Zimbabwe Makes History with Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga Appointed as Miss Universe Judge

Zimbabwe has marked a significant achievement on the global beauty stage with Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga, chairperson of the Miss Universe Zimbabwe organisation, officially selected as a judge for this year’s Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.

Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga joins a high-profile panel that includes former Miss Universe titleholders such as Canada’s Natalie Glebova (2005) and Mexico’s Andrea Meza (2020), alongside international fashion executives, cultural ambassadors, and creative industry leaders. Together, they will evaluate over 80 contestants representing countries from around the world.

Her appointment is notable as she becomes the first non-model from Zimbabwe to serve as an official Miss Universe judge. The selection has been widely celebrated as a progressive recognition of leadership, intellect, and cultural insight, in addition to traditional modelling experience.

Following her confirmation, Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga expressed her pride and sense of responsibility in representing Zimbabwe on the global stage. She highlighted the importance of fairness, cultural sensitivity, and an understanding of modern womanhood in the judging process.

“I’m proud to be the first non-model from Zimbabwe to sit on this panel. It shows that leadership, dedication, and cultural insight are as valuable as catwalk experience. Miss Universe is evolving, and I’m happy to be part of a chapter that recognises diverse forms of excellence,” she said.

Since taking over the Miss Universe Zimbabwe organisation, Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga has been credited with transformational leadership. She has strengthened organisational structures, enhanced professionalism, and restored international confidence in Zimbabwe’s participation. Under her guidance, the country has returned to the Miss Universe stage with renewed purpose, world-class presentation, and a sense of national pride.

The Zimbabwean delegation, including this year’s contestant Lyshanda Moyas, welcomed the announcement with excitement. Lyshanda, who has gained attention from Thai fans and international pageant observers, said Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga’s appointment has inspired her and reinforced her commitment to representing Zimbabwe with excellence.

This historic milestone signals Zimbabwe’s growing influence in the global beauty arena and highlights the evolving values of the Miss Universe pageant, where leadership, cultural insight, and professionalism are increasingly recognised alongside modelling talent.