Today we’d like to introduce you to Mister Global Cuba.
Mister Global Cuba, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In December 2024, a new chapter began for Cuban-American pageantry with the official relaunch of **Mister Global Cuba** under the visionary leadership of **Giancarlo Urbina** and **Rodolfo Fernandez**. The pageant, held in the vibrant city of **Miami, Florida**, marked a turning point for the representation of Cuban men on the global stage.
This bold new direction was inspired in part by Rodolfo Fernandez’s own journey. After proudly representing **Cuba at the Mister Global 2024 international competition**, Rodolfo returned to the U.S. with a mission—to elevate the standard of male pageantry within the Cuban-American community. His experience, marked by poise, passion, and an unwavering sense of cultural pride, became the driving force behind the revival of the national competition.
Together with Giancarlo Urbina, a fellow advocate for diversity and empowerment in the Sales and Marketing world, the duo set out to redefine what Mister Global Cuba could be. Their shared vision was clear: To provide a world-class male competition unlike anything Miami had seen under previous administrations—a pageant that not only celebrates physical excellence, but also intelligence, leadership, and cultural heritage.
Under their direction, Mister Global Cuba became more than just a title—it became a movement. The 2025 edition introduced a fresh format, cutting-edge production, and a commitment to mentorship and personal development for each contestant. It wasn’t just about crowning a winner; it was about shaping ambassadors for the Cuban-American identity and preparing them to represent Cuba on the world stage with confidence and pride.
As the spotlight returns to Miami year after year, Mister Global Cuba now stands as a beacon of hope, excellence, and evolution—a platform where Cuban-American men can rise, inspire, and lead.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Launching Mister Global Cuba was not without its hurdles. While the vision was bold and the passion undeniable, establishing credibility in a competitive and often skeptical industry proved to be one of the biggest initial challenges.
One of the main obstacles was overcoming the legacy of past administrations. Previous versions of the competition had left behind a mixed reputation—poor organization, lack of transparency, and limited support for titleholders had created skepticism among potential contestants, sponsors, and even audiences. Many questioned whether a new version of Mister Global Cuba could truly deliver on its promise of excellence.
Additionally, as a male pageant, there was the ongoing challenge of breaking stereotypes and gaining mainstream recognition in a market that often prioritizes female competitions. Convincing people that this wasn’t just a modeling contest, but a prestigious platform for leadership, cultural pride, and international ambassadorship, required consistent messaging and high standards.
We also faced logistical and financial challenges. Securing venues, sponsors, and media coverage for a freshly rebranded event took months of outreach, networking, and persistence. Many potential collaborators were hesitant to invest in a brand they weren’t yet familiar with.
Finally, building a contestant base that believed in the mission was essential. We needed to find young men who not only had the look and presence, but who were also proud to represent their Cuban heritage and willing to trust a new organization still earning its place.
But despite the doubts and difficulties, we pushed forward. By focusing on transparency, professionalism, and community, we gradually shifted perceptions. With Rodolfo’s own international success as a blueprint, and Giancarlo’s strategic vision leading the way, the 2025 competition proved to be a game-changer. It wasn’t just about starting something new—it was about rebuilding something stronger.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Giancarlo Urbina:
I came to the US when I was a child from Peru. After graduating from High School I studied At Broward College to pursue a degree in Architecture but developed myself as an entrepreneur in the Network Marketing Industry. Currently, I work as a Sales Senior Manager for a Furniture and Interior Design Company. I specialize in coaching Sales Associates and Sale Managers to learn and develop strategies that will help them increase performance and revenue. I have a passion for traveling, so I am proud of having the opportunity to have traveled to many different cities and countries around the world, learning about other cultures and how we are all connected.
Rodolfo Fernandez came to the US from Cuba when he was 18 and had worked at many different jobs to finance his modeling career. He started in the industry when he was 20 years old when he participated in a modeling reality show called Iconic Model Search where he learned the foundations of the modeling industry. Currently, he is a professional model and entrepreneur in the modeling and fashion industry. Rodolfo is proud of his family and being involved in autism awareness campaigns after his two younger sisters were diagnosed with this condition.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Both Giancarlo and Rodolfo love to read books about personal development such as “Rich Dad, Poor Dad”, “How to gain friends and influence people, “The power of discipline” and more. We both love to hear podcast about beauty pageants, movies and comics.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.misterglobalcuba.com
- Instagram: mrglobalcuba
- Facebook: Mister Global Cuba
Image Credits
Photographer:
Rolando Cabanillas
Showtime Photography Net
