The ManicaPost
Tendai Kwaramba
Entertainment Reporter
KEEN to shoot two birds with one stone, Mishell Danda — who was born and bred in Rusape — is taking her ‘A’ Level studies, while also vigorously pursuing and shining in the modelling career.
Danda recently made, not only Manicaland Province proud, but the country as well when she was among a bevy of beauties that participated at the Face of Nemash Africa.
To cap a fine outing, she won the Face of Nemash Africa Queen gong, and other awards.
She also walked away with the best national costume accolade, and scooped the prestigious Face of Nemash People’s Choice award.
The winning costume was designed by Harare-based Congolese, Debaba.
The model shrugged off stiff competition from other beauties drawn from all South African provinces.
Face of Nemash is a beauty pageant that is held annually in the neighbouring country and attracts participants from Zimbabwe.
Danda made the cut to represent her country after she won Face of Nemash Zimbabwe in April.
The Upper Sixth pupil at St Joseph’s High School in Rusape is determined to take her modelling career to the next level.
This is her second bite of the cherry in the industry.
She first had a run in the Miss Zimbabwe Grand Petite.
Since joining Face of Nemash Zimbabwe, she has not looked back.
In an interview with The Weekender, the vivacious Danda said participating, and winning in a pageant on foreign soil will inspire her to reach for the stars.
“Being part of the spectacle was an overwhelming experience that brought indescribable feelings. It was awe-inspiring. Walking away with those accolades has given me more confidence to aim high, and I want to do even more in the industry and go places,” said Danda.
She revealed that she did not grow up fancying modelling, and only ventured into the industry last year after being inspired by her sister who had won a church competition.
Said the elegant model: “When I saw my sister among the bevy of beauties on the ramp after winning Miss ZAYA, I instantly fell in love with modelling. I then decided to pursue it.”
Danda concedes that the journey has not been a stroll in the park, saying participating in pageants require financial stamina if one is to do well.
She paid tribute to her family for supporting her every step of the way on her modelling journey so far.
“The modelling industry in Zimbabwe is overlooked. The Miss Zimbabwe pageant has not been held in a long time. It is events such as these that play a pivotal role in putting our country on the map,” she said.
The Face of Nemash Africa hotshot hopes the modelling industry in Zimbabwe will keep growing, and attract sponsorship to sustain it so that young and talented people can get a chance to showcase their skills.
“Just follow your dreams. The journey will not be easy, but it is totally a worthwhile experience,” said Danda in her parting shot.
