Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Editor
MISS Universe Zimbabwe 2025 winners have officially received their prizes, marking a significant milestone as they prepare to represent the country on the global stage in the coming months.
The ceremony took place in Harare on Saturday afternoon, where board members, led by pageant director Tendai Hunda, presented the queens with their titles and rewards.
Reigning queen Lyshanda Moyas received a stunning Mercedes Benz C200, along with cash prizes, courtesy of Style by Minnie.
This recognition comes with the responsibility of representing Zimbabwe at the Miss Universe competition in Thailand this November.
“I have a valid driving licence and am so excited for the new car. Thank you, Miss Universe Zimbabwe,” Lyshanda exclaimed, her joy evident.
She went on to express her readiness for the upcoming competition, stating, “I have started my preparations for Thailand, and watch this space!”
The first runner-up, Onesimo Nkomo from Nkayi, will take part in the Top Model of the World pageant, while the second runner-up, Rumbidzai Muzopa, was sashed as Miss International Zimbabwe and will carry her title to Japan in November.
Both runners-up walked away with cash and consolation prizes from various sponsors, although the exact amounts were not disclosed for security reasons.
The pageant director emphasised the need for discretion, stating, “We want to avoid a situation that, so and so was followed by thieves or raided at home.”
A surprise element of the event was the crowning of Lisa Sibanda, the first runner-up from Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024, as Miss Cosmopolitan Zimbabwe.
She will represent the country in Vietnam this December, a title that has stirred some conversations on social media.
Hunda clarified the situation surrounding the Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe title, asserting, “We hadn’t crowned Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe as that title is part of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant.”
Hunda expressed pride in the progress made by the organisation and the support they received from sponsors. “We are happy with the progress so far and handing over the prizes to our winners. Everything went according to plan and the girls are happy too,” she remarked. The emphasis was placed on the importance of the event for the future of the pageant and the sector as a whole. The queens were handed their cash prizes in front of their parents, reinforcing the familial support surrounding their achievements.
Preparations for the upcoming international competitions are already underway, with Hunda confirming that the organisation is focused on equipping Lyshanda for her role in Thailand. “We are optimistic to bring the crown home and have engaged all necessary requirements for her,” she stated. Sakhile Dube will also be involved in coaching Lyshanda, offering her insights from her own international experience.
The event not only celebrated the individual accomplishments of the queens but also highlighted the potential of Zimbabwe’s representation in international beauty pageants. The excitement surrounding the winners reflects a broader hope for success on the global stage. As the queens prepare for their respective roles, the support from the organisation and the community can be seen as a vital component of their journey.
The Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 event was not just a ceremony; it was a celebration of empowerment, ambition, and the pursuit of excellence. With each queen set to embark on her unique path, the collective spirit of determination and pride in representing Zimbabwe shines brightly. As they step into the spotlight, the nation stands behind them, eager to see how they will showcase their talents and grace on the world stage. The future looks promising for these young women, and their journeys are just beginning.
