A Zimbabwean entrepreneur, model, musician and cultural advocate based in New York City has been crowned Mister Businessman World 2026, an international title that recognises leadership, entrepreneurship and community impact.
The award-winning Ray Bamala, popularly known as Ray Jive Ndlela Bamala, recently completed a Master’s degree in Digital Marketing and Media, as well as a certificate in the Business of Entertainment, in New York.
He said the achievement marked one of the most significant milestones in his journey and affirmed his commitment to using media, branding, culture and entrepreneurship to inspire positive change.
Mister Businessman World is an international competition that honours individuals who combine business leadership with advocacy, communication skills, professionalism and social influence.
Beyond appearance, contestants are assessed on intellect, vision, confidence and their ability to represent their countries on a global platform.
“I was honoured to receive the title Mister Businessman World 2026 in recognition of leadership, entrepreneurship, professionalism, public speaking, confidence, cultural representation and the ability to inspire and influence communities positively on a global platform,” Bamala told NewsDay Life & Style.
The foundation of his leadership journey was laid during his high school years, when he became the youngest Scripture Union chairperson at 14.
“Being entrusted with leadership responsibilities at such a young age taught me discipline, responsibility, communication and the importance of guiding and inspiring others positively. It built the confidence and resilience that continue to shape me today,” he said.
Bamala's rise to international recognition was forged through hardships and determination.
During his Mister Zimbabwe journey in 2021, he designed a Shangani-inspired outfit as part of his portfolio. The design symbolised resilience, perseverance and the refusal to surrender to difficult circumstances.
At that time, he was working as a vendor in Harare, waking before dawn to buy stock and spending entire days selling.
“Some days I would not make any sales at all, but I refused to lose hope. Those difficult experiences taught me endurance, patience, faith and determination,” Bamala said.
His personal experience later inspired his motivational single, Shanda Mwanangu, which encourages people to pray, work hard, stay focused and never give up.
Beyond music and pageantry, he has also used acting as a platform for advocacy. Working with Wildcut Productions, he took part in awareness campaigns addressing drug abuse and gender-based violence through performances and community tours across Zimbabwe.
Bamala is no stranger to accolades. His previous honours include Mister Glamour Zimbabwe People's Choice 2025, Mister Zimbabwe Prince Ambassador 2021, a Top 20 finish in Zim Top Model and awards for advocacy, public speaking, and cultural representation.
Despite his growing list of achievements, he said the latest international crown carried special significance.
“Coming from Zimbabwe and being recognised on an international stage shows that dreams are valid regardless of background. It motivates me to continue empowering young people, promoting African culture, encouraging entrepreneurship and using media and leadership platforms to create positive change globally,” Bamala said.
Currently based in New York, he continues to work on projects focused on media, branding, cultural advocacy, music and entrepreneurship while representing Zimbabwe internationally.