BY NKOSENTSHA KHUMALO IN an effort to liberate females who have a passion for modelling yet they do not fit in conventional pageants, a bevy of plus-sized models tomorrow take to the ramp at the Royal Miss Vithikazi at the National Art Gallery in Bulawayo.
The pageant seeks to shift from the tradition that only slim women make the grade in modelling and is courtesy of Isilimela Events in partnership with Hlumela Investments, Milk and Honey Ministries and Jacquexite Creations, among others.
Plus-sized women have not been much celebrated as there are only a few pageants like Miss Curvy that embrace them on the ramp.
Many of the pageants, both locally and abroad, are conventional parades that require contestants to be unmarried, slim and tall, among other attributes.
“Royal Miss Vithikazi pageant is meant to encourage plus-sized women to be comfortable with their bodies against the Western concept which beautifies slim women more than the plus-sized,” Silimela Events chief executive officer Thandekile Ndlovu said.
“We decided to use the Ndebele term Vithikazi as it embraces culture and mostly plus-size women. We want those women who are on the plus-sized side to feel proud, noticed, beautiful and loved with their bodies through participating in modelling.”
Ndlovu also indicated that businesses and advertisers must embrace the plus-sized woman in their line of duty and advertisements.
“We mainly want to advocate for a diverse society mixed with both traditional and modern culture where we are saying beauty does not depend on the skin colour or size of the body,” he said.
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The winning queen on the night will be presented a traditional knobkerrie which signifies power through their beauty and the ability to express themselves.
“The winner will also be rewarded with 1 000 rand in cash and the first and second princesses are also set to get monetary rewards,” Ndlovu added.
Makhosi Godonga ka Mahlangu will be the guest of honour alongside Andile, the founder and designer of Royal Hats. Guests will be entertained by artists Noluntu J Ndlunkulu, Teekay G, Gugu, Bright K and Proff Da Maze.
Refreshments will be served by Kairo’s Meals.
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