A rising model from Insiza District in Matabeleland South says modelling can empower women and give rural girls a platform to celebrate their culture and pursue opportunities beyond their communities.
Queen Belle, born Nomatter Silibele Mpofu, has gained recognition after being crowned Miss Rural Matabeleland South, earning the opportunity to represent the province at the national finals of the Miss Rural Zimbabwe pageant.
Growing up in rural Insiza, Queen Belle said her childhood was shaped by daily household chores, long walks to fetch water from the river and life in a close-knit rural community.
She said she never imagined that one day she would walk some of the country’s most prominent runways wearing African attire while celebrating her culture and identity.
Modelling as a platform for empowerment
Queen Belle said pageantry is more than beauty competitions and can be used as a tool for empowerment and representation.
“I see pageantry as a platform for empowerment, not just beauty. This is an opportunity that should give rural girls visibility and voice in broader conversations about opportunity and development,” she said.
She added that success in the modelling industry should also contribute to uplifting communities rather than focusing only on personal achievements.
“Success in the industry can encourage community upliftment, not just personal interests. This is how I want to contribute to its rise,” she said.
Encouraging professionalism in modelling
Queen Belle encouraged aspiring models to avoid shortcuts and focus on discipline, professionalism and proper training.
“As a model, one of the key things is to be punctual, be disciplined and always have a strong work ethic. I encourage aspiring models to undergo proper training in runway, posing, grooming and public speaking,” she said.
She also called for stronger protections for models in the industry, including fair contracts and mentorship programmes for emerging talent.
“I want to advocate for contracts and fair treatment of models. There is need to mentor and train upcoming models,” she said.
Promoting diversity and rural representation
Queen Belle said she hopes to help change perceptions about modelling by promoting diversity and broader representation within the industry.
“I would also like to change the narrative by promoting diversity and representation of rural girls, different body types and cultures. Social media can also be used to showcase local talent,” she said.
She credited her growth in modelling to Miss and Mr Rural Zimbabwe founder Sipho Mazibuko, who she said has played an important role in supporting and mentoring rural models.
Queen Belle said her artistic journey, which also includes poetry and music, has evolved from personal creative expression into a broader effort to celebrate rural life and inspire young people in her community.
By Granite Post Reporter