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Brenda Phiri Arts Correspondent
Stakes are high at this year’s Mr Ugly pageant where the winner is expected to walk away US$1 500 richer, an improvement from the mere US$100 won by the current title holder William Masvinu. According to the national co-ordinator, David Machowa, the show is gaining popularity as sponsors have chipped in to fund the Harare Mr Ugly on October 18.
“Preparations for the provincial contests are in progress with Harare holding its own this month. William Masvinu is expected to defend his title from the provincial level before proceeding to the national finals in December,” he said.
The national co-ordinator added that, so far, 15 contestants had been scouted from different parts of Harare and were ready to let their ugliness shine later this month at City Sports Bar.
“This year’s show is tough as Masvinu is being challenged by other men for the title. The contestants will parade on the ramp in different categories that include everyday wear, funny wear and traditional wear,” he said.
He highlighted that the show was a fun pageant although they have since taken a professional approach to it.
Asked to comment on criticism from different sectors that oppose their cause, Machowa argued that they were appreciating the other side of beauty.
“It is true that we are all made in the image God and in the Mr Ugly pageant, we are simply celebrating the beauty in ugly people. The word ugly exists for a reason and those who oppose our cause are mere noise makers,” he said.
Machowa revealed expansion plans for the seven-year-old pageant that is now under the presidency of Dominic Gwatirisa.
“We have already secured endorsements courtesy of key sponsor Biggy Chinoperekwei. We are hoping to take it to the international scene after launching it regionally. So far, we have had calls from people in Namibia and South Africa, who are buying our idea and are looking to partner with us,” he said.
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