Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
MISS World Zimbabwe 2026, Brunette Makanyiso, returned to her roots in Chitungwiza with a powerful message in which she urged young people to stay away from drugs.
She is encouraging the youths in the dormitory town to embrace positive lifestyles and stay away from drugs and substance abuse.
She was speaking during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Chitungwiza, where she was invited by youth led-organisation, Teen Rescue Mission (TRM), as a guest.
Brunette, who is from Chitungwiza, said she was impressed to witness young people coming up with projects as they fight the scourge of drug and substance abuse.
The event brought together hundreds of young people, who are benefiting from the organisation’s rehabilitation and vocational training programmes.
“I am proud to return home and witness young people sharing testimonies of overcoming drug and substance abuse.
“Seeing them acquiring practical skills and preparing for brighter futures is truly inspiring,” she said.
A pharmacist by profession, Brunette spoke about the dangers associated with drug and substance abuse and urged young people to make responsible choices.
“I understand the harmful effects of drugs, from a professional side.
“As we commemorate this important day, I encourage every young person to stay away from drugs.
“They destroy lives and dreams.
“We are the future leaders and future parents, and we must protect our future by remaining sober and focused.
“What I have witnessed here today is remarkable.
“Teen Rescue Mission is doing an incredible job in restoring hope and dignity to young people.
“I have come to stand in support of this organisation and to encourage every young person never to give up.
“Believe in yourself, work hard, pray, and trust God.”
The beauty queen reminded the youths that humble beginnings should never define their future.
“I also grew up in Chitungwiza and came from a humble background.
“I stand before you as Miss World Zimbabwe.
“If I could achieve my dreams, you can also achieve yours.
“Stay away from drugs, remain focused, believe in yourself, and your future will be bright.”
It was a day filled with testimonies of transformation, inspiration, and renewed hope as former drug users shared how Teen Rescue Mission had helped rebuild their lives through counselling, life skills, and vocational training.
One of the beneficiaries, Nommater Marufu, narrated her journey from despair to hope.
She became pregnant at an early age, which forced her into an early marriage that later turned abusive.
“My husband used to beat and abuse me.
“I eventually left the marriage and started living on my own.
“Because of stress and depression, I turned to drugs.
“I neglected myself and my children.
“There were days when I wouldn’t bath or even eat, and I lost a lot of weight,” she said.
She explained that her relatives later heard about Teen Rescue Mission and referred her to the centre.
“When I met Dr Abraham Matuka, he counselled me and encouraged me to enrol in one of the vocational programmes.
“Today I am studying hairdressing, and my life has completely changed.
“I am healthy again, I have gained weight, I have hope, and I now have something meaningful to do.”
Another beneficiary, Shackman Munemo, also shared how the organisation transformed his future.
“I was just staying at home doing nothing. Being idle exposed me to stress and negative influences.
“When I heard about Teen Rescue Mission, I joined their sewing programme.
“After graduating, I was offered an opportunity to work in the sewing department.”
Teen Rescue Mission director, Dr Abraham Matuka, hailed young people for overcoming drug addiction and choosing a better path.
“Drug and substance abuse has become a global crisis.
“It is not only affecting Zimbabwe but countries across the world.
“We are celebrating these young people who have conquered addiction and are rebuilding their lives.
“We are encouraged by the progress we continue to witness among the youths.
“However, there are still many young people who need help.
“Resources remain limited but we are committed to doing everything we can because by empowering these youths, we are building stronger families and a better future for our nation.”
