Zeus Feni: lifting weights and fashion statements on the road to stardom

​“Fitness and modelling are extensions of my life that add value creatively, mentally and sometimes financially,” said Zeus Feni, a Cape Town-born model and fitness enthusiast whose journey combines discipline, passion 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. That mix of backgrounds really shaped how I see the world and grounded me from a young age.”

Feni’s introduction to fitness came during his university years, although he had always been active at school.

“I was always an athlete, but my school was severely under-resourced,” he recalled. “It wasn’t until my second year at varsity, when a friend introduced me to CrossFit, that I really got into structured training. I’ve never looked back since.”

Modelling came earlier but was less consistent.

“Growing up in Cape Town, my mom would sometimes fetch me from school, and we’d take the train into the CBD for commercial auditions,” he said.

“That happened every couple of weeks. It stopped in early high school, but I picked it up again at varsity when I joined an agency properly and started taking it seriously.”

Consistency is key to Feni’s approach in both fitness and modelling.

“Training and nutrition aren’t temporary for me; they’re a lifestyle. Four out of seven days a week, I must train, no excuses. Over time, that discipline compounds.”

He also credited fitness with providing focus beyond the gym.

“Fitness keeps me disciplined in every other area of my life. Both modelling and fitness started as hobbies, but they naturally gained momentum and complement the work that I do professionally as a corporate marketer and brand strategist.”

While he considers himself still on the rise, Feni has already reached significant milestones. “Being a Men’s Health Top 8 Cover Search finalist was huge for me,” he said.

“It later led to becoming the face of Ted Lapidus fragrances. Moments like that make all the discipline and effort worth it.”

When asked about his inspirations, Feni cited Kevin Hart.

“It might sound cliché, but Kevin Hart inspires me. Fitness isn’t his main focus; it isn’t the reason he’s famous. He’s an entertainer and entrepreneur first. That’s how I see it, too. Fitness and modelling are just parts of a bigger picture for me.”

Feni has clear ambitions for the future. “I’d love to work on global campaigns with brands like Nike, Adidas or Under Armour. Those are the opportunities that push me to keep improving.” He also has advice for newcomers.

“Just start. Find an agency, get proper headshots and commit to training consistently. Be serious for the first six months. Consistency beats talent early on.”

Outside of work and training, Feni enjoys learning languages and travelling.

“One thing about me - I’ll catch a flight. I love exploring new places and learning new things. It keeps life exciting.”

Looking ahead, Feni remains focused on growth and enjoying the journey.

“My fitness and modelling journey has already opened doors and taken me to places I never imagined. I plan to keep enjoying it and seeing where it leads.”