Nurse with crown: Lyshanda Moyas crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe

Fourteen years of grit, grace and growth finally paid off for 26-year-old Gweru beauty, Lyshanda Moyas, who was crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 at a glamorous ceremony held at Hippodrome, Harare, over the weekend.

A nurse by profession and now working as a finance executive, Moyas walked away with a US$10,000 cash prize, a Mercedes Benz C200 courtesy of Style by Minnie, and several other luxury prizes, sealing her spot as Zimbabwe’s representative at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand in November.

In a tightly contested competition with eight other finalists, Onesimo Nkomo who hails from Nkayi was crowned first princess and she walked away with US$3,000 while Rumbidzai Muzopa from Honde Valley was named second princess and got US$2,000. Brenda Kadewa from Harare scooped the Best National Costume award and Moyas also won Best Voice for Change, earning a gold medal for her powerful advocacy.

In an interview, Moyas said: “I’ve been modelling for 14 years and while I’ve carried titles like Miss Intercontinental Zimbabwe 2021, this is my most meaningful win. I had doubts about entering Miss Universe Zimbabwe, especially after my last stage appearance in 2023 for Miss International Zimbabwe. But this moment is beyond anything I imagined.”

Having also participated in pageants such as Miss Global Zimbabwe and Miss Zimbabwe, Moyas has spent over a decade in the industry, developing her signature poise and purpose-driven modelling. Yet her journey has not been limited to beauty alone.

“Though I’m a qualified nurse, I’m working in finance and marketing. I see no contradiction, both fields demand compassion, structure, and impact. The skills I bring to the stage are as much from my profession as from my heart.”

Now holding one of the most prestigious crowns in the nation, Moyas plans to channel her platform toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

“This goal aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive industrialisation, and foster innovation. I want to use my reign to advocate for technological and infrastructural advancement in Zimbabwe. This is not just a beauty title, it’s a responsibility,” she said.

Born and raised in Gweru, Moyas described her background as “diverse and joyful”. She is the first born in a family of two, and her heritage is a rich tapestry of Ndebele, Shona, and English cultures.

“I come from a fun and supportive family. We’re rooted in tradition but open to the world. I believe this blend of cultures is what has shaped me into a global citizen with a uniquely Zimbabwean heart.”

Calling Miss Universe her final pageant, Moyas praised the global competition for allowing women to be “unapologetically themselves”.

“Miss Universe platform doesn’t just focus on beauty but also on voice, purpose, and impact. This isn’t just about being seen, it’s about being heard. I’m ready for the journey ahead.”

Moyas’ grandmother, whom she described as a figure of resilience and integrity, is her greatest role model.

“She has faced more challenges than most, but continues to rise. She’s my hero.”

The pageant was graced by South Africa television icon Connie Ferguson, who served as guest judge and guest of honour. Ferguson, known for her legendary role as Karabo Moroka in Generations, was full of praise for the organisers and the contestants.

“The standard here is world-class. These women are more than beautiful, they are intelligent, driven, and compassionate. They are the future of Zimbabwe, and I’m honoured to have witnessed their brilliance. I see a lot of the same spark I saw in Zozibini Tunzi (former Miss Universe) back in 2019.”

Ferguson, who grew up loving modelling and once competed in South Africa’s “Black Like Me” pageant, expressed her affection for Zimbabwe: “This country is filled with love and warmth. It always feels like home.”

The event was hosted by Ruvheneko, Becky K, and Arthur Evans, and featured a performance by Zimbabwean music star Nutty O, adding a musical flair to the glamorous affair.

Now all eyes are on Lyshanda Moyas as she prepares to carry Zimbabwe’s flag onto the global stage. With 14 years of experience, a powerful vision for development, and the spirit of her people behind her, Moyas is ready not just to compete, but to lead, inspire, and transform. Herald