MUSCLEMAN Absolom Mfumadi preaches the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse to schoolchildren through sport and motivational talks, while encouraging them to lead healthy lives.

Mfumadi, 33, sees himself as the next Phil Heath, the current Mr Olympia, but - first - he is under pressure to defend his South African title.

As an "avowed" drug-free fitness competitor Mfumadi describes himself as a symbol of inspiration to teenagers, and - fittingly - he has worked tirelessly towards shaping his physique and changing the mindset of others towards the sport.

Mfumadi spends much of his free time working as a motivational speaker, addressing mostly pupils.

He is currently in top shape and is primed for the World Physique Federation (WPF) tournament at the Vodacom World in Midrand on Saturday.

If he manages to defend his SA title, it will earn him a place in Holland in December. Bodybuilding is more than a sport for him.

"It's a culture on its own and requires a person to follow a strict diet and a certain set lifestyle," he says.

Last year Mfumadi topped in the provincial and national championships, which helped him to qualify for the world championships in Naples, Italy, where he did not disappoint.

"The fact that I competed with the best in the world and placed fifth is a feat I will relish forever," Mfumadi says. "My goals and vision for this year are to improve my competing condition.

"I've been training since 1999, but my dream of competing was realised three years ago."

He says to accomplish his goals he needs sponsorship, as supplements are "very expensive" .