Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari-Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
THE battle for this year’s Miss Universe Zimbabwe gong is expected to be highly competitive as many of the contestants have strong modelling and pageant backgrounds.
Several contestants are returning queens who have previously competed in local and international pageants.
This makes the race for the crown even tougher.
Their return has raised questions, among other contestants, with some wondering whether former titleholders and international competitors may have a bigger advantage because of their experience.
Since the return of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant in 2023, several models and pageant veterans have competed more than once or returned to the stage.
Among them is Malaika Mushandu, a Zimbabwean model who rose to fame after becoming one of the youngest winners of the Miss Zimbabwe pageant in 2011.
Ruvimbo Njomboro secured a place in the Top 30 last year after an impressive performance in previous years, where she finished as the second runner-up in 2024 and later represented Zimbabwe at Miss Cosmo 2024.
Roseanna Hall was announced as a judge for Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025.
Roseanna Hall
She holds the title of Miss Zimbabwe-Diaspora 2017 and has also returned for the crown.
Shelly Bent made history last year in India when she became the only African contestant to reach the Top 12 at the Universal Woman pageant, highlighting her talent and international appeal.
Kuzivakwashe “Kuzie” Mujakachi is a Zimbabwean-Canadian model, television personality, and former beauty queen known for appearing on Big Brother Canada 11 and The Traitors Canada.
She first gained recognition after finishing as Miss World Zimbabwe 2018 Second Princess and winning the People’s Choice award.
In 2018, she became the first Miss World Zimbabwe contestant to hold both titles at the same time.
Over the years, the Miss Universe Zimbabwe title has been won by Sakhile Dube, Brooke Bruk-Jackson and Lyshanda Moyas.
The full list of finalists also includes Cheryl Sambadzai, Vimbainashe Chiriseri, Nomaqhikiza Mokoni, Anna Gunguwo, Rachel Ndlovu, 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, Victoria Ncube, and Sindiso Ndlovu.
The contestants will now move into the public voting stage, where supporters will play an important role in deciding who advances to the Top 12.
Those who make it through will attend Boot Camp before the grand finale on June 6 at the Harare Hippodrome, where Zimbabwe’s next queen will be crowned.
Bongani Ndlovu