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Hazel Kudakwashe Mlambo

Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter—
Dubai-based Zimbabwean born model Hazel Kudakwashe Mlambo has scaled new heights after she featured in an Emirates promo video. The video has been getting a couple of hits on YouTube. Mlambo who is a check agent for Emirates airline appears as a video vixen. She said she was happy with the achievement as it made her popular across Africa within the airline industry.

“I work for the popular airline as a check-in agent and many were surprised to hear that I am a Zimbabwean. That was quite an achievement for me because I have been a model doing fashion shows and represented my country well,” she said.

The soft-spoken beauty said modelling was her passion.

“I started modelling three years ago and last year I was voted Miss Talent at the Miss Dubai-Africa 2013. This then boosted my confidence as I am now a different person. Some people didn’t think I am from Zimbabwean but I have stood tall, marketing my country – its tourism and beauty,” she said.

Mlambo said modelling and fashion has taken her places.

She said she once worked with popular Senegalese designer Sali, who designed clothes for US singer Solange Knowles.

“I am now selling clothes online and happy with the response. I have also walked on ramp for Sali’s designs and it was a dream come true. I have also appeared on Safar magazine and been a cover girl for some foreign magazines too,” she said.

Mlambo said her mother was her role model.

“I owe my success to my mother. She has been with me through thick and thin. My mother always wanted me to be a model and I have proved to her that I can do it,” she said.

She cited appreciation and support as some of the challenges in the industry.

“Modelling can change the face of a country as it promotes tourism. Look at South Africa now apart from other resources, for winning the Miss World, the girl has put the country on the map. I urge people to appreciate and support modelling as it can sustain livelihoods,” she said.

Mlambo, who is back home for the festive season, said she was planning on returning for good.

“I want to bring what I have acquired from overseas to Zimbabwe. I am planning on working with some models and reputable agencies to promote my garments which I will be launching soon,” she said.