History Made: Yollanda Chimbarami's Global Win Injects Life Into Zim Beauty Industry
Written By:
Oudney Patsika,
the Chief Editor at
Sona Headlines
Master Steward at
Leaders Mandate AND
Custodian of Vocation at
Polaris SuperBrands
Event: Miss International 2025 (Tokyo, Japan) | Achievement: 1st Runner-Up & Miss International Africa
Zimbabwe’s Miss International journey has come full circle. National pride is at an all-time high following Yollanda Chimbarami’s historic performance on the global stage in Tokyo. As she prepares to touch down in Zimbabwe tomorrow, her success is set to inspire a new chapter in the nation's pageantry landscape.
Rewriting History
Last week in Tokyo, Japan, Yollanda competed against more than 60 contestants to emerge as the First Runner-Up at Miss International 2025. She also secured the continental crown of Miss International Africa 2025.
This is a watershed moment for Zimbabwe. For the first time, the nation stands among the top two in a "Big Four" pageant (Miss World, Miss Universe, Miss International, Miss Earth), surpassing previous records set by icons like Angeline Musasiwa.
The global title went to Catalina Duque of Colombia.
Beauty, Brains & Talent
Yollanda is a multi-talented artist, scholar, and entrepreneur who has made her mark across various fields.
Her acting portfolio includes international films available on Amazon and Netflix, such as "Windfall," "In Plain Sight," and "Finally Caught."
Notably, she lent her voice to Disney’s animated series "Supa Strikas: Rookie Season," showcasing her versatility beyond the runway.
Yollanda places a strong emphasis on education. She holds a degree in Business and Information Systems from the University of Manitoba, Canada, and is currently working toward a Master's degree in Economics and Finance.
As a model starting at age 16, she has walked the ramp for top designers such as David Tlale and Danielle Allen. She is also a shoe designer, further cementing her status as a fashion entrepreneur.
A Heart for Service
As an ambassador for education, Yollanda co-founded "Help a Child Save a Nation" (HACSAN). The initiative currently supports 172 children in rural schools within Mashonaland Central Province.
Her vision is ambitious: "They push me to dream bigger... to grow from supporting 172 children to reaching one million. Imagine being able to restore hope, dignity, and opportunity to a child every single term?"
Following a poignant visit to UNICEF, Yollanda remarked:
"It is painful to learn what so many children go through... Yet hearing their stories reignites something powerful inside me: a responsibility, a calling, a purpose."
She has served as a United Nations panelist and a youth ambassador for the Rick Hansen Foundation, championing peace and education.
The Homecoming
ARRIVAL
Harare, Zimbabwe
Touching down tomorrow to celebrate with the nation.
As her global campaign wraps up, focus shifts back home. Many industry players are expecting her to exchange notes with local pageantry organizers to inspire the next generation. Yollanda's motto, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," continues to drive her forward.
Match Panels to Inverter
Tips for optimal system performance.
3.5kVA Inverter Load Guide
Explore residential setup capabilities.
Best Solar Panels Zimbabwe
Analysis of performance and durability.
Solar Companies Zimbabwe
Customer service and reliability.
Best Solar Panel Brands
Guide for home and business solutions.
Solar Installers Zimbabwe
Professional and certified installers.
3kVA System Cost Guide
Get pricing information for Zimbabwe.
5kVA System Cost Guide
Budget requirements for systems.
David (Solar Sales)