SAKHILE FALLS SHORT BUT SHE’S PROUD OF ADVENTURE

Tafadzwa Zimoyo in MEXICO CITY

BEAUTY queen Sakhile Dube says she is proud to have represented Zimbabwe with distinction at the Miss Universe pageant where she finished among the top 30 contestants.

Nigeria’s Chadimma Adetshina finished as the runner-up, to take the Miss Universe Africa crown, while Danish beauty Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, 21, won the biggest prize.

The second runner-up was Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran.

Sakhile, the 27-year-old beauty queen, said:

“I look back at the journey that has brought me here. It has been a path filled with challenges, growth and unforgettable moments and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every one of you who has supported me along the way,” Sakhile posted on her social media pages.

“Your unwavering belief in me has been my fortress.

“Every message, every cheer and every moment you stood by my side has fuelled my spirit and inspired me to reach for the stars.

“I carry your hopes and dreams with me and they shine brightly in my heart.”

She said Zimbabweans’ resilience, strength and vibrant culture have all played a part in carrying her to the global stage.

“I am proud to represent our nation, a land rich in beauty and potential.

“I must also express my heartfelt gratitude to the Miss Universe Zimbabwe Organisation for their guidance, vision, and dedication which have empowered me to shine my brightest.

“Thank you for nurturing my dreams and for creating a platform that allows young women like me to rise and inspire others.

“I am eternally grateful that I have created a tapestry of hope and inspiration that spans the globe.

“Together, we are stronger and together, we will continue to rise.”

During her bootcamp three weeks ago, Sakhile proved to be a force of reckon with.

Hopes even rose that she would make history and win the Miss Universe title.

Sakhile managed to walk the swimsuit in the top 30 but did not make it into the top 12 where she would have worn her evening gown.

The highest-ranking Zimbabwean remains Angeline Musasiwa who came fourth at the Miss World pageant in 1994.