Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE’S 23-year-old Courtney Jongwe is set to compete for the Miss World crown, as the 72nd festival kicks off today in Hyderabad, India. The Chemical and Processing Engineering student from Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences arrived yesterday in Telangana, South India, joining 119 other contestants from across the globe.
The grand finale, where the winner will be announced, takes place on May 31, at the Hitex Exhibition Centre.
“It’s an incredible honour and deeply humbling to represent Zimbabwe on such a prestigious platform. I carry my nation’s spirit, stories and hopes with immense pride,” said Jongwe, speaking from Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, ahead of her departure on Monday afternoon.
Backed by a dedicated team of professionals, coaches and mentors, Jongwe’s preparations have been meticulous.
From fitness routines and public speaking coaching to training for Miss World’s diverse categories, including talent, sports, head-to-head challenges and top model, she has approached every facet of the competition with focus and discipline.
“I believe what sets me apart are the experiences that shaped me. I’m not just here to compete; I’m here to share a story of hope, resilience and what Zimbabwe truly represents.”
Jongwe is not just a beauty queen; she is a voice for mental health advocacy, a champion of youth empowerment and a woman driven by purpose. At the heart of her Miss World campaign is “The Sanctuary Project”, her flagship initiative under the pageant’s Beauty with a Purpose programme. Focused on mental health, the project addresses the lack of access to services and stigma surrounding psychological well-being, a cause deeply personal to her.
“As a student, I’ve seen too many of my peers fall through the cracks, turning to drugs or dropping out due to the weight of stress. The Sanctuary Project is my response, a safe space to heal, talk and grow.”
Despite the excitement, she acknowledged the emotional weight of being far from home.
“It’s not easy being away from family; I know I’ll miss that immediate support. But their love and encouragement transcends distance and that’s what gives me strength.”
Zimbabwe’s support for Jongwe thus far has been emphatic. Kirsty Coventry, former Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation and current President of the International Olympic Committee, personally saw her off, a powerful symbol of national backing. Patience Lusengo, director of Miss World Zimbabwe, shared her confidence in Jongwe’s ability to deliver.
“Courtney is the embodiment of the Zimbabwean spirit, strong, bright and resilient. Her journey to this point has been rigorous, marked by countless hours of training, advocacy, and outreach. She’s not just going to participate; she’s going to compete,” Lusengo said.
