Story by Colette Musanyera
THE Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant, held in Harare this Saturday night, lived up to its billing as eleven beauty queens battled for the crown.
A night to remember for both participants and revellers, the Miss Universe Pageant lit up the night with a mixture of flair and sophistication.
Hosted by renowned media personalities Becky K and Tich Mawoni, the high-status event was a good platform to bring the who is who’s in Harare and beyond, with former Miss Zimbabwe queens Karin Crow and Langa Sibanda as judges.
Despite a late start due to logistical challenges, the pageant held at Hippodrome Harare, saw 21-year-old model Brooke-Bruk Jackson being crowned the Queen.
The Harare model beat the other 11 contestants, walking away with various prizes courtesy of various sponsors.
Amanda Mpofu of Bulawayo was named 1st runner up while the crowd’s favourite Nokutenda Marumbwa was crowned 2nd runner up.
Guest of honour at the event, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga’s wife, Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga who was representing the first lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, reiterated that the winner is the country’s ambassador who will help market brand Zimbabwe.
“It is with great pleasure and gratitude that I’m here for this prestigious event. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the invitation to serve as the guest of honour at this event. For us to be here today after 22 years it’s a great achievement which speaks of great focus and determination. Many thanks to Tendai for coming up with a dream and following it until its fruition. It’s good for us Zimbabweans because the winner will promote the brand, Zimbabwe. Let me hasten to say pageants are not about beauty alone, there is more to it. I believe that a woman should be an example of beauty with purpose, moving mountains, and being shakers. As the first lady, I’m a staunch advocate of girl child empowerment and this pageant is in line with my vision. This pageant is in line with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030. It aligns perfectly with our shared vision of a brighter future,” she said.
Revered jazz musician Prudence Katomeni Mbofana provided entertainment during the evening gown segment which was the last.
The newly crowned Queen Brooke-Bruk Jackson will represent the country at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant to be held in El Salvador on the 18th of November.
