Story by Patience Nyagato
ZIMBABWE’s participation in the Miss Universe 2025 pageant has been described as a strategically significant step in strengthening the country’s international image, as national representative Lyshanda Moyas prepares to take the global stage in Thailand.
As anticipation builds in Bangkok ahead of the coronation ceremony, Zimbabwean academics and analysts say the country’s return to the high-profile pageant is more than a cultural showcase, framing it as an exercise in public diplomacy and soft-power repositioning.
Dr Alexander Rusero, Head of the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Africa University, says the participation is not just symbolic, but is also strategically significant.
“The participation of Zimbabwe in Miss Universe from an international relations and diplomacy point of view is a welcome development as it helps to spruce up Zimbabwe’s much-battered image. Zimbabwe has been on a rebound, as testified by Forbes magazine, which characterised the country as the number one destination for 2025,” he said.
In an era where national attractiveness can translate to investment, tourism, and cultural influence, platforms like Miss Universe become more than entertainment.
Zimbabwe’s presence aligns with global practice, where states use cultural diplomacy as part of their foreign policy toolkit.
“Through cultural diplomacy, it becomes a platform to foster a country’s visibility. It becomes a platform to foster or build the country’s visibility. Especially in the national or international arena, by obviously increasing mutual cooperation, understanding, and respect between nation-states. That is being done by both politicians, ambassadors, and people who will be participating in beauty pageants by building and cementing relations between nation-states. Relations between people are promoted through the promotion of cultural exchange and dialogue. As I have already espoused, diplomacy has been and continues to play a critical role in the contemporary globalised world,” Lecturer International Relations, Politics and Diplomacy BUSE, Dr Darlington Ngoni Mahuku said.
With Lyshanda Moyas as a cultural envoy, Zimbabwe has the opportunity to dismantle long-held stereotypes and showcase an evolving identity built on innovation, hospitality, resilience, and creativity.
As the finale approaches in less than five days, Zimbabwe’s flag rises not only in the arena but in global consciousness.
The world is watching, and through this participation, Zimbabwe tells a story of pride, rebirth, and diplomacy.
