Online Reporter
Trust Khosa,
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Modelling enthusiasts are in for a real treat this year as Miss Heritage Zimbabwe makes a triumphant return with a live contest scheduled for September 20.
The winner stands a chance to represent Zimbabwe at Miss Heritage Global in Malaysia this November, according to license holders.
After a 14-year hiatus, a live modelling contest will return to Harare, where fans will have a feast of looks on the ramp.
For some time, the pageant was held online.
Powered by Serene Soirees Events, the official host and director of Miss Heritage Zimbabwe, the contest promises fireworks as it returns with stunning models.
Serene Soirees Events Chief Executive Catarina Costopoulos told Zimpapers that they were determined to make an impression with this pageant meant to empower the girl-child. Speaking to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub recently during a tour of the Mbuya Nehanda Statue in Harare with models, Costopoulos outlined their vision.
“We have started scouting for models ahead of the Miss Heritage Zimbabwe finals. This national movement is dedicated to empowering the girl-child, showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, and preparing young women for global representation.
“This year’s edition will be hosted on Saturday, 20th September 2025, with the title holder set to represent Zimbabwe at Miss Heritage Global in Malaysia this coming November,” she stressed.
She also applauded various stakeholders who have made their mission possible during their tour of the Mbuya Nehanda Statue at the intersection of Julius Nyerere Way and Samora Machel Avenue.
“We were blessed to be here after being given the green light to carry out these initiatives.
“This shoot has received approval from the relevant ministries, including the Department of Monuments, Museums, and National Heritage. This initiative was meant to spotlight the empowerment agenda and inspire national pride after we took the models on a tour of this monument.” Costopoulos, who is working with a vibrant youthful team, said there are plans to tour other towns scouting for talent.
“We are going to conduct another search in Bulawayo soon, where we are also going to spread the same message.
“We want to come up with a representative who will make us proud in Malaysia this November. What is of interest is that the selection process this time around won’t be held online as was the case in previous events,” she emphasized.
During the tour of Mbuya Nehanda, four models — Beyonce Frank (24), Idah Manwere (24), Mitchelle Kazale (21), and Precious Chakwizira (23) — were in high spirits. They were led by presenter Shamiso Nduru (31), who has also mastered the art of grooming.
The models shared their insights on how they value Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage through pageantry.
They also received short poems in Shona, Ndebele, English and Setswana.
“I am honoured to be here at the statue of Mbuya Nehanda, whose cultural significance and relevance are well documented.
“I have learned to appreciate my cultural identity, myself, and my country after visiting this place. I will leave here a changed person with invaluable knowledge,” stated Manwere, as Kazale interjected, adding:
“It feels good to be here at this sacred place. We all know the cultural significance of Mbuya Nehanda and of national heritage. I am learning a lot from this tour.”
Two other models—Frank and Chakwizira—expressed their delight after visiting the site. Itumeleng Nare is the reigning queen. She was selected online with the strong backing of Pauline Marere, the 2019 winner.
Meanwhile, the revitalisation of Miss Heritage Zimbabwe has come as a major boost to players in pageantry.
This contest comes at a time when other pageants, like Miss and Mr Rural, Miss Universe Zimbabwe, and Miss World Zimbabwe, have been revived. A lot of sponsorship has also been coming in for major pageants, providing a significant boost for the sector.
