Mathew Masinge
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
IN the high-stakes world of global pageantry, where power players like Paula Shugart and Julia Morley have built bilion-dollar brands, Zimbabwe appears to have found its answer.
Enter businesswoman and fashion icon Danya Kabwebwe.
Sharp, strategic and ambitious, Kabwebwe has stepped into the Miss Universe Zimbabwe chair with a clear message: Zimbabwe is done watching from the sidelines — it’s time to dominate.
Her first big test will come at Harare Hippodrome, on June 6, where her leadership will come under the spotlight when the organisation she leads holds the Miss Universe Zimbabwe beauty pageant.
“This is not just an event it’s a rebirth,” Kabwebwe said.
“We are repositioning Zimbabwe as a serious force in global pageantry.”
Five crowns, one stage
In a ground-breaking move set to redefine the industry, this year’s pageant will crown Five queens, representing Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Miss World Zimbabwe, Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe, Miss International Zimbabwe and Miss Supranational Zimbabwe.
“This is about scale and opportunity,” she said.
“We are opening doors for more Zimbabwean queens to take on the world and win.
“We decided to crown all five under one roof as we are not in competition but we are complimenting each other.”
Registration has begun with auditions in full swing on May 2 in Bulawayo and the Harare edition scheduled from May 9
The vision: From local pageant to global powerhouse
Kabwebwe’s leadership is anchored on one thing – matching global standards.
“As chairperson, I am building a system that produces excellence consistently,” she said.
“We are introducing structure, discipline, and world-class grooming.
“Professionalism is key and we encourage or rather than urge stakeholders to come on board to achieve this goal.”
Under her watch, she said, the industry should expect year-round training, international-standard coaching, and strategic brand building for contestants.
“We are no longer preparing girls for one night. We are preparing them for careers, for influence, for global impact.
“Our queens must walk into any international competition confident, polished, and competitive. That’s the standard now.
“Zimbabwe has beautiful, talented girls. Look at how Lyshanda was the darling of Africa.”
Bringing back the glory days
Kabwebwe is laser-focused on restoring Zimbabwe’s once glamourous modelling reputation.
“There was a golden era when Zimbabwean models were respected globally,” she said.
“We are bringing that back — bigger, stronger, and smarter.”
To achieve this, the organisation has engaged top designers and creative directors, ensuring contestants embody high fashion and cultural pride.
“This is about presentation and identity. When our queens step out, the world must see excellence.”
Glitz, glam & a secret Nigerian superstar!
And it’s not just about crowns — it’s about spectacle.
Kabwebwe revealed that a surprise Nigerian music sensation will headline the event, alongside top regional acts.
“We are creating an experience,” she teased. “This will feel like an international production because that’s exactly what it is.”
“From stage to red carpet, this year’s edition will go down memory lane.”
Behind the scenes, Kabwebwe is backed by a new-look board packed with expertise.
“I’m proud of the team we’ve assembled,” she said.
“These are professionals who understand fashion, media, business, and branding. That combination is powerful.”
She said that governance and professionalism will define her tenure.
“We are building credibility. That’s how you attract sponsors, partners, and global respect.”
Africa on the rise — Tanzania hosting Miss World
Kabwebwe also welcomed the historic announcement of Miss World 2027 being hosted in Tanzania, calling it a defining moment for Africa.
“This is huge for the continent,” she said. “It proves Africa is ready to host global platforms at the highest level.”
For Zimbabwe, she says, it’s a wake-up call.
“It pushes us to elevate. The spotlight is coming closer to home — and we must be ready to shine.”
Kabwebwe is also championing modelling as a driver of national development, especially in tourism.
“Pageantry is a powerful marketing tool. Our queens become storytellers of Zimbabwe. “When they step onto global stages, they carry our culture, our landscapes, our heritage. That visibility can attract tourists, investors, and global
attention.”
Who is Danya Kabwebwe?
She is also the CEO of Sebam Energy and founder of the La Patrona Foundation, and is bringing extensive experience in business, fashion, and pageantry to the organisation.
Kabwebwe has supported models through her clothing line, Lasape and DKM Fashion, for over 10 years.
Online Reporter