A Montgomery County native is preparing to step onto one of the biggest stages in entertainment, representing both his local roots and his international heritage in a global competition with life-changing stakes.
Joy Dovy Selebangue, who grew up in Montgomery County with ties to the Central African Republic, has been selected as a finalist for the upcoming season of Beast Games, a worldwide competition featuring a $5 million prize. This season will include one contestant representing each country, placing Selebangue in a unique position to showcase both his community and his family’s legacy on a global platform.
Selebangue said Montgomery County played a major role in shaping who he is today. Growing up in a diverse area and moving between multiple schools helped him develop humility and adaptability, qualities he believes will be critical in a competition known for its intensity and unpredictability.
“MoCo is a big part of who I am today,” he said. “It’s a diverse place with unique people who hold so many different stories. My humble beginnings and moving around a lot as a kid are the reasons why I remain grounded throughout any opportunity.”
Despite attending six different schools in the county, he pointed to Magruder High School as a place where he felt supported and encouraged. He credited teachers, administrators, and especially his basketball coach, Dan Harwood, for helping guide him. Above all, he emphasized the sacrifices made by his mother, saying her dedication gave him and his brother opportunities to pursue something greater.
Selebangue learned he was selected as a finalist in late April and described the moment as overwhelming in the best way. “I felt so thankful for the chance to represent my country and MoCo on the biggest show in the world,” he said. “I started dancing actually.”
Beast Games, created by MrBeast, is a high-stakes global competition that features extreme challenges, strategic gameplay, and a record-setting prize. Selebangue said viewers can expect intensity, unexpected twists, and emotional moments as contestants navigate the pressure of competing against representatives from around the world.
For him, the opportunity goes beyond competition. It represents a chance to carry both Montgomery County and the Central African Republic onto an international stage.“Getting to be an example of success and humility on this big of a stage to kids in MoCo and C.A.R. means everything,” he said, again crediting his family and faith for helping him reach this point.
His connection to the Central African Republic carries additional historical weight. Selebangue is the grandson of David Dacko, the country’s first president. He said that legacy continues to inspire him as he prepares for the challenges ahead. “Knowing he was able to lead a country in its early stages motivates me to carry that same perseverance,” he said. “His legacy to me is one of excellence despite adversity.”
He also sees the competition as an opportunity to bring visibility to a country that is often overlooked or misunderstood. “Central African Republic is a beautiful country with people who hold so much potential,” he said. “Despite the labels placed on it, it’s so much more than that. I want to show that you can succeed no matter where you come from.”
If he were to win the $5 million prize, Selebangue said his plans would extend far beyond personal success. He hopes to give back in meaningful ways, including investing in aviation programs, funding scholarships, and supporting communities both locally and abroad. “It would be an unexplainable blessing for my family,” he said. “But I also want to use it to help others and show that even if you’ve struggled, you can still win if you keep pushing.”
