Fresh from being crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2025, Tinewimbo Dupute’s journey is characterized by her dedication to raising awareness about critical environmental issues such as deforestation, water scarcity, and pollution.

Tinewimbo (TD) had a moment with MyAfrika Magazine reporter Ronald Gwatidzo (RG) to talk about her journey, inspiration and vision for a cleaner, greener Zimbabwe. In this candid conversation, the reigning queen opens up about her humble beginnings, her late father’s memory, her mother’s resilience, and her commitment to driving environmental change through her platform.

RG: First of all, congratulations on being crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2025. How do you feel?
TD: Being crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2025 is truly an incredible honour. I feel humbled to have been appointed to represent my country on a platform that not only celebrates beauty but also champions environmental responsibility.

RG: Take us through the journey to the crown.
TD: The journey to being crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2025 has been nothing short of transformative. It all began with the Miss Nature Zimbabwe pageant, where I was one of approximately 100 ladies from across the country. From the very beginning, the competition was intense and inspiring. As the competition progressed, we were cut down during the semi-final round to 20, which was a major milestone for me. This stage challenged us to demonstrate not only poise and presence but also our understanding of environmental issues and our ability to be role models.

From there, we advanced to the finals where the top five finalists were selected. I was proud and honoured to be among them, ultimately placing third overall as Miss Nature Zimbabwe 2nd Runner-Up 2024. Each of the top five winners was then awarded an international title aligned with the Miss Nature platform. I was deeply humbled when I was officially crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe 2025, as this is a title that aligns perfectly with my values, passions, and the work I am committed to doing.

To me, this crown represents more than recognition—it is a responsibility, a call to action to serve as a voice for environmental change, to educate, to empower, and to lead with purpose.

RG: What has been your source of strength and motivation in your modelling career?
TD: Throughout my career, my greatest source of strength and motivation has always been my mother. I was raised by a single mother—unfortunately, my father was involved in a fatal accident when my mom was pregnant with me. I have had the privilege of witnessing her unwavering strength, perseverance, and determination firsthand. She worked tirelessly to ensure that my brother and I had every opportunity to succeed, even in the face of challenges.

Her ability to remain resilient and focused, no matter the circumstances, has been a profound source of inspiration for me. Beyond my mother’s influence, I have also been driven by a strong desire to unlock my full potential and become the best version of myself. In this industry, it’s easy to become distracted or discouraged, but I continually remind myself that modelling is not just about beauty—it’s about representing who I am and what I stand for. I am motivated by the idea that with every step I take, I am growing, evolving, and learning more about myself and the world around me.

RG: Let’s go back a bit. How would you describe Tinewimbo Dupute, and how was she raised?
TD: Tinewimbo is a resilient, purpose-driven young woman shaped by a life of love, strength, and perseverance. My upbringing was grounded in discipline, humility, and compassion. My mother—my pillar of strength—worked tirelessly to provide for our family, instilling in me values of hard work, integrity, and self-belief. My childhood and upbringing are a testament not only to the power of a mother’s love but also to the importance of community and collective support from family and friends.

RG: I understand you’re a UZ alumna. What did you study and why?
TD: I studied actuarial science because I have always been passionate about mathematics and problem-solving. I was drawn to this field because it challenges me intellectually and offers opportunities to make a meaningful impact by helping organizations make informed, data-driven decisions.

RG: What are some of the challenges you’re facing as a modelling professional in Zimbabwe?
TD: The industry is still growing and evolving in Zimbabwe, and there is a need for stronger regulation and support to ensure fair and professional practices for all models. A key challenge is the limited infrastructure and resources available, which can make it difficult to access comprehensive training and professional opportunities.

Additionally, financial constraints are a reality for many models, especially when it comes to participating in international competitions. I personally have been blessed to be sponsored by the Green Dollar Coin. Over and above that, these challenges should be seen not just as setbacks but as opportunities for growth and improvement. I am confident that with continued collaboration and investment, the modelling industry in Zimbabwe will continue to flourish.

RG: Given the chance, what would you correct or make better in pageantry?
TD: Pageantry has historically celebrated beauty and poise. I believe its true potential lies in empowering individuals to become multifaceted ambassadors of change—champions of social, environmental, and cultural progress. Great strides have already been made in this direction, with many pageants increasingly emphasizing advocacy, education, and community impact alongside traditional elements. But I believe there is still more work to be done in this regard.

RG: Now that you have the crown, what’s your pledge?
TD: I pledge to champion responsible waste management as a cornerstone of environmental sustainability in our country. I commit to raising awareness about the impacts of improper waste disposal and the urgent need for reducing, reusing, and recycling to protect our communities and natural ecosystems. Through education and community engagement, I aim to inspire collective action that transforms how we manage waste—turning challenges into opportunities for a cleaner, healthier Zimbabwe.

RG: Any glass ceilings you still want to break in your career, Miss Earth Zimbabwe?
TD: The glass ceiling I most aspire to break is the one that limits women’s leadership in both environmental advocacy and broader societal roles. I want to be a trailblazer who exemplifies that empowered women can lead with strength, intelligence, and compassion—inspiring others to believe in their own potential.

I draw inspiration from remarkable women leaders like the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Hon. Evelyn Ndlovu, and the CEO of Minerva Risk Advisors, Lydia Tanyanyiwa. These women exemplify how women can successfully lead major organizations and drive impactful change. Breaking this ceiling means challenging outdated perceptions and opening doors for more women to take on leadership positions in all sectors. By embodying resilience, determination, and professionalism, I hope to show that success and empowerment are achievable—no matter the obstacles.

RG: What would you advise anyone out there who wishes to walk your path?
TD: My advice is, above all else, put God first. Let faith be your foundation and guide, providing strength and clarity when the path feels uncertain. Trust that with God’s guidance, your efforts will bear fruit in due time.

Then surround yourself with positive influences—family or friends who believe in you and will support you through the highs and lows. Invest in yourself through education, skill development, or self-care, because becoming the best version of yourself is the foundation of success. And lastly, stay grounded in your values and use your platform not only to elevate yourself but to inspire and uplift others.