Online Reporter
Nodumo Moyo [email protected]
BULAWAYO’S next generation of modelling talent took centre stage on Friday as a colourful pageant unearthed a crop of young contestants who impressed with their confidence, creativity and stage presence.
The Miss Tiny Tots, Miss Junior Bulawayo and Miss Personality pageant brought together young aspiring models, giving them an opportunity to showcase their talents while gaining early exposure to the modelling and entertainment industry.
The event saw 11-year-old Shalom Mahohoma crowned Miss Junior Bulawayo after beating 12 other contestants, with 13-year-old Marlene Munyoro named first princess and 11-year-old Yuton Samkeliso Sibanda taking the second princess title.
In the Miss Tiny Tots category, five-year-old Paula Mazani emerged winner from a field of eight contestants, while three-year-old Zuri Mandemwa was named second princess. Munyoro’s strong showing saw her claim another accolade as she was crowned Miss Personality, while Elbethel Prayer Mabvovore walked away with the Miss Most Photogenic title.
For Mahohoma, the victory came as a surprise.
“I feel happy that I won. I didn’t expect to win Miss Junior Bulawayo,” she said.
Her aunt, Patience Shoko, said the win was a proud moment for the family, considering the level of competition.
“I’m very proud of her. She did us proud. We didn’t expect it because the competition was tight, so we thought someone else was going to take the prize home, but by God’s grace we did it,” Shoko said.
She applauded the organisers for creating a space where children can begin exploring their talents and building confidence.
“We thank the organisers of this event. It’s very important for our kids because they’re grooming young talent.
“Let them continue doing the good work,” she said.
Organiser Phillip Masuku said the event had demonstrated that Bulawayo has a pool of young talent that can be developed into future professionals
He however said a lot of investment was needed to give the children opportunities to grow.
“I feel happy with what I achieved today, or rather what Bulawayo has achieved. But I’ll be glad if sponsors come on board and support the younger generation,” Masuku said.
An organiser of Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe, Masuku said there were lessons to be drawn from countries such as the Philippines and Thailand, where children are introduced to the industry at an early age and given time to develop their skills and professionalism.
The event also attracted established personalities from the modelling and entertainment fraternity, creating an opportunity for the young contestants to interact with people who have already made their mark in the industry.
