Miss Universe Zimbabwe Introduces Groundbreaking Fashion and Dining Market

In an exciting lead-up to the much-anticipated Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, organisers have announced a groundbreaking initiative – the Fashion and Dining Market. This first-of-its-kind event in Zimbabwe’s pageantry history is set to fuse the elegance of fashion with the charm of fine dining, providing a unique space for creativity, collaboration, and talent showcase.

Scheduled to be launched in two weeks at the stylish Laparada in Harare, the Fashion and Dining Market is expected to be a major highlight for fashion enthusiasts, aspiring models, and industry players. The event will be graced by reigning Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Sakhile Dube, who will inspire attendees by sharing insights from her journey on the international stage.

A Vision to Elevate Zimbabwean Pageantry

In an exclusive interview, Alison Makusha, Logistics Director for Miss Universe Zimbabwe, shared the vision behind this innovative event.

“I am sure you are aware that we have begun our registry for this year’s edition, and so far, we are overwhelmed with aspiring models who want to take part in Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025,” she revealed.

Makusha emphasized that the Miss Universe Zimbabwe organisation goes beyond the final competition, working year-round to promote and develop the modelling industry.

“Miss Universe Zimbabwe is a full-time job; there must always be something happening every season. We are moving with pageantry trends in a bid to continue promoting the modelling industry in Zimbabwe,” she added.

With this in mind, the Fashion and Dining Market aims to create a vibrant hub where local designers, boutiques, and fashion brands can showcase their latest collections.

“We are calling on fashion designers, fashion houses, boutiques, couture brands, high street brands, hair shops, makeup brands, shoe brands, and handbag brands, among others, to come and exhibit,” Makusha stated.

She noted that while the event is distinct from the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, it will also feature models and serve as a networking platform for the broader fashion and modelling community.

“This concept is done worldwide, and as Zimbabwe, this is our first time having such an event. We are contemplating inviting fashion enthusiasts from other countries, but we want to start with our own to promote local talent,” she explained.

Building Momentum for Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025

The Fashion and Dining Market will also serve as a promotional event for the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, which is set for May 17 at Hippodrome in Harare. The organisers have already released the roadmap for this year’s competition, with auditions taking place across the country.

On April 26, the Miss Universe Charity Run will take place, during which the top 12 finalists for the crown will be revealed.

Sakhile Dube’s Inspiring Initiatives

Meanwhile, reigning Miss Universe Zimbabwe Sakhile Dube, who made history by finishing in the top 30 at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico last year, has been actively working on her personal projects.

She recently launched the Zibusiso Foundation and Zie The Label, two initiatives that align with her passion for community development and empowerment.

“The Zibusiso Charity Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged communities through education, healthcare, and empowerment initiatives,” she explained.

Her fashion brand, Zie The Label, is a clothing line that merges style with purpose.

“It aims to create trendy, high-quality apparel. Each collection is designed not only to look good but also to make a difference, with a portion of proceeds supporting charitable causes, including those championed by the Zibusiso Charity Foundation,” she said.

With such inspiring initiatives and innovative events like the Fashion and Dining Market, the Miss Universe Zimbabwe platform continues to grow, offering opportunities for models, designers, and entrepreneurs to thrive while making a meaningful impact on society.