Online Reporter
AS she departs this afternoon for Thailand to represent Zimbabwe at the prestigious Miss Universe 2025 competition, reigning queen Lyshanda Moyas is already making waves on global platforms. According to social media analysis and world pageantry polls, Lyshanda has emerged as one of the strongest African contenders, earning praise for her eloquence, elegance, and authenticity. Fans across the world have rallied behind her under the hashtag #TeamZimbabwe, confident that she will fly the national flag high.
The Miss Universe pageant, one of the world’s most celebrated beauty competitions, brings together over 90 women from across the globe who embody intelligence, confidence, and compassion. The 2025 edition, set in Bangkok, Thailand, will see contestants engage in three weeks of activities before the grand coronation night on 21 November. Scheduled to be held at the Impact Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand, Victoria Theilvig of Denmark will crown her successor at the conclusion of the event.
However, Lyshanda follows in the footsteps of Sakhile Dube, who proudly represented Zimbabwe last year as the country made a celebrated return to the Miss Universe stage after a long hiatus. This year, Lyshanda steps forward to continue that legacy, armed with purpose, poise, and a mission that extends beyond beauty — one rooted in empowerment and service.
Before leaving for Thailand, Lyshanda Moyas (LM) caught up with Zimpapers Entertainment Editor, Tafadzwa Zimoyo (TZ), to share insights about her preparation, lessons learned during her reign, and her hopes for the global stage. Below are excerpts from their conversation.
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TZ: How prepared are you for the Miss Universe competition?
LM: As human beings, we can never be fully prepared for what the future holds because it’s filled with uncertainties. However, I have worked diligently and invested countless hours into preparing for this moment. As I leave today to join other queens in camp, I am confident that the three weeks ahead will further sharpen my skills, broaden my perspective and allow me to learn from incredible women from across the world. Life is a continuous learning journey and I am walking into this competition ready to learn, grow and represent Zimbabwe with excellence.
TZ: What lessons have you learnt during your reign as Miss Universe Zimbabwe?
LM: My reign has been an unforgettable blend of challenges, triumphs and personal growth. Every experience has taught me something valuable, from resilience and humility to leadership and innovation. I have learned that growth often comes from discomfort and every challenge has strengthened my character and deepened my understanding of purpose. This journey has refined my brand, enhanced my ability to collaborate with diverse partners and taught me how to balance grace with grit in every endeavour.
TZ: How many designers have you worked with on your evening gown and national costume?
LM: For my national costume, I had the honour of working with Ivhu Tribe and for my evening gown, with Zargue’sia. These two phenomenal designers poured their hearts into their work, creating pieces that tell a powerful story of Zimbabwean identity, artistry and pride. All I can promise is that we are not going to disappoint; Zimbabwe will shine beautifully on the world stage.
TZ: Who coached your walk and speech?
LM: My walk was coached by Royce Gavi, a 23-year-old designer and model coach with exceptional expertise in both pageantry and fashion runway. As the founder and director of Scarlet Studios, his creativity and precision have been instrumental in refining my confidence and stage presence. My speech, on the other hand, was coached by Mr Gombera, a banker and life coach with vast experience in digital banking. His mentorship helped me master the art of communication, clarity and poise — shaping the way I express my ideas with authenticity and impact. Working with both of them has been a deeply transformative experience and I am truly grateful for their guidance.
TZ: Which project are you carrying forward as part of your advocacy?
LM: My project focuses on sustainable development through innovation, infrastructure and health and wellness, particularly for teenage mothers in marginalised communities. What began as a mission to provide clean water through borehole drilling evolved into a broader vision after discovering that between 2019 and 2022, Zimbabwe recorded nearly 1,8 million pregnancies, with about 350 000 involving teenage girls. This reality inspired me to launch programmes that have already raised over US$60 000, empowering more than 300 teen mothers with technical and vocational skills in soap making, sewing and entrepreneurship. These initiatives transform dependency into dignity and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s economy. My goal is to see every teen mother become a symbol of innovation, strength and hope because when we invest in a mother, we invest in generations.
TZ: What message do you have for Zimbabweans as you head to Thailand?
LM: My message is simple: Believe in the beauty of your dreams. I am carrying the hopes of every Zimbabwean and I promise to represent our nation with grace, courage and authenticity. Let’s continue to tell our own story — a story of resilience, unity and pride.
