Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TO promote local value-addition and girl child empowerment, the Women in Gemstones Association of Zimbabwe (WIGAZ) has handed over a stunning, locally-crafted crown to the Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe (MTOUZ) pageant.
The exquisite and shiny, “Maribwe Crown” was unveiled recently, at a hotel in Harare, marking a significant milestone in the pageant’s history.
The “Maribwe Crown”whose name is derived from the Karanga word “Mabwe” meaning stones, is more than just an emblem of beauty.
It is a profound symbol of cultural heritage, resilience and empowerment, meticulously handcrafted by skilled WIGAZ members using locally-sourced Zimbabwean gemstones.
This unique piece of art embodies WIGAZ’s core vision of championing value addition within Zimbabwe’s rich gemstone sector and showcasing the immense talent and potential of Zimbabwean women in transforming raw materials into exquisite works of art.
According to Ruvimbo Kadenhe, WIGAZ Secretary, the Maribwe Crown signifies that true beauty emanates from strength, inner resilience and a deep connection to one’s roots and purpose.
“By adorning the future Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe queen, the Maribwe Crown becomes a powerful beacon for the empowerment of women and the girl child,” she said.
“It serves as an inspiration for young girls across Zimbabwe to recognise their own inherent value, embrace their potential, and understand that, like these precious gemstones, they too can be polished into a radiant force for good.”
This year’s Grand Finale, scheduled for July 26 at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Samora Machel in Harare, promises to be a thing of beauty.
MTOUZ National Director, Mthokozisi Masuku, expressed gratitude for the gift, saying, “This year’s finale will be a celebration of culture, heritage and youth empowerment and the Maribwe Crown will undoubtedly add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the event.”
The pageant, running under the theme “Empowering the Girl Child by Promoting Culture and Heritage towards Vision 2030,” aims to highlight the important role young women play in community building and cultural preservation.
With 14 finalists vying for the coveted crown, the event promises to be an exciting display of beauty, talent and intellect.
What sets this year’s pageant apart is the locally-crafted crown, a departure from the norm where pageants often opt for already-made crowns from abroad or have them designed elsewhere.
The Maribwe Crown speaks to Zimbabwean craftsmanship and WIGAZ’s vision, and its unveiling marks a significant step towards promoting local industries and empowering young women.
To ensure success, the MTOUZ pageant has garnered strong support from local organisations and creatives, including My Afrika Magazine, ZimTickets, House of Langa, Moments in Time Photography and Rumour Magazine, among others.
The Maribwe Crown is set to shine brightly on the head of this year’s winner, symbolising the beauty and worth that can be unlocked through local craftsmanship.
@MbuleloMpofu
