Encomium
Egwuatu Francis Beacon is the new Mr. Universe. He was crowned on Sunday, August 3, 2014, at Bespoke Centre, Lekki, Lagos, in one of the biggest male pageants that had in attendance over 300 guests.
Francis is set to take the industry to another level as well as represent Nigeria in the international circuit. ENCOMIUM Weekly had a chat with him about his winning strategy and much more…
Congrats, how does it feel emerging as Mr. Universe?
Thank you. It definitely feels great. I feel like a fulfilled man, irrespective of the fact that I know there is still work to do, which is giving back.
What do you think gave you an edge over others?
What gave me an edge over others was my height, my athletic physique, and most important, I have got experience, due to the fact I won Mr. Universe Anambra 2013.
What was your winning strategy?
My winning strategy was putting God first in every step I took. Also, I really worked on my physique, my skin, and I put up my best attitude in camp. Let me say the other 23 gladiators never made it easy from the start. They brought on their best qualities but eventually, I guess, mine couldn’t be faulted by the judges. I really give glory to God.
Did you envisage that you would win?
Yes! I envisaged that I was going to win. I have always had this self belief that I could go all the way in whatever I do. Though sometimes I doubted if I really could, but all of a sudden, I get re-inspired.
Who posed a threat to you in the house?
Mr. Universe Abuja and Mr. Universe Akwa ibom were my top threats in the house because of their coordination, very good physique, and they excelled in the entrepreneurship task which was a major task in clinching the crown. Though I did best in the task.
Can you recall your experience in camp?
Yes, I can. My experience in camp was amazing and also a definition of stress. Like they say; nothing good comes easy. We, the ‘gladiators’ as we fondly called ourselves sleep very late, and woke as early as 5am for our prayers and routine exercise before embarking on the day’s task. I was able to interact with people from different ethnic background, where I made quality friends.
Tell us about your journey into modelling?
My journey into modelling was rough, smooth and exciting. It actually started sometime in 2012, when I went for an audition for Mr. Tourism Nigeria. Though I wasn’t selected to go into camp, I had lot of negative energy. But that didn’t stop me from giving it another shot. So, I started to build a niche for myself, by working on my flaws. I got a personal trainer, and did some runway shows. June 3, 2013, I was auditioned for Mr. Universe Anambra at Awka, where I got selected into camp and eventually won, after which I got loads of endorsements, modelling contracts, and pet project. As Mr. Universe Anambra, it was my obligation to represent the state at the national level, so here I am.
Now that you are on your way to fame, how will you handle it?
I would take it as it comes, most important, I wouldn’t change for anything or anybody. I would remain true to myself and retain my personality.
What is your role as Mr. Universe?
My role as Mr. Universe Nigeria, is being an extremely good brand ambassador for our nation, Nigeria, accomplish whatever pet project I decide to delve into, help the poor and needy in any way I can and most important, bring my nation to the front burner on the international scene.
Which pet project are you considering working on?
I am currently working on a pet project tagged Room To Read, where libraries would be erected in primary and secondary schools that have been neglected across the nation. Though other pet projects would fall in place but the Room To Read is my primary project.
Tell us about yourself and your background?
My name is Egwuatu Francis Beacon, I am the current Mr. Universe Nigeria. I hail from Uruagu, Nnewi, Anambra state. I was born into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Egwuatu. I am the third child out of five children. I grew in Lagos, currently a final year student, studying Mechanical Engineering at Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State.
I am a model, potential entrepreneur, ambassador to brands and an administrator. I love travelling, meeting people, reading and playing chess.
-OYINKANSOLA EKERIN
