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The Herald, November 4, 1980
THERE was no welcoming committee for Zimbabwe’s first Miss World entrant when she arrived at Heathrow Airport in London on Saturday.
But this did not worry smiling Shirley Nyanyiwa (22), who arrived late because her flight was delayed in Paris.
“I just hailed a London taxi and told the taxi driver to take me to the Tower Hotel where all the Miss World entrants are staying,” she said yesterday.
“He was very sweet and even took me on a little tour of the city on the way to the hotel.”
Shirley, who comes from Waterfalls, Salisbury, said she was overwhelmed by friendly and helpful people when she arrived at the hotel.
“It’s really fantastic . . . like a dream come true,” she said.
Proud to be the first black queen representing Zimbabwe at the Miss World contest, a modest Shirley said: “I do not think I have much chance of winning the contest, but it is a great experience.”
And her experience of a lifetime will not end with the Miss World contest in London on November 13.
She will remain in the United Kingdom on modelling assignments for two weeks and plans a two-week holiday in Paris to visit all the fashion houses.
Only after that will the tall Zimbabwe beauty get back to Salisbury and have what she is missing most in London – a plate of sadza and beans.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- Shirley Richards Nyanyiwa (now Mrs Chingoka), was the first black girl to be crowned Miss Zimbabwe in 1980.
- It’s better late than never. Whenever one is competing, showing up and being seen are crucial.
- Shirley did not give up because she was delayed but she showed up.
- Always remain focused and ready to adapt to any situation. Shirley did not find a welcoming party waiting for her when she landed in London, but she knew where she was going and was determined to get to the hotel where the other beauty contestants were staying.
- Sometimes, competing is not always about winning but gaining experience.-
- Shirley was making her debut at the Miss World beauty pageant, and she was honest with herself about the slim chances of winning, but she was willing to compete to gain experience.
- One’s staple food or favourite dish is part of their DNA and if one goes for a few days without having it, they will begin to feel nostalgic.
Online Reporter