Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE race for Zimbabwe’s most prestigious beauty crown – Miss Universe Zimbabwe has entered its final stage, with the top 18 finalists now in boot camp in Harare ahead of the pageant finale set for this Saturday.
This year’s competition is expected to be one of the toughest in recent memory, with several contestants already experienced on international platforms adding intensity to the battle for the crown. For the first time, the pageant will crown five queens who will represent Zimbabwe on major global stages – Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Miss World
Zimbabwe, Miss International Zimbabwe, Miss Supranational Zimbabwe and Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe.
The top 18 contestants are Nomaqhikiza Mokoni, Charmaine Mabvundwe, Ruvimbo Njomboro, Roseanna Hall, Kudzaishe Mwamuka, Mona-Lisa Dube, Jemima Mandemwa, Brunette Makanyiso, Virginia Nyambe, Nicole Nyawera, Sindiso Ndlovu, Paris Huni, Malaika Mushandu, Kuzivakwashe Mujakachi, Shelly Bent, Tatenda Madzinga, Adelle Chinamasa, and Cheryl Shambadzai.
Pageant chairperson Danya Kabwebwe said preparations for the finale were now at an advanced stage, with contestants fully engaged in intensive training.
“The girls are ready and excited. They have already completed their official photoshoots,” said Kabwebwe.
She said the boot camp will push finalists beyond physical appearance, as they undergo strict grooming and development sessions designed to prepare them for international representation. The training includes runway coaching, public speaking, fitness, media handling, etiquette and brand representation.
Kabwebwe said the organisation is focused on producing queens who can confidently represent Zimbabwe on global platforms while promoting the country’s culture and identity.
“We are looking for complete ambassadors who can represent the country exceptionally well internationally,” she said.
Adding star power to this year’s edition, Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi is expected to host the prestigious finale, a move organisers say elevates the competition’s profile on the continent.
