Story by Buhlebenkosi Makwelo
BULAWAYO – AFTER two decades of grooming talent and transforming lives in the modelling industry, award-winning modelling coach Pardon Khayelihle Khanye, affectionately known as Coach Khaya, is officially stepping away from the limelight.
The founder of Truth Models Academy, Khanye has made a lasting mark on Zimbabwe’s fashion and modelling landscape, mentoring some of the country’s top modelling talent.
“I started modelling in 2005 when I was in Grade 4. It began as a hobby, and I was later discovered by Aunt Sarah Mpofu from Fingers Academy. Just two months later, I became the brand ambassador for Meikles Kiddies,” he recalled.
“From there, I participated in several pageants, Mr Bulawayo Junior, Mr Zimbabwe Junior, Mr Africa Junior and I even represented Zimbabwe in Ghana. The journey has been fulfilling, though not without its challenges.”
Recognising the need for balance, Khanye has sold Truth Models Academy to a close friend, who will also assume responsibility for the Bulawayo Models Awards.
Throughout his illustrious career, Khanye mentored numerous successful models, including the recently crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe First Runner-Up, Onesimo Nkomo.
