Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
The Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 Harare auditions roared to life over the weekend in a colourful and highly competitive showcase that left organisers stunned by the quality of contestants vying for the coveted crown.
More than 70 hopefuls thronged the auditions in Harare, bringing beauty, brains, elegance and confidence to the ramp in what turned out to be one of the most exciting casting sessions in recent years.
The auditions were packed with surprises as reigning queens, former beauty royalty and fresh new faces all battled for a place in the prestigious pageant.
From commanding runway walks to sharp public speaking skills and confident presentations, contestants gave judges a torrid time selecting the best among the dazzling pool of beauties.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe chairperson Danya Kabwebwe could not hide her excitement after the successful auditions, describing the turnout and talent as overwhelming.
“We are extremely happy and honestly shocked by the level of competition this year. Zimbabwe truly has beautiful and talented women who are ready to compete on the global stage,” said Kabwebwe.
“The response was amazing. We saw confidence, intelligence, elegance and purpose from many contestants. It shows that the Miss Universe Zimbabwe brand continues to grow stronger every year.”
Kabwebwe said the judging process would not be easy due to the high standards displayed by contestants during the Harare auditions.
“The competition is very tight, but we are confident we will choose the best contestant to represent Zimbabwe. The judges definitely have a difficult task ahead because many ladies came fully prepared,” she said.
She added that organisers would announce the top 30 contestants tomorrow before the public voting process begins to determine the final top 12.
“The top 30 will be unveiled on Tuesday and from there the public will help vote for the finalists. The top 12 contestants will then proceed to boot camp as preparations intensify for the grand finale,” said Kabwebwe.
The finalists will undergo grooming sessions, media training, fitness programmes and various empowerment activities ahead of the grand coronation set for June 6 at the Harare Hippodrome.
The finale is expected to attract glamour lovers, fashion enthusiasts and celebrities from across the country as Zimbabwe prepares to crown its next queen. This year’s auditions also reflected the growing popularity of pageantry in Zimbabwe, with many young women eager to use the platform to advocate for social causes, community development and women empowerment.
Several contestants impressed judges with their confidence and inspiring personal stories while others stood out through their fashion sense and commanding stage presence.
Meanwhile, organisers have will open online auditions targeting Zimbabweans living in the diaspora as the pageant expands its reach beyond borders. Kabwebwe said the diaspora market remained important in showcasing Zimbabwean beauty and talent globally.
“We have also begun online auditions for the diaspora because we want to give every Zimbabwean woman an equal opportunity regardless of where they are based. The response has already started coming in and we are excited about that,” she said.
