Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
SHALLOT Muturikwa, a 19-year-old college student, shrugged off stiff competition from 17 other contestants to win Miss Mufakose beauty pageant last week.
A professional baking student, Shallot was over the moon after claiming the title.
“To be honest with you, I was surprised when my name was called out. During the ramp walk, I was busy judging myself against other contestants and I never gave myself a chance,” she said.
This is not the first time Shallot has participated in a beauty contest.
In 2022, she was declared the Miss Shamva first runner-up.
After winning the Miss Mufakose title, Shallot is now setting her sights on major competitions.
“Winning this title gave me some confidence. With the support that I got from my coaches and family, I now strongly believe that I can go far,” she said.
The beauty pageant was graced by several prominent personalities in the industry, among them Blessing Vanessa Tombe, the 2023 Miss Legacy winner.
Ruvimbo Jombolo, the reigning Miss Cosmo Zim was in attendance and so was Hillary Mandava, the current Mr Tourism Zim.
Among some of the more familiar faces were Royce Gavi, the 2025 Mr Tourism Africa Zim winner and Christine Ngoshi, a first runner-up in the Universal 2024 beauty pageant.
Several catwalk coaches also attended.
The Miss Mufakose pageant was part of a drug and substance awareness campaign that was organised by the Mufakose Community Gym.
Tongai Nheta, the Mufakose Community Gym patron said the pageant will be used as a tool in the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“The event was well-attended and I would want to thank players in the beauty industry for supporting us. The competition will go a long way in fighting drug and substance abuse,” Nheta said.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter