Zimbabwean born, Victoria Ncube (VN) was recently crowned Miss Teen of The Universe Zimbabwe in a prestigious ceremony which was held in Bulawayo, last month.

The 19-year-old pageant Queen is the founder of the non-profit organization ‘Lampink Foundation.’ My Afrika Magazine journalist, Tapiwanashe Rubaya (TR) had a special moment with Victoria deliberating on her achievements as the Queen. During their conversations she explains her ups and downs during her preparations for the pageant and how she will use her title to inspire other young models.

TR: Congratulations on your achievement as you were crowned Miss Teen of The Universe Zimbabwe. What does the title mean to you?

VN: Thank you so much. To me this title means using my platform to fight period poverty and shatter the shackles of menstrual stigma, while empowering young women to break barriers and shatter glass ceilings by stepping out of their comfort zones and chasing their dreams, regardless of their background, because I believe that with determination and hard work, the sky is truly the limit.

TR: Why did you selected to take part in this pageant instead of other platforms?

VN: This pageant does not only focus on empowering young girls and women but also installing a sense of culture in us the youth and that’s what made me interesting in taking part of it.

TR: What was your biggest fear when you entered the pageant and how did you manage to conquer it?

VN: My biggest fear was not fitting it with the rest of the contestants as they are very talented and amazing girls and I conquered it simply by being the most authentic version of myself.

TR: How are you going to use your platform to change the narrative that beauty is the only important classification that defines a beauty pageant Queen?

VN: I will continue working on my advocacy and growing my foundation that seeks to reduce period poverty in Zimbabwe and then people will actually see that beauty queens are not only about glitz and glamour.

TR: What lessons did you learn about yourself during the pageant and how are you going to use them to sharpen your future goals?

VN: I learnt that I’m a resilient and determined individual with a passion for helping others. I plan to continue developing my strengths, addressing my weaknesses, and pursuing opportunities that align with my values and passions such as growing Lampink Foundation my non-profit making organization to an international organization because my goal is not only to reduce period poverty in Zimbabwe but also globally.

TR: How do you plan to stay true to yourself while fulfilling the responsibility you are carrying as a Queen?

VN: I will continue seeking for guidance from God because I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for Him.

TR: Who is your inspiration in your journey?
VN: My inspiration is Miss Universe Zimbabwe Sakhile Dube. Not only does she have a passion for helping the needy but she is committed to showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.

TR: Which nations across the world are you planning to tour to in the coming years?

VN: I plan on traveling Africa as a whole to learn more on the different African cultures, immerse in vibrant music and arts and explore the magnificent natural beauty and wildlife.