Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Former model and instructor Khaya-Elihle Pardon has resurfaced on the showbiz scene, as he prepares to re-announce himself with a comedy roast slated for March 20 at a local venue.
The roast comes after Khaya retired from the modelling industry last year, after contributing on the runway and catwalk for two decades.
A roast is a form of comedy in which a specific individual or a guest of honour is subjected to jokes at their expense, as well as genuine praise and tributes.
The assumption is that the roastee can take the jokes in good humour and not as serious criticism or insult.
The panel for the roast will feature different associates who are close to Khaya, including those he interacted with in the showbiz industry.
Khaya said the idea of the roast is inspired by different experiences and situations he faced while he was active in modelling, hence, the easiest way to bear it all is through comedy.
“2025 has been a serious roller coaster, including me quitting modelling and selling some of my shares at Truth Models Academy due to a lot of conflicts, bullying, and betrayal, to mention a few. To reflect and share these experiences, I saw it better to tell them in a funny way, which is the roast.
“The panel will feature a lot of big brands with which I have interacted in my career and personal life. We will be releasing names of the panellists every week, one at a time.
“But what I can say for now is that I have Calvin Madula, Saimon Mambazo Phiri and Mduduzi Mdlongwa, who have been unveiled,” said Khaya.
He revealed that all gate takings and donations which will be generated at the roast will be used to empower the Khayelihle Children’s Home.
“The following day after the roast (March 21), which will be my birthday, I will also visit a ward in Mpilo Hospital where I was born, and sponsor every child who will be born on that day. This is my way of showing my gratitude to God and celebrating the gift of life,” he said.
Khaya’s modelling journey began on December 31, 2005, inspired by a childhood passion for fashion and an obsession with looking sharp.
He began as a model, going through formal training at Fingers Modelling Academy and later at DA Modelling School in Cape Town.
In his career, he won different accolades and titles, including Mr Pelandaba, Mr Bulawayo Junior, Mr Trade Fair and Top Model Zimbabwe.
He was also first runner-up for Mr Africa Junior, setting the stage for a promising future.
Khaya later on transitioned into directing and mentorship, where his impact was even more profound.
His résumé includes directing prestigious pageants such as Miss I Am Africa, Miss Nust, Miss Zimbabwe School of Mines, Miss Bulawayo, Miss Bulawayo Polytechnic and international platforms like Miss Teen Universe Zimbabwe, Miss Teen of the Universe and Miss Teen World.
He was also instrumental in reviving Miss Universe Zimbabwe and is credited with introducing the first model awards in Bulawayo through the Bulawayo Models Awards — an initiative born from his founding of the Bulawayo Models Association.
As he prepares for his roast, Khaya said revellers must expect a story of his life, infused with jokes and laughter, as he selected people who know him very well, as part of the panel.
