Mr Birmingham candidate is model in more ways than one
From suffering depression and psychosis at school, James Bradley has become a role model to others after getting through to the finals of Mr Birmingham.
The 20-year-old from Oldbury wants to inspire others through the modelling contest, in which he is competing in March,
He is now in his third year studying drama at Halesowen College.
But once the catwalk and the stage were a distant dream.
James suffered with depression while at school and was also diagnosed with psychosis.
He said if it was not for his mother and close family supporting him he would not be able to do what he is doing today.
Despite his illnesses James achieved an A star in his GCSE drama course.
He said: "When I had my illnesses, it felt like my dreams of acting had all been shattered.
"I want give back and inspire people to follow their dreams."
James was put forward to the competition after being found on the website Starnow by Miss Birmingham 2013 , Rachel Barker.
He faced the judges in January this year and got through.
James said: "I was found by Rachel on Starnow and she thought I'd do really in the competition.
"I never thought I'd get this opportunity to become a pageant finalist.
"It's an honour to represent Birmingham."
Part of the competition's criteria is to raise money for the charity Beauty with a Purpose, which sends millions of pounds to help disadvantaged children across the world.
James plans to skydive raise money for the charity:
"I want to do adrenaline filled activities to raise money such as sky diving.
"I also want to do charity work like go to children's homes and read stories to the children."
The finals of Mr Birmingham are being on March 15 at the Burlington Hotel in Birmingham.
Candidates will compete in catwalk wearing different outfits of clothes in front of judges.
