Miss World Zimbabwe 2026 Brunette Makanyiso Calls for Youth Action Against Drug Abuse in Chitungwiza
MISS World Zimbabwe 2026 Brunette Makanyiso returned to Chitungwiza with a clear and urgent message focused on youth empowerment and the fight against drug and substance abuse. Her visit took place during the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, where she engaged with hundreds of young people gathered under the Teen Rescue Mission (TRM) programme. The event created a platform for open dialogue about addiction, recovery and the importance of building a disciplined future. Makanyiso used her homecoming to speak directly to young people facing social and economic pressures that often lead to substance abuse. Her message combined personal experience, professional knowledge as a pharmacist and encouragement rooted in hope.
The gathering highlighted the growing efforts of youth-led organisations such as Teen Rescue Mission in addressing addiction through rehabilitation and vocational training. Many attendees were young people who had already begun their recovery journeys and were receiving practical skills training to support independent living. Makanyiso expressed strong support for these initiatives and praised the visible transformation she witnessed among participants. She noted that programmes that combine counselling with skills development offer a stronger path to recovery than isolation or punishment alone. The environment in Chitungwiza reflected both the severity of the drug crisis and the determination of communities working to address it at grassroots level.
Speaking to the crowd, Makanyiso shared a firm warning about the dangers of drug and substance abuse. She emphasized the long term damage drugs can cause to physical health, mental wellbeing and future opportunities. Drawing from her background in pharmacy, she explained that addiction can destroy the body’s systems and reduce a person’s ability to function effectively in daily life. She urged young people to make responsible decisions that protect their future roles as leaders, parents and community members. Her message focused on prevention, stressing that avoiding drugs altogether is the strongest form of protection.
Makanyiso also delivered a message of hope rooted in her own upbringing in Chitungwiza. She reminded the youth that humble beginnings do not determine final outcomes in life. Speaking openly about her journey to becoming Miss World Zimbabwe 2026, she positioned her story as evidence that success is possible regardless of background. She encouraged young people to remain focused on education, skills development and personal discipline. Her words aimed to shift attention from present challenges to long term goals and personal growth.
The event also featured powerful testimonies from individuals who have undergone rehabilitation through Teen Rescue Mission. Former drug users shared personal stories of hardship, recovery and renewed purpose after joining the programme. One beneficiary, Nommater Marufu, described how early marriage, abuse and depression led her into drug use before she found help through counselling and vocational training. She explained how learning hairdressing helped her rebuild her confidence, restore her health and regain stability in her life. Another participant, Shackman Munemo, shared how enrolling in a sewing programme gave him structure and eventually led to employment in the same department.
Teen Rescue Mission director Dr Abraham Matuka acknowledged the scale of the drug abuse crisis affecting young people in Zimbabwe and beyond. He emphasized that recovery requires consistent support systems that combine education, counselling and practical skills training. He praised the progress of participants who had overcome addiction and highlighted the importance of expanding such programmes to reach more vulnerable youth. He also noted that limited resources remain a challenge, but the organisation remains committed to continuing its work due to its impact on families and communities. His remarks reinforced the idea that rehabilitation is not only about individual recovery but also about rebuilding society.
The visit by Brunette Makanyiso added a strong motivational voice to the ongoing efforts in Chitungwiza to combat substance abuse. Her presence brought visibility to youth rehabilitation programmes and strengthened the message that recovery is possible. The combination of personal testimonies, professional insight and community support created a powerful atmosphere of transformation. Young attendees were encouraged to see their struggles not as permanent setbacks but as challenges that can be overcome with support and determination. The event left a lasting impression on participants who were reminded that their future depends on the choices they make today.
The day ended with a renewed sense of purpose among the youth and organisers, as conversations continued about expanding support systems for those affected by addiction. Makanyiso’s message resonated strongly with many who attended, especially those seeking direction and motivation to change their circumstances. The work of Teen Rescue Mission stood out as a practical example of how targeted intervention can restore dignity and opportunity to young people. As awareness continues to grow, the focus remains on prevention, recovery and empowerment. The Chitungwiza event underscored the urgent need for collective action to protect young people from the dangers of drug abuse and to guide them toward sustainable futures.
