Online Reporter
Melissa Mpofu [email protected]
The Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant continues to gain momentum as it cements its place as one of the country’s most competitive and prestigious beauty contests, attracting a strong pool of established models, media personalities, and emerging talent vying for the national crown.
Over the years, the pageant has recorded notable success stories on the international stage, with representatives such as Sakhile Dube, Brooke Bruk-Jackson, and Lyshanda Moyas proudly representing Zimbabwe at global competitions and helping raise the country’s profile in the modelling industry.
This year’s competition reached a new milestone on Tuesday afternoon with the unveiling of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe Top 30 finalists, a group that blends pageant veterans, media personalities, and fresh faces.
Among the standout contestants are former Miss Zimbabwe 2011 Malaika Mushandu, Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2024 Ruvimbo Njomboro, 2021 Miss Environment Zimbabwe Jemima Mandemwa, and radio personality Monalisa Dube, all of whom have secured places in the Top 30.
The full list of finalists also includes Cheryl Sambadzai, Shelly Bent, Vimbainashe Chiriseri, Nomaqhikiza Mokoni, Anna Gunguwo, Rachel Ndlovu, Kuzivakwashe Mujakachi, Sharai Tandare, Joylene Madombwe, Tatenda Madzinga, Paris Huni, Brunnette Makanyiso, Kudzaishe Mwamuka, Virginia Tlou Nyambe, Adele Chinamasa, Chanice Noble, Charmaine Mabvundwe, Robin Sitsha, Nicole Nyawera, Moreblessing Ndlovu, Mudiwa Layi, Angeline Hofah, Shamiso Masarura, Roseanna Hall, Victoria Ncube, and Sindiso Ndlovu.
The contestants will now enter the public voting stage, where supporters will play a crucial role in deciding who advances to the Top 12. Those who progress will proceed to boot camp ahead of the grand finale scheduled for June 6 at the Harare Hippodrome, where Zimbabwe’s next queen will be crowned.
Speaking on social media, finalist Monalisa Dube expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying: “I’m so honoured to have been placed in the Miss Universe Zimbabwe Top 30. Please support my journey into the Final 12 with your vote. Thank you, Miss Universe Zimbabwe, for this incredible opportunity.”
Organisers say this year’s edition has attracted strong national interest, with contestants drawn from diverse backgrounds and professions, reflecting the growing inclusivity and appeal of the pageant.
The 75th Miss Universe pageant will be held in Puerto Rico in November 2026 at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan, marking a milestone diamond anniversary edition of the global competition.
