Natasha Nkwanda Crowned Miss NODE Zimbabwe 2025

Sixteen-year-old Natasha Nkwanda has been crowned Miss NODE Zimbabwe 2025 after a Harare pageant that promotes youth empowerment, social advocacy and mentorship (image source)

HARARE — Sixteen-year-old model Natasha Nkwanda has been crowned Miss NODE Zimbabwe 2025 following a pageant held on Saturday at Food Nest, Long Cheng Plaza in Harare.

The event brought together young models under a platform that blends fashion with social advocacy and youth development. Nkwanda, who represented Fabulous Modelling Agency, emerged winner from a competitive field of contestants.

Rutendo Sandra Tazvitya was named First Princess, Celine Makanaka Sharara took the Second Princess position, while Ruvimbo M Chaeza won the People’s Choice Award.

Beyond the competition, Nkwanda’s selection reflected her involvement in community initiatives. In the build-up to the pageant, she organised a Christmas outreach programme and donated clothing to 50 children at the Foundation of Hope International Trust orphanage in Epworth.

The pageant was organised by NODE – the National Organisation of Development and Empowerment, in partnership with Fabulous Modelling Agency. Organisers said the initiative uses modelling as a platform to promote youth empowerment, mentorship and awareness campaigns, including advocacy against drug trafficking and substance abuse among young people.

Fabulous Modelling Agency director Simbarashe Gwavava, who is also a model coach and founder of the Zimbabwe Youth and Cultural Identity Enhancement Trust (ZYCIET), said the pageant aims to position young models as positive role models within their communities. He said Nkwanda’s selection demonstrated a balance between discipline, personal conduct and social awareness.

Through ZYCIET, Gwavava has been involved in youth mentorship programmes, modelling training and community outreach activities that include support for orphanages and elderly care institutions. The trust also focuses on promoting cultural identity and personal development among young people.

Several models from Fabulous Modelling Agency, including Catherine Wayah, Carren Sakupwanya and Celine Sharara, are continuing to build profiles within the modelling industry. Gwavava said the agency is prioritising long-term development by equipping models with skills in discipline, professionalism and sustainable income-generating activities.

Miss NODE Zimbabwe organisers said similar initiatives will continue as part of broader efforts to support youth empowerment, leadership development and positive social engagement.