👑 Miss Universe Zimbabwe: Why Education Is Queen, Not Just the Crown 🎓
Miss Universe Zimbabwe, Lyshanda Moyas, is using her global top-13 ranking as a springboard for a powerful message: education is a non-negotiable must-have, even for a beauty queen.
In a revealing interview with ZiFM Stereo, Moyas peeled back the layers of glamour, calling on Zimbabwe to rally behind her foundation’s critical work with teen mothers, while tackling the personal challenges of being a high-profile figure.
Key Takeaways from the Interview
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Brains Over Beauty: Moyas was unequivocal: “Modeling was a dream, but education was a must.” She warned that while a pretty face opens doors, a lack of intellectual substance will ultimately prevent long-term success.
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The Goofy Mazondo Fan: She countered the perception of being an “unapproachable package,” admitting she is one of the “goofiest” people you could meet and, surprisingly, a huge fan of traditional Zimbabwean food, specifically Mazondo (cow heels).
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Unrealistic Standards? Think Again: Moyas pushed back against the idea that beauty pageant standards are inherently toxic, stressing that the pressure only becomes “unrealistic” when individuals try to be someone else. She champions authenticity and self-belief as the true pathway to success.
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A Call for Unity: Moyas revealed that her biggest personal hurdle since winning the title has been convincing some fellow Zimbabweans that she is, in fact, one of them. She uses this experience to urge a shift from criticism to collective support for national causes.
From the Runway to the Frontline
The 13th-ranked beauty queen, who finished second in Africa, offered a rare glimpse into the rigorous preparation for the Miss Universe stage. Beyond the fitness and wardrobe, Moyas detailed intense media training focused on eloquence and strategy.
“We’ll sit down and we’ll be like, ‘Okay, what happens if you are attacked with a question in this sort of manner?'” she explained, highlighting the need to anticipate and tactically navigate press and public scrutiny.
Despite her international image, Moyas remains proudly grounded. When asked what is the most Zimbabwean thing about her, she cited her love for Zim Dancehall music. This connection to her roots informed her most significant statement of the interview: a direct plea for help.
ACTION POINT: Support for Teen Mothers
Lyshanda Moyas used her final moments on air to issue a passionate call for national support for the Lyshanda Brennan Moyes Foundation.
“Put Landanda Moyes aside,” she urged. “There’s a lot I’m working on with my teen mothers… I would like Zimbabwe to rally behind me how they’ve rallied behind me on stage.”
She emphasized that the foundation cannot achieve its goals of helping vulnerable women and children without the collective action of the nation. She also weighed in on the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, with a simple, powerful message: “Your voice matters.”
