Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo based, 21-year-old model Zibusiso Mzolisi Mtshayisa, is seeking financial assistance as he is set to represent the country in the Mr Earth pageant in Colombia.
Zibusiso will join other contestants from various parts of the world to battle for the coveted title.
In an interview Zibusiso said he is looking forward to get travelling sponsorship for the trip.
“I’ll be travelling in August to Colombia for the Mr Earth pageant and I am appealing for help with travelling expenses. The major sponsor I need is of the flight ticket, I checked the price, and it ranges from US$1 500 for a round trip,” he said.
The Mister Earth Pageant is an international male competition that celebrates leadership, environmental advocacy, and cultural representation. It brings together young men from around the world who are passionate about making a positive impact on the planet through sustainable initiatives and community involvement.
Unlike traditional pageants, Mister Earth focuses on promoting eco-awareness, responsible citizenship and projects that address global challenges such as climate change, conservation and social development. Contestants are judged not only on their appearance and presentation but also on their commitment to environmental causes and their role as ambassadors for change.
The pageant aims to inspire a generation of men who lead with purpose, represent their nations with pride, and work toward a healthier, greener planet.
Zibusiso went on to highlight the benefits of the pageant to the nation which include promoting ecotourism and showcasing the beauty of Zimbabwe to the world.
“It is also my desire to represent my country to the world as my participation will give our nation international exposure, promote ecotourism through showcasing Zimbabwe’s wildlife, landscapes, and conservation projects. The event supports the growth of sustainable tourism and boosts international interest in visiting the country.
“National Branding and Pride will also be showcased as the representative in Mister Earth becomes a symbol of national pride, demonstrating that Zimbabwe invests in youth, leadership and global citizenship, Youth Empowerment and Leadership.
“The pageant encourages young Zimbabwean men to become environmental ambassadors and social change makers, promoting responsibility, advocacy and purpose. It provides an opportunity to share Zimbabwe’s environmental challenges and solutions, including campaigns on wildlife preservation, deforestation and climate change.
“Zimbabwe also gains connections with other nations and organisations focused on sustainability, opening doors for partnerships, learning and collaborative projects. Through national projects tied to the pageant, such as wildlife conservation or school-based environmental campaigns, it also strengthens the nation’s grassroots activism and community engagement,” he shared.
He went on to share that as he embarks on this journey, he is also willing to work hand in hand with creatives.
“As I prepare to represent Zimbabwe at the Mr Earth International Pageant in Colombia this August, I am open to collaborating with local fashion designers and creatives who are passionate about showcasing Zimbabwean talent on a global platform,” he said.
Zibusiso has participated in various pageants over the years such as, Mr Bulawayo and Misters of Zimbabwe, been part of the panel of judges at some pageants and has helped groom many others including school children in the modelling industry.
