TAWANDA MARWIZI
Gone are the days when the Miss World Zim pageant was marred with controversy as it now focuses on career building.
Speaking at the sashing session of the models in Highlands last week, the Miss World Zim spokesperson Tendai Chirau said parents should be very supportive of their children who wish to take part in the pageant.
The sashing ceremony was held last week on Friday ahead of the pageant finals to be held at Orchids Gardens in Domboshava this weekend.
“Gone are the days when we had controversy around the pageant. We have moved from that time and we are now moving forward to make this work. Parents should then support them in their endeavor,” she said.
Fourteen models from different parts of the country were unveiled at the sashing ceremony.
“We have talent in Zimbabwe but because of that conception of taking models as objects of abuse it won’t go anywhere. Now as Miss World Zim we are saying that should not happen and let us take it as a profession,” he said.
Chirau said the models were open to report any form of abuse and the law would take its course.
“We have told them to make reports of any form of abuse so that the perpetrators are brought to book. Our Patron Mrs Marry Chiwenga is very passionate about Miss World Zim and she wants to take it forward,” he said.
Gideon Manyanhaire, a parent to one of the finalists, said he was happy to get assurance that the pageant will be free from scandals.
“This is a welcome move to have an assurance from the organisers. I am happy to have my daughter as part of the pageant,” he said.
Models vying for the crown are Kuziwakwashe Mujakachi, Yollanda Chimbarami, Yollanda Warambwa, Belinda Potts, Bridget Vambe, Gracious Manyanhaire, Patricia Muchenje, Ivy Mupararamo, Courtney Matende, Musawenkosi Dlamini, Francina Katuruza, Concelia Karemb and Wendy Maturi.
