Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Correspondent
BRENDA Mhlanga – the current Miss Albinism Zimbabwe First Princess and finalist in the upcoming Miss Albinism Africa pageant – is gearing up to represent the country on the continental stage, despite facing numerous challenges in her preparations.
Mhlanga is one of 17 contestants from across Africa who will compete in the pageant, scheduled to take place in Harare on June 28.
The event, being hosted in the country for the first time, will commence with a Boot Camp this coming Sunday.
As preparations intensify, Mhlanga is appealing to corporates and well-wishers for financial and material support.
“My journey has been tough, with minimal support and significant financial constraints being my biggest hurdle. I still require essentials such as makeup, transportation, wardrobe, and other necessities.
“As the pageant approaches, I am excited to represent my country, yet anxious about these challenges,” she said.
Undeterred by the obstacles, Mhlanga remains optimistic and determined to make a lasting impact.
“I will give it my all. Although the journey has not been easy, I am confident that help will come, and I will be able to prepare smoothly,” she added.
Born in Chipinge, Mhlanga is also the co-director of the One Sunscreen, One Life Saved campaign, which distributes sunscreen to underserved communities in rural Zimbabwe.
Her personal experiences with albinism, growing up in a society with mixed perceptions, have inspired her to become a voice for change.
Mhlanga has also authored a book titled, “Taught by Experience”, in which she chronicles the challenges faced by people with albinism and offers biblical guidance on building self-confidence.
As she prepares to take the continental stage by storm, Mhlanga carries the hopes of not only Zimbabwe, but also countless individuals across Africa living with albinism and facing similar challenges.
“This pageant is not merely about beauty – it is about breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive Africa.
“I aim to show young girls with albinism that they, too, have a place in spaces often deemed inaccessible to them.
“My dream is of a continent where people with albinism are celebrated, not marginalised.
“We need to be visible in conversations around health, education, fashion, and human rights.
I aspire to be one of the voices driving this change,” she said.
Beyond her pageant participation, Mhlanga envisions building long-term support networks for people with albinism, including advocacy campaigns, educational outreach, and expanding her sunscreen distribution initiative.
Mhlanga hopes her involvement will pave the way for collaborative projects with local governments, NGOs, and global partners focused on healthcare access and anti-discrimination measures.
As the final countdown to Miss Albinism Africa begins, Mhlanga remains resolute, undaunted by the challenges ahead. She is drawing strength from her faith, resilience, and the profound impact of her message, which she hopes will carry her through the competition. The Miss Albinism Africa pageant is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating not only diversity and beauty but also promoting a powerful message of empowerment, inclusion, and social justice.
