Meet Mwtasem (Mike ) Kojak

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mwtasem (Mike ) Kojak and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mwtasem (Mike ), how does your business help the community?
. Through my work, I aim to challenge traditional beauty standards, advocating for diversity and body positivity. By collaborating with brands that prioritize sustainability, ethical labor practices, and inclusivity, I help raise awareness about responsible consumerism. Moreover, as a public figure, I am committed to using my visibility to support charitable initiatives, amplify social causes, and inspire others to embrace self-expression. Modeling isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about shaping narratives and contributing to a more inclusive, conscious, and empowered world.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My journey in the fashion world has been anything but conventional. What sets me apart is my dedication to authenticity and the values I represent in an industry that often emphasizes appearance over substance. I’ve worked hard to align myself with brands and projects that not only showcase creativity but also stand for inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical practices. This commitment has allowed me to build relationships and projects that go beyond the runway and into making a tangible difference.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. Like many in the industry, I faced rejection, self-doubt, and the pressure to conform to certain standards. But I overcame these challenges by staying true to myself and surrounding myself with a support network of mentors and creatives who shared my vision. I learned that resilience and patience are key, and that success comes from being consistent and grounded in your purpose, not just chasing trends.

What I’m most proud of is the ability to use my platform to inspire others to embrace who they are and to encourage more diversity and representation in fashion. I want the world to know that my story is about more than just modeling—it’s about breaking barriers, uplifting others, and using fashion as a vehicle for positive change.

Ultimately, my brand is about embracing individuality and advocating for a world where fashion represents everyone. The lessons I’ve learned are to trust the process, lean into what makes you unique, and never underestimate the impact you can have by staying authentic to your values.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my Friends decided or mostly the time we planned already for a whole week.

Day 1: Welcome & Warm-Up

• Morning: Start with a healthy brunch at Green Pastures for some organic, farm-to-table dishes.
• Afternoon: Kick things off with a bike ride around Bonifacio Global City (BGC). There are plenty of bike lanes and outdoor spaces to explore, plus cool street art along the way.
• Evening: Head to Healthy Options for a light, clean dinner, followed by a night yoga class at Urban Ashram Manila to relax and prepare for the adventurous days ahead.

Day 2: Mountain Adventures

• Morning: Early rise for a trip to Mt. Pinatubo for a thrilling hike up to the crater. It’s a combination of off-road driving and hiking through surreal landscapes.
• Lunch: Picnic by the stunning crater lake after the hike. Be sure to pack some healthy snacks and hydrating drinks.
• Afternoon: After descending, we’d head to Puning Hot Springs for a relaxing post-hike soak in natural hot springs and a rejuvenating mud bath.
• Evening: Return to the city for a healthy, energizing dinner at SaladStop! and a quiet night to recharge for the next adventure.

Day 3: Surf & Sand

• Morning: Early morning trip to La Union for a surf day. This place is known for its laid-back vibe and great waves, perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
• Lunch: Grab lunch at El Union Coffee—known for its great smoothies and healthy options.
• Afternoon: More surfing, paddleboarding, or even just chilling on the beach. We can rent bikes and explore the town, visiting cool local shops along the way.
• Evening: Dinner at Flotsam and Jetsam beach hostel for some fresh, healthy seafood. Stay overnight to enjoy the beachside vibe and maybe catch some live music.

Day 4: Hiking & Nature

• Morning: Head back to Manila early, then drive to Mt. Batulao for another amazing hike. This mountain offers stunning views and a fun, moderate trail that’s perfect for adventure seekers.
• Lunch: A quick, healthy stop at a local eatery near the base of the mountain.
• Afternoon: After the hike, we’d drive to Tagaytay to cool off and enjoy nature at Sonya’s Garden. Relax with some organic farm-to-table dishes and herbal teas.
• Evening: Head back to Manila for a light dinner at Green Bar, a vegan restaurant with tons of delicious and nutritious options.

Day 5: Island Hopping & Snorkeling

• Morning: Take a day trip to Anilao, Batangas, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. Spend the day island hopping, snorkeling, or even diving if you’re up for it!
• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the smaller islands or beachfront spots.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the underwater beauty of Anilao, or take a quick trek up to one of the scenic viewpoints.
• Evening: Return to Manila and enjoy dinner at Earth Kitchen, with its fresh, organic, and sustainable dishes.

Day 6: Urban Adventure & Fitness

• Morning: Start the day with an invigorating boxing or circuit training session at Elorde Boxing Gym in Makati.
• Lunch: Refuel with a hearty but healthy meal at Wholesome Table, featuring organic and natural ingredients.
• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon indoor wall climbing at Climb Central in Mandaluyong. It’s a fun challenge for all fitness levels.
• Evening: After climbing, head over to The Grid in Power Plant Mall for a variety of healthy food options. Try one of the smoothie bowls or veggie-packed meals from their vendors.

Day 7: Chill & Reflect

• Morning: Start the day with a light hike in Masungi Georeserve, an eco-conservation park known for its breathtaking limestone formations, hanging bridges, and treetop walks. It’s a mix of adventure and nature conservation.
• Lunch: Grab a fresh meal at Lime & Basil Thai Restaurant in nearby Antipolo, featuring farm-fresh, garden-to-table cuisine.
• Afternoon: Return to Manila for a relaxing afternoon of biking or jogging around UP Diliman or Ayala Triangle Gardens to enjoy the green spaces in the heart of the city.
• Evening: End the trip with a sunset yoga class on a rooftop at White Space Wellness. Follow it up with a light, healthy dinner at Wabi-Sabi Noodle House for a calming, zen experience.

That something cluodnbe very busy and an impact week for both of us

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! My shoutout goes first and foremost to my family, especially my parents, for their unwavering support and belief in me. They’ve been my constant source of encouragement, grounding me through the highs and lows. Their sacrifices and guidance have been a huge part of shaping who I am today.

I also want to recognize my friends and mentors in the fashion and creative industries—those who have inspired me to push boundaries and grow beyond my comfort zone. Their advice, collaboration, and mentorship have been invaluable in helping me navigate this competitive world.

Finally, I’d like to give a nod to every model and creative who’s challenged the status quo, paving the way for diversity and inclusivity in fashion. Their courage has inspired me to embrace my own uniqueness and use my voice to create change.

Website: https://mwtaskojak.wixsite.com/kojak

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mwtaskojak/profilecard/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mwtasem.kojak?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Other: https://linktr.ee/mwtas?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=840bac8f-4de7-4216-9943-009119bbf945 

Image Credits
Getting image WWD Getting image Victor Virgile Getting image vivien killilea Getting image Arun Nevader Getting image Ilya S. Savenok