Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga, who chairs the Miss Universe Zimbabwe Organisation, has been named one of the official judges for the 2025 Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.

Her appointment, announced in Bangkok ahead of Saturday’s grand finale, has sparked excitement both at home and abroad, marking a major milestone for Zimbabwe on the global pageant scene.

Colonel Baloyi-Chiwenga will sit on a distinguished panel that includes leading international pageant experts, fashion industry executives, former Miss Universe titleholders and cultural ambassadors. Together, they will evaluate more than 80 contestants vying for the coveted crown.

The recognition is being hailed as a testament to her leadership, professionalism and growing influence in the global beauty pageant industry.

Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2025 has unveiled her national costume, an elaborate ensemble paying homage to one of the country’s most recognisable natural and cultural symbols, the Baobab tree.

The costume, titled “Born of the Baobab, Forged in Flame,” was revealed this week ahead of her participation on the global stage. Designers drew inspiration from the Baobab’s centuries-old reputation as a symbol of resilience, ancestry and renewal, themes that continue to hold deep meaning in Zimbabwean heritage.

Showcasing a dramatic fusion of artistry and environmental consciousness, the costume features fiery hues representing endurance, rebirth and the transformative power of flame. It incorporates sustainably sourced Baobab fibres, shaped into a commanding silhouette that mirrors the tree’s towering structure and spiritual presence in local folklore.

Organisers said the design was created to highlight Zimbabwe’s natural identity while celebrating modern craftsmanship. The Baobab, often referred to as the “Tree of Life,” is revered across many communities for its longevity, medicinal properties and role as a source of nourishment.

The national costume reveal marks a key milestone in Zimbabwe’s Miss Universe preparations, with pageant officials expressing confidence that the bold, symbolic design will stand out on the international stage.

The 2025 Miss Universe competition is expected to draw participants from more than 80 countries, offering Zimbabwe another opportunity to showcase its culture, creativity and storytelling through fashion.

As the spotlight intensifies over Bangkok ahead of the Miss Universe 2025 grand finale, Zimbabwe finds itself at a defining moment—one that extends far beyond the glamour of gowns and international competition.

With Lyshanda Moyas carrying the national flag on the world stage, Zimbabwe is not merely participating in a global pageant; it is repositioning itself, reshaping perceptions, and signalling a renewed sense of confidence at a time when global visibility is crucial.

Dr. Alexander Rusero, Head of the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Africa University, says Zimbabwe’s appearance is both symbolic and strategically important.

“Zimbabwe’s participation in Miss Universe, from an international relations and diplomatic perspective, is a welcome development because it helps to refresh the country’s long-tarnished image. The nation has been on a rebound, as evidenced by Forbes ranking Zimbabwe as the number one destination for 2025,” he noted.

In a world where a country’s appeal can influence investment, attract tourists, and elevate cultural influence, platforms like Miss Universe have evolved into instruments of soft power rather than mere entertainment.

Zimbabwe’s presence reflects a broader global trend in which nations deploy cultural diplomacy as part of their foreign policy strategies.

“Cultural diplomacy enhances a country’s visibility on both national and international platforms. It promotes mutual cooperation, understanding, and respect among states,” said Dr. Darlington Ngoni Mahuku, a lecturer in International Relations, Politics, and Diplomacy at Bindura University of Science Education.

He added that participants—including ambassadors, political leaders, and pageant representatives—play an essential role in strengthening ties between nations through cultural exchange and dialogue. “Diplomacy continues to be central in today’s interconnected world.”

By stepping onto the global stage, Lyshanda Moyas becomes more than a contestant—she embodies Zimbabwe’s cultural narrative. Her presence offers the nation an opportunity to challenge outdated stereotypes and highlight a modern identity rooted in resilience, innovation, hospitality, and artistic expression.

With less than five days before the coronation, Zimbabwe’s flag rises not only in the competition arena but also in global consciousness.

The world is watching, and through this moment, Zimbabwe shares a compelling story of pride, renewal, and diplomatic presence.