In a resounding celebration of beauty, talent, and advocacy, the Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative (ADDI) hosted the inaugural Mr and Miss Albinism Africa Pageant 2025 at the prestigious Crowne Plaza (Monomotapa Hotel) in Harare, Zimbabwe on June 28, 2025.

The pageant aimed to promote inclusion, accessibility, and well-being for people with albinism. Despite the initial interest from 20 African countries, six countries and 10 contestants ultimately participated due to challenges in securing sponsorship for travel. This highlights the need for continued advocacy to address accessibility and inclusion barriers faced by people with albinism.

Zimbabwe’s Lordwin Rimire stole the show, claiming the coveted title of Mr Albinism Africa 2025, while Danielle Boima Garrick from Sierra Leone was crowned Miss Albinism Africa 2025. This triumph marks a milestone for Zimbabwe, showcasing the country’s vibrant culture and talent.

Rimire said: “Winning the Mr. Albinism Africa 2025 title is not just a personal achievement, but a responsibility to drive change. I will use the platform to challenge existing stereotypes and advocate for equal opportunities, access to essential resources, and protection for individuals with albinism across Africa.”

Albinism Health Advocate from Botswana, Malebogo Ralethaka added: “Events like the Mr and Miss Albinism Africa pageant provide a powerful platform to counteract stigma often associated with albinism. By celebrating beauty in all its forms, these initiatives work to dismantle harm, promoting a greater understanding of diversity within Africa.”

The event was made possible by the following partners and sponsors:

• Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative
• Envision Studios
• Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism
• Godfrey Mphatswe Foundation
• Centre for Albinism Rights and Empowerment
• Zimbabwe Albino Association
• Etiquette HR Consultant
• Southern Africa Youth Forum
• DreamMakers Events Management
• NetOne Zimbabwe
• The British Embassy Harare
• Highlands Lodges and Apartments
• Lebikwe’s Palace
• MedOrange Pharmacies
• Wedding Centre
• Doves Funeral Services Zimbabwe
• Wasu The Make Up Artist
• SNG Hardware
• Ekhaya
• Tru Fresh
• Ladies Circle
• Diamond Pharmacy
• Tendo
• Amor by Nancy
• Dr Gure

The event also featured entertainment performances from Baba Shupi (Zimbabwe), The DreamMakers (Zimbabwe), Stephanie (Zimbabwe), Rosemary N. Ezechukwu (Nigeria), and GMC (Zimbabwe).

The pageant will be an annual event, with next year’s edition scheduled to take place in West Africa, specifically Sierra Leone.