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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Arts Reporter
Miss Zimbabwe World 2015 finalist Hilda Mabu has turned into commercial modelling but still remains a catwalk beauty. Mabu, who made it to the top 15 at last year’s finals, said everything happens for a reason and she does not regret losing in the pageant. Although she does not wish to take part in the pageant again, she values the experience she got and believes commercial modelling will be her means to earn a living.

In an interview, Mabu said commercial modelling is the way to go and the sector is improving by the day.

“I won’t take part this year at the Miss Zimbabwe World. I think my share is done on that platform. I am happy that it has opened doors for me as I have many endorsement deals coming each day. So far I have done billboards for reputable companies like Econet and NetOne. I have done fashion shows across Africa, recently I was in South Africa, participating at the just ended All Africa Fashion Week and I was invited for Swahili Fashion Week but couldn’t go because of other commitments during the festive season,” she said.

She said started modelling at the age of 17.

“I am passionate about modelling. I remember taking part in Miss Harare at the age of 17 and I was voted first princess while renowned catwalk queen Vanessa Sibanda won the title. I became Miss Earth Zimbabwe in 2011 and I was also Miss 21st February Movement and my greatest of them all was the Miss Supranational World which was held in Poland and I was second runner-up for Africa,” she said.

The lanky model said the sky is the limit for her.

“Look how Naomi Campbell started and where she is now. I will not stop modelling. Modelling is a career and should be taken seriously to sustain livelihoods. Fashion models promote clothing and accessories to fashion buyers, customers and the media. They might participate in fashion shows, or be on photographs for catalogues, magazines, newspapers and advertising campaigns,” she said.

She said she was inspired by Nigerian supermodel Oluchi Onweagba.

“My role model is Oluchi from Nigeria — a supermodel entrepreneur and television presenter known for exposing Africa to the world with her modelling experience. She has given girls across Africa hope and opportunity that they can do it,” she said.