Another loss for Mr Gay South Africa as Zander Barnard passes away

Zander Barnard, a popular Mr Gay South Africa 2015 finalist and a well known Cape Town GP, has passed away at his home at the age of 32.

Barnard graduated with an MBChB at the University of Stellenbosch and specialised in sport and exercise medicine. He was in private practice and consulted for Gentlemen’s Health, a medical service focusing on the needs of men.

Sporting model good looks, Barnard was also an avid sportsman and believed in incorporating medicine, counselling and exercise in a holistic treatment approach for his patients.

He was one of the 12 contestants in the Mr Gay South Africa 2015 contest and also assisted with Mr Gay World 2015, which was held in Cape Town and Kynsna earlier this year. Barnard is remembered by Mambaonline for his warmth and sincerity.

Barnard’s family has not released details surrounding his untimely death, which comes shortly after the passing of Charl Van Den Berg , Mr Gay South Africa 2009 and Mr Gay World 2010, in August.

Thinus van der Walt, Managing Director of Mr Gay South Africa, sent his condolences to Barnard’s friends and family and expressed his sadness at the news in a statement to Mambaonline.

“You will forever stay in our hearts. We are filled with gratitude for the time we shared with you in your journey on earth. We celebrate your unique energy that you brought into the world; there is beauty in the completion of the full circle of life,” said van der Walt.

“You have experienced what you wanted to and your love has touched so many souls. I know your soul will keep on shining! Zander you will forever into eternity be a 2015 SA Hero. You will be dearly missed.”

Writing on Facebook, Coenie Kukkuk, Mr Gay World (MGW) Director for Africa & Middle East, said: “Another young promising life ended far too soon. RIP Zander Barnard. Our interactions were few during MGW, but you made a lasting impression. Heartfelt condolences to your family and friends from Mr. Gay World organisation.”

Christopher Olwage, Mr Gay World 2013, wrote: “I am at a loss for words! A friend and fellow activist has passed. Dr Zander Barnard you were such a joy, a lovely pure soul dedicated to creating change and awareness. You were so genuine and true… and saw the innate beauty in all whom you met. I am deeply deeply saddened at your passing. Another soul taken too soon.”

Barnard is survived by his parents, his brothers Hein and Kobus and sister Nicola.