Africa-Press – Cape verde. Sal Island: Winner of Mister Tourism Africa 2025 sees crown as a launching pad and inspiration. The young Cape Verdean Ednilton Delgado, winner of the Mister Tourism Africa 2025 contest, stated that he sees the crown as a launching pad and inspiration, after the “fierce” competition he faced in Lagos, Nigeria.
The Cape Verdean model and tourism activist, who also won the Best National Costume award, designed by stylist Ivan Graça, now transforms his crown into a promotional tool for African tourism and a symbol of inspiration for youth.
In an interview following his victory, Ednilton Delgado detailed the complexity of his journey, which he describes as a life lesson.
His participation required not only “faith and inner strength,” but also exhaustive preparation representing Cape Verde.
The journey was marked by significant challenges, from obtaining financial support to competing in a “completely unknown land.”
Delgado emphasized that the motivation to represent his people overcame the difficulties.
“The strength of a Cape Verdean lies within himself, and it is the strength of a people that he has to represent, even knowing the difficulties,” he said.
The personal, family, and institutional support, notably from the Sal Municipal Council, was “crucial” in mitigating the absence of a director or guide during the 10-day competition, described as intense and full of pressure, anxiety, and moments of discouragement.
The Cape Verdean competitor faced anxieties and tears, but remained firm, driven by the passion and determination to represent his nation.
For the young man, who was already elected Mister Bela Vista (2019) and King of Carnival (2024), and who also works as a runway and fashion instructor, this international title represents the fulfillment of a patient and dedicated wait.
The competition, which was supposed to have sixteen participants, provided him with rich cultural experiences and an opportunity for validation.
Ednilton sees the title of Mister Tourism Africa International 2025 as the expected catalyst for his international career.
“This has always been my ambition, and I had to wait, prepare, and above all, dedicate myself a lot to what I do,” he emphasized.
With the reinforced support of Nigeria, the new Mister Tourism Africa now intends to “stabilize his base” and define his next projects, with the dual objective of boosting his international career and encouraging African youth.
Ednilton Delgado’s victory reinforces Cape Verdean talent on the international stage and signals his commitment to promoting the cultural and tourist riches of Cape Verde.
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