By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
EXCITEMENT is mounting on social media as Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Lyshanda Moyas, prepares to showcase her striking National Costume during the Preliminary round and National Costume Day at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.
Designed by acclaimed Zimbabwean designer Jasper Mandizera, the costume is titled “Born of the Baobab, Forged in Flame”, and it has quickly captured attention for its vibrant storytelling, cultural symbolism, and artistry.
The ensemble draws inspiration from the iconic baobab tree, a symbol of resilience and ancestral heritage in Zimbabwe.
Its design reflects the tree’s roots, trunk, and branches, representing grounding, strength, and a welcoming spirit.
The costume also incorporates fiery hues of black, red, and orange, symbolizing the nation’s people, enduring bloodline, and transformative spirit.
A striking tail, crafted from sustainably sourced baobab fibers dyed in these vivid tones, completes the look.
In a post on X, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana hailed the costume as “a symbol of Zimbabwe for the world.”
“At this year’s Miss Universe, our representative, Miss Lyshanda Moyas is not just wearing a costume; she is carrying the soul of our nation. It is woven from the very fibers of who we are,” he wrote.
The National Costume competition is expected to be a highlight of the pageant, showcasing not only fashion but also Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage through intricate design and storytelling.
Social media users have praised the ensemble for its bold colors, imaginative concept, and powerful representation of Zimbabwean identity.
As Moyas prepares to take the global stage, fans and observers alike are eager to see the fusion of artistry and heritage come to life, promising a performance that is as much a cultural statement as it is a visual spectacle.