Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
IN a development that has sparked controversy within the local modelling fraternity, Priscilla Kandiado has been unveiled as Zimbabwe’s representative for the upcoming Miss Heritage Global finals.
The ceremony is set to take place in Vietnam in August.
Initially, the Miss Heritage Global Zimbabwe pageant was scheduled to host its inaugural national finals on June 27 in Harare.
Nineteen contestants — Andile Matutu, Kudzai Matutu, Kudzai Grace Tapera, Ruvarashe Sango, Kudzayishe Mwawuka, Shekinah Maganga, Petronella Vongai Kutsoma, Sibusiso Sibanda, Priscilla Kandiado, Kudzai Musonza, Appaugasma Yemurai Chipara, Christine Ngoshi, Laura Masambe, Lungile Mathe, Leonah Kapondoro, Faith Ndlovu, Kimberly Maparura, Lwandile Ndlovu and Margret Mangowe – were shortlisted for the award.
However, the organisers abruptly announced the cancellation of the local contest and, instead, named Kandiado as Zimbabwe’s representative.
This has been questioned by some of the contestants.
Organisers said all the remaining contestants would automatically become semi-finalists for next year’s edition, a move that has also raised eyebrows.
“Following the confirmation of Priscilla Kandiado as the official Miss Heritage Global Zimbabwe representative to Vietnam, we would also like to inform all our valued finalists that there will be no national contest held this year,” Miss Heritage Global Zimbabwe national director, Maynard Chizavare, told contestants in a WhatsApp group.
“All finalists, who are still interested in being part of the journey will automatically remain semi-finalists for next year’s edition.
“We appreciate your passion, patience and continued support for the Miss Heritage Global Zimbabwe platform. Your journey does not end here, bigger opportunities still await ahead.
“Thank you for being part of the Miss Heritage Global family.”
Chizavare said Kandiado earned the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe because of her dedication, discipline and consistency throughout the selection process.
“Her commitment and active participation ultimately distinguished her from the rest of the finalists, earning her the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe on the global stage,” said Chizavare.
However, interviews with some contestants revealed growing frustration and confusion surrounding the process.
One contestant, who requested anonymity, said many participants initially believed they had been removed from the WhatsApp group because they had not yet paid the US$250 bootcamp fee.
“When people were removed from the WhatsApp group, they thought it was because they hadn’t paid money for bootcamp, not knowing a winner had already been selected and the pageant was no longer going ahead.
“I had already secured a sponsor for bootcamp as well as my costumes, only to learn that a winner had been selected,” the contestant said.
Another contestant expressed disappointment after allegedly paying a registration fee before being removed from the group.
“I had already paid a US$25 registration fee only to be removed from the group. Organisers didn’t even tell us the pageant was no longer going ahead.
“Sadly, they said there would be no refunds, claiming the money would instead be used for next year’s edition,” said the contestant.
Chizavare, however, maintained that all communication was shared with contestants through the group message.
Miss Heritage Global is a cultural and tourism-focused platform that seeks to empower young women while promoting Zimbabwe’s heritage, diversity and tourism potential on the international stage.
