INTERVIEW WITH SINGAPORE MAN OF THE WORLD 2022: TAVIS LEE (NO.14)

1) During your entire time of Mr World Singapore 2022 from the time you auditioned till you won the title, tell us - what was the most overwhelming moment for you?

I think the most overwhelming thing would be to stand in front of a crowd in just swimming trunks as personally I’ve actually never dared to post any topless photos on my social media because I didn’t think my body was good enough or even worthy of being showcased. However, I think the diet and cardio has definitely made me more confident about my body and I hope that people out there who have their own insecurities, it’s either to try embracing it or to make an improvement to be a better version of yourself.

2) What was the prep process like?

The preparation process was pretty daunting as we had to learn how to dance and catwalk with limited time and rehearsals and it was sometimes hard to grasp the exact sequence in such a short period of time. I think the most important thing I’ve learnt in this aspect is that even if we make any mistakes, we should still soldier on as in the end the show still must go on.

3) Are there any nervous moments and stress factors during the competition and how did you deal with it?

Personally the nerves started kicking in as the show was about to start as I was probably too exhausted from my dieting and exercise to feel much during the competition. The more prominent stress factor was the catwalk because we not only had to memorise where to walk but also how to walk naturally with confidence so it’s kind of like having to multitask while executing everything perfectly. I believe everyone felt the same way but the important thing is to be observant and take mental notes, such as when other groups are showcasing their walk, I will try to take note of the pointers mentioned by the coach so that we can all help one another in our own groups.

4) Any words you like to say to your supporters?

I really want to thank my family for being so supportive and helping me with everything along this whole journey. From helping to choose my suit to preparing my diet meals in advance, it’s really something I appreciate. To my friends who came down to support me during the finals, I really have no words to describe how touched I am with the board you all created and also all the cheering whenever my name is called. Each and everyone of you are my pillars of support and I feel extremely fortunate that you have come into my life.

5) What's the one thing you wish someone had prepared you for before you won the title?

I think it would the amount of weight and responsibility that I’ll be having as I not only want to do myself, my family and loved ones proud, I would also want to do my country proud as I would be representing Singapore in the international pageant. I hope I would be able to exude what it means to be a Singaporean man and to show that as long as we stay true to ourselves, we can achieve what we want.

6) When you look back, is there something you wish you did differently?

To be honest I wouldn’t change a thing. Everything I’ve said and done since the start is what comes from within and I’m extremely grateful to have met such a bunch of people from all walks of life as well as forged precious friendships with some.

7) For the guys who want join Mr World Singapore in the future, what are some tips you can suggest?

It may sound politically correct but honestly as long as you put your heart and mind into something, you will be able to achieve your goals. Confidence can be built with practice but if we don’t even want to try or give it a shot, you wouldn’t even have that slight chance of reaching your destination. Find something within yourself that you feel can make a difference and from there everything will naturally fall into place. Most importantly stick to what you believe in and follow your passion and heart.

8) What has been the best piece of advice given to you so far and by whom?

I think the best advice is no doubt from my mum, which is to always put on a smile and give eye contact. I think this has definitely helped me a lot on stage as despite the number of people on stage, you will never know who is looking at you and it’s always important to keep that smile on no matter the situation. 

9) Tell us a little bit about your upcoming plans?

I think I would first be feasting on whatever food which I’ve missed out for the past 3 months haha but after that I would have to start preparing for the next pageant in the Philippines. I would definitely hope to continue inspiring people to turn their insecurities into their strengths which was what brought me here and to also probably give advice to men on taking care of their skin since this also something I’m passionate about.

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