Moffat Mungazi
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
THE 8th-century Gelasian Sacramentary recorded the celebration of the Feast of Saint Valentine on February 14.
The day became linked to romantic love during the 14th and 15th centuries, a time when the ideals of courtly love were prominent, likely influenced by the symbolism of “lovebirds” that appeared in early spring.
The usually serene Buhera is set to come alive with excitement as it hosts the Miss Valentine’s beauty pageant, followed by an after-party bash, all in celebration of the month of love early mid next month.
A bevy of 20 beauties drawn from across Mutare, Buhera and other districts are expected to battle it out on the ramp for the Miss Valentine’s beauty contest slated for Elephant Lodges in Murambinda on February 14.
One of the organisers of the event, veteran hotelier, Adonis Mutigwe, said the initiative to host the inaugural beauty pageant is to increase community and business relations, raise awareness on the challenges affecting the girl child in Buhera, and ultimately empower the girl child through celebrating beauty and brains.
“The pageant, among other objectives, also aims to provide a platform to empower the girl child, celebrating, not only physical beauty, but also intellect, ambition, and resilience.
“By promoting these values, the pageant hopes to inspire confidence, create opportunities, and encourage meaningful dialogue on the importance of supporting girls’ rights and development in the region.
Through this event, the organisers hope to inspire confidence, foster self-esteem, and create lasting opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“Ultimately, the pageant aims to be a catalyst for positive transformation, sparking conversations around education, gender equality, and the importance of uplifting young women in the community.
“This is the first of its kind, and we are expecting local businesses to use the opportunity to market their services and products.
“With the event drawing significant attention, it provides an ideal platform for businesses to connect with potential customers, increase visibility, and strengthen their presence within the community.
“We believe this initiative will, not only highlight the beauty of the area, but also encourage local entrepreneurs to engage with the event and benefit from the exposure it offers.
“We are excited with the responses we are getting, and we are calling upon models who are willing to be part of the event to register before January 30. The first selection process will be held at Elephant Executive Lodges on Saturday, February 8, before the main event that will be held on Valentine’s Day,” said Mutigwe.
He added that a lot of prizes will be won.
Selected artistes will perform at the event which is expected to draw scores of people in Buhera and beyond.
The event will take place for the whole day.
He added: “A carefully selected roster of talented artistes will perform, ensuring a vibrant and diverse entertainment experience.
“With the event expected to draw a large crowd from Buhera and beyond, it promises to be a significant occasion for both the local community and visitors.”
