By Tongai Mashonga
KweKwe’s very own Nokutenda Bungu, a 17 year old model sensation, made a name for herself in the modeling world after participating in the Miss Teen of the Universe national pageant finals in Harare.
Although she didn’t win the coveted title, Bungu’s talent, confidence, and passion earned her a respectable third runner- up position and a bronze award.
The young model who is also a former Miss KweKwe Sports, Arts and Culture queen, described her experience at the pageant as “amazing.”
“I learned a lot about building confidence and public speaking skills, it was a great opportunity for showcasing my talent and networking,” she said.
Bungu’s hardwork and preparation paid off, as she stood out among the other contestants with her confidence, smile and passion.
“I was thrilled to come out third runner-up and win a bronze award,” she said proudly. “I’m proud of myself and my hardwork.
Despite not winning the top spot, Bungu’s achievement is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. She revealed that she overcame pressure by practicing her responses and focusing on her strengths, learning to be resilient and confident in the process.
“I had to practice my responses and focusing on my strenghts to overcome the pressure that came with participating at the pageant.
As a model and student at Manunure High School, Bungu balances her two careers with ease. Her future plans and goals include continuing to pursue modeling opportunities, completing her education, and becoming a role model for young people in her community. She also hopes to start her own business promoting arts and culture.
“I want to pursue modeling opportunities and completing my education while becoming a role model for young people in my community.
“I hope that one day I will start my own business initiative promoting arts and culture. I prioritize my studies and making sure I have time for modeling through communication with my groomers,” she said.
She added that she will use her platforms to promote sports, arts and culture among the youths.
“I want to use all my social media platforms to promote arts and culture participating in local events while encouraging young people to get involved in arts and culture showcasing our community’s unique talents. Don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue your passion,” said Bungu.
Her story serves as an inspiration to young people in KweKwe and beyond, showing that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their communities.
The Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe 2025 national finals concluded with the crowning of two queens and other catergories winners, the two queens will proceed and participate at international events this year.
Ashanthelle Chapenga of Midlands, Gweru was crowned the queen and will fly to India in October to compete at the Miss Teen of the Universe international pageant, Mongile Moyo of Bulawayo was crowned Miss Teen ECO queen and will represent Zimbabwe at an international pageant later this year.
Other notable winners crowned were double delight winners Angela Moyo of Matabeleland North crowned best project and best national costume. Kimberly Masters from Harare was crowned second runner- up and people ‘s choice, Shalom Geza of Bulawayo took the best social Media and Miss Congeniality awards.
Masvingo’s Kelsey Chirungwa was crowned first runner-up, Nokutenda Nyamakwere from Harare was the fourth runner- up and Nomvelo Mpofu was named the most photogenic model.
