In a dazzling spectacle, 21-year-old Brooke Bruk-Jackson, hailing from Harare, was crowned the new Miss Universe Zimbabwe on Saturday night at the Harare Hippodrome.

With her radiant beauty and grace, Brooke earned the coveted ticket to represent Zimbabwe at the 72nd Miss Universe competition, scheduled for November 18 in the picturesque El Salvador.

The journey to this historic moment marked Zimbabwe’s triumphant return to the global stage of the Miss Universe, ending a 22-year absence.

Thanks to the dedication and determination of Miss Tendai Hunda, Director of Miss Universe Zimbabwe, the country reclaimed its place among the world’s most beautiful contestants.

The last time Zimbabwe participated was back in 2001, represented by Miss Tsungai Muswerakuenda.

The Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2023 pageant also saw the crowning of two remarkable women.

Nokutenda Marumbwa, the former Queen of Zambia 2022 and Miss University of Zambia first runner-up 2022, was named First Princess. Amanda Ziyambi Mpofu, a former Miss Zimbabwe Grand first runner-up, proudly took the title of Second Princess.

The judging panel, consisting of distinguished personalities such as Simba Chinyemba, CEO of Kuvimba Mining House; Karin Coric, Principal and CEO of Top Model Zimbabwe; Pokello Nare, Creative Director of Pink Bottoms shoe brand and Pokello Nail Lacquer;

Luis Munana, known for his role in the Netflix hit “Young, Rich, and African” Season 2; businesswoman Zodwa Mkandla; and former Miss Universe Zimbabwe 1996, Langa Lloyd, had the challenging task of selecting the winners.

Entertainment was provided by celebrated musicians, including Diamond Musica, Prudence Katomeni-Mbofama, Enzo Ishall, Takura, and the sensational Nutty O, who closed the show in grand style.

Tich Mawoni and Becky K, the dynamic duo, hosted the event, keeping the audience engaged and enthralled throughout the night.

Shortly after her coronation, My Afrika Magazine had the privilege of speaking to the newly crowned Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2023, Brooke Bruk-Jackson, who was overflowing with joy at the opportunity to represent her beloved country.

“I have been modelling for a few years, I have travelled the world a little bit, modelled in Cape Town as well, but this was my first pageant,” she shared.

“I am promising to make our country proud. I am going to be a true representative of our country, taking a piece of our beloved culture across the world to show people who truly Zimbabweans are, our uniqueness, our culture, and what makes us special.”