IN the vibrant city of Mutare, cultural pride and women’s empowerment took centre stage during the recently held Sanganai/Hlanganani Carnival and Mutare Street Party.
At the heart of this growing movement is Simbarashe Gwawawa, founder of the Miss Fabulous Zimbabwe International Pageant and the Zimbabwe Youth and Cultural Identity Enhancement Trust (ZYCIET), whose vision is to redefine the intersection of beauty, culture and empowerment in Zimbabwe.
Gwawawa said he was inspired by a desire to create a platform that celebrated Zimbabwe’s cultural richness while equipping women and youth with life skills.
“Our mission is to transform perceptions, proving that modelling is a powerful vehicle for self-empowerment and economic independence,” he explained.
For Gwawawa, success is measured not by crowns, but by the transformation of participants to confident leaders and cultural ambassadors.
“When a participant embraces her identity while inspiring others, that’s true success,” he noted.
Despite challenges such as stereotypes surrounding pageantry and limited funding, his organisation is pressing forward.
By building grassroots support and fostering partnerships with businesses, schools and community leaders, ZYCIET ensures its programmes remain sustainable long after the glitz of carnivals fades.
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This year’s Mutare Street Party saw a phenomenal turnout, drawing families, churches, youth and tourists in a vibrant celebration of unity.
Local communities have embraced the integration of pageantry and tourism, recognising the economic and social opportunities it brings.
Schools engaged learners in cultural performances, while businesses and leaders provided sponsorship and logistical support.
The pageant has opened doors for both Zimbabwean and international models, including those from the diaspora, culminating in cultural exchanges that extend Zimbabwe’s influence beyond its borders.
Models under ZYCIET mentorship undergo training in entrepreneurship, public speaking, branding and project development, preparing them for careers far beyond the runway.
Participants benefit from scholarships, business training and international exposure.
Even young talents like seven-year-old Tarren Lee Hannel Hodera are nurtured through mentorship and event participation, ensuring continuity of cultural ambassadorship from childhood.
Gwawawa is intentional about challenging the stereotype that pageantry is “only about beauty”.
By showcasing successful alumni and highlighting empowerment stories, his initiatives reveal modelling as a pathway to growth and opportunity.
The carnival spotlighted some of Zimbabwe’s most stunning tourism destinations, including Nyanga, Chimanimani, the Eastern Highlands and ancient rock paintings.
This aligns closely with Zimbabwe’s national tourism strategy to promote cultural heritage and sustainable tourism.
Looking forward, ZYCIET is set to launch programmes addressing pressing social issues such as poverty, drug abuse and mental health among the youth.
Meanwhile, the upcoming Miss Fabulous Zimbabwe pageant will continue its tradition of charity, expanding its breast cancer awareness campaign across provinces including Harare, Mutare, Mashonaland West, Midlands and concluding in Bulawayo.
Expansion is also on the horizon, with plans to take the pageant regional and international to build stronger tourism partnerships.
Reflecting on his journey, Gwawawa, who hails from Bocha in Marange, said: “I aspire to leave a legacy of empowerment, cultural pride and sustainable development.
“Beauty is not just about appearances — it is about strength, resilience and uplifting our communities.
“Together, we can rebuild Zimbabwe through the tourism industry and foster a brighter future for all.”
