Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
BEAUTY queen Lyshanda Moyas is back home, carrying a deep sense of pride, accomplishment, and a renewed focus on her future in modelling after representing Zimbabwe at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand, where she made Top 30.
The 26-year-old described her participation on one of the world’s most prestigious stages as both a career milestone and a personal awakening, an experience that strengthened her confidence and broadened her ambitions.
Fresh from the fast-paced world of international pageantry, Lyshanda returned to Zimbabwe on Sunday to a warm and emotional welcome from family, supporters, and industry players who had followed her journey closely.
“I’m extremely proud of what I was able to put out there as a representative of Zimbabwe. Miss Universe was more than just a competition to me; it was a learning curve, a chance to grow and to see the world through a different lens.
I gave it my best, and I’m grateful that the world saw me, heard me and embraced me,” she said.
Her time in Thailand subjected her to intense global scrutiny, but Lyshanda embraced every moment.
From rehearsals to interviews to high-pressure preliminaries, she carried herself with poise and consistency, impressing both fans and fellow contestants.
While she did not advance to the final rounds, her presence left a strong impression on international audiences, who admired her calm aura, authentic personality, and polished runway execution.
Lyshanda said she was especially moved by the support she received abroad.
“It was humbling. People from different countries cheering you on, stopping you for photos, telling you that you’re inspiring them; that’s something I’ll never forget.”
Looking back, she described the experience as both demanding and rewarding. The routines were rigorous, with early-morning call times, strenuous choreography, non-stop engagements, and strict preparation schedules.
“Every moment was a lesson,” she said.
“I met incredible women from around the world, all driven, passionate, and with different stories. Sharing space with them pushed me to grow and reminded me that the world is big, competitive, but full of opportunities if you show up ready.”
Now back in Zimbabwe, Lyshanda is taking time to reset before moving into her next phase. She is not rushing major decisions, nor is she letting public expectation dictate her pace. She has clarified that she is not quitting modelling and has not confirmed plans to compete in another pageant.
“I believe in being fully present in every chapter of my life,” she said.
“Right now, I want to centre myself, grow professionally and personally, and focus on areas of modelling that speak to the woman I am becoming.”
Her next steps will focus on commercial fashion modelling, a sector she believes suits her strengths and long-term goals. Lyshanda says her Miss Universe experience reinforced her passion for visual storytelling, brand communication, and fashion that connects with audiences beyond the runway.
“Commercial fashion is powerful because it connects brands to people. It allows creativity, emotion, and identity to come together. I’m excited to explore that world more and to refine myself as a model who can deliver beyond the runway.”
Industry insiders say this is a natural progression for her, given her expressive features, camera confidence, and ability to adapt to diverse brands and styles. Already, several regional creatives have expressed interest in collaborating with her as she embarks on this new chapter.
For now, Lyshanda is enjoying the comfort of home, reconnecting with family, and reflecting on a journey that has elevated her personally and professionally. She says Zimbabwe’s support was crucial in sustaining her spirit throughout the competition.
“I felt the love from home every single day. That support carried me, strengthened me, and reminded me who I was representing.”
As she settles back into her routine, Lyshanda hopes her journey will inspire young Zimbabwean girls dreaming of modelling or competing internationally.
“I hope my journey inspires another young Zimbabwean girl to dream boldly,” she said. “This was not an ending. It was a powerful beginning.”
