Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
BULAWAYO’S modelling scene got a fresh injection of talent on Saturday as Panthers Academy crowned its new crop of royalty at a colourful Fashion Showcase and Crowning Night.
The event, which brought together models, designers and other creatives, saw Ntandoyenkosi Mpofu crowned Miss Panthers Queen 2026, while Minenhle emerged as first runner-up.
Ashley Junior Chipayi took the men’s top honour, winning the Mr Panthers King 2026 title. In the Teen category, Melisa Moyo was crowned Miss Teen Panthers Queen 2026, with Mayibongwe Ngwenya finishing as first runner-up, while Thobani Lova claimed the Mr Teen Panthers King 2026 title.
The younger contestants also made their mark, with Hope Ndlovu crowned Little Miss Panthers 2026 and Elbethel Prayer Mabvovore finishing as runner-up.
For Panthers Academy model coach and groomer Mzolisi Zibusiso Mtshayisa, the crowning of the winners was part of a bigger effort to rebuild Bulawayo’s modelling industry by creating platforms where emerging talent can gain exposure.
“I’m thankful to everyone who showed up and the support I received from Bulawayo as a whole. That was truly a step towards reviving the Bulawayo modelling industry,” he said.
Mtshayisa congratulated the winners while acknowledging the contribution of all the models and designers who made the showcase possible.
“I’m proud of all the winners and everyone that participated, without the models we wouldn’t have had the show. The designers showed up and showed off,” he said.
The showcase also provided an opportunity for local designers to present their work, with the models using the runway to demonstrate their poise, presentation and modelling ability.
Performances by Smallerdj, Kimoe and Anele Nkundlande added to the entertainment as fashion and pageantry took centre stage.
Mtshayisa’s transition from modelling to coaching and grooming, he said, had convinced him that young talent needed more than an opportunity to walk the runway.
“My journey as a model showed me that talent alone is never enough. I met many young people with incredible potential, but they lacked guidance, exposure and someone who genuinely believed in them.
“As I grew in the industry, I realised my purpose was becoming bigger than just walking the runway or competing for titles. It was about creating opportunities for others as well,” he said.
