Gift Moyo [email protected]
EIGHTEEN-year-old Miss Teen Grand Zimbabwe 2026 Rutendo Mapfumo is set to leave for India this week to represent the country at the Miss Teen Grand International pageant, which begins on November 15.
Mapfumo, who developed a passion for pageantry at a young age, said representing Zimbabwe on the international stage had always been one of her biggest dreams.
She entered the Miss Teen Grand Zimbabwe competition in April, overcoming initial nerves to emerge victorious and secure the national crown.
“I got into pageantry because I have always loved the stage, confidence and helping others. I started by watching pageants and dreaming that one day I would be there. When the opportunity for Miss
Teen Grand Zimbabwe came, I decided to be brave and try. Through hard work, training and faith, I was crowned Miss Teen Grand Zimbabwe,” she said.
Mapfumo said representing the country meant much more to her than competing for an international crown, as she hoped to showcase Zimbabwean culture, talent and the strength of young women.
“What inspired me is the dream to represent my country and show the world the beauty, talent and strength of Zimbabwean girls. Representing Zimbabwe on an international stage is not just about a crown – it is about carrying my flag, my culture and my people with pride,” she said.
In preparation for the competition, Mapfumo has been undergoing catwalk training, public speaking sessions, fitness exercises and interview practice to equip herself for the different stages of the pageant.
She said the support of her family, team and pageant director, Shuvai, had made the journey particularly memorable.
Beyond the competition itself, Mapfumo hopes to use her stay in India to interact with contestants
from different countries, learn about their cultures and share Zimbabwe’s heritage.
“I hope to make Zimbabwe proud, to make it to the top and to use this platform to inspire young girls back home to dream big,” she said.
She also wants to challenge perceptions about Zimbabwe by showcasing the country’s rich culture, music, welcoming people and confident young women.
Addressing Zimbabweans ahead of her departure, Mapfumo appealed for their support as she prepares to carry the national flag onto the international stage.
“To all Zimbabweans – thank you for believing in me. Please keep me in your prayers. I am going to India to represent YOU. I will wear our flag with pride, and I promise to give my best. Zimbabwe, let’s go,” she said.
Mapfumo is expected to depart from Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport on November 14, with pageant activities running until the crowning ceremony on November 23.
