Miss Universe Zimbabwe Sakhile Dube’s National Costume: The Meaning Behind the “Soaring Eagle”

Ahead of the Miss Universe 2024 preliminaries in Mexico, Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Sakhile Dube, has garnered widespread attention with her stunning national costume, “The Soaring Eagle.” This intricate outfit not only showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of Zimbabwean design but also carries deep cultural and national symbolism.

Sakhile, who is hopeful of making it to the top 25, explained the significance of the costume. “The ‘Soaring Eagle’ costume is a representation of the majesty and heritage of the nation, woven with deep symbolism and artistry,” she said. The design draws inspiration from Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and its rich cultural history, symbolizing the nation’s grace, strength, and forward-thinking spirit.

The central element of the costume, the eagle, is a symbol of resilience and vision. In Zimbabwean tradition, the eagle is revered for its ability to soar high and survey the land, reflecting the nation’s soaring aspirations. According to Sakhile, the eagle represents Zimbabwe’s majestic beauty and its unyielding spirit to rise above challenges and embrace new opportunities.

The costume’s wings are decorated in vibrant colors, symbolizing the rainbow that often forms over the mighty Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders.” This natural wonder is a key national treasure, and the rainbow that forms above it is a powerful reminder of Zimbabwe’s breathtaking landscapes. The wings serve as a symbol of the unity between Zimbabwe’s past and future, blending its deep cultural heritage with its ambitious vision for the future.

The foundation of the costume features a rock pattern, inspired by the Great Dzimbadzemabwe, or Great Zimbabwe Ruins, which once served as the seat of a powerful ancient kingdom. These stone structures are a testament to Zimbabwe’s historical significance and enduring strength. The rock pattern on the dress symbolizes resilience, representing how Zimbabwe’s cultural identity remains steadfast and unshaken by time.

For Sakhile, this costume embodies the duality of Zimbabwe itself: a nation grounded in tradition yet driven to dream big and soar to new heights. By combining elements of the natural world with Zimbabwe’s architectural and historical legacy, the costume captures the essence of the nation’s story—one that reflects both its past glory and its bright future.