ZIMBABWE'S representative at the 73rd Miss Universe Sakhile Dube (pictured) has expressed gratitude to the Zimbabweans for rallying behind her while she was in Mexico for the 2024 Miss Universe competition.
The 27-year-old model touched down at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport last Wednesday after finishing up in the top 30.
In her media address at the airport, Dube paid tribute to Zimbabweans for their support.
“I just want to say thank you for the love and support that you showed me throughout this journey,” she said.
“The support was heard and seen. It is rare for Zimbabwe to be heard and seen on such an international stage, but you made it possible for Zimbabwe with your love and support.”
Dube made history as she managed to place Zimbabwe in the top 30 list of the Miss Universe pageant.
She had captivated audiences and judges alike with her stunning designer dress dubbed "Souring Eagle" which was designed by Jasper Mandizera who owns the Ivhu Tribe label.
The dress showed Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage and abundant natural resources.
Dube's Miss Universe run sparked a sense of national pride among Zimbabweans, who saw in her a symbol of their own resilience and determination which made the people rally behind her.
Dancer Victoria Kjær Theilvig (21) of Denmark scooped the Miss Universe 2024 title.
Nigeria's Chidimma Adetshina was voted first runner-up and the second runner-up is Mexico’s Maria Fernanda Beltran.
Also in the top five were Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and Venezuela’s Ileana Marquez.