Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Mbulelo Mpofu, m[email protected]
The Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe (MTOUZ) pageant has announced provincial casting dates ahead of the crowning of this year’s beauty queen, who will represent Zimbabwe in India. Last year, the reigning queen, Victoria Ncube, shone on the international stage.
During a press conference held at its Bulawayo offices on Monday, MTOUZ national director Mthokozisi Philip Masuku outlined the organisation’s vision for 2025, promising an enhanced and more competitive pageant.
“This year, we aim to elevate the pageant to new heights, which is reflected in our theme: Empowering the Girl Child – Promoting Culture and Heritage Towards Vision 2030,” said Masuku.
“Our goal is to empower young girls in alignment with the Government’s vision for the youth.”
Masuku also announced the provincial casting dates, which will be overseen by the respective provincial heads.
The schedule is as follows:
Midlands February 8, Bulawayo February 15, Matabeleland South March 2, Mashonaland March 1 (virtual castings), Masvingo March 8, Harare March 15, Matabeleland North March 15 and Manicaland March 8.
The MTOUZ director said that each province will be represented by four contestants of which the top 20 will go to boot camp with their parents or guardians.
Masuku also made a heartfelt appeal for financial assistance.
“For this pageant, we need financial support, and we appeal to well-wishers and corporate sponsors to lend a hand in making young models’ dreams come true,” he said.
The pageant’s Bulawayo provincial head, Zanele Moyo, expressed confidence in the city’s strong representation in this year’s competition.
“As the provincial head, I can confidently say that Bulawayo is buzzing with anticipation. We’re ready to showcase the best of our raw, grassroots talent on a platform that gives young people the chance to shine, take centre stage, and show the world what they’re made of.
“Our city has always been a hub of creativity, innovation, and passion. This year, we’re ready to take up space, make our mark on the national stage and prove that Bulawayo is more than just a city – it’s a movement, a force to be reckoned with, and a hotbed of talent just waiting to be unleashed. So, get ready, Zimbabwe – Bulawayo is coming for you!,” she declared.
Last year, Victoria Ncube made history when she was crowned Miss Teen of the Universe Africa and awarded Miss Photogenic at the Miss Teen of the Universe pageant in Rajasthan, India. — @MbuleloMpofu
Online Reporter