Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE search for Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe resumes on February 27, with the Manicaland preliminaries set to take place at Elephant Lodge in Murambinda Growth Point, Buhera.
With the full support of traditional leaders, pageant organiser Sipho Ncube-Mazibuko expressed her delight at the enthusiasm demonstrated by participants.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub, Ncube-Mazibuko commended the traditional leaders in Manicaland for their cooperation.
“In every province where we hold our pageant, we ensure that we have the backing of traditional leaders for the smooth running of the event. We don’t just do as we please because, when dealing with rural models, you need to have the approval of traditional leaders. We have been doing that everywhere we go for such pageants,” she stressed.
The Bulawayo-based pageant guru highlighted that they have gone full circle looking for models in all districts for inclusivity.
“We have 34 contestants vying for honours at the Manicaland provincial finals, and I am happy with the work done by our provincial matron, Sharon Chombe, and Danai Kagoro, who are working hard to ensure that the day meets expectations.
The team has done a wonderful job, and they have made my job easier. The only task lies with the panel of adjudicators, where we expect them to do a thorough job and ensure that deserving candidates win,” she said.
Ncube-Mazibuko also told this publication that the event will culminate in a fashion show.
“In Manicaland, the people respect their culture, where every district observes their dress code. The event will certainly bring joy to fashion enthusiasts, as we have seen the same happening in other provinces that we have hosted so far.”
She urged models to be punctual and assured them that nobody will go home empty-handed.
“My dream and vision are to empower them with self-help projects, and this has been part of my mission statement over the years.
“We are going to make sure that all the participants are empowered to do something ranging from poultry and horticulture to knitting, which is common in the rural areas. My dream is to come up with models who have brains and change the narrative that this profession is associated with ladies and men of loose morals,” she said.
She added: “I have been doing pageantry for the greater part of my career, and it is my wish that I come up with models that will change many lives. I want the nation to remember me for changing many lives, and I won’t stop doing this job, which I have always cherished for years.”
To date, Ncube-Mazibuko’s team has covered three provinces, with five more to go.
In Matabeleland South, Nomatter Silibele Mpofu from Insiza South was voted queen, while Brenna Nyathi from Mangwe District emerged king.
Michelle Moyo from Lupane under Chief Menyezwa will represent Matabeleland North at the national finals along with the provincial king, Blessing Mpofu from Cross Dete near Hwange under Chief Hwange.
Joining the finalists is Daphne Maluleke from Chikombedzi under Chief Maluleke in Masvingo, who will be vying for top honours. Daphne won the hearts of many at a recent provincial final that lived up to expectations. She will be joined by Lovemore Nyanyira from Chivi South under Chief Nyanyirwa in Masvingo.
It will be a marvel to watch, as the contestants vying for top honours have the qualities to go far and impress at the national level.
The upcoming Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe pageant not only showcases talent and beauty but also emphasises the importance of cultural pride.
With a focus on empowerment and inclusivity, this event is a significant platform for young aspiring models to challenge stereotypes and create meaningful change within their communities.
