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Valerie Mpundu
A 41-year-old Epworth woman is ecstatic after visiting Miss Universe, Sheyniss Palacios, gifted her daughter a sash during the commissioning of two boreholes on Tuesday.
Joice Saudi, six-year-old Mishly Shereni’s mother, could not hide her elation after Miss Universe’s gesture.
The daughter also received U$100 from Miss Universe Zimbabwe patron, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwengwa during the event.
In an interview, the mother of six said the 24-year-old Nicaraguan beauty was heaven-sent.
“This could not have come at a better time; I was counting on whether to attend this commissioning event or not but now this has happened.
“When my friend (Loveness Tsingano) came to where I was, I could tell from the excitement written all over her face that she was laden with good news.
“The moment she told me what had happened, I got numb and could not believe my ears. My child, my daughter Mishy, has brought smiles to our faces,” she said.
The mother also hailed the Miss Universe patron for her generosity, which is set to change their lives.
“Our lives will be changed because of this. Already, I am planning to buy her school shoes, uniform and pay her fees with the $100 she was given.
“To the rich, it might not mean a lot but to us as a family, this means so much for it came at a time when we were in dire financial straits.”
Overwhelmed with emotions, Saudi said her child’s present would become a treasure for decades to come.
“My child might be a little confused as to what is happening but all she can recall is that she was hugged and given money that is all she knows.
“She does not realise the impact this has on her future. Her path has been lit and fortune has favoured her.
“This can only be God’s grace. Who would have thought a whole queen would bestow great honour on us as a family?” she said.
Saudi is a single parent who survives on selling herbs in town to fend for her children. A coincidence as it might seem, Mishly came to the commissioning ceremony with Tsingano, a friend of her mother who was watching over the proceedings.
“I could not believe my eyes; I see Mishly as my own. We did not know things would change instantly for us. I am so happy for her and I know this will make a difference in my friend’s life. When the time is right, then the Lord makes it happen. Who would have thought? There is inexplicable joy in me,” she said.
It’s no doubt the wheels of fortune have smiled on the family after meeting Miss Universe.
The story of Mishly Shereni and the Miss Universe sash will be told for years to come.
Online Reporter