Yolanda Elizabeth Chimbarami has departed for Tokyo to represent Zimbabwe at the 63rd Miss International pageant, set to take place on 27 November 2025 at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium in Shibuya. Her participation marks a proud moment for the nation as she steps onto one of the world’s most prestigious stages as an emblem of Zimbabwean beauty, intellect, and purpose.
Yolanda is not only a model but a multifaceted creative force, an actress, philanthropist, and shoe designer whose career bridges entertainment, education, and advocacy. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Economics and Finance, she represents the modern Zimbabwean woman: globally minded, ambitious, and deeply grounded in community.
Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Yolanda’s rise has been defined by resilience and service. She co-founded Help a Child Save a Nation (HACSAN), a non-profit that supports tuition funding for 11 schools in Mashonaland Central Province. Through this initiative, hundreds of children have gained access to education and mentorship opportunities that would have otherwise been out of reach.
Her advocacy extends far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. Yolanda has addressed global forums, including a United Nations panel in Canada where she spoke on equitable access to education across Africa. As a Youth Ambassador for the Rick Hansen Foundation, she continues to amplify issues of accessibility, equality, and empowerment for young people worldwide.
Her creative career has been equally distinguished. Signed under Swish Model Management in Canada, she has appeared in several international productions including Windfall, Finally Caught, The Rabbit Hunter, and The Day My Job Tried to Kill Me. She also voices two characters in Disney’s Supa Strikas, a role that has made her a familiar voice among fans of African animation.
Yolanda’s growing list of accolades reflects her impact and versatility. She was named among the Top 3 Most Influential Youth in Canada (2022), Top 100 Female African Change Makers (South Africa), and is a World Championships of Performing Arts Gold Medal Winner (2018). Her earlier titles include Miss Intercontinental Zimbabwe (2022), where she placed Top 3 in Africa and Top 20 globally, and Zimbabwe Teen Model of the Year (2017).
Her selection to represent Zimbabwe at Miss International, one of the world’s “Big Four” pageants alongside Miss World, Miss Universe, and Miss Earth, underscores her role as a cultural ambassador for a new generation of Zimbabwean women breaking barriers on global stages.
Speaking before her departure, Yolanda expressed her gratitude and determination:
“Representing Zimbabwe on such a prestigious global platform is a dream come true. I carry the stories of my people, the resilience of my mother, and the courage of every young girl who believes she can change her world. My advocacy for education and empowerment is rooted in love for my country and love for humanity.”
Miss Zimbabwe Trust Director Patience Lusengo commended Yolanda’s achievement, calling it a moment of national pride. “Yolanda embodies the Zimbabwe we want the world to see, intelligent, compassionate, and determined. She represents the future of Zimbabwean women who are making a global impact while staying true to their roots. We encourage the nation to rally behind her as she carries our flag with grace and confidence.”
Yolanda will join contestants from over 70 countries for the Miss International Bootcamp from 10 to 31 November before competing in the grand finale. As she steps onto the global stage, her journey is more than a quest for a crown; it is a continuation of her mission to inspire, empower, and redefine what it means to represent Zimbabwe in the world today.
