Twenty four year old Kamal Ibrahim from Limerick beat 73 of the world's most desirable men when he was crowned Mr World last March in Korea. Georgina Heffernan caught up with Kamal to find out what it’s really like to be the world’s most beautiful man...
Georgina Heffernan: What did it feel to win the Mr World competition and what does this mean to your career?
Kamal Ibrahim: Winning Mr World was completely unexpected. I entered with the hope of making the top 15 and I worked hard to try and achieve that, to actually win it, though, was completely unexpected and I was so proud to be representing Ireland.
GH: How did you get into modelling and what do you enjoy most about the job?
KI: I got into modelling by accident. I was at a charity fashion show about 5 years ago and was asked at the interval if I would participate by modelling an outfit. I agreed and enjoyed myself so much I thought I’d keep it up. From there it snowballed!
GH: How do you keep in shape? Do you spend a lot of time working out to maintain your physique?
KI: I find it very hard to keep finding time to train but in general, yes, I spend a lot of time on staying as fit and healthy as possible. I train 3 - 4 times a week and maintain a very strict diet. I don’t smoke and drink very little and I don’t eat junk food. The combination of healthy eating and good exercise keeps me in shape.
GH: You are recognised as the best looking man in the world. How does that feel?
KI: Actually I'm not. The Mr World competition is about finding the most desirable man not the best looking. The most desirable man is someone, I think, who has a little bit of everything, a well rounded person. Someone who has the look, attitude and characteristics that make him No.1 (that said I was recently voted 5th sexiest man in the world by More! Magazine)
GH: I’m asking this purely on behalf of my readers but - are you single?
KI: I have been in a long term relationship with my girlfriend for the past 2 and half years. Right now, we're both focusing on our careers.
GH: It must have been an incredibly proud moment for you to win Mr World and, of course, to represent Ireland. How does that make you feel?
KI: Well that’s exactly it; I had an overwhelming sense of pride when my name was called. I just wanted to come home and tell everyone. I feel honoured and very lucky too.
GH: How did you celebrate your win?
KI: Well, I had dinner with friends and family and then got stuck in straight to work.
GH: What are your career ambitions? Do you want to stay in modelling or would you ever think of branching out into other areas such as TV presenting or acting?
KI: Modelling is where you start not where you end up. I'm making a move into TV and I would love to make it as an international TV presenter.
GH: What did your friends and family in Limerick think?
KI: Well, the whole of the city was behind me. Friends and family were shocked and delighted and before I even got home the whole town was talking about me.
GH: What’s next for you?
KI: I’m spending the 12 months travelling around the world with the MWO taking part in international events. As well as that I’m working on realising my presenting career.
