THE Miss Planet Zimbabwe beauty pageant is looking forward to crowning a new queen as 15 finalists are set to contest for the title at Queens Hall Civic Centre in Mutare on August 24.
The former Miss Planet Zimbabwe titleholder is no longer in that position after the organisation decided to revamp the title.
Speaking to NewsDay Life & Style, one of the organisers Takudzwa Machingura said the pageant aimed to uplift young women.
“Our goal is to empower young women while promoting 17 United Nations sustainable development goals through the Miss Planet Zimbabwe platform,” he said.
Machingura added that models contesting for the title were expected to embody several key qualities ranging from confidence, positive attitude and knowledge on current affairs, among others.
“We expect models to own the stage, showcasing their personalities, maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanour as well as dressed to impress while showcasing their personal fashion sense,” he said.
“They should also be prepared to thoughtfully answer questions from the judges and media, be active in community involvement and have knowledge about local and global issues, among other qualities.”
Machingura further noted that the pageant had a profound impact on the lives of participants and winners as it opened doors to international stages, allowing models to connect with different people, giving them a global platform to share their culture and provide them with leadership opportunities, among other positive experiences.
He added: “Miss Planet Zimbabwe is more than just a title as the winner will also serve as a global ambassador representing both the Miss Planet organisation and the country on an international stage.”
This year’s finalists vying for the Miss Planet Zimbabwe title are Amber Cele, Courtney Chimina, Winnet Sungai, Tariro Maryann Ruddo, Patience Nonkayiso Mpofu, Chantel Kanyoka, Brenda Kadewa, Christine Ngoshi, Tinashe Dahwa, Idah Manwere, Margaret Mangowe, Vimbainashe Mutyavaviri, Nonhlahla Victoria Moyo, Miriraishe Magebede and Karen Sakupwanya, with advocacies including ensuring a water secure future for all, urging action to combat climate change and its impacts, among other causes.
The winner will then represent the country in Cambodia.