Reigning Miss Zimbabwe Malaika Mushandu scored a first when she was crowned first princess at the Top Model of the World contest in Dortmund, Germany, on Saturday.
Mushandu’s achievement is the best among recent accomplishments by local models on the international scene. Vanessa Sibanda was voted second runner-up at the same pageant last year.
It is also Mushandu’s biggest achievement in international competition after she came ninth at Miss World late last year.
After being crowned first princess Mushandu’s post on her Facebook page read: “First runner-up . . . not bad at all.”
Before the show she had posted: “Whatever happens today I guarantee it is going to be epic.” Luna Voce from Italy was crowned Top Model of the World while Colombia’s Melina Ramirez Serna was second princess.
Washington Ali, Top Model of the World Zimbabwe director, said: “She did exceptionally well. She was just a notch away from clinching the title. We are getting better with each year.”
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The Top Model of the World pageant is an international search for models that are talented and fashion-conscious.
The pageant kicked off in 1993 and is an opportunity to share universal values and define together a common ideal of elegance and beauty. Mushandu could not be contacted for comment, but in an earlier interview with NewsDay the talented model had promised to do her best for the country.
“I have done my part and now it’s time for us to join hands and finish the race as a nation. When I walk on that ramp, I will not be representing Malaika, but the whole country.”
Indeed she made the country proud. She is expected back home on Wednesday.