Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
On Friday, Miss Universe Zimbabwe finalists, board members and regional delegates from Botswana, Eswatini and South Africa immersed themselves in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage during a visit to Baradzanwa Cultural Village in Mazowe, Mashonaland Central Province.
The world-class tourism and conferencing facility, established by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, offered the visitors who included Madam Tadala Chihana – Second Lady of The Republic of Malawi and Miss Universe 2019 – Zozibini Tunzi, a unique cultural experience, showcasing Zimbabwe’s traditions, cuisine, values and way of life.
The tour provided a platform for cultural exchange, storytelling and connection, giving the regional guests a deeper appreciation of Zimbabwe’s heritage and hospitality.
Speaking after the visit, a member of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe team Apphia Nyasha Musavengana, said, “The Miss Universe Zimbabwe team and the foreign delegates we are hosting had a wonderful time. They thoroughly enjoyed experiencing Zimbabwean culture and gastronomy, from the traditional meals to the locally crafted plates and clay pots that reflect our heritage,” said Musavengana.
She expressed gratitude to the First Lady for her unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls, as well as promoting Zimbabwean culture on the global stage.
“We would like to sincerely appreciate Her Excellency, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, for her continued support and for the beautiful national fabric gifts that were presented to our foreign delegates.
Musavengana said the experience had been so impactful that the pageant organisers had resolved to host next year’s competition and boot camp at the cultural village.
“As the Miss Universe Zimbabwe board, we have already made the decision that next year’s Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, together with the contestants’ boot camp, will be hosted at Baradzanwa Cultural Village,” she said.
She noted that the pageant, whose grand finale takes place today in Harare, is about much more than physical beauty.
“This competition is not only about beauty, confidence and intelligence. It is also about showcasing the empowerment opportunities available to young women in Zimbabwe and demonstrating how they can become self-sufficient and successful.
“The winner’s prize package is designed to empower her and provide a foundation for her future. It reflects the vision of a Zimbabwe where young people, especially women, are equipped to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
derick.khumalo