By Beverly Bizeki
Victoria Primary School in Masvingo Province continues to steal the limelight at the international stage after another pupil from the school scooped the prestigious Toto Miss Africa Zimbabwe award recently.
Six year old Nothando Gugulethu Sibanda, a grade one pupil raised the Victoria Primary School flag high as she scooped the Toto Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant award, and will represent the country in Egypt. Another Victoria primary pupil Dillish Masango scooped the First Runner-Up at the Toto Miss Africa competitions held in Nigeria recently.
Sibanda’s coach and manager, Tajae Mwenda confirmed the development and commended the province’s dedication towards success of the young models which she said was remarkable.
“The overwhelming support we received from the people of Masvingo was heartwarming and a clear indication that modelling has finally found its footing in the region. The engagement on social media and the overall enthusiasm from the community have been incredible, it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and we are grateful for the trust as well as belief the people of Masvingo have shown us. We look forward to continuing success and growth of modelling in the province,” said Mwenda.
Commenting on the young model’s performance at the contest, Mwenda said Sibanda proved to be passionate about her modelling career.
“Sibanda’s dedication, passion and hard work has earned her well-deserved recognition. She embodies the spirit of a true queen and we are confident she will make us proud in Egypt,” said Mwenda.
According to Mwenda, Sibanda’s modelling career started when she would attend and rehearse together with the former.
“She started by attending all my events and accompanying me to rehearsals. We rehearsed together and I was impressed by her dedication and passion. I then started training her and she went on to compete in her first school pageant where she was crowned school queen. Later this year she was registered for Little Mr and Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant where I hope she continues to shine,” she said.
She further said the young models faced financial constraints in areas such as costs of participation, travel and wardrobe as well as time management in balancing between school work, rehearsals and other responsibilities.
“There is need for providing financial assistance, sponsorships, mentorships and guidance. There is also a great need for encouraging holistic development for instance in personal growth and education,” said Mwenda.
Sibanda who is the reigning Miss Victoria Primary School 2024 follows after Dillish Masango who was also the school’s 2023 queen and went on to win Toto Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant.
On the other hand Masango is tipped for South Africa where she has nominated to attend Miss Phenomenal Africa where she will be representing Zimbabwe. She was also recently awarded for representing the country well bringing an award from Nigeria as she waits to go to America next year for yet another pageant.
Potential sponsors for Sibanda can contact +263 786872606 to support the young talent.
