EXCITEMENT has gripped the nation as local celebs, fans and officials catch the buzz of support for Miss Universe hopeful, Sakhile Zibusiso Dube.
Sakky, as she is affectionately known, is in Mexico, where she joined other contestants from all over the world as they vie for the coveted sash and crown.
The Bulawayo-born model shot to stardom when she became Miss Universe Zimbabwe early this year in a hotly contested pageant.
NewsDay Life & Style spoke to some of her supporters from all walks of life and here is what they had to say:
“Our beautiful Miss Universe Zimbabwe. As you represent us in Mexico, may your light shine. We are excited and rooting for you queen and we know you will do great!” said actress and poet Lady Tshawe.
Star FM presenter and comedian Babongile Sikhonjwa also expressed faith in her on the international stage.
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“We wish her all the best. Bulawayo had always been known for having beautiful women. We know she is going to represent Bulawayo and Zimbabwe well,” he said.
Bulawayo podcast co-host Melissa Jane Hlomani described Sakhile as a “beautiful kite that flies high above the rest”.
“We are happy to be represented by an elegant, smart, pretty woman, who really stands out in grace,” she said, with local television news anchor and vlogger Merylene Ngwenya echoing similar praises.
“All the best to the beautiful Sakhile. The competition is really stiff, but I’m confident she will shake it off and come out tops.”
Midlands State University final year student Jerome Mutemeli, who is an aspiring actor and model, has also been busy campaigning and drumming up support for Sakhile on social media.
“I would like to encourage our queen, Sakhile Dube, to continue believing in herself and take it easy. Everything she’s wearing screams that she has prepared enough, the walking videos and everything was done in time,” he said.
“Staying focused is one important thing at this stage of the competition. She must do what they prepared with her managers. As fans, we are already celebrating, we are just waiting for the day to come.
“As a number one fan, I’ve been tagging her posts, raising awareness so that people vote and follow her works on her official Instagram page, but most importantly, as Zimbabwe, we are a religious country. We have been praying for her to stay focused during this prestigious competition.”
Said modelling guru Nokuthaba Manungu: “Shine and raise our flag high. Show them you them that you from the City of Kings and Queens. We are 110% behind you Ndlovukazi.”
Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture deputy minister Emily Jesaya also threw her weight behind Sakhile.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt support to Sakhile Zie Dube as she prepares to represent Zimbabwe on the prestigious international stage of the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico. Sakhile is a shining example of our nation’s beauty, talent and unwavering dedication,” she said.
“She embodies the spirit of Zimbabwean excellence, and we are confident that she will make our nation proud, as she has already done with her remarkable achievements thus far. Your participation in this event is not just a personal milestone, it is a celebration of our rich culture and heritage.
“I encourage all Zimbabweans to rally behind Sakhile during this exciting journey. Your support through voting on the Miss Universe platform can help elevate her efforts and showcase the strength of our nation. Sakhile, may your passion, resilience and beauty continue to inspire both our nation and the world. We wish you all the best in this incredible endeavour.”
ZiFM Stereo DJ Tatenda G also gave a special shout out.
“Dear Sakhile, as you step onto that stage representing Zimbabwe at the Miss Universe contest, remember wadadisa (you have made us proud). You are carrying the pride and dreams of your country so perfectly well. Shine bright, embrace your uniqueness, and know that your strength and beauty inspires others. You’ve got this! With all our support, Tatenda G!”
Other famous personalities who wished her well include Bulawayo Provincial Affairs minister Judith Ncube and singer-turned-politician Sandra Ndebele.