Sidumisile Mabena
Mthabisi Tshuma
GROWING up in the thickets of Insiza District, Queen Belle’s world revolved around the sound of cow bells, long walks to fetch water from the river, and daily household chores.
Yet beyond those familiar routines, she never imagined that one day she would proudly celebrate her culture, adorned in African wear and commanding one of the country’s most coveted runways.
As a fast-rising model, she made her mark when she was crowned Miss Rural Matabeleland South, earning the honour of representing the province at the national finals of the pageant.
Born Nomatter Silibele Mpofu, the young woman is also a poet and musician who, as the nation joins the world in celebrating Women’s Month, said modelling is more than pageantry — it is a platform for showcasing beauty, culture and women’s empowerment through art.
“I see pageantry as a platform for empowerment, not just beauty. This is an opportunity that should give rural girls visibility and voice in broader conversations about opportunity and development.
Success in the industry can encourage community upliftment, not just personal interests. This is how I want to contribute to its rise,” said Queen Belle.
She said aspiring models should avoid taking shortcuts and instead pursue the qualities that make a truly good model.
“As a model, one of the key things is to be punctual, be disciplined and always have a strong work ethic. I encourage aspiring models to undergo proper training in runway, posing, grooming and public speaking.
“I want to advocate for contracts and fair treatment of models. There is need to mentor and train upcoming models.
I would also like to change the narrative by promoting diversity and representation (rural girls, different body types, cultures) as well as use social media to showcase local talent,” she said.
Queen Belle said she owes much of her success to Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe founder and modelling guru, Sipho Mazibuko.
“Since I was crowned Miss Rural Mat South, my art has evolved from personal creative expression into a purpose-driven voice in public performance to celebrate rural life which is important to my community and me. As a result of
Mazibuko’s efforts, I am now able to inspire other rural youths to pursue their talents and take up various opportunities,” said Queen Belle.
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Online Reporter