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.

Prominent businessman Wicknell Chivayo has awarded entrepreneur and musician Mudiwa Hood a brand-new 2025 Range Rover Sport 3.0 Autobiography in recognition of Hood’s achievements in business, academia, and community development.

Chivayo announced the gesture this week, citing Hood’s growth from his upbringing in Chitungwiza to becoming one of the country’s most visible young entrepreneurs. The luxury SUV, which is fully paid for, is set to be collected from Exquisite Car Dealership on Monday.

Hood, who holds qualifications in economics and banking, has built a diverse business portfolio spanning construction, energy, real estate, logistics, media, finance and fashion. He is also an award-winning hip-hop artist, author and motivational speaker. His popular track Ndaida Mari Ndina Mwari continues to resonate with audiences for its message on faith and success.

Beyond his business interests, Hood runs the Mudiwa Hood Foundation, which supports various charitable causes and youth initiatives. His motivational book, Shut Up & Make Money, has also positioned him as a mentor for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Chivayo described Hood as a “disciplined, hardworking and versatile young leader,” saying the gift was meant to encourage him to continue championing youth empowerment and personal development.

The recognition adds to Hood’s growing public profile and underscores the increasing visibility of young Zimbabwean entrepreneurs contributing to both business innovation and community upliftment.

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.