Online Reporter
Gift Moyo [email protected]
VIRGINIA NYAMBE’S journey to the crown is one that many young women can relate to. Recently crowned Miss Intercontinental Zimbabwe 2026, Nyambe’s rise has come at a time when there is growing debate about just how expensive pageantry has become.
While some say the industry now favours those with money, her story offers a different message — one of resilience, community and belief.
Nyambe did not come from wealth or privilege. She grew up in Lobengula suburb in Bulawayo, where opportunities are limited and dreams can often feel out of reach. Yet, against the odds, she made it onto one of the country’s biggest pageantry stages.
Her journey has struck a chord with many, especially as social media continues to buzz with discussion around the cost of competing in major pageants.
Without strong financial backing, Nyambe turned to the people around her — family, friends and her community — to help her take part in the competition. Instead of giving up, she reached out for support and kept pushing forward.
“It’s just a matter of taking that one risk, but knowing that the results will be amazing. When I started this journey, I had no money. I instead turned to everyone that I knew to help me out and fortunately, things came together,” said Nyambe.
Her words reflect the reality for many young Zimbabweans — limited resources, but strong determination.
While her story has inspired many, it has also added another layer to an ongoing debate that has dominated conversations in the past week.
Following the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2026 grand finale, social media has been filled with opinions about the cost of pageantry. The glamorous event, held just days ago, showcased contestants in elegant gowns and polished looks that impressed many — but also raised eyebrows.
As the lights dimmed and cameras rolled, the queens walked down the runway in striking outfits. For many watching, it became clear that the gowns and styling were far from ordinary, and likely beyond the reach of most young women.
That realisation quickly turned into a wider discussion online.
Bulawayo arts critic and writer Raisedon Baya added his voice early on, sharing a view that sparked strong reactions.
“Modelling and participating in pageantry is not for the poor. It is a costly hobby, ask those who have tried,” said Baya on a Facebook post.
His comment resonated with many, with several agreeing that pageantry has become too expensive. Others, however, argued that the system itself needs to change.
Among those who joined the debate was Bulawayo designer and creative Zana K, who believes pageantry does not have to be as costly as it is today.
“Every time I hear people say that pageantry is expensive, I’m reminded that it doesn’t have to be this way. A few years ago I reached out to one of Zimbabwe’s pageant organisations on multiple occasions and offered my services.
Not simply as a designer but as one of the creative curators interested in shaping the cultural narrative of the National Costume segment.
“I merely want to help develop concepts that celebrated Zimbabwe’s identity through fashion by creating meaningful narratives. I wasn’t looking for payment. I got ignored on both occasions and eventually came to understand that perhaps our visions simply did not align.
“Every time conversations about how expensive pageantry is arise, I am reminded that the system itself could look very different. It still puzzles me that in 2026, a young woman with the potential to represent Zimbabwe is often expected to personally finance her gown, hair, makeup, shoes, and styling. Why is that the case when we are surrounded by extraordinary designers, makeup artists, hairstylists, photographers, brands, and cultural practitioners who would gladly collaborate if given the opportunity.
“A national pageant should be a platform that unites all those industries. Of course a spectacular gown helps someone stand out but the National Costume segment should be about far more than who spent the most money.
There are countless ways to tell stories of Zimbabwean heritage, identity, and culture through symbolism, craftsmanship, storytelling, and creative direction. The power of the costume should lie in the story it tells, not simply in its cost,” said Zana K.
Even as the debate continues, Nyambe’s story remains a reminder that there is more than one way to succeed. Her journey was not easy. It required sacrifice, courage and the support of those around her. But it also shows that while money can make the path smoother, it is not always the deciding factor.
In many ways, she represents a different kind of pageant queen — one whose success is built not just on appearance, but on determination and community support.
As conversations around pageantry grow louder, Nyambe’s journey offers hope. For some, the industry may still feel out of reach. But for others, her story proves that with courage, support and belief, it is still possible to rise.
From the streets of Lobengula to the national stage, Virginia Nyambe has shown that sometimes, all it takes is one bold step — and the courage to take it.
