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Tafadzwa Zimoyo in Mexico
Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Sakhile Dube, finished her race in top 30 at the just-ended Miss Universe pageant in Mexico.
Dancer Victoria Kjær Theilvig (21) of Denmark was crowned Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Dane ever to win the competition.
Nigerian beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina was voted first runner-up and the second runner-up is Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran.
Top five finalists at the beauty pageant included Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez.
Sakhile, who was the crowd’s favourite, left fans dejected after failing to make it in the top 12, despite her best “hot picks” pages on social media.
It was surprising that she did not qualify for the pageant’s Voice For Change competition.
The Voice for Change competition is a global initiative that encourages Miss Universe delegates to create videos about social causes they care about.
Sakhile looked stunning in her dress by local designer Ishmael Tsakatsa of Zarguesia brand.
Before the competition, the lanky model thanked Zimbabweans for supporting her journey since day one.
“I step onto the final stage of Miss Universe, representing my beautiful country, Zimbabwe. 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 everyone of you who has supported me along the way,” she said.
“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.”
Sakhile said Zimbabwe’s resilience, strength and vibrant culture made her who she is today.
“I am proud to represent our nation, some land rich in beauty and potential, and I hope to make you proud.”
“I must also express my heartfelt gratitude to the Miss Universe Zimbabwe Organisation for their guidance, vision, and dedication which empowered me to shine my brightest,” said the model.
The 27-year-old said she was grateful to Zimbabweans for believing in her.
“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,” she said.
Social media was full of praises for Sakhile after the top 12 was announced.
“We loved Sakhile and have accepted the results. However, her participation united us as a nation despite our differences from culture to religion.
“We were voting everyday, unfortunately judges had to make a decision,” said Lupita Makomborero of Meyrick Park, Harare.
Hairdresser, Monalisa Paradzai (37), said her failure to win the grand prize did not mean the end of the world as more doors had been opened for her.
“We rallied behind her and this is not the end for her. There is a lot she can do, even fashion modelling or being video vixen, among other things. I think she did well and in the history records she stood by her ground. Well done Sakhile,” said Paradzai.
Online Reporter