Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
LAST Saturday night, the stage was set ablaze with a mixture of colour, rhythm, and electric energy as Manicaland tiny talents — Joylene Mazemo (nine) and Alexis Makatendeka Beni (eight) — stole the show at the highly and fiercely contested Little Mr and Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant.
With beaming smiles and undeniable charm, the dynamic duo mesmerised, both the judges and the audience — with Joylene being crowned “Little Mini Miss Zimbabwe 2025,” while Alexis took home the “Little Mini Miss Personality Africa Zimbabwe” title.
As newly minted national titleholders, the girls will represent Zimbabwe at the international finals, scheduled to take place in Ethiopia in 2026, with the exact date to be announced.
The event, which was held at Long Chen Plaza, Harare, was broadcast live across various social media platforms, including the Manicaland Christian School’s Facebook page, where Joylene is a learner.
Beautifully decorated in Afrocentric patterns and Zimbabwean flags, the venue shimmered under soft golden lights, creating a regal, yet inviting feel.
Children in vibrant traditional attire mingled backstage and in the main gallery with visible excitement and nervous anticipation, their families cheering them on with ululations and chants.
As each contestant took to the ramp, the atmosphere grew more intense.
Every performance was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers, but there was also a respectful hush when the children showcased their cultural pieces, which is a collective admiration for the pride and effort poured into every step and gesture.
For the cultural category, Joylene showcased the Nyau culture, while Alexis celebrated her roots by representing the Ndau tradition.
Their deep connection to their ancestry was evident, and the audience responded with thunderous applause.
Later, they returned to the ramp in stunning evening gowns, exuding grace far beyond their years.
The evening gown segment brought glamour and awe, as the young contestants dazzled like royalty.
Judges leaned forward with interest, impressed, not only by beauty, but by the grace, confidence, and authenticity the children brought to the runway.
It was a night charged with emotion, leaving everyone — from parents to organisers — teary-eyed and hopeful for the bright futures of these little stars.
For many who are used to adult modelling contests, which usually draw scores of people, the event was a refreshing development.
Overjoyed Alexis’ mother, Sonia Pfaira said: “This has been a dream come true. As a parent, I am happy and delighted by how the girls performed. For their talent show, they wowed the crowd with dazzling dance moves, they literary brought the house down. It is every parent’s dream to cheer your own blood at platforms like these. It is clear that modelling and pageantry is in her DNA, I am sure she will continue to shine,” she said.
The pageant was no easy feat.
Dozens of children from across the country showcased their talents and culture in front of a packed audience.
The event was held under the theme: “Celebrating Cultural Diversity.”
This year’s edition highlighted Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, with each contestant proudly representing their province through traditional dress, song, dance, and poise.
The Little Mr and Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant, launched in 2023, is a celebration of heritage, unity, and the dreams of tomorrow’s leaders.
According to the organisers’ website, it provides a vibrant platform for children to express themselves through creativity, talent, and cultural pride.
Tinashe Mukonowatsauka, who manages the two rising stars was an elated lot.
“Joylene and Alexis have proven that talent knows no age. It was indeed a fierce contest. Their discipline and passion made them stand out. Watching them grow through this journey has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career. This is just the beginning. These girls are, not only representing Manicaland, but they are representing the dreams of every young child who dares to believe. The international stage in Ethiopia will be their next big moment, and I am confident they will shine just as brightly.”
Alexis learns at Cross Kopje Junior School.
Despite their young age, the girls have already become role models, embodying the potential and spirit of Zimbabwean youth.
National Arts Council Manicaland regional manager, Carol Makoni said: “We are incredibly proud of these young ambassadors. Their achievement is a testament to the power of cultural pride and youthful creativity.
“They are the future, and they have made Manicaland and the country proud. We wish them the best as they prepare for the global contest next year.”
