Zandile Sibanda Prepares for Top Model of the World Stage in Egypt After Miss Tourism Zimbabwe Success
Fresh from securing first runner-up at Miss Tourism Zimbabwe, 23-year-old Zandile Sibanda is stepping onto a bigger global stage. She will represent Zimbabwe at the Top Model of the World competition in Egypt next month. The international pageant will take place in Sahl Hasheesh, near Hurghada, where 40 contestants from different countries will compete. The event brings together models for a structured program that includes boot camp, training sessions and a grand finale scheduled for June 8. Sibanda’s selection has placed her in a position of national representation at a highly competitive global fashion platform.
Sibanda’s journey to the international stage began with her participation in Miss Tourism Zimbabwe, where she delivered a strong performance that earned her first runner-up. That placement created a direct pathway into international representation due to how the pageant systems are linked. She explained that Top Model of the World Zimbabwe operates under the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe structure, which opened the door for her selection. As a result, she was chosen to represent her country at the global competition without hesitation. She has described this moment as life changing, since it marks her transition from national recognition to international exposure. For her, the opportunity is not only about modelling but also about carrying national identity onto a global platform.
With only a few weeks left before departure, Sibanda has intensified her preparation across multiple areas. She is focusing on physical training, wardrobe planning and media readiness to meet the demands of an international pageant environment. Mental preparation has also become a key focus, as she adjusts to the pressure of representing her country on a world stage. However, she has openly spoken about the financial strain involved in preparing for such a competition. Sponsorship challenges have made it difficult to cover all costs, forcing her to contribute personal funds at times. Despite this, she continues to push forward with strong determination and structured preparation.
Support from her family and community has played a major role in sustaining her journey. Her mother has been a consistent source of encouragement and financial support whenever possible. She has also received backing from groups such as Young Women in Business, which has helped her manage some of the demands of preparation. Sibanda also runs a charity initiative called Girl Up Mbare, which focuses on empowering young women. Through this platform, she uses her voice to encourage confidence, self-worth and ambition among girls facing social and economic barriers. She plans to use her presence at the international competition to highlight these values while representing her country with pride.
Born in Kwekwe and now based in Harare, Sibanda has built a diverse professional profile beyond modelling. She works as a certified dental coordinator and has also expanded into fashion design and media work. Her experience includes commercial modelling, runway appearances and involvement in brand campaigns, which have strengthened her portfolio. She has also grown into a media personality, working as an events MC and co-hosting a television programme alongside industry figures. As she heads to Egypt for the Top Model of the World competition, her focus remains on growth, representation and making a strong impact for Zimbabwe on the international stage.
