Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A new star is rising in Bulawayo’s modelling scene, Thandeka Lissah Mpofu, a 16-year-old recently crowned Miss Khaya Arts in a dazzling ceremony held earlier this month at the Khaya Arts Centre in Tshabalala.
The teen from Northend suburb, who is preparing to sit for her Ordinary Level exams in November, has not only won the title, but is also living out her mother’s dream.
“My mother always wanted to be in the modelling industry, but life had other plans. She fell pregnant while chasing her dreams, and I happened to be that baby.
“With her dreams shattered, I feel it’s now my mission to pursue this journey for both of us,” said Mpofu.
Mpofu walked away with an impressive prize package, but more importantly, the title has given her a meaningful platform, one she is using with purpose and determination.
She said her greatest inspiration is former Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Sakhile Dube, whose story taught her that true beauty lies in self-confidence and authenticity.
“I want to redefine beauty standards. Every individual deserves to feel beautiful in their own skin, black, white, coloured, tall or short. We all have the right to shine and to express our beauty on equal platforms,” she said.
With an infectious energy and vision that belies her age, Mpofu is on a mission to empower young girls and champion body positivity, breaking the mould of traditional pageantry.
“When girls are empowered, they become unstoppable. The future is female, and every girl deserves to be heard,” she declared.
Her plans for her reign as Miss Khaya Arts 2025 go far beyond modelling. Mpofu is a talented poet and arts enthusiast, determined to host workshops and exhibitions that promote creativity and culture, among youth.
“Art has the power to transcend boundaries. I want to inspire young people to embrace their gifts and tell our stories through poetry, dance and visual arts,” she said.
Her journey in education began at Cinderella Pre-School, followed by SOS Primary School, before she enrolled at Montrose Girls High School. She is studying at Concepts Learning Academy, continuing to balance academics with her growing role as a role model.
