March 30th Kamal Ibrahim’s first interview

The new Mr World Kamal Ibrahim gives his first official interview to the Mr World website.

How do you feel about winning Mr World?
'I feel a bit numb right now, it really hasn't sunk in yet, I came to Korea hoping to make top 15, that was my goal and winning it is just unbelievable.

I think pride is the strongest feeling right now; I keep thinking of my country, my family, my girlfriend. I was very happy when Northern Ireland was called to the last 15 as well, Ireland is a patriotic land and I’m proud of us both.'

What’s the response been like?
'I’m getting more and more excited because the response has been so big, was in every national newspaper when I got home. I haven’t done any interviews yet but I’m looking forward to meeting the media. I thought that I would have to come home and have to tell everyone that I had won, but my phone wouldn’t stop ringing with people congratulating me.'

What did your family say when you told them?
'My family were following the live Mr World Facebook updates. My mum said she broke down in tears of happiness. She was very excited and really proud of me. None of my friends can wait to see me either.

Before I left I said I would bring home the title to Limerick. I knew I was going to try my best to do it but I didn’t expect to win! I’m not letting myself get too excited and I’m going to take things one step at a time. Now that I have the title I’m 100% committing myself to being a good role model.'

What are your goals for the year?
'I would like to become a pilot and I plan to use my prize money to help get my commercial pilot’s license My childhood dream is to fly in the Red Bull air race.  I’d also like to get into TV presenting.

I love travelling and want to see as much of the world as I can. But also I want to pass on a message to everybody else. If I can do it you can do it too! I want to get everyone motivated and concentrate on being the best role model I can to young men around the world.'

What are your highlights of Mr World 2010?
'Everyday was so different, there are some parts where we were we didn’t get much sleep, but I loved every minute. The Tae Kwon Do at the temple was amazing. There was paint balling in Muju which was also great fun.

One of my strongest memories is when we first arrived in Incheon and I met everyone. All the contestants were from a different country and different culture, but we were all there for the same reason. I’m going to miss the confidence being surrounded by like minded people gave me. I wasn’t afraid to be myself because I was surrounded by the support of 73 other guys. When I was in Korea, I had no reason to hide and no reason to be afraid, it was an incredible experience.'