Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Entertainment Editor
Reigning beauty queen, Lyshanda Moyas, is in Thailand for the 74th Miss Universe pageant with her presence already being felt on the global stage.
Poised, composed and full of purpose, she steps into her first international pageant with quiet confidence and a deep sense of pride, ready to showcase the beauty and strength of Zimbabwean womanhood to the world.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts Hub, the 26-year-old said she is happy with the progress so far.
“The check-in process in Thailand has been absolutely seamless and truly heart-warming,” Lyshanda said upon arrival.
“I have settled in well and already feel a strong sense of belonging. The Miss Universe environment is both inspiring and vibrant and I cannot wait to meet the rest of the queens from across the globe. I look forward to building lifelong relationships, engaging in cultural exchange, and learning from the diverse experiences and perspectives that each delegate brings to this prestigious platform.”
As one of the fresh faces on the Miss Universe stage, Lyshanda admits that the opportunity is both humbling and transformative.
“This being my first international pageant, I am deeply humbled and profoundly grateful to have been entrusted with the honour of representing Zimbabwe on such a global stage,” she reflected.
“It is an opportunity that comes once in a lifetime and I regard it with utmost reverence and gratitude.”
Already, Lyshanda has been winning hearts in Thailand, both among fellow contestants and on social media. She has bonded with representatives from several countries, calling the Miss Universe experience “a sisterhood built on culture, respect and unity.”
Her growing popularity online has not gone unnoticed. Pageant analysis platforms such as Model Guide, Pageant Talk, Pageant Gist, Missology and several international fan pages have highlighted her as one of the strongest contenders from Africa, citing her eloquence, authenticity and natural charm as defining strengths.
Her steady rise in global fan polls reflects her ability to connect deeply with audiences far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
Lyshanda praised the hospitality and professionalism of the Miss Universe organisation.
“I have been received with overwhelming warmth and professionalism, and I can confidently affirm that the Miss Universe hospitality is exceptional,” she said.
“From the moment I arrived, every aspect of my experience has reflected the organisation’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity.”
The Miss Universe 2025 edition in Bangkok brings together more than 80 contestants from around the world.
Already, Africa has sent 20 girls from different countries to bring the crown home.
The reigning queen, Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, will crown her successor at the grand finale an event expected to draw millions of viewers globally.
Beyond the glamour and competition, Lyshanda’s mission is clear: to tell Zimbabwe’s story with pride and authenticity.
“I believe that the most powerful way to market Zimbabwe on the global stage is through authentic representation by standing out and showcasing the beauty, richness and diversity of our culture,” she said.
“Every interaction, costume, and performance I present is an opportunity to tell Zimbabwe’s story to the world.”
Her grounded outlook, faith and strong sense of purpose make her not only a formidable contestant, but also a true ambassador for her country.
“Throughout this life-transformative journey, I have learned that dedication, precision, commitment, determination and humility are essential pillars of success,” Lyshanda said.
“Above all, my faith has been my greatest anchor.”
With the spotlight now firmly on Thailand, Lyshanda stands tall among the world’s best, ready to inspire, to connect, and to bring the Miss Universe crown home to Zimbabwe.
Again as she prepares to take the stage, comparisons to her predecessors are unavoidable. Sakhile Dube set a high bar for Zimbabwe by finishing in the Top 30, and now Lyshanda has the chance to match — or even surpass — that achievement.
With Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina finishing as first runner-up last year, Africa’s presence remains strong, while Zozi Tunzi of South Africa, who won Miss Universe in 2019, reminds the continent that the crown is within reach.
Whether Lyshanda follows in Sakhile’s footsteps or surprises the world with a historic victory, Zimbabwe’s hopes are high, and the global spotlight is firmly on her.
