Online Reporter
Nodumo Moyo [email protected]
SIX-YEAR-OLD Junior Tinashe Mapfumo is already making his mark in modelling. The young Grimms Primary School pupil recently graduated from Truth Models Academy, where his growing confidence and stage presence earned him the Best Confident Model award among his fellow graduates, who were all older than him.
Junior’s modelling journey began at his school, where he took part in the institution’s annual modelling and prize-giving programmes. While in ECD A in 2024, he was recognised as the school’s smartest student during the modelling and prize-giving programme.
He returned the following year and took his achievement a step further, being crowned Mr Grimms while also receiving the Most Sociable award. His performances at school caught the attention of modelling scout, Pardon Khayelihle Khanye who saw potential in the young model. Khanye subsequently introduced Junior to Truth Models Academy, giving him an opportunity to further develop his talent.
Junior’s mother, Prisca Chiremba, said she had noticed her son’s interest in modelling from an early age and wanted to give him the opportunity to explore it in a safe and supportive environment.
“Modelling is not just about clothes and walking on stage. It teaches our children discipline, confidence, respect, and how to speak in public. Since Junior joined Truth Models, I’ve seen him grow so much. He’s more confident, more focused, and he believes in himself,” she said.
At the modelling academy, Junior continued to sharpen his modelling skills while building his confidence and learning the discipline that comes with performing before an audience. His graduation and recognition as the academy’s Best Confident Model marked another significant step in what is already an impressive journey for a child his age.
For Chiremba, Junior’s progress demonstrates what can happen when young children are given the right support and opportunities to explore their abilities. She encouraged parents to pay attention to their children’s interests and nurture their talents from an early age.
“If your child has the passion, support them. Start them early so they can learn good values and good character. Look for programmes that are safe and that teach more than just modelling. Invest in your child’s talent. You never know how far they can go,” she said.
