Cool kid on campus: Francis Salman, Mr Wits Res 2015
Eighteen-year-old Francis Salman, who was recently crowned Mr Wits Residence, does not consider himself a “beauty pageant guy”, and does not see himself going further than Mr Wits Res.
Speaking to Wits Vuvuzela, Salman said: “This was my first and although I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, it probably was my last.”
Photo by Anelisa Tuswa
How would you describe yourself?
I’m a calm person, outgoing and I love meeting new people.
How did you get into the All Residence Pageant and why?
A friend of mine suggested it and I thought it would be fun. So I took the opportunity to get myself out there and meet new people and I’ve made a whole lot of friends in the process.
Holding the title, Mr. Wits Res, what does it mean to you?
I’m yet to find out hey, but honestly speaking at the moment I’m still trying to get used to the idea. I am hoping to figure it out soon, though.
Are you hoping to continue with the “beauty pageant” life, and if so, what’s next?
No, I feel like I should focus on my studies for the next few years.
So in the future, will we be seeing you competing for Mr. South Africa?
Definitely not, this was my first and although I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, it probably was my last.
Besides being handsome and a Witsie, what are your actual talents?
I wouldn’t call myself an artist or a poet but I love writing. I write more socio-economic related poetry and about the way I view the world.
The Wits All Residence Council (ARC) only started with the Mr. Element (the inclusion of male contestants) in the Wits Res beauty pageant this year. Do you think all beauty pageants should have the Mr. Element and Why?
I think they should, I mean recently there’s been a trend in beauty pageants of celebrating and including different women. So including men in such competitions might be part of the transition, but also celebration of men in society is important.
