Online Reporter
Langalihle Mhiti
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
FRESH from representing Zimbabwe on the global stage, Miss Inter-continental Zimbabwe 2025 Rumbidzai Muzopa has shared a heartfelt reflection on her pageant journey, describing it as transformative, humbling and purpose-driven beyond the crown.
In an emotional message shared after the competition, Muzopa said the experience of walking onto the international stage carrying the Zimbabwean flag was surreal and deeply affirming.
“While not hearing my country and walking off that stage felt surreal, I have come to realise that the true victory was not the crown, but the incredible experience and the love I felt throughout this journey,” she said. Muzopa emphasised that the pageant tested her physically, mentally and spiritually, pushing her to dig deeper into discipline and self-belief.
She revealed that she would change nothing about her preparation, despite the challenges that came with it.
“I am deeply proud of the hard work, sweat and tears I poured into my preparation. I walked onto that stage with my head high, and I leave with it even higher, standing tall knowing I gave my all representing my nation,” she said.
The beauty queen paid glowing tribute to her family, church and close circle, crediting them for keeping her grounded throughout the demanding journey. She described her support system as her “rock,” noting that prayers and unwavering belief carried her through moments of doubt.
“A massive, heartfelt thank you to every single person who lifted me up. To my family, you are my rock. Thank you for your unwavering belief in my wildest dreams,” Muzopa said.
In a rare behind-the-scenes acknowledgement, Muzopa singled out her sponsors, describing them as the back-bone of her Miss Inter-continental campaign.
“To my sponsors, you are the main actors. Your support was the backbone of this journey, and I am forever grateful for your generosity,” she said, while listing fashion designers, beauty brands, creative directors and production teams who contributed to her national costume, gowns and overall presentation.
Special praise was reserved for her personal coach Ishmael Murangandi, popularly known as The Crown Hunter, whom she credited for sharpening her confidence and stage presence. Muzopa highlighted his hands-on approach, constant check-ins and emotional support, saying his dedication went beyond coaching. “You were not just my catwalk coach. You checked on me more than twice a day. Your passion and dedication are remarkable,” she said.
Muzopa also congratulated fellow contestants, saying the bonds formed during the competition would outlive the title year.
“The crown is indeed for a year, but the bonds we now have and the memories we share will last forever,” she said.
Looking ahead, Muzopa said her Miss Inter-continental journey marks the beginning of a new chapter rather than an ending.
“This is not the end for me. It is simply the end of a beautiful chapter. I am walking away with a renewed sense of purpose. The best is yet to come,” she said.
Her reflections have since drawn praise from fans and industry players, many applauding her grace, gratitude and dignified representation of Zimbabwe on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Varvara Yakovenko of Russia won the Miss Inter-continental title during glitzy rites held last month in Egypt (the 30th in the Philippines).
The Russian beauty queen was crowned by last year’s winner from Puerto Rico, Maria Cepero, having won as Continental Queen of Europe and Miss Photogenic earlier in the competition.
The Philippines’ representative, Mutyang Pilipinas Inter-Continental 2025 Christina Labareño Vanhefflin, finished as the fourth runner-up. Christina was also the recipient of the Power of Beauty award, which automatically fast-tracked her from the quarter-finals (Top 23), semi-finals (Top 12), and final round (Top 7).
Between Varvara and Christina were Cuba’s Lorena Suarez Lara (first runner-up and Continental Queen of North America), Thailand’s Vanessa Nattacha Wenk (second runner-up and Continental Queen of Asia & Oceania), and Tanzania’s Simiyu-Faidha Kassim Kivoyo (third runner-up and online poll winner). Behind Christina as the fifth runner-up was Miss Congeniality and Continental Queen of South America, Christiane Guerrero Marques das Neves of Ecuador.
