Online Reporter
Sinokubonga Nkala
A wave of patriotism has swept across Zimbabwe’s modelling industry as models and influencers unite to rally behind Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Lyshanda Moyas, who is representing the country at the ongoing Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Thailand.
In a rare show of solidarity, models from across the country have launched a national social media campaign urging prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo and other corporates to fund public votes for Lyshanda to strengthen her chances of advancing in the competition.
Voting plays a crucial role in determining placements for various pageant categories, but it comes at a cost — with three votes priced at US$0.99, 15 votes at US$4.99, and 1 000 votes at US$199.99.
While Zimbabweans are visibly eager to support their queen, many have been financially constrained, prompting the modelling community to mobilise resources and call on business leaders to help bridge the gap.
As of yesterday, Lyshanda had garnered fewer than 50 000 votes, while contestants from other countries had already surpassed 100 000, highlighting the urgency of coordinated national support.
The campaign, anchored by the hashtag #VotesForLyshanda, has been gaining traction on social media, with models, influencers and celebrities sharing posts and encouraging collective action.
Among those leading the charge is Apphia Nyasha Musavengana, the SADC Asia/Africa youth leader and president of the Young Women in Business Organisation, who has pledged her full support and helped amplify the message online.
Socialite Pokello Nare, who commands over four million followers, has also joined the initiative, reposting the campaign artwork and encouraging her fans to vote for Zimbabwe’s queen.
For many local models, this moment has become bigger than competition; it is a unifying movement that celebrates national pride and solidarity.
“This is not just about winning a crown; it’s about showing the world that Zimbabwe stands together. We may be miles away from Lyshanda, but our love and support will reach her,” said one model involved in the campaign.
The campaign reflects a growing spirit of collaboration within Zimbabwe’s pageant and fashion circles, where beauty is seen not as an individual pursuit but a collective celebration of identity, resilience, and unity.
With the Miss Universe finals set for Friday, November 21, at the Impact Challenger Hall in Nonthaburi, Thailand, the Miss Universe Zimbabwe delegation departed Harare on Wednesday afternoon to physically support Lyshanda as she continues to make her mark on the global stage.
Whether or not she brings home the crown, one thing is clear: Lyshanda Moyas’ journey has already ignited a national movement, proving that Zimbabwe’s beauty, spirit, and unity shine far beyond the runway.
