dyton mupawaenda
Entertainment Editor
In an electrifying lead-up to the highly anticipated Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, organisers have unveiled an ambitious initiative: the “Fashion and Dining Market.”
This ground-breaking event, a first in Zimbabwe’s pageantry history, is aimed at blending the vibrancy of fashion with the allure of culinary delights, creating a unique platform for talent and creativity.
Set to be launched in two weeks time at the chic Laparada in Harare, the Fashion and Dining Market is poised to be an unmissable event for fashion enthusiasts and aspiring models alike.
The evening will be graced by reigning Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Sakhile Dube, who will share her journey and insights with the next generation of beauty queens, offering invaluable advice and inspiration.
In an insightful interview, the logistics director for Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Alison Makusha, shared the organisation’s vision for this innovative event.
“I am sure you are aware that we have begun our registry for this year’s edition, and so far, we are overwhelmed with aspiring models who want to take part in Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025,” she said.
Makusha emphasised that the responsibilities of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe organisation extend well beyond the auditions and the final show.
“Miss Universe Zimbabwe is a full-time job; there must always be something happening every season. We are moving with pageantry trends in a bid to continue promoting the modelling industry in Zimbabwe,” she added, highlighting the dynamic nature of their work.
She said the Fashion and Dining Market aims to create a vibrant hub where local designers, boutiques, and fashion brands can showcase their collections.
“We are calling on fashion designers, fashion houses, boutiques, couture brands, high street brands, hair shops, makeup brands, shoe brands, and handbag brands, among others, to come and exhibit,” Makusha said.
“The event seeks to engage the broader modelling community, offering a platform for collaboration and networking. “This is a different event from the pageant, but we will also have models. The concept is done worldwide, and as Zimbabwe, this is our first time having such an event. We are contemplating inviting fashion enthusiasts from other countries, but we want to start with our own to promote local talent,” she explained, expressing her commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
The Fashion and Dining Market will not only spotlight local designers but will also serve as a promotional vehicle for the Miss Universe pageant itself, which is scheduled for May 17 at Hippodrome in Harare.
“We have released the roadmap for this year’s edition, and we have started the auditions in various parts of the country. On April 26, we will host the Miss Universe Charity Run and reveal our top 12 who will vie for the coveted title,” said Makusha.
Meanwhile, reigning queen Sakhile Dube, who made a remarkable impression by finishing in the top 30 at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico last year, has been busy launching her own initiatives.
She recently founded the Zibusiso Foundation and Zie The Label, two projects close to her heart.
Explaining her mission, Sakhile said, “The Zibusiso Charity Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged communities through education, healthcare, and empowerment initiatives.”
Her foundation aims to provide vital resources and support to those in need, fostering sustainable development and long-term positive change.
On the fashion front, Sakhile’s “Zie The Label” is a clothing brand that merges style with purpose.
“It aims to create trendy, high-quality apparel. Each collection is designed not only to look good but also to make a difference, with a portion of proceeds supporting charitable causes, including those championed by the Zibusiso Charity Foundation,” she explained passionately.
Both initiatives reflect Sakhile’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility and community upliftment, embodying the spirit of empowerment that the Miss Universe platform stands for.
Online Reporter