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Ben Chest

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent
BULAWAYO models shined at the Zimbabwe Model Awards held in Harare on Saturday as they walked away with various gongs such as People’s Choice, Most Handsome and Most Promising Male and Female Model.

The awards founded by modelling guru Mercy Mushaninga were held at Pabloz Club & VIP Lounge at Sam Levy Village, to honour those that have contributed to the development of modelling in Zimbabwe.

Radio and television personality Arthur Evans won the Best Promotional and Best Voice Over, model and socialite Ben Chest won Most Handsome Male Model, Shadel Noble won the coveted People’s Choice and Best Runway Male Model, Nyasha Makuvire won Most Promising Male Model and Sane Ncube was adjudged to be the Most Promising Female Model.

Former Miss Bulawayo Sibusisiwe Dube who is based in Harare was honoured with an Appreciation Award for her unwavering support and guidance that helped in nurturing many models. The beauty queen, a product of Sarah Mpofu has groomed several notable models including her younger sister – Nonhlanhla Dube who is reigning Miss Agro Tourism.

Evans said it was a good thing that people who work  hard have been recognised.

“Before it was difficult for models outside Harare to get recognition, but with these awards all models who’ve been working are getting recognition. Winning the two awards shows that with hard work, people will recognise your effort,” said Evans.

It was a double celebration for Ben Chest as his award came a day before his birthday.

“It’s a good feeling and we’ve come a long way. I won the award and it came a day before my birthday so I’ll be doubly celebrating. More importantly though is that this award is dedicated to people from Bulawayo who have been encouraging me during my career. I’ve listened and this is one of the rewards,” said Ben Chest.