Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
RECENTLY crowned Miss Intercontinental Zimbabwe 2026, Virginia Nyambe (pictured), a graduate of Great Zimbabwe University’s Robert Mugabe School of Heritage and Education, has received widespread praise following her success at the Miss Universe Zimbabwe grand finale held in Harare over the weekend.
Nyambe, who graduated with a Degree in Media and Cultural Studies in 2020, was among seven contestants who walked away with national titles at the prestigious beauty pageant. Her victory earned her the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at the Miss Intercontinental world pageant, where she will carry the country’s flag on the international stage.The Bulawayo-born beauty queen is expected to return home today, with residents, supporters and members of the arts and entertainment industry being urged to give her a heroic welcome.
A special reception has been organised in her honour, with supporters expected to gather at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport to celebrate her achievement and show support as she begins her reign.
Nyambe’s crowning has attracted praise beyond the pageantry industry, particularly within media and academic circles where she has built a reputation as a broadcaster, mentor and communications professional.
In a congratulatory message, Great Zimbabwe University described Nyambe as an outstanding ambassador whose journey from campus radio to the national stage continues to inspire young people.
“From the studios of campus radio to the national pageantry stage, Virginia Kopelitsebasiyana Tlou Nyambe continues to make the university proud,” the institution said.
The university noted that while studying at GZU, Nyambe was among the pioneer presenter-producers at the institution’s campus radio station between 2019 and 2022. During that period, she distinguished herself as a presenter, producer, news anchor and mentor.
“She also played a key role in training students on attachment, helping nurture a new generation of broadcasters,” said the university.
Nyambe’s media career began in 2018 when she worked as a news reporter for a local radio station before later moving into television sports broadcasting in 2021.
In 2022, she relocated to South Africa where she hosted current affairs programmes on Sauma HD Radio, further expanding her media profile beyond Zimbabwe.
Following a successful audition in February 2023, she joined a television station where she worked as a show host and newsreader before leaving in 2024 to pursue new professional opportunities.Her growing recognition within African broadcasting also saw her being nominated for the “Best Emerging Radio Personalities in Africa” award in 2023.
Beyond broadcasting and pageantry, Nyambe has also established herself as a sought-after master of ceremonies and youth mentor, using her platform to inspire young people pursuing careers in media, arts and communication.
