By Beverly Bizeki
While children of her age are busy with toys and cartoons, at just five years, Dillish Masango has already made waves in the world of modelling showing a level of talent and creativity that is far beyond her age.
Hers is the story of a child prodigy and her incredible journey has brought her to where she is today, representing her motherland in Africa with her next destination being the world stage in the United States of America (USA).
Masango who is a grade one pupil at Victoria Primary School in Masvingo made headlines recently in Nigeria after bagging three titles at the Little Mr. and Miss Toto Africa namely second runner up Toto Miss Africa, Miss Smile and Miss Popularity.
Masango is going to represent Zimbabwe at the World Imperial Beauties, an international pageant that takes place every year in Florida with two other winners from the Toto Africa 2024 pageant in July.
Masango’s mother Rumbidzai Chisangowerotah said she was elated with her daughter’s latest achievements and thanked all those who had supported her throughout the incredible journey.
“I am pleased with what Dillish has achieved at such a tender age, her determination goes beyond her age. My appreciation goes to the Masvingo community who helped her with financial support as this was self-sponsored,” said Chisangowerotah.
Describing her daughter’s journey, she said Dillish was naturally gifted as she performed well despite not having any professional modelling agency to coach her.
“We only realized that she is gifted after she won a modelling contest at school; back then we knew she has a passion for dancing. Her confidence sets her apart from other children of her age, she believes in herself.
“When she is performing on stage you would think she owns it which is what has brought her here today. She has no modelling agency to train her but performs quite well which is why I have said it is an inborn thing,” she said.
Chisangowerotah called upon well-wishers to assist the promising young model to fund her trip to the US in July.
“The major challenge that we have come across is sourcing for sponsorship which has proved to be quite a huge task for us. My appeal goes to well-wishers from across the country and continent to fund the young promising talent. My wish for her is to continue participating in international pageants as she makes strides in her modelling career,” said Chisangowerotah.
Zambia’s Trudy Mundia was crowned Toto Miss Africa 2024 while Uganda’s Karlina Keza Kirabo was crowned first princess. Zimbabwe’s Tarmar Muchineuta (11) was crowned Innovative Queen while Aiden Murambidzi was crowned Mini Mr. Africa in the boys’ category.
Dillish made her way through to Little Mr. and Miss Toto Africa after being named Miss Victoria Primary and Miss Masvingo Primary Schools.
