Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2026 winner Roseanna Hall has become one of the most talked-about personalities in the country following her crowning at a spectacular grand finale held in Harare over the weekend.
“It is still sinking in that I am Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2026. I feel honoured and I am promising fireworks during my reign, watch this space,” she said.
The Shurugwi girl who stays in South Africa as a full-time model and digital content creator said she will return home to fulfil her duties for one year.
She was once a finalist in Miss Teen Zimbabwe and M-Net Face of Africa 2010.
In 2017 she was Miss Zimbabwe Diaspora.
However, while many Zimbabweans celebrated the victory of the experienced model and beauty queen, her triumph also sparked discussion on social media, with some users raising questions about her previous involvement with the pageant after serving in a judging capacity during an earlier edition.
The conversation has generated varying opinions among pageant followers.
Some believe her previous exposure to the pageant environment may have given her a deeper understanding of what is expected at the highest level of competition, while others argue that experience should not be viewed as an unfair advantage, but rather as part of an individual’s journey within the industry.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe chief executive Tendai Hunda was quick to clarify the organisation’s position, stating that participation is open to all eligible candidates who meet the competition requirements.
“There is no rule that prevents someone from entering simply because they have previously been associated with the pageant. Whether you were an MC, entertainer, sound technician, production member or even a judge in a previous edition, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you are free to participate,” said Hunda.
She further explained that each edition of the competition is judged independently and follows its own assessment framework.
“Every year has different judges, different score-sheets and different evaluation criteria. There is no single formula that remains the same year after year. Contestants are assessed throughout boot camp and during various activities before the grand finale,” she said.
The debate has also played out among pageant fans.
“I respect Roseanna’s achievements, but if someone was previously a judge, people will naturally ask questions.” It may be within the rules, but perception matters,” said one follower.
Another added: “It’s not about her beauty or intelligence. Some of us just feel contestants should compete on a completely level playing field.”
However, supporters have rallied behind the new queen.
“She met the requirements and won under the judges’ scorecards. Let her shine and pursue her dream,” said another fan.
Others argued that experience should not be punished. “Roseanna worked hard, competed fairly and earned her place. Now Zimbabwe should unite behind her as she prepares for Puerto Rico.”
According to organisers, contestants are evaluated on several aspects, including communication skills, advocacy, confidence, leadership qualities, stage presence, discipline and overall suitability to represent Zimbabwe on the international stage.
Internationally, it is not uncommon for individuals who have previously worked within pageantry as hosts, mentors, ambassadors or judges to later enter competitions themselves, provided they satisfy the eligibility requirements in place at the time of entry.
For Roseanna, the focus now shifts from debate to preparation.
The seasoned model has built a strong reputation within Zimbabwe’s fashion and beauty industry over the years. Her experience on the runway, understanding of branding and confidence in front of audiences were among the qualities that stood out throughout the competition.
Observers noted her consistency during boot camp and the final stages of the contest, qualities that ultimately helped secure the coveted crown and the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at the Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico later this year.
Another contestant who captured significant public attention was Malaika Mushandu.
Widely regarded as one of the crowd favourites throughout the competition, Malaika received strong support both inside the venue and across social media platforms. Although she did not claim the Miss Universe Zimbabwe title, she walked away with the Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2026 crown, securing her own international platform to represent the country.
Beyond the competition itself, the event delivered an evening of entertainment and celebration.
Performers Xiba, Delroy and Nutty O energised the audience, while Nigerian star Fireboy DML and local music icon Jah Prayzah added international and local appeal to the programme.
One of the most emotional moments of the night came when outgoing queen Lyshanda Moyas received a surprise vehicle in recognition of her service as a brand ambassador and her remarkable performance at Miss Universe, where she proudly represented Zimbabwe and earned continental admiration.
The judging panel also drew praise for its depth and experience, featuring respected personalities from various sectors, including former Miss Zimbabwe 1994 Angeline Musasiwa.
While some attendees noted that the programme started later than anticipated, the overall production quality, stage design and entertainment offering were widely applauded.
The event showcased the growing ambition of Zimbabwean pageantry and its desire to align with international standards.
Meanwhile, Roseanna walked away with a brand-new Mercedes Benz C200, while Miss World Zimbabwe went to Brunnette Makanyiso, who was happy to drive her Mercedes-Benz C200. Nicole Nyawera was voted Miss Supranational Zimbabwe, Ruvimbo Njomboro went away with the Miss International Zimbabwe title.
Bulawayo model Virginia Tlou Nyambe was crowned Miss Inter-continental Zimbabwe, while crowd favourite Malaika Mushandu landed Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe and Jemima Mandemwa is Top Model Zimbabwe.
