MISS ZIMBO Culture second runner-up, Thembelihle Mkandla, on Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Judith Ncube, where they held discussions centred on cultural preservation and tourism development.
The meeting, organised by Maz Arts and Culture, brought together cultural leaders, local authorities and community representatives in an effort to strengthen the promotion of Zimbabwean heritage, particularly Ndebele culture in Bulawayo.
Speaking at the meeting, Ncube applauded young cultural ambassadors for taking an active role in preserving Zimbabwe’s traditions and identity.
“We are proud to see young cultural ambassadors like Thembelihle Mkandla taking the lead in promoting our heritage and tourism sector,” she said.
“Bulawayo has a rich cultural history that must be preserved and celebrated by the younger generation.”
She urged youths to avoid drug and substance abuse while embracing cultural values and national unity.
Mkandla pledged to use her position as Miss ZIMBO Culture second runner-up to market the Zimbabwean culture and tourism locally and internationally.
“As Miss ZIMBO Culture second runner-up, I am committed to using my platform to promote Zimbabwean culture, tourism and the beauty of Bulawayo’s heritage.
“Culture is our identity and we must protect it.”
Thembelihle’s father, Max Mkandla, challenged young Zimbabweans to reject tribalism and work towards building a united nation.
“Youths must reject tribalism and embrace unity through culture,” he said.
“Zimbabwe’s diversity should brings us together and not divide us.”
Ward 10 councillor Khalazani Ndlovu pledged support for cultural activities and community programmes aimed at empowering young people.
“We fully support all cultural initiatives that uplift communities, preserve our traditions and create opportunities for young people in Bulawayo and beyond,” Ndlovu said.
Among those present at the meeting were Miss ZIMBO Culture director Nancy Chirume, Maz Arts and Culture national organising secretary George Nkomo, national member Grace Chifamba and members of the organisation’s Bulawayo executive committee.
Maz Arts and Culture chairperson Themba Ndebele expressed appreciation to the minister’s office for hosting the delegation and supporting cultural development initiatives.
“Maz Arts and Culture appreciates the warm reception from Hon Judith Ncube and her office,” he said.
“We remain committed to promoting arts, culture and tourism development across Zimbabwe.”
