Seven National Queens to Be Crowned at Miss Universe Zimbabwe Grand Finale in Harare
Zimbabwe is preparing for one of its biggest pageantry events as seven national queens will be crowned during the Miss Universe Zimbabwe grand finale in Harare tomorrow night. The event will take place at the Harare Hippodrome and is set to begin at 6pm, drawing attention from across the country and the wider modelling industry. Eighteen finalists will compete for top honours in a competition that now goes beyond a single crown. The expanded format introduces multiple international titles under one platform, marking a major shift in how national pageants are structured in Zimbabwe. Organisers say this year’s edition represents a new level of scale, ambition and opportunity for local talent.
The finalists competing for the Miss Universe Zimbabwe crown include Nomaqhikiza Mokoni, Charmaine Mabvundwe, Ruvimbo Njomboro, Roseanna Hall, Kudzaishe Mwamuka, Mona-Lisa Dube, Jemima Mandemwa, Brunette Makanyiso, Virginia Nyambe, Nicole Nyawera, Sindiso Ndlovu, Paris Huni, Malaika Mushandu, Kuzivakwashe Mujakachi, Shelly Bent, Tatenda Madzinga, Adelle Chinamasa and Cheryl Shambadzai. Each contestant brings a different background, level of experience and advocacy focus, making the competition highly competitive. Several participants have previously represented Zimbabwe on international stages, while others are emerging talents aiming for their breakthrough moment. The judging process will evaluate confidence, intelligence, communication ability, leadership and overall presentation. Organisers say the diversity and strength of this year’s group has raised expectations for a closely contested finale.
A key feature of this year’s pageant is the awarding of seven separate international titles from a single national competition. The crowns include Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Miss World Zimbabwe, Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe, Miss Supranational Zimbabwe, Miss International Zimbabwe, Miss Intercontinental Zimbabwe and Top Model of the World Zimbabwe. National director Tendai Hunda explained that the structure allows Zimbabwe to send well-prepared representatives to multiple global platforms. He said the approach was designed to improve consistency, reduce confusion and strengthen the country’s presence in international pageantry. The system also ensures that each winner is matched to a platform that suits her strengths and abilities.
Hunda said the consolidation of franchises was the result of consultations within the modelling and pageantry industry. He noted that in previous years, contestants were sometimes selected without adequate preparation or clear support systems. The new structure brings all major titles under one organisation, which improves coordination and resource management. It also ensures that contestants receive proper training, mentorship and exposure before competing internationally. According to organisers, this model is expected to raise standards and build a more sustainable pageantry ecosystem in Zimbabwe.
The judging process will remain rooted in core criteria, but each international title will require specific qualities. Judges will look at how each contestant aligns with the expectations of different global pageants. Communication skills, stage presence and advocacy work will remain central, but adaptability will also play a key role. Organisers said the panel faces a difficult task due to the high calibre of contestants. They described this year’s group as one of the strongest in recent memory, with several participants already active in leadership roles and social impact initiatives.
Beyond the crowns, the competition also offers significant rewards for winners. The Miss Universe Zimbabwe title holder is expected to receive a brand-new vehicle, continuing a tradition of high-value prizes for top performers. Previous winners have received Mercedes-Benz vehicles, depending on sponsorship arrangements. There is also discussion that a second runner-up may receive a car, although final confirmation will be made at the event. These incentives add further prestige to the competition and highlight its growing commercial appeal.
The grand finale will also feature international attention, with former Miss Universe and South African media personality Zozibini Tunzi attending as an MC. Her presence is expected to inspire contestants and elevate the profile of the event. Hunda said her involvement gives participants direct access to someone who has achieved success at the highest level of global pageantry. He emphasized that her journey represents what many of the contestants aspire to achieve. Tunzi’s appearance is also seen as a symbol of regional connection and shared excellence in the modelling industry.
As anticipation builds, organisers believe this year’s Miss Universe Zimbabwe finale will set a new benchmark for pageantry in the country. The combination of multiple titles, strong contestants and international presence has created high expectations for both participants and audiences. The event reflects a broader shift toward professionalisation and global alignment in Zimbabwe’s modelling sector. With seven crowns on the line, the competition promises to deliver one of the most significant nights in the country’s pageant history.
