Jaco De Bruyn is the fitness icon and serial entrepreneur you need to know

It’s rare to find an entrepreneur who has mastered the skill of combining all his passions into viable business ventures. Jaco De Bruyn, a successful serial entrepreneur, began his journey as a teenage model and later transitioned into becoming a competitive bodybuilder.

Throughout his career, he has won numerous competitions and gained international recognition as both a bodybuilder and fitness model.

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Born in Pretoria, De Bruyn grew up looking up to the likes of Flex Lewis and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He made the big step into the fitness industry by entering his first show in 2009, the Mr. Pretoria competition.

In 2010, he represented South Africa in the Mr. World Championships, competing against some of the strongest fitness models globally. Despite starting his competitive journey only six months earlier, he managed to place in the top 8, marking an impressive achievement.

Despite having a super busy schedule, De Bruyn is a hands-on dad who highly values family time. Among his various business ventures, he owns a clothing label and a winery business.

GQ had a chat with him to discuss his partnership with HUAWEI and The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 to uncover his secret to success.

GQ: How did you first get started in the fitness industry?

Jaco De Bruyn: I've been in the modelling industry for nearly 15 years. In 2009, I achieved significant success, winning titles like Mr. Pretoria, First Runner-up Mr. SA 2009, and Mr. World South Africa in South Korea.

I've appeared on over 10 international and national front covers and was honoured with the Male Role Model of the Year award in 2017. Additionally, I ranked in the top 5 worldwide as an international WBFF Pro for seven years.

GQ: How has being a dad influenced your approach to fitness and health?

Jaco De Bruyn: Becoming a father has been perhaps the best thing that has ever happened to me, grounding me in this industry and shaping who I am today. In a world where image and appearance often take centre stage, it's easy to become self-absorbed and develop an inflated ego.

However, my family and close circle of friends have played a crucial role in keeping me grounded. Balancing everything isn't easy, but it's the challenge that continually pushes me to strive harder.

GQ: What role does mental health play in your approach to fitness?

Jaco De Bruyn: Mental health is crucial in the fitness industry for me in several ways. Dealing with stress and anxiety is something we all face, which is why I prioritise training—it keeps me focused and balanced. This isn’t just about maintaining my image; it’s about staying fit and healthy overall. Exercise significantly boosts my mood, which is vital as I interact with clients and sponsors daily.

Confidence and self-love are core values for me; without exercise, it’s challenging to achieve either. It's truly the cornerstone of my success. Given my global influence, living up to my identity is essential.

If my mental health isn't in good shape, I can't effectively help or inspire others. Lastly, prioritising sleep is crucial. Regular physical activity enhances sleep quality, which is fundamental for overall mental well-being.

GQ: As a serial entrepreneur, how do you determine the viability of a business venture?

Jaco De Bruyn: I'm the biggest risk-taker, and it's what drives me because I don't have anything else to fall back on but entrepreneurship. Building businesses fuels my passion, and while many have failed, many have also been incredibly successful. Every dream can become a reality if you make it so. I have a saying that goes like this: "If you have a vision that plays over and over in your head, nothing can stop you from achieving it."

GQ: How do you effectively manage your daily schedule while overseeing diverse business ventures such as a winery and a clothing brand?

Jaco De Bruyn: It would never have been possible without the help of good business partners. However, the thought remains that every day is a new opportunity to hustle. I understand the need to balance work, meals, sleep, my role as a businessman, father, and husband; that's truly my daily schedule.

GQ: Turning your passions into a successful business isn't easy for every entrepreneur. What's your strategy for making it work?

Jaco De Bruyn: You'll never know if something will work unless you put your heart and soul into it. Anyone can have an idea, but it means nothing without putting in the work. Building a business takes years, and you'll only reap the fruits of your labour after 3 to 5 years.

GQ: How has your fitness journey contributed to your success in business?

Jaco De Bruyn: My name, Jaco de Bruyn, holds immense value and a very good reputation that I've built over 15 years in the fitness industry. I know I've worked hard and faced numerous failures, but I never gave up. I wouldn't be where I am today without my fitness journey and the massive network I've built over the years.

GQ: Congratulations on your partnership with HUAWEI and The HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3 How did it come about?

Jaco De Bruyn: I've been a partner for HUAWEI for nearly five years, and they've treated me like family. I love being associated with them not just because they're such a big brand, but also because they take care of their partnerships and offer incredible products that we can all believe in.

I am really excited to be part of the launch of the HUAWEI WATCH FIT 3, this product suits my lifestyle perfectly, it’s fashionable and functional and also compatible with Android and iOS devices. What I really love about this is that I am able to track all my workouts in with real time data. A 10 day battery life, is also really cool, finally a watch that can keep up with my busy schedule.

GQ: How do you balance your fitness lifestyle with other aspects of your life?

Jaco De Bruyn: Balance is crucial, and it's important to acknowledge that you wouldn't have reached where you are without support.

My family and friends have played a pivotal role in my success, and it's essential to reciprocate that support. By doing so, you can achieve a balanced lifestyle. And a little wine doesn't hurt either, haha!

GQ: What's the most significant lesson you've learned in business, and how has it shaped your entrepreneurial approach?

Jaco De Bruyn: Embrace change, always manage your risks, never stop learning, build a massive network and good, healthy relationships, focus on the solution rather than the problem, and never give up. Ensure you get enough sleep and take care of your mental health, practice self-love, maintain good hygiene—this is my winning recipe.

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