Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
FRESH from being crowned first runner-up at the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe finals, 23-year-old Zandile Sibanda (pictured) is already preparing for her next major assignment, representing Zimbabwe at the Top Model of the World competition in Egypt next month.
The international fashion and beauty pageant, which will bring together 40 contestants from across the globe, is set to be held in Sahl Hasheesh, Hurghada. Models are scheduled to arrive on May 24 for boot camp ahead of the grand finale on June 8.
Sibanda said her road to the global stage opened through her participation in Miss Tourism Zimbabwe.
“I entered the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe competition, where I was crowned first runner-up. Since the pageants were working hand in hand, Top Model of the World Zimbabwe fell under Miss Tourism Zimbabwe. As the first runner-up, I was then offered the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at the Top Model of the World competition, and I gladly accepted it,” she said.
She described the opportunity as both exciting and overwhelming, saying representing Zimbabwe comes with immense responsibility.
“It’s such an honour to be selected to represent the nation on an international stage. When you get there, they do not call you Zandile, they call you Zimbabwe, meaning you carry the whole nation and its pride on your shoulders.
“It’s a huge responsibility. It’s scary, yes, but above all, it’s an incredible honour,” she said.
For Sibanda, the competition is more than just another pageant, it is a defining moment in her modelling journey.
“This opportunity means a great deal to me as a model. It has given me a platform to showcase my capabilities and has opened many doors for me. It has brought brand visibility, partnerships and recognition from different spaces.
“I’ve already secured interview opportunities on ZBC and other platforms, and this adds value to my portfolio for future national and international pageants. It proves that I can be trusted to represent at that level.”
With a few weeks before she departs for Egypt, preparations have intensified, although the journey has not been without obstacles.
“I’m going to be in Egypt for 16 days, so there’s a lot that needs to be done. I’ve been training hard, preparing my wardrobe, building my media presence and making sure I’m mentally and physically ready. But financially, it has been difficult. Approaching companies for sponsorship isn’t easy because some people don’t always see the value in funding a model.
“At times, you end up taking from your own pocket. Financially, that has been the biggest challenge, alongside the fear of the unknown.”
Despite the challenges, Sibanda said she has drawn strength from the support of her family and business community.
“My mother has supported me every step of the way. Whenever financial assistance was needed, she stepped in without hesitation. Young Women in Business have also come through to support my journey, and I’m grateful for their contribution,” she said.
Through her charity initiative, Girl Up Mbare, Sibanda is also using her growing platform to inspire and empower young women. She said her message at the international competition will focus on embracing individuality and self-belief.
“I want young women to understand that even if they feel underprivileged or believe they do not fit certain standards, their uniqueness is what sets them apart and qualifies them.
“As a Christian, I believe it’s time for us to occupy spaces where we’re meant to thrive and excel.
“I want to prove that Zimbabwe has what it takes, and I hope to raise our national flag very high on the international stage,” she said.
Born in Kwekwe and now based in Harare, Sibanda is the second-born in a family of four girls. She says her upbringing instilled discipline and leadership qualities that continue to shape her career.
A certified dental co-ordinator by profession, Sibanda has since expanded her interests into fashion design and modelling. She has worked as a commercial model for several leading brands and made her runway debut at The Fabric Party.
Beyond modelling, she has also established herself as an events MC and co-hosts a programme on a local television station alongside stylist, Minister of White Linen.
