Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Youth Interactive Writer
ZIMBABWEAN beauty queen Tafadzwa Kuveya (22) has raised the country’s flag high after delivering a standout performance at the Miss Africa International 2025 pageant in Abuja, Nigeria culminating in her winning the coveted Best Evening Gown Award during the grand finale held last weekend.
The pageant, which began on 30 November, brought together contestants from across the continent, including participants from Tanzania, Zambia, Liberia, Togo, Benin, Uganda and several other African nations. For Kuveya, the experience was not only competitive, but profoundly empowering.
Throughout the week-long event, contestants took part in a series of developmental activities centred on leadership, entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. One of Kuveya’s most memorable moments was the group’s visit to the Youth Empowerment Forum of Nigeria.
“We were encouraged to take up leadership roles as young black women,” she said. “It was very empowering, and it inspired me greatly. Even as I return to Zimbabwe, that is something I’m looking forward to pursuing.”
The forum later appointed the contestants as ambassadors and Kuveya said it strengthened her commitment to youth development. She also highlighted the impactful mentorship training that focused on personal growth, confidence-building and leadership skills.
“There was a lot of cultural exchange,” she said. “I even got to showcase my love for culture through my national costume. It felt amazing to share a piece of Zimbabwe with the rest of Africa.” Kuveya’s proudest moment came during the final competition when she stepped onto the stage wearing what she described as her “beautiful gown”. The gown, which captivated both judges and audiences, earned her the Best Evening Gown Award a defining achievement in her pageant journey.
“Because of the beauty of the gown, I actually received an award during the final competition. It was a gown that turned heads and captured hearts,” she said. “It was truly special. I felt honoured.” Designed by Zimbabwe’s House of Queen Bee under the direction of Brenda Gwata, the gown featured a luminous champagne-gold tone, hand-beaded embellishments, and dramatic crystal detailing.
“It was elegance, power, and cultural pride stitched into one,” said Brenda Gwata. The bold halter neckline and flowing satin drapery added to the couture drama that left the audience in awe.
“This gown was more than fashion it was a celebration of identity,” said designer Brenda Gwata. “We wanted to blend contemporary couture with subtle cultural elements to create a strong visual impact.”
Gwata, who described the opportunity as a recognition, said, “It is always an honour to contribute to a moment that places Zimbabwe on the global stage. This recognition belongs to every member of the team that worked tirelessly behind the scenes.”
“Wearing that dress made me feel like a queen,” Kuveya reportedly said after the pageant. Her confidence, grace, and fashion-forward presence earned her widespread praise across Africa. The success has also boosted the profile of House of Queen Bee, which continues to gain attention for its creative styling, regional collaborations, and celebration of African beauty on global platforms.
Representing Zimbabwe on a continental platform, Kuveya said, was both an virtue and a responsibility she carried with pride.
“I’ve never had an experience representing my country on any platform,” she said. “So, it was such a pleasure, and I felt very grateful to have this opportunity.”
She added that she was conscious of how her conduct reflected not only on her but on the nation she represented.
“The way I walked, the way I talked everything I did, I knew it would be a reflection of my country. It was a bit scary, but everything went well, and I think I did a good job.”
Kuveya expressed heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support she received from home.
“I’m so grateful to all the Zimbabweans who are rallying behind me, supporting and cheering me on,” she said. “I would also like to say that I’m extremely grateful for the support that I received.”
As she returns home, Kuveya said the experience has deepened her commitment to leadership, cultural exchange and representing Zimbabwe on future global platforms.
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