Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
PATIENCE Phiri was crowned Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe on Friday night, following a dazzling and emotionally charged pageant held at the iconic Bulawayo Theatre.
Her name rang out to thunderous cheers from a packed auditorium as she claimed the coveted title ahead of eight other contestants who had delivered confident and polished performances throughout the evening. Samantha Useni was named Miss Teen Grand Zimbabwe, buoyed by overwhelming crowd support that saw her name chanted each time she stepped onto the stage. The runners-up were Jane Ndlovu as first runner-up, Charmane Mabvondwe as second runner-up, Varaidzo Madziwa as third runner-up and Lucia Mafusire as fourth runner-up, each leaving their mark on a fiercely contested contest.
Phiri, still visibly stunned moments after the announcement, struggled to fully process the magnitude of her win. Her disbelief quickly gave way to gratitude as emotion washed over her.
“I can’t believe it. Is this really me taking the crown home? I’m so happy and grateful to my parents and to God. This is only the beginning,” she said.
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere was equally charged. Emotions ran high backstage as family members rushed forward to celebrate the moment. Phiri’s grandmother, tears streaming freely down her face, clutched her granddaughter in a long embrace, overwhelmed by pride and joy.
“I’m so happy for my granddaughter. I’m lost for words,” she told Chronicle.
Useni, too, was clearly moved by the night’s events and the outpouring of affection from the audience.
“I’m so happy, I don’t know what to do or how to feel right now. The love from the crowd tonight was everything. I’m really, really happy,” she said.
The pageant transformed the Bulawayo Theatre into a vibrant showcase of fashion, confidence and emerging talent. The evening opened on a lively note, with bursts of laughter and applause greeting as a Bulawayo-based Michael Jackson impersonator whose energetic performance immediately set a celebratory tone for the night.
The ceremony was attended by Miss Tourism Zimbabwe, Zanele Moyo, who assisted the panel of judges and later took part in the crowning of the winner, adding an extra layer of prestige to the occasion.
As Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe, Phiri will go on to represent the country on the international stage in India. Her prize package includes a fully sponsored trip to India, a laptop, a two-night family getaway in Victoria Falls, a US$300 voucher and driving lessons, marking not just a personal triumph but a promising start to what many believe will be an inspiring journey ahead.
