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Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]

AFTER a gruelling three-day boot camp at Delux  Villa in Bulawayo last week, nine models competed for the coveted Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe crown at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC) on Saturday night. Victoria Ncube, a beauty from Umguza district, Matabeleland North emerged victorious. 

The first runner-up was Beautify Siziba from Masvingo and Zoleka Gatsha from Bulawayo was named the second runner-up. Cleopatra Goto was awarded the Miss Personality/third runner-up sash. 

The models showcased their talents through heritage wear, evening wear and question-and-answer sessions, demonstrating the power of preparation and dedication. 

They were judged by an all-female panel consisting of Thandolwenkosi Phiri, Pauline Marere (the reigning Miss Environment Zimbabwe), former Miss World Zimbabwe 2018 Belinda Potts, former beauty queen Nokuthaba Sibanda-Manungo, Ntombikayise Dube and Miss Meyiwa.

The competition went beyond just strutting on the catwalk, as the models were also probed about their advocacies, which included period poverty, education, body shaming and early teenage pregnancies.

Ncube, who recently completed her A-Level studies at Masiyephambili High School shared her excitement and determination.

“Winning this is an answered prayer for me. I’ve actually ticked one thing off my vision board. I’m really happy,” she said.

She said she was confident she would win.

“I thought I would win as I had so much faith in myself, but the girls were very competitive during boot camp,” said the beauty. 

Ncube’s victory earned her a car, a scholarship and the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe at the international Miss Teen of the Universe pageant, taking place next month.

“I promise to make our nation proud in India. I will bring the international crown home because I know that I can do it. I did it here and I’ll do it again in India,” she said.

The evening featured performances by Simz Masuku, Reilo Viekk, No Name dance group and Mzistozz Mfanafuthi, while the models showcased designs by Lumiere Fashion House, Fixation Creations and House of Maggie. The event was graced by entertainment gurus Noluntu J, Mzoe 7, Frank Chirisa, Ben Chest and BaShupi, with Lady Tshawe serving as the event director, ensuring a smooth transition of proceedings. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu