Inspiration, entertainment and emotion marked the annual Men’s Health Best Man Awards held in Johannesburg on Thursday, 11 June. Best Man, celebrating its sixth year, recognises leaders in six categories.

The winners in each category are:
•Sport: Paul Treu, coach of the World Series-winning Springbok Sevens rugby team.
•Science and Technology: Hennie Botes, inventor of box-moulded, low-cost, quality housing.
•Arts and Culture: David Koloane, celebrated painter, art teacher and art critic.
•Business: Justin Letschert and David Letschert, manufacturers and distributors of Bio-Oil skincare products.
•Public Service: Andrew Muir, founder of Umzi Wethu Training Academy for Displaced Youth.
•Media: Jonathan Shapiro, world-renowned cartoonist.

A special award, the Editor’s Choice Award, was presented to business leader and entrepreneur Zibusiso Mkhwanazi. Just 26, Mkhwanazi is not only the executive chairman of the country’s largest digital advertising agency, Krazyboyz Digital, he has also founded a non-profit entrepreneurship academy for the underprivileged in his community of Vosloorus. His vision is to create a new breed of “ethical” South African entrepreneurs.

Men’s Health Editor, Ridwaan Bawa, said that Best Man recognises today’s true leaders who are having a positive impact in South Africa.

“Men’s Health is once again privileged to be associated with all our Best Man finalists, especially our winners. They represent the finest of South African men, men who are actively using their passion and expertise to make a difference in our country,” comments Bawa.

Finalists were selected after a public call for nominations and direction from a panel comprised of specialists in the respective categories and finalists from previous years. These finalists were considered based on the iconic status achieved in their area of expertise, as well as the difference made in everyday life for the good of society. Winners were selected by Men’s Health readers via the website and the magazine.

The special gala dinner was hosted at the Theatre on the Track in Kyalami, Johannesburg, where guests were entertained by the soothing sounds of the Afro Funk Trio and comedian Loyiso Gola as host. Sponsors of the Men’s Health Best Man 2009 leadership programme are First National Bank; Breitling; DKNYMEN; and Amstel lager.

For more information on all the finalists and images from the gala event, visit www.mh.co.za and catch the Men’s Health Best Man 2009 Awards on M-Net on Saturday, 27 June at 21.30.

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