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Lovemore Meya Arts Correspondent
Modelling fans will have something to smile about this Saturday when 20 ladies take to the ramp in the Miss Zimbabwe-Zambia beauty pageant slated for the Airport Lounge situated along Airport Road.
The beauty pageant comprises 10 girls from either country and Zambian beauties were expected in the country yesterday.

The welcome party will be held today at Private Lounge while a city tour and sashing ceremony take place tomorrow.

Pageant director and Size 4 agent boss Wilbert Rukato said the pageant celebrates African natural beauty.

“The aim of the pageant is to create a platform for models from both countries to share ideas, culture, create links and friendship.

“Zambian models are more exposed to continental modelling than our own and we believe that local models will benefit through shared experiences,” he said.

Rukato said the Zambian models will be accompanied by their 2006 queen, Naomi Enelis Banda.

“We want to create a lasting impression by having a queen to work with the models.

“Her task will include grooming models and her efforts will be rewarded with a package from the sponsors.”

Rukato said they will be a VIP entry for previous queens of any pageant that come with their crowns and sashes.

Six judges have been chosen to adjudicate and they include notable figures from modelling, fashion and beauty circles.

The winner of the crown will receive cash prize and other packages from sponsors Divine Assignments Promotions and Umnathi Talent Agency of Zambia.

The contestants will battle it out under the categories of evening wear, fashion wear, country wear and a talent section where models will engage in dancing, singing and public speaking competitions.

Entertainment at the pageant will come from Tocky Vibes, Nesto, Jamili, Team Penga Penga and Ice Kid. Last year the pageant was held in Lusaka, Zambia and Sophia Kasuma won the pageant in her country.