Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
IN a case of a dream come true, 20-year-old model Tadiwanashe Tatenda Mtetwa, is set to represent the country at the prestigious Miss Tourism Africa International 2025 pageant in Nigeria next month.
Having recently been crowned Miss Tourism Africa Zimbabwe 2025, Mtetwa, who hails from the mountainous district of Chimanimani, is preparing to take the continental stage by storm, proudly carrying the Zimbabwean flag and her mission of environmental advocacy.
From humble beginnings to the national spotlight, Mtetwa’s journey has been marked by perseverance, purpose and deep commitment to community development.
Her ascent in the world of pageantry began in 2024 at the Young Women 4ED competition, where she, against all odds, earned the second princess title in a tightly-contested pageant.
She went on to scoop the first princess title at the Miss Elite Zimbabwe pageant.
However, it was at the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe pageant that Mtetwa etched her name in the history books, emerging as the first-ever Miss Tourism Africa Zimbabwe — a title created to recognise models with a unique blend of beauty, intelligence, and dedication to tourism and community-building.
Mtetwa is also a passionate environmentalist and youth advocate, who is the founder of Earthcare Champions, which is a community-driven project focused on tree planting and environmental education.
Mtetwa’s cause aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.
“Through Earthcare Champions, I aim to create awareness and action around the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Our forests and ecosystems are vital to our survival, and it is important that young people understand their role in protecting the environment,” she said.
With the upcoming Miss Tourism Africa International pageant drawing contestants from across the continent, Mtetwa said she is embracing the opportunity with humility and determination.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to represent Zimbabwe in Nigeria. It is a privilege to showcase our country’s rich culture, heritage and values on an international platform. I am excited to share our unique perspectives and learn from the Nigerian people, fostering greater understanding and friendship between our nations. I am ready to give my best and make Zimbabwe proud,” she said.
Her participation comes at a time when Zimbabwe continues to elevate its presence in international beauty and cultural forums, with pageants like Miss Tourism Africa providing a stage, not only for fashion and glamour, but also for cultural diplomacy and sustainable development advocacy.
The Miss Tourism Africa International pageant celebrates the diverse beauty and tourism potential across the continent, encouraging participants to serve as ambassadors for their countries.
It also promotes cross-cultural understanding and encourages young women to take an active role in socio-economic development initiatives, especially within the tourism and environmental sectors.
Mtetwa’s growing profile is a reflection of the changing face of pageantry in Africa.
Behind her success is a strong network of support, including her members of the management and members of the Chimanimani community where she hails from who have rallied behind her throughout her pageant journey.
Mtetwa’s manager, Temba Gata, believes the young model has got all what is needed to make history.
With the Nigeria showdown drawing closer, Mtetwa said she is undergoing intense preparations, including cultural training, wardrobe fittings and rehearsals.
Her goal, she said, is, not only to win the crown, but to leave a lasting impression as a young African woman who stands for progress, purpose, and pride in her roots.
Whether or not she takes home the top title, Mtetwa believes she has already achieved something extraordinary by becoming a symbol of hope and empowerment for young Zimbabweans and Africans at large.
