There is a new generation of South African men redefining what success looks like, one where ambition is matched by self-awareness, discipline sits alongside vulnerability, and self-care i s viewed as strength rather than weakness.
As we continue honouring TJR 100 Creators, I had a chat with Human Capital and Organisational Development professional, Vuyo Hlela about how he spends his working days, modern masculinity, corporate life, fitness, and faith.
His content isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing that an ordinary young man can build an extraordinary life through consistency, purpose and authenticity.
Your content is built around a simple but powerful idea: that the South African corporate gentleman deserves to be seen. What inspired you to start sharing that side of your life online?
There are many guys living like this, but we lack representation. Someone said something profound to me recently -“we are literally all winging it every day.” We encounter different challenges and we deal with them with what we have. Planning can only take us so far. And I thought, that’s exactly what I want to show.
My handle says it all- unfiltered. I want to show up authentically, because when you do that, you build a community of people you can learn from and who can learn from you.
What makes it even more meaningful is knowing that younger people with aspirations, who haven’t necessarily been exposed to what intentional living looks like in the small, ordinary, day-to-day things — they’re watching.
I come from a community where men around me drink to get drunk almost every day. I only hope that the kids and youth who dream of something different see an ordinary young man striving to build a better life for himself. I’m not everyone’s cup of tea, and I’m completely at peace with that. The few who leave my page feeling inspired — that’s the win.
You work in Human Capital and Organisational Development. What does a typical work day include?
At a high level, my role sits at the intersection of people strategy and organisational effectiveness. Day to day, I could be working on recruitment and talent acquisition, managing onboarding and probation processes, facilitating performance management cycles, or advising leadership on employee relations matters.
I also spend a significant amount of time on organisational development work — things like role profiling, job grading, workforce planning, and learning and development initiatives. Essentially, I partner with leadership to ensure the right people are in the right roles, growing, and operating within a culture that supports both the individual and the business.
Many men struggle with showing vulnerability, self-care, or even taking pride in their appearance. Have you faced criticism for the type of content you create, and how have you dealt with it?
I’ve been fortunate — the feedback I’ve received has been overwhelmingly supportive and encouraging, from both men and women, and I’m truly grateful for that. But I think working in HR has thickened my skin in ways I didn’t expect.
In HR, you are constantly cast as the bad cop. Line managers will often use you as a shield to avoid difficult conversations, and you are perpetually in the middle — navigating the gap between employee expectations and management expectations. You learn quickly not to let negativity derail you. So if a few negative comments come my way online, honestly, I’ve handled far worse in the boardroom.
As a HYROX competitor, discipline clearly plays a major role in your life. What has competitive fitness taught you about consistency, both online and offline?
You only get the results you want based on how you show up. It’s that simple. Fitness has taught me resilience in a very visceral way — because in those moments of exhaustion, you are having a conversation with yourself.
You are pushing and convincing yourself that you can do one more rep, go a little heavier, keep moving even when everything in you wants to stop. It’s a mental game as much as a physical one.
And for me personally, faith plays a huge role there. I genuinely believe that my spirit is in control of my body — so I tell my body what to do.
That same principle translates to content creation and to work. Show up consistently. Push through the days you don’t feel like it. Trust the process.
What are some non-negotiables in your daily life that help you stay grounded and focused?
Prayer, worship, and time in the Word — those are the foundation. My mom is also my unofficial life coach. She has this gift of knowing exactly what to say and exactly when to say it, and I genuinely couldn’t do life without her voice in my corner. And then staying active — movement is non-negotiable for my mental clarity and energy. Those three things keep me anchored.
If someone discovers @vuyo_unfiltered for the first time today, what is the one message or feeling you hope they walk away with?
Inspired and encouraged. That’s it. I hope they see something on my page that makes them believe a little more in themselves and in the life they’re building.
When the camera is off, the gym session is done, and you are not at work; who is Vuyo Hlela?
Just a boy that loves Jesus. I’ve committed my life to Christ, and I am far from perfect — I have my flaws, my imperfections, my shortcomings. But I am very intentional about identifying them and working on them, because at the core of who I am is a deep love for development and growth.
I want to constantly become a better version of myself. Not for clout or recognition — but so that one day my Father in heaven can say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” That’s the real goal.
What are you currently watching on Netflix?
I just finished rewatching The Polygamist — and I don’t rewatch series unless I genuinely loved them. Suits, How to Get Away with Murder, and Revenge are also firmly on that list. If I’m rewatching something, you know it hit differently.
Last song added to your playlist?
Mhlaba by Essa Kay, Thathatsi, and Nkosazana Daughter — it has been on repeat. I love Amapiano deeply, and what I appreciate most about the genre is how much of the messaging is rooted in faith, hope, and positivity. Believing for a bright future. That resonates with me. Oh, and I love dancing — I just unfortunately cannot dance at all.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Do not leave me alone with cake or any sweet treats. I have a seriously bad sweet tooth — which is exactly why I work even harder at the gym.
Who do you want us to feature next? Nominate them here!
The Joburg Reporter 
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