From Cape Town to the world: Zeus Feni’s journey
For Zeus Feni, fitness and modelling aren’t just hobbies, they’re a way of life. The Cape Town-born model and fitness enthusiast has spent years building a routine and mindset that combine discipline, creativity, and opportunity.
“I was born and bred here, but my mom is from Gqeberha, and my dad is from Butterworth. They met at a church function and eventually settled in Cape Town,” Feni explains. “That mix of backgrounds shaped how I see the world and grounded me from a young age.”
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How fitness became more than a hobby
Although Feni was always active at school, it wasn’t until university that fitness became structured.
“My school was severely under-resourced, so I didn’t have access to proper training,” he recalls. “It wasn’t until my second year at varsity, when a friend introduced me to CrossFit, that I really got into it. I’ve never looked back since.”
Consistency is his mantra: “Four out of seven days a week, I must train. No excuses. That discipline compounds over time and influences everything I do.”
Fitness, Feni says, has shaped more than just his physique—it’s a guiding principle for focus, professionalism, and growth in other areas of life, including his corporate career in marketing and brand strategy.
Modelling: from school trips to international campaigns
Feni’s modelling journey began earlier but was sporadic. “Growing up, my mom would sometimes fetch me from school, and we’d take the train into the CBD for commercial auditions. It happened every few weeks,” he says. “I stopped in early high school but picked it up again at varsity when I joined an agency properly.”
Recognition came in milestones. “Being a Men’s Health Top 8 Cover Search finalist was huge for me,” Feni shares. “It later led to becoming the face of Ted Lapidus fragrances. Moments like that make all the discipline and effort worth it.”
Inspiration and ambition
Feni draws inspiration from figures like Kevin Hart, seeing him as proof that fitness is a tool, not the defining factor of success.
“It might sound cliché, but Kevin Hart inspires me. Fitness isn’t his main focus; he’s an entertainer and entrepreneur first. That’s how I see it too. Fitness and modelling are just parts of a bigger picture.”
Looking ahead, Feni’s ambitions are global. “I’d love to work on campaigns with brands like Nike, Adidas, or Under Armour. Those are the opportunities that push me to improve every day.”
Advice for aspiring models and fitness enthusiasts
For newcomers, Feni has a simple message: start and stay consistent.
“Find an agency, get proper headshots, and commit to training. Be serious for the first six months. Consistency beats talent early on.”
Outside the gym and camera lens, Feni enjoys travelling and learning languages. “One thing about me—I’ll catch a flight. Exploring new places and learning keeps life exciting,” he says.
Enjoying the journey
Despite already achieving significant milestones, Feni remains grounded and focused on growth.
“My fitness and modelling journey has opened doors and taken me to places I never imagined. I plan to keep enjoying it and seeing where it leads,” he reflects.
Zeus Feni’s story is more than just about aesthetics or campaigns—it’s a lesson in dedication, balance, and embracing every opportunity life presents.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@FrwontouMens}
