Kennedy Libingi, a Zambian Student, Crowned Mr. ASU 2026

The flagship event of the Adyghe State University Students' and Graduate Students' Union—the "Mr. ASU" competition—celebrated its 15th edition. This highly anticipated occasion consistently attracts a full concert hall filled with students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Over the years, the competition has grown beyond its original format, transforming into a prominent event in student life. It provides a platform for participants to demonstrate their personal qualities and creativity, representing their faculties and institutes on stage. The event fosters the unleashing of creative potential and contributes to writing new chapters in the university’s rich history.

The theme of the anniversary show was the iconic film The Matrix. The organizers drew inspiration from the film’s aesthetic, recreating on stage the atmosphere of choice, perseverance, and the struggle to achieve excellence—evident in the costumes, sets, and musical accompaniment.

Preparation for the event spanned six months. The casting process took place on December 4th, resulting in the selection of seven finalists from numerous applicants. These candidates underwent a series of challenges on stage to demonstrate their qualifications for the title of Mr. ASU 2026.

During the initial correspondence round, participants submitted essays, met the GTO (Ready for Labor and Defense) standards, and produced videos. On stage, the finalists performed three synchronized dances, showcased both themed and classical fashion shows, and participated in self-presentation, creative, and intellectual competitions.

Kennedy Libingi, a first-year economics student from Zambia, was named "Mr. ASU 2026." He also received a special nomination from the ASU Trade Union and the title of "Mr. Matrix."

"I made a promise to my mom—I said I'd actively participate in the events and bring her diplomas. Today, I fulfilled that promise. A huge thank you to the organizers and everyone who supported me. I felt right at home," says winner Kennedy Libingi.

A third-year student at the Institute of Exact Sciences and Digital Technologies, Arsen Gumov, was named Vice-Mr . He also received the titles of Mister Audience Choice, Mister Charm, Mister Talent, and a special nomination from the RSM of the Republic of Adygea.

Eldar Gumerov, a second-year student at the Institute of Exact Sciences and Digital Technologies, won the title of "Mr. Intelligence" and a special nomination from the ASU SSiA .

The title of "Mr. Titan" was awarded to third-year student of the Faculty of Social Technologies and Tourism , Astemir Sokhov, and the title of "Mr. Online" was awarded to first-year student of the Institute of Exact Sciences and Digital Technologies, Azamat Shovgenov.

Prizes from the competition's partners were received by Vladislav Maksimenko, a first-year student at the Institute of Arts, and Bislan Khuade, a first-year student at the Institute of Exact Sciences and Digital Technologies 

The contestants were evaluated by a jury consisting of:

Vice-Rector for Youth Policy and Social Issues of ASU Rustam Shkhachemukov;

Director of the State Autonomous Institution of the Republic of Adygea "Regional Multifunctional Youth Center "Youth of Adygea"" Zaur Abregov;

Chairman of the Adygea regional organization of the All-Russian public organization "Russian Union of Youth" Aitech Khabiev;

Director of the Student Cultural Center, chairperson of the primary trade union organization of ASU students Lidiya Konovalova;

Director of the Department of Information and Image Policy of ASU Anastasia Soshkina;

Director of "Mr. ASU" Daria Sagdakova;

Winner of the competition "Mr. ASU - 2025" Matvey Aseev.

The "Mr. ASU 2026" competition has concluded, but for its participants, it was more than just a competition; it was a growth spurt. True victory comes from overcoming oneself, and this experience will serve as a springboard to new successes.

See photos from the "Mr. ASU - 2026" competition in the album.