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Valerie Mpundu, Harare Bureau

Twenty-three-year-old model Courtney Jongwe was on Saturday evening crowned Miss World Zimbabwe at a glamorous ceremony held at Siyekhaya Estate in Borrowdale, Harare.

Jongwe’s victory secured her a US$500 cash prize, a car to be unveiled in the coming weeks, and the honour of representing Zimbabwe at the Miss World 2025 pageant. The top three finalists included runners-up Yollanda Chimbarami and Life Matunzeni.

 Speaking at the event, Miss World Zimbabwe director Patience Lusengo explained that the format followed Miss World’s international standard, where all finalists hold the title of runners-up without a specified ranking.

“There’s no first or second runner-up as per Miss World standards. Yollanda and Life are this year’s edition runners-up,” Lusengo said.

Hailing from Manicaland, Jongwe expressed her delight at being crowned queen, describing it as a dream fulfilled.

“I’m in awe, and it’s hard to believe,” she said, shortly after being crowned.

“I’m so excited to win this crown. It’s a chance to let the world know we’re taking over. I’m honoured to be your new Miss World 2025.”

Jongwe highlighted her desire to represent the African narrative on the global stage while raising Zimbabwe’s profile.

“I’ll use my story to tell the African narrative. The world has to know Zimbabwe is here. We’re ready to make an impact globally,” she said.

The pageant, held under the theme “Beauty with a Purpose”, featured 11 contestants who participated in various rounds, including a head-to-head Challenge. Seven finalists advanced to the swimwear round, followed by a final round with five contestants, from which Jongwe emerged victorious.

 The event attracted prominent figures from the modelling and business communities. Businesswoman Zodwa Mkandla spoke on behalf of Miss Universe Zimbabwe board chairperson, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga, highlighting the empowering role of pageants in nation-building.

“This is not just about crowns but building a society where women in Zimbabwe are empowered,” Mkandla said.

She encouraged the contestants to embrace their roles as ambassadors of hope and agents of positive change.

South Africa-based television presenter Kim Jayde hosted the night, while local songstress Tammy Moyo provided entertainment. Though her initial performance was met with a lukewarm reception, Tammy redeemed herself with a polished rendition of Kelvidhura, accompanied by captivating choreography from her dancers.

The event left an indelible mark, showcasing not only the beauty and talent of Zimbabwe’s women but also their potential to influence and inspire on the global stage.