Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari, Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
THE Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe beauty pageant is set to launch in Bulawayo this Saturday, ahead of the grand finale, the date of which is yet to be announced.
Pageant founder, Sipho Mazibuko, said the event aims to shine a spotlight on the beauty, talent, and charisma of contestants from rural communities — telling their unique stories and celebrating their cultural roots.
Speaking to Zimpapers Entertainment Hub, Mazibuko revealed that scouting efforts have already taken place in Masvingo, Matabeleland North, and parts of Mashonaland Central.
However, her mission to uncover hidden talent in the deep rural areas is far from complete. Following the official launch, Lupane State University will host the Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe provincial finals.
Mazibuko emphasised that the launch event will be more than just a ceremonial kick-off. It will serve as a vibrant celebration of rural culture, heritage, and tradition — offering contestants a platform to showcase their intelligence, confidence, and aspirations.
“The Miss and Mr Rural pageant has become a beacon of hope for many children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“It’s helping bridge the gap between rural and urban communities by offering recognition and life-changing opportunities to those often overlooked,” she said.
The launch is expected to attract a large and diverse audience, including industry professionals, local celebrities, and enthusiastic supporters.
Following the launch, attention will shift to Matabeleland North, where the provincial finals will be held at Lupane State University.
“We invite Zimbabwe to witness a cultural explosion — from Binga to Tsholotsho, Victoria Falls to Umguza — celebrating all corners of Matabeleland North. This is more than a pageant; it’s a movement that’s restoring pride, dignity, and purpose among rural youth,” Mazibuko said.
Targeting rural models aged 18 to 25, the contest seeks to empower and elevate rural youths, enabling them to stand shoulder to shoulder with their urban counterparts. This year’s edition runs under the powerful theme: “Embrace Your Culture, Embrace Zimbabwe.”
Close to Mazibuko’s heart is the plight of the boy child, whom she believes has long been neglected in the world of pageantry.
“The rural boy child has never truly been given a platform to showcase his talent. Some of these boys suffer in silence — facing sexual molestation from female relatives, and emotional or physical abuse by step-parents.
“Many are trapped in cycles of poverty, with no role models or direction, and end up turning to artisanal mining — a dangerous path marked by frequent deaths — or falling into drug and alcohol abuse,” she said.
