Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
Khaya-elihle Pardon Khanye, a well-known Bulawayo-based modelling director, has carved a name for himself in the industry through hard work and resilience.
Starting as a model, Khanye gradually transitioned into a modelling instructor, mentoring many aspiring models. He is the founder of Truth Models Academy and the Bulawayo Models Association, platforms dedicated to nurturing young talent.
In an interview, Khanye who has been instrumental in the success of many modelling pageants in the city, reflected on his journey, admitting that success in the modelling industry does not come easily. He has faced rejection, battled depression and endured numerous setbacks in pursuit of his passion.
“I perfected my skills by attending a modelling academy. I first trained at Fingers Modelling Academy, where I graduated before furthering my skills in Cape Town at DA Modelling School,” he said.
“As a model, I won several titles, including Mr Pelandaba, Mr Bulawayo Junior, Mr Trade Fair, first runner-up in Mr Africa Junior and Top Model Zimbabwe, among others,” he said.
Despite his training as a model, experience and age eventually led him to a different path – becoming a modelling instructor. Now, with over a decade of experience as a modelling choreographer, Khanye has helped shape the careers of many successful models.
He takes pride in his recognition and international opportunities.
“My greatest moments are my international recognitions, gigs and invitations,” he said.
His contributions to the industry have earned him numerous accolades over the years, including, Model of the Year Zimbabwe (2009), Face of Meikles (2010-2012), Outstanding Model SADC (2015), Outstanding Model Choreographer Zimbabwe (2018-2020), and Best Pageant Director (India, 2024).
Despite his success, Khanye admits that the modelling industry has a dark side.
“I’ve trained countless models, including many big names in the industry. Some acknowledge my role in their careers while others deny it because they are now bigger than me,” he said.
He said betrayal, backstabbing and deception are as some of the biggest challenges he has faced.
“This is an industry full of lies, betrayal and backstabbing. I’ve had serious mental breakdowns along the way. It took me time to realise that it’s a cutthroat business and it remains a stressful journey,” he shared.
Khanye has regrets and expressed disappointment over recent setbacks, including losing control of the Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe pageant, a project he worked on for two years.
“A person I considered a friend and brother took it away from me just like that. It broke my heart but life has to go on,” he said.
He also regrets investing in people without formal agreements.
“I regret giving people opportunities, teaching them for free and trusting some individuals as if they were family. I should have had contracts and formalised my projects,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Khanye is optimistic about the future and is working on projects, including Miss Teen World Zimbabwe and the third edition of the Bulawayo Models Awards. Additionally, he will be hosting the Miss Agriculture Grand Finale in Zambia on March 2 at The Quorum in Lusaka.
– @moyosipepisiwe
