By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare will host the highly anticipated Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 pageant at the Harare Hippodrome on Saturday, 17 May, where nine talented women will compete for the national crown and a host of prizes.
While originally ten contestants were set to compete, Charlotte Muziri withdrew at the last minute due to a scheduling conflict, choosing to participate in the World Fashion Exhibition in France instead. The remaining nine finalists—Onesimo Nkomo, Samkhele Dhlamini, Charmaine Emmanuel, Chiedza Mhosva, Brenda Kadewe, Rumbidzai Muzopa, Annie Grace Mutambu, Talic Magaiza, and Lyshanda Moyo—bring diverse backgrounds and compelling stories to the stage, highlighting the inclusive nature of this year’s competition.
This year’s pageant is notable for its inclusion of seasoned beauty queens and married women breaking traditional norms.
Former titleholders like Chiedza Mhosva, Miss World Zimbabwe 2017, and Annie Grace Mutambu, Miss Zimbabwe 2015, are competing again, showcasing their ongoing passion for empowering women. Additionally, the presence of married contestants, including a mother from Bulawayo and an engaged finalist, reflects a broader acceptance of women’s roles beyond conventional standards.
The prize package is equally impressive: the winner will walk away with a brand-new car, a cash prize (details to be revealed during the event), and the honor of representing Zimbabwe at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.
Outgoing queen Sakhile Dube hosted a motivational dinner for the finalists, emphasizing the importance of confidence, resilience, and authenticity qualities that the judges are looking for in this year’s winner.
As the countdown to the event begins, all eyes are on these women who are not only competing for a title but also paving the way for a more inclusive and empowering vision of beauty in Zimbabwe.