Story by Yolanda Moyo
ZIMBABWE is preparing for the Miss Universe finals, which will be held in Puerto Rico in November, with the country’s representative and reigning Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Roseanna Hall, showcasing the nation’s iconic tourism attractions to a global audience.
During her visit to the resort city of Victoria Falls, Hall engaged with visitors, tourism stakeholders and local communities, highlighting experiences that extend beyond the destination’s world-famous waterfall. Her engagements underscored the diversity of Zimbabwe’s tourism offerings and their appeal to international travellers.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Roseanna Hall, said her mission extends beyond the pageant stage and includes sharing a fuller story about her country with international audiences.
“As I prepare to take the world stage, I do not want to just represent Zimbabwe. I want to show the world the best of what Zimbabwe has to offer. And that is going to start with showcasing our gorgeous, gorgeous landscapes, our rich culture and heritage, our diverse cuisines, and our vibrant arts and culture. And honestly speaking, I am so proud to carry the hopes, dreams, and stories of our nation.
“I have always wanted the world to see that Zimbabwe has so much more to offer. Now, if we look at what we have to offer, firstly, our warmth, our hospitality, our kindness. Zimbabwe is not just a place; it is a feeling, and it feels just like home. And I want the world to know that we are a warm, hospitable nation, and I want you guys, I want to invite the world to come and experience the magic of what it feels like to be in Zimbabwe,” she said.
Miss Universe Zimbabwe Board Advisor Ms Zodwa Mkandla said internationally recognised brands play an increasingly important role in elevating national brands and expanding destination visibility across global digital platforms.
“Miss Universe is an international brand with a global audience. When Miss Universe Zimbabwe engages with the international platform, we are marketing Brand Zimbabwe to more than 130 countries. These platforms help showcase our destinations, our products and our people, while creating awareness of Zimbabwe as a tourism and investment destination,” she said.
Across Africa and beyond, tourism experts increasingly view public figures, creatives and cultural ambassadors as influential storytellers capable of shaping international perceptions. Their visibility on global platforms is helping destinations move beyond traditional tourism marketing towards narratives centred on culture, lifestyle and lived experiences.
“Miss Universe Zimbabwe represents another dimension of Zimbabwe’s story. She represents beauty, culture, youth and the future of the country. As she engages international audiences, she carries a message about the development, talent and aspirations of Zimbabweans while helping the world discover more about our destination,” Mbano Manor Executive Director Dr Matifadza Nyazema said.
The campaign comes at a time of surging global validation for Zimbabwe’s hospitality sector.
The Treehouse Chimanimani was named the best scenic Eco Lodge in the world at the 2026 travel and tourism awards, while Forbes magazine listed Zimbabwe as the number one must-visit destination in 2025, reinforcing the country’s emergence as a destination combining natural beauty, hospitality and world-class visitor experiences.
