misterology
đ Exclusive Interview with Roberto Mena, Mister International Costa Rica 2023
1) First of all, many congratulations to you, Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about you?
Thank you. My name is Roberto Mena. I am 25 years old and was born in San Jose, Costa Rica. I grew up on farm land and was raised in a large and close-knit family. My mother was the oldest of 12 children and my father the youngest of 11. While having family always surrounding me, not only did I have to learn early on how to play well with others but also how to use my voice when needed to stand out. I was one of the first children to go to university, where I studied journalism. After university, I moved to the United States to pursue modeling.
2) What are your next projects ?
Iâm hopeful to have the honor of continuing to represent Mister International not only on behalf of Costa Rica but as the 2023 winner. This would be a great way to continue to pursue my modeling career and also have an opportunity to give back to others along the way.
3) If you are elected âMister International 2023â, what will be your first action ?
Iâd have to start by saying thank you to the people of the Philippines and all of my supporters. Your warmth here has truly given me a sense of home. The parallels between The Philippines and Costa Rica, while literally on opposite sides of the globe, are so many, starting with the nature and carrying through to the sense of pride and family.
4) Mister Internationalâs slogan is âDistinctly Handsome, Inspiring the Next Generationâ. Do you support a cause?
Yes – I have always valued fighting for those who cannot always do so themselves. This value led me to opening an animal rescue in Costa Rica that to date has saved and placed over 700 animals with their new homes.
5) What is your favorite song or music video?
I have to say Juan Gabrielâs âAmor Eternalâ. It is a song that reminds me of my grandmother, who recently passed from a battle with cancer. She was the true matriarch to our family and taught me so many things. Her love and inspiration will always be eternal to me.
6 ) What is your favorite food?
I never can refuse Gallo Pinto. It is a traditional Costa Rican rice and beans dish that is named âspeckled roosterâ because the look of the dish is reminiscent of the roosterâs coat when the rice is mixed with peppers, onions, garlic and spices.
7) What is your favorite animal ?
While Costa Rica has so much rich nature and many tropical species, I love dogs more than anything. They understand human emotion and reciprocate with compassion.
8) What is your favorite movie ?
Titanic. The movie scenery and detail was amazing. The love story got to me as well.
9) What is your favorite color ?
Blue. So many blue things that are beautiful from the ocean to the sky.
10) Name your favorite book ?
âEl ĂĄrbol generosoâ – âThe Giving Tree.â It may be a traditional childrenâs book, but the message and simplicity of it cannot be matched. And it continues to give generation after generation to many children.
11) Name your favorite magazine ?
Vogue. It has always portrayed fashion and style in a way that sets trends and keeps evolving season after season.
12) Who is your favorite celebrity ?
Andrea Bocelli. What a talent! I was blessed to be able to see him perform last year in concert. His voice and song is not only so wonderfully sung but the messages of the songs are empowering.
13) Whatâs your special message to your fans and our fellow readers?
You all are the best. The pageant world cannot exist without all of its followers continuing to honor all of the participants. This experience has been amazing for me. I hope to continue to reciprocate your passion with inspiration of my own. Thank you!
