I was a person who always stayed in my lane,” he reflects, acknowledging the toxic nature of limiting oneself professionally. The realization that his capabilities extend beyond the confines of a single skill or talent serves as a poignant lesson from this transformative experience.
For those contemplating similar journeys or pursuing their passions, iHope offers sage advice. “There is a whole world of possibilities and opportunities,” he asserts, urging individuals to embrace chances and prevent the regret of unexplored potentials. His words resonate with the wisdom that life is crafted by taking risks and seizing opportunities, a sentiment reflected in his journey.
Peering into the future, both personal and professional, iHope envisions building his brand, HopeNation, into a lifestyle that transcends commercial boundaries. His goal is to become a beacon of hope, offering a sanctuary for people from all walks of life. Professionally, he aspires to international acclaim in both music and comedy, harboring dreams of becoming not just the best but one of the greatest.
Beyond the ephemeral reign as Mr. Hartenbos 2023, Moriarty’s vision extends towards sustaining a positive impact. The foundation of HopeNation is envisioned as a community builder, contributing to a world that reflects the aspirations of its inhabitants. “Simply to build a community that will make the world a better place, one we all want to live in,” he affirms, echoing the sentiment that true impact transcends individual accomplishments.
Amid the rigorous competition, IHope fondly recalls moments of levity that brought laughter to the journey. The attempts to master the runway walk and synchronize dance moves became a source of amusement, creating bonds among the contestants that transcended the competitive atmosphere. “Between the learning how to walk on a runway and the dancing, the boys made it hilarious,” he recounts, highlighting the camaraderie that blossomed amidst the challenges.
Reflecting on a theme song for his Mr. Hartenbos journey, Moriarty gravitates towards Macklemore’s “Can’t Hold Us.” The anthem encapsulates the essence of the moment—a call to embrace the present, give one’s very best, and elevate the competition. The lyrics resonate with the urgency of making the most of the opportunity, an anthem that reverberates through the highs and lows of Moriarty’s transformative journey.
In the narrative of iHope Moriarty’s journey, there’s more than meets the eye. It’s not merely about the crown or the title; it’s a story of self-discovery, resilience, and a commitment to making a positive impact. As he continues to navigate the realms of comedy, music, and beyond, Moriarty stands as a testament to the enduring power of hope, breaking barriers, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. His journey is a symphony of laughter, tears, and triumph—a melody that resonates far beyond the confines of a stage.
