Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AFTER nearly two decades of shaping Zimbabwe’s modelling industry, veteran instructor and director Khaya-elihle Pardon, is stepping away from the runway lights, drawing the curtain on a stellar career that has redefined pageantry and nurtured some of the country’s finest talent.
A name synonymous with style, innovation and mentorship, Khaya has announced his retirement from the modelling world and will celebrate his illustrious journey with a retirement party scheduled for June 7.
As he prepares to vacate his director’s chair, Khaya reflects on a journey marked not only by personal accolades but also by a profound contribution to the revival, unification and elevation of Zimbabwe’s modelling scene.
Khaya’s modelling journey began on December 31, 2005, inspired by a childhood passion for fashion and an obsession with looking sharp.
“I grew up as a very smart kid, both physically and mentally. I joined modelling due to my obsession with looking good all the time. It grew from a hobby into a career,” he said.
He began as a model, collecting title after title and honing his craft through formal training at Fingers Modelling Academy and later at DA Modelling School in Cape Town. Among the accolades he earned during his early years are:
Mr Pelandaba, Mr Bulawayo Junior, Mr Trade Fair and Top Model Zimbabwe. He was also first runner-up for Mr Africa Junior, setting the stage for a promising future.
Rather than resting on his laurels, Khaya transitioned into directing and mentorship, where his impact was even more profound. His résumé includes directing prestigious pageants such as, Miss I Am Africa, Miss Nust, Miss Zimbabwe School of Mines, Miss Bulawayo, Miss Bulawayo Polytechnic and international platforms like Miss Teen Universe Zimbabwe, Miss Teen of the Universe and Miss Teen World.
He was also instrumental in reviving Miss Universe Zimbabwe and is credited with introducing the first model awards in Bulawayo through the Bulawayo Models Awards — an initiative born from his founding of the Bulawayo Models Association.
“I broke a lot of boundaries for the industry, hoping that those I leave behind can carry the torch forward. I’ve played my part to grow and make the industry more visible,” he said.
Khaya’s work has earned him numerous national and international accolades, a testament to his consistency and excellence. His honours include: Model of the Year Zimbabwe (2009), Face of Meikles (2010–2012), Outstanding Model SADC (2015), Outstanding Model Choreographer Zimbabwe (2018–2020) and Best Pageant Director (India, 2024). He counts international recognition, gigs and invitations, among his proudest achievements.
Through his mentorship, Khaya has guided many, who are now making waves in the modelling world. Notable names he has groomed include Onesimo Nkomo (first runner-up, Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025), Darlington Tshuma, Vincent Gutuza, Rosina Tapela, Amanda Ncube and Jemmima Mandemwa.
Among his most cherished collaborators are models: Ashley Morgan, Anelisiwe Ndebele, Zandile Thendele and Annita Neshiri, who, he says, have left a lasting impression throughout his career.
While his journey has been filled with triumphs, it has not been without its trials. In a previous interview, Khaya candidly spoke about the emotional toll of betrayal within the industry.
“Most of the challenges were around betrayal. I wish I hadn’t helped some of the people I did. But at the end of the day, it’s always God’s will.”
With the curtain falling on his modelling career, Khaya — who also serves as chairman of Boyz Dzamudhara — is now turning his focus to business and politics, where he hopes to bring the same unity and vision he brought to the modelling world.
“I’m getting into business and building my political career. I hope my legacy carries on and, I want to be remembered in the modelling world as a unifier. I always brought everyone together,” he said.
As Khaya-elihle Pardon steps away from the runway and the spotlight, the industry he helped nurture will undoubtedly feel his absence. Yet his legacy — one of passion, progress and purpose — is sure to echo through every catwalk and training studio he helped build.
