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Sikhulekelani Moyo, [email protected] 

GROWING up in a rural set-up, Mavis Mpofu (37), a UK-based nurse, has developed a passion for empowering rural girls, wanting to see them overcome challenges and achieve the best in life. This commitment has led her to sponsor Miss Rural with a national queen’s crown and another crown for all provincial queens.

The Miss Rural pageant was reintroduced in July this year after founder Sipho Mazibuko took a 16-year sabbatical, marking a significant stride towards empowering rural youth and promoting sustainable development nationwide. 

Mpofu, originally from Umguza, Matabeleland North, said that the entry requirements for the Miss Rural Pageant, particularly the 100 percent rural background and living in a rural setting, resonated with her since she was raised in the rural areas. 

“It made me think about a young girl in the rural area who needs just one step to get there. A girl who thinks they are supposed to look a certain way to be classified as beautiful, but the truth is, when we talk about beauty in a rural setting, we are not just talking about what meets the eye; we are talking about the deeper, more profound kind of beauty that radiates from within.

“Rural girls are often shaped by the world around them, a world filled with open fields, clear skies, and the simple, enduring rhythms of nature. This environment nurtures not just physical beauty but a spirit that is genuine, grounded, and resilient. The natural beauty of rural girls is a reflection of their lives, filled with hard work and deep appreciation for the small joys that come with it,” said Mpofu. 

She emphasised that the beauty of rural girls doesn’t rely on make-up or fashion but rather on character, humility, and a deep sense of self. In a world that often chases after fleeting trends and superficial standards, rural girls remind us of the enduring power of authenticity.

Living in rural areas can be both a blessing and a challenge. While these communities are often rich in tradition, natural beauty, and strong values, there are places where opportunities are limited, and access to quality education, healthcare, and basic technology can be a daily struggle. However, these challenges do not define them; instead, they have become a foundation upon which they build their determination and dreams. They grow up learning to make the most of what they have, to be grateful for little things, to find creative solutions to the obstacles they face, and to keep pushing forward even when the road is tough. 

Mpofu said their courage in the face of adversity is a testament to their character and belief in a better tomorrow.

“These young women are unsung heroes of their families and communities. They may be the first to rise in the morning, helping families with chores before school, or the ones studying by candlelight, determined to succeed despite the odds and relentless in their pursuit of a bigger future. They deserve opportunities like this that will allow them to flourish and achieve their full potential,” she said. 

“In a world rapidly advancing in technology, for many rural girls, access to modern technology remains a significant barrier and a luxury. This creates a gap in opportunities, making it difficult for rural girls to compete on equal footing with their urban counterparts. They miss out on a wealth of information and resources that are available to others, including access to Miss Rural 2024.”

Mpofu said this lack of access isolates and hinders their ability to develop crucial skills needed in their daily lives. They may feel disconnected from the larger global community, limiting their exposure to diverse ideas, cultures, and opportunities that can inspire them to dream bigger and aim higher. 

“Thank you to women like Mazibuko for specifically targeting girls from rural areas, empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive by making sure that these girls are not left behind,” said Mpofu. 

“We must remember that when we invest in their future, we are not just helping them but we are building stronger, more vibrant communities for all of us. They deserve the same opportunities as anyone else to learn, connect, and succeed.”

Mpofu relocated to the UK in 2020 and called upon Zimbabweans in the Diaspora to invest back home for the betterment of their communities. 

“I believe our connection to our homeland remains strong no matter the distance. Investing back home is one of the most powerful ways we can maintain that connection and contribute to the prosperity of our families and communities,” said Mpofu. 

“When we support each other, we invest directly in the economic development of our regions. Small and medium-sized enterprises are often the backbone of any economy, providing jobs, services, and stability. 

“By channelling our resources into business, we help create jobs, stimulate the economy, and reduce poverty.”

Beyond the economic impact, Mpofu said supporting businesses back home fosters a sense of pride and cultural continuity. She said it has a social impact as well, sending a powerful message of solidarity to communities and families, reminding them that they are not alone. 

“This encourages others to start their own ventures and sparks a culture of entrepreneurship. It’s a way of giving back to our roots by empowering our people and building a better future for the place we can still call home. Together we can create a legacy of prosperity that bridges the distance between where we are and where we come from.”

Mazibuko expressed her gratitude, saying she was shocked to learn that some diaspora-based Zimbabweans are interested in things happening back home, especially the Miss Rural Pageant, which is often overlooked by many. 

“I was really touched, surprised, and amazed, and I’m so proud to have someone like Mavis who thinks of her roots, where she comes from. She told me that she grew up in rural areas just like me, and I guess that is where her heart is. She told me that she might be physically in the UK, but her spirit is in Zimbabwe, which means a lot. 

“I wish there were more people in the diaspora who could think of giving back to the community. I didn’t have a crown for Miss Rural, and I was thinking, seeing all these other beautiful crowns won by beauty queens all over the world, how was I going to afford to buy a crown of that similar nature? 

But Mavis has been a Godsend, and the crowns she chose are expensive crowns,” said Mazibuko. 

Mazibuko and Mpofu met when Mpofu booked Lavenia Gardens, a venue for her birthday, before she left for the UK. They continued to communicate, sharing the same taste in fashion and other interests, which helped them connect. – @SikhulekelaniM1