Story by Patience Nyagato
ZIMBABWE’S participation at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant has gathered renewed momentum following the arrival of Miss Universe Zimbabwe Board Chairperson, Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga, in Thailand this Monday.
For Zimbabwe, this week is more than a competition but is also about reinforcing the country’s visibility.
“For those who have been following, we only came back in 2022 after 22 years out of the pageant. Because of sanctions, Zimbabwe withdrew from many international activities. Coming back has made our brand visible. Our first year, we did not place last year, we made the top 30, and now we hope to do better. But the girl needs our support. Zimbabweans must vote, vote, vote through the official Miss Universe app, not random links on social media,” Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga said.
She was received by the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Malaysia, Mr Isheanopa Fanuel Rufu, and Assistant to the Consulate-General of Zimbabwe, Mrs. Sakuna Rojanapanich.
“I am very excited that there are beautiful women from Zimbabwe joining this big event in Bangkok. I hope she will get a very good experience here and enjoy the Thai culture and food also,” she said.
This visit comes as Lyshanda intensifies her preparations for this Wednesday’s national costume and preliminary competitions, moments that will shape her journey to the final.
“We are rehearsing for the finals. National costume is on this Wednesday, which is the day of the prelims as well. The final show is on November 21, which I am so, so, so excited about because from what we are cooking up in rehearsals, it is going to be a show. Love you guys,” she said.
With preliminary days away, this show of support is expected to bolster Lyshanda as she steps onto the world stage, which culminates with the crowning of Miss Universe on November 21.
