Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo, Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
ZIMBABWE bids farewell today to one of its brightest stars, Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025, Lyshanda Moyas, as she departs from Harare for Thailand to represent the nation at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant.
The 26-year-old beauty queen, who has spent months preparing for the global stage, expressed both excitement and confidence ahead of her journey, encouraging Zimbabweans to rally behind her.
“I’ve worked diligently and invested countless hours into preparing for this moment. The weeks ahead in Thailand will sharpen my skills and give me a chance to learn from incredible women from across the world. I’m ready to grow, learn and represent Zimbabwe with excellence. I carry your hopes and prayers with me. I promise to represent Zimbabwe with grace, courage and authenticity,” she said before her departure.
Moyas’ preparations have been rigorous and well-co-ordinated under the guidance of a dedicated local team. Royce Gavi, a young designer and model coach, helped refine her runway walk, while Mr Gombera, a banker and life coach, assisted in developing her confidence and eloquence for the interview sessions.
“Royce taught me how to command the stage with elegance, and Mr Gombera helped me express myself with authenticity, clarity and confidence,” she said.
Fashion will play a key role in her presentation at Miss Universe. Moyas will wear an evening gown by Zargue’sia and a national costume by Ivhu Tribe, both inspired by Zimbabwean culture and heritage.
“These designs tell a story of Zimbabwean identity, pride,and artistry. The craftsmanship is incredible — Zimbabwe will shine beautifully on the world stage,” she said.
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant, which will feature more than 90 contestants from around the world, will span three weeks of training, interviews, and cultural activities before culminating in the grand coronation night at Challenger Hall in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand, on November 21.
Reflecting on her journey so far, Moyas described her reign as one of “growth, perseverance, and purpose.”
“It has been a journey of challenges, triumphs, and self-discovery. Growth often comes from discomfort, and every challenge has strengthened my character and sense of purpose,” she said.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Moyas is driven by her humanitarian passion. Her project supports teenage mothers by equipping them with vocational and entrepreneurship skills in soap-making, sewing and business management.
The initiative has already raised over US$60 000, positively impacting the lives of young mothers across Zimbabwe.
“These women are transforming their pain into purpose. When we invest in a mother, we invest in generations,” Moyas said.
Lyshanda follows in the footsteps of Sakhile Dube, who represented Zimbabwe at Miss Universe 2024, and she is already emerging as one of Africa’s strongest contenders. International pageant analysts and fans on social media have tipped her as a favourite, with hashtags #TeamZimbabwe and #LyshandaForTheCrown trending in the build-up to the pageant.
Londile Moyo
Bongani Ndlovu