Interview with Wilco Esterhuyzen, Mr Hartenbos 2023 – 1st Runner-up
By PPMC MAGAZINE
In an exclusive and insightful interview with Wilco Esterhuyzen, the accomplished 1st Runner-Up of Mr. Hartenbos 2023, we delved into the multifaceted aspects of his captivating journey, exploring his motivations, challenges faced during the competition, personal background, and the profound impact of his newfound title.
Wilco’s journey, from the initial application to claiming the 1st Runner-Up spot, was marked by the development of deep connections with fellow contestants. His expression of the experience as a highlight showcases the camaraderie that blossomed during the competition. However, the path to victory was not without its hurdles.
Wilco candidly shared the challenge of battling illness, stating, “I was extremely sick and had a high fever. I overcame it by drinking a lot of medicine, and the love and support of all the other contestants kept me going.” The revelation of this personal struggle adds an element of resilience to his narrative. Despite personal reservations, Wilco expressed surprise upon being announced as 1st Runner-Up, revealing, “I was surprised that I placed as 1st runner-up because I thought my answers to the questions were insignificant.”
Wilco’s background is a poignant chapter in his story, as he disclosed being born in Pretoria, Gauteng, and shared the challenges his family faced during the pandemic. Recounting a difficult period, he stated, “People in our community became jealous of our family for our prosperity. They all conspired against my father and tried putting him in jail.”
The family’s subsequent move to Mosselbay marked a transformative phase, contributing to Wilco’s strength and self-confidence. The sincerity with which he addresses his background adds depth to his character. Despite the honor of being named 1st Runner-Up, Wilco remains grounded, emphasizing, “I don’t want people to treat me differently because I am still the same me as before.”
Post-victory, Wilco’s life has taken an exciting turn, as he shared, “I’ve been offered to take part in Opulent Models runway show this August.” This testament to the opportunities his title has brought echoes his commitment to embracing new challenges and experiences.
As for hobbies and interests, Wilco provides a glimpse into his leisure activities, revealing a passion for riding dirt bikes and dedicating time to the gym. His mastery of a backflip and a handstand pushup showcases a commitment to physical fitness, adding an athletic dimension to his personality.
While not presently engaged in community work, Wilco envisions utilizing his platform to inspire and make a positive impact. Acknowledging the challenge of his current social media reach, he expressed, “I don’t have a big enough social media following count to make a difference.” This acknowledgment of a limitation, coupled with his aspiration to make a positive impact, reveals a genuine desire to contribute to a larger cause.
Reflecting on personal growth, Wilco shared profound insights, stating, “I’ve grown to learn that even if I’m physically tired and sick, I can still continue with what I have to do if I have the right mentality.” This revelation not only underscores his resilience but also provides a valuable life lesson for others.
Looking ahead, Wilco articulates ambitious plans, expressing a desire to focus on his mental health and open a real estate business. Beyond the personal realm, he envisions making a positive impact beyond his reign as 1st Runner-Up by “being the vibes.” This commitment to radiating positivity and making a lasting impression beyond the title demonstrates his dedication to leaving a meaningful legacy.
In a lighter note, Wilco fondly recalled a memorable and funny moment from his journey – the promotion night with fellow contestants, Hope (Mr. Hartenbos), Zané, Eulize, and Dioné. This anecdote adds a touch of humor and camaraderie to his overall narrative. Additionally, in a playful twist, Wilco suggested the theme song for his Mr. Hartenbos journey would be “Slukkie Inspirasie,” referring to a shared joke among contestants about needing a ‘slukkie inspirasie’ after the show.
Wilco Esterhuyzen’s journey in Mr. Hartenbos 2023 is a collection of experiences that showcase his resilience, determination, and down-to-earth personality. As he embraces opportunities and looks ahead to future endeavors, Wilco stays true to himself, offering valuable advice: “Be yourself and never change to try to impress anyone.” His story inspires others to face challenges, stay authentic, and make a positive impact on the world.
