Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Youth Interactive Writer
Sixteen-year-old Nushel Nokutenda Kareko is set to represent Zimbabwe at this year’s edition of Miss Teen Africa scheduled to take place in South Africa in December.
The Red Cross College student who was crowned last month at a prestigious competition that brought together talented teenage girls from across the country, emerged victor based on her confidence, eloquence and vision for youth empowerment.
The Miss Teen Africa final will take place from December 10 to 15, where Nushel will compete with young ambassadors from all over the continent.
In an interview with Youth Interactive, Nushel expressed how happy she is.
“I’m very excited to be representing Zimbabwe in South Africa. It’s a big responsibility, but I’m honoured and ready to show what Zimbabwean teens are capable of.”
She added that she hopes to use the platform to promote youth empowerment, education, and mental health awareness, issues she feels are critical for her generation.
Her achievement has sparked excitement and pride, not just from her family, but from young people across Zimbabwe.
Her mother, overwhelmed with joy, said, “I’m proud of Nushel. She’s a determined young lady and I know she’ll raise the flag of Zimbabwe high. She’s always believed in making a difference.”
Nushel’s journey to the crown started years ago when she began participating in community events and speaking on issues affecting girls.
Winning Miss Teen Zimbabwe has opened doors for her, but she remains grounded.
Her school, Red Cross College, has been a solid pillar in her journey. She is described her as a “focused, humble and hardworking student who is determined to leave a mark”.
But it’s the youth who are especially inspired by her.
Rutendo Zityama (17), a student from Warren Park D, said she followed the Miss Teen Zimbabwe journey on Instagram and was moved by Nushel’s performance.
“She’s a true inspiration. To see a girl my age achieving something so huge makes me believe I can also reach big goals,” Rutendo said.
Tapiwa Musakwa (18) from Warren Park High said Nushel’s win is proof that young people don’t need to wait until adulthood to start making an impact.
“She’s showing us that you can represent your country and make a difference even as a teen. That’s powerful.”
Tendai Moyo (16), from Kuwadzana, said the most important thing about Nushel is how relatable she is.
“She’s not just a pretty face, she speaks about real issues like peer pressure, drug abuse and teen depression. I’m proud that someone like her is standing for us on such a big stage.”
The Miss Teen Africa pageant celebrates more than just beauty it focuses on culture, intellect, leadership, and community involvement. For Nushel, it’s an opportunity to carry the dreams and voices of thousands of Zimbabwean teenagers.
Her focus now is on preparing for the big stage. She’s practicing her public speaking, cultural presentations, and even rehearsing a traditional Zimbabwean dance to perform during the cultural showcase segment.
“I want to share who we are as Zimbabweans our pride, our resilience, our beauty. And I want to encourage young girls to take up space 5 and believe they matter,” Nushel said.
Her win also comes at a time when more young people in Zimbabwe are turning to pageants, social media, and creative industries to express themselves and push for change. Nushel is part of that wave and she’s riding it with grace.
“To every young girl in Zimbabwe, your voice matters. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too young or not good enough. We are the future and the future starts now,” she concluded her interview with a message of hope.
Indeed, Nushel is not just wearing a crown she’s wearing the dreams of a nation.
Online Reporter