In a quest to merge beauty and environmental activism, 23-year-old Tinewimbo Dupute is making waves in the Miss Nature Zimbabwe 2024 pageant.
With a storied past in beauty pageants, including titles such as Miss UZ 2020, Miss Supra-eminence Zimbabwe Queen 2022, and Miss Supra-eminence People's Choice 2022, this Bulawayo beauty is poised to take her passion for sustainability to the international stage.
Tinewimbo is now one step closer to achieving her goal, competing for one of three coveted titles: Miss Earth, Miss Tourism, and Miss Environment. The pageant enthusiast recently received the Miss People's Choice award, determined by public votes that ended on September 8.
"I was honoured and humbled by the recognition of receiving the Miss People's Choice award," said the model. "In August, I excelled in the semi-finals, securing the Miss Charm award and nominations for Miss Personality and Miss Top Model. Throughout this experience, I've faced intense competition and the need to effectively communicate my advocacy."
As she prepares for the final show, the 23-year-old reflects on the journey's challenges.
"I try to address these challenges by making sure that I leverage the platform to promote sustainable waste management practices in Zimbabwe. I am passionate about environmental conservation and aim to make a positive impact," she said.
Key to her mission, she says, is collaborating with big organisations.
"There are institutions like Masiyephambili Junior School, Geo Pomona, EMA, and Coca-Cola. I am looking at approaching them and any other interested sponsors to advance SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). I feel that my advocacy aligns with the national vision we all have for our beloved Zimbabwe, prioritising environmentally sensitive waste management and disposal systems in all our communities," she said.