Reigning Miss World Zimbabwe Brunette Makanyiso says she is ready to carry the nation’s hopes onto the global stage when she represents Zimbabwe at the 73rd Miss World pageant in Vietnam next month, with the pharmacist determined to showcase the country’s beauty, culture and resilience while competing for the prestigious international crown.
The 26-year-old, who was crowned Miss World Zimbabwe in June, will depart for Vietnam on August 8 ahead of the global finale scheduled for September 5, where she will compete against contestants from 122 countries.
Makanyiso said months of preparation have strengthened her confidence and equipped her to compete among the world’s best, describing the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
“I am very prepared for the contest. I grew up watching such pageants on ZBC TV and, as a little girl, I always dreamt of being on such a stage. I can’t believe that I am actually going to represent my country on such a big stage,” she said.
She said she would be carrying the aspirations of millions of Zimbabweans and was determined to promote the country’s positive image before an international audience.
“As Zimbabweans, expect to see a woman who has been sent by her whole country, carrying everyone’s dreams to the global stage. I will represent my country the best way that I can, and I can guarantee you that I will do my best and, hopefully, bring the crown home,” said Makanyiso.
Beyond the glamour, Makanyiso said modern beauty pageants have evolved into powerful platforms for promoting social causes, cultural exchange and leadership, enabling contestants to champion issues affecting their communities.
A passionate advocate for poverty alleviation and community development, she said she intends to use the Miss World platform to amplify initiatives that improve the lives of vulnerable people.
“It is not only about beauty, it also has to do with social causes. As for me, I advocate against poverty. Any change that you wish to see in society, pageants offer you a platform to address it,” she said.
Makanyiso, a pharmacist by profession, was crowned Miss World Zimbabwe on June 6 at the Hippodrome in Harare after impressing judges with her poise, intelligence and commitment to community service.
Her participation in Vietnam is expected to provide Zimbabwe with another opportunity to showcase its rich cultural heritage, tourism potential and talented young women on one of the world’s biggest pageantry platforms.
