Little Miss Africa Zim Queen speaks out
THE art of stealthily and elegantly walking the red carpet doing the catwalk has been gracefully mastered by 12-year-old Shania Hwara.
To some cat-walking might not be a career path but this little shining star has carved her path to success at a very tender age.
Having started modelling in 2022 contesting in Miss Elementary Zimbabwe, Shania did not stop there, she went on to compete at the Little Mr and Miss Africa (Zimbabwe) 2023 in Harare, beating other 22 young aspiring models.
By the way, Little Mr and Miss Africa is a continental competition for boys and girls ranging from ages 4 to 16 which promotes culture, tourism, and networking.
The pageant also grooms and educates children from diverse racial, political, cultural and social background to be global ambassadors. Countries that took part included Zimbabwe, Uganda, Nigeria, Zambia, Kenya, South Africa, Gambia, Sierra Leone and Botswana.
Youth Interactive Section caught up with Shania who shared her experiences on what is like to be a young beauty queen. “From the day I became Little Miss Africa Zimbabwe I experienced a lot of things like being honoured and respected,” she said.
“At school, I am always attending big events as a guest and it makes me happy.”
Though she faces challenges in her chosen path, Shania said she wants to be a judge when she finishes school.
“When I grow up I want to be a judge because I want to maintain peace and order in my country Zimbabwe.”
“In my journey so far l have faced financial challenges and I am unable to purchase some of the things needed.”
“At times I fail to travel for events and tours.”
“I am not getting any support from sponsors despite the numerous applications,” she said.
“Like now l need sponsors for my passport and trip to Nigeria.”
Speaking on how this has impacted her academics, the reigning queen who holds her education high regard is a Grade 7 pupil at Kudzanai Primary School in Highfield, Harare.
She said she knows how to balance school and modelling.
“I am not having any challenges in school as I am getting used to the pressure every day.” “When I get back from school each day, I do my chores and rehearse.”
“It was hard at first, but now I am managing,” she explained.
The talented model said she owes everything to God.
“Every day I pray to God that all my wishes come true.
“I want to remain focused so that I achieve my goals.”
However, Shania is set to leave for Nigeria in March for a regional competition.
The Little Mister and Miss Africa has officially opened its online voting giving the public an opportunity to support their country’s representatives.
The grand finale is to be held on March 29 at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, in Nigeria.
Winners are set to become Africa’s Next Little Ambassadors.
According to organisers, online voting contributes 20 percent of the overall score of each contestant.
Voting is done daily and you can only vote once until March 27 March.