Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube-Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWEAN model, Zandile Sibanda, is preparing to represent the country at the prestigious Top Model of the World competition in Egypt later this month.
She is carrying with her not only national pride but a message of resilience and possibility for young women.
The 23-year-old, who is the reigning Miss Tourism Zimbabwe first runner-up, will compete against contestants from across the globe in the 16-day pageant. The grand finale is scheduled for June 8.
Born in Kwekwe, and now based in Harare, Sibanda is the second daughter in a family of four girls.
Her journey has been shaped by leadership and discipline from an early age.
She attended 2 Presidential Guards Primary School before completing her secondary education at Midlands Christian College, where she served as head girl in her final year.
Sibanda has since broadened her career into fashion design and modelling.
She has worked as a commercial model for leading brands including Steers, HTC Clothing and Oh So Heavenly, while also making her mark on the runway after debuting at The Fabric Party.
Beyond modelling, she has built a growing media presence as an events MC and currently co-hosts a programme on 3K TV alongside stylist Minister of White Linen.
Sibanda said her journey to Egypt began through Miss Tourism Zimbabwe.
“Initially I entered the Miss Tourism competitions and I placed first runner-up for Miss Tourism Zimbabwe.
“Because the pageants were working hand-in-hand, Top Model of the World Zimbabwe was also under Miss Tourism Zimbabwe.
“Being number two, I was then offered the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe for Top Model of the World and I gladly accepted it,” she said.
Sibanda described the selection as both humbling and daunting.
“It was such an honour to be selected to represent the nation on an international stage.
“When you go there, they do not call you Zandile, they call you Zimbabwe, so you are carrying the whole nation and demonstrating national pride. It is a huge responsibility.
“It is scary, yes, but overall it is an incredible honour.”
She said the competition marks a major milestone in her modelling career.
“This opportunity means quite a lot to me as a model. It has given me a platform to showcase what I am made of and it has opened many doors.
“It has brought brand visibility, partnerships and recognition from different spaces. I have already had opportunities for interviews on ZBC and other platforms, and this adds to my portfolio for future national and international pageants.
“It proves I can be trusted to represent at that level.”
Preparation, however, has not been without challenges.
“I am going to be in Egypt for 16 days, so there is a lot that needs to be done. I have been training hard, preparing my wardrobe, building my media presence and making sure I am mentally and physically ready.
“But, financially it has been difficult. Approaching companies for sponsorship is not easy because some people do not always see the value in funding a model.
“At times, you end up taking from your own pocket. Financially, that has been the biggest challenge, alongside the fear of the unknown.”
She credited her mother and Young Women in Business for standing firmly behind her.
“My mother has held my hand every step of the way. Whenever finances were needed, she has stepped in.
“Young Women in Business have also come through to support my journey, and I am deeply grateful.”
Through her charity initiative, Girl Up Mbare, Sibanda works to empower young women and says her message on the international stage will centre on embracing uniqueness.
“I want young women to know that even if they feel they are not privileged enough or do not fit certain standards, their uniqueness is exactly what qualifies them.
“As a Christian, I believe it is time for us to take up spaces and dominate where we are meant to. I want to prove that Zimbabwe has what it takes, and I hope to raise our flag very, very high.”
