Online Reporter
Melissa Mpofu [email protected]
On the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (June 26), Miss World Zimbabwe 2026, Brunette Makanaka Makanyiso, as part of her Beauty With a Purpose initiative, joined hands with partners at Teen Rescue Mission in Chitungwiza, in a campaign aimed at raising awareness on the importance of protecting and empowering young people.
The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to address the root causes that often expose young people to drug and substance abuse, while promoting skills development and rehabilitation through practical training and mentorship.
Makanyiso said she was inspired by the transformative work being carried out at the centre, where vulnerable youths are being equipped with life skills designed to promote independence and self-reliance.
“It was inspiring to witness the incredible work being done at the centre. From poultry farming, sewing, baking and welding to mentorship and life skills, Teen Rescue Mission is equipping young people with the tools they need to build independent, meaningful futures,” she said.
One of the standout moments for the beauty queen was seeing young women take part in welding training, a space traditionally dominated by men, which she described as a powerful symbol of breaking barriers.
“One of my favourite moments was seeing young women confidently taking up welding, a powerful reminder that there are no limits to what women can achieve,” she said.
As part of her Miss World Beauty With a Purpose initiative, Makanyiso said the visit strongly aligned with her advocacy for poverty alleviation and youth empowerment, noting that such programmes play a critical role in reducing vulnerability to drug abuse.
She added that Teen Rescue Mission is not only offering skills training but also restoring dignity and hope among young people through structured empowerment programmes.
During the outreach, Makanyiso and her partners also distributed sanitary wear to young girls and provided blankets to underprivileged children to help them cope with the winter season.
“We had a chance to help our girls with sanitary wear, and our underprivileged children with blankets for the winter,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to the Teen Rescue Mission team for their commitment to uplifting vulnerable youth and creating sustainable pathways for their future.
Makanyiso said continued investment in young people remains key to building a stronger society, urging communities and stakeholders to support similar initiatives.
The Teen Rescue Mission programme continues to combine vocational training, mentorship and social support as part of its broader mission to rehabilitate and empower at-risk youth across Zimbabwe.
