From the vibrant streets of Bulawayo to the glamour and ambition of Los Angeles, Nomaqhikiza Mokoni is proving that dreams rooted in purpose can travel across continents.

The Zimbabwean-American based beauty, currently among the Top 18 finalists competing for the coveted Miss Universe Zimbabwe crown, is capturing attention not only for her elegance and striking presence, but for her authenticity, intellect, and heart for community upliftment.

In an exclusive conversation with My Kasi Magazine, Nomaqhikiza Mokoni opened up about her journey, her advocacy work, the pressures of public attention, and what it truly means to represent Zimbabwe on a global stage.

“I’m honestly feeling incredibly grateful,” she shared warmly.

“This journey has been emotional, exciting, humbling, and deeply meaningful in ways I didn’t fully expect.

“As someone who is used to building quietly and often independently, experiencing this level of love, encouragement, and support has been overwhelming in the most beautiful way.”

Now based in Los Angeles but proudly bred in Bulawayo, Noma as she is well referred by many carries Zimbabwe with her everywhere she goes.

For her, competing in Miss Universe Zimbabwe is about far more than beauty and pageantry it is about representation, identity, and inspiring a new generation of dreamers.

“Representing Zimbabwe on the global stage means everything to me,” she explained.

“It means representing our resilience, our beauty, our strength, our culture, and our ability to confidently occupy global spaces.”

She further said: “For me personally, it also means representation. I know what it feels like to grow up without always seeing certain possibilities reflected back at you.

“if my journey allows even one young Zimbabwean to believe differently about what is possible for their own life, then that means something deeply important to me,” said Noma.

Beyond the runway lights and competition glamour, Nomaqhikiza’s passion for philanthropy remains central to who she is.

She told My Kasi Magazine passionately about giving back to communities and ensuring young people, especially children, have access to opportunities that can shape brighter futures.

“Giving back has always been something close to my heart because I understand what it means to come from communities where resources are not always equally accessible,” she said.

Her advocacy work focuses strongly on educational support initiatives and mentoring aspiring fashion models who dream of breaking into the industry.

“I’m especially passionate about making sure children have access to the essentials they need to learn confidently and consistently,” she added.

Recently, the beauty queen found herself trending on social media after missing a scheduled photoshoot alongside fellow contestants sparking speculation online.

“I understand that it caused some confusion and speculation, but I want to assure my fans and supporters that I am still very much part of this competition,” she explained.

“I am hopeful that I will still get the opportunity to take part in the shoot and showcase my best self.”

Rather than responding emotionally to the online conversation, Noma chose grace and clarity.

“Honestly, moments like that remind you how quickly narratives can form in the public space,” she reflected.

“I’ve learned the importance of responding with clarity rather than emotion. For me, it was less about shutting anything down and more about addressing misinformation respectfully, because I believe people deserve truth and clarity.”

Grounded, ambitious, and deeply reflective, Nomaqhikiza says one personal motto continues to guide her through every chapter of her journey.

“Where you begin does not determine where you can go.”

“I love this because it reminds me and hopefully others that no matter where life starts you, your potential is not limited by your beginnings,” she said.

She further added that,it echoes to her to continue with her dreams.

“It’s a reminder to dream bigger, push boundaries, and believe that growth is always possible.”

As the Miss Universe Zimbabwe competition intensifies, one thing is undeniable Nomaqhikiza is more than a contestant.
She represents a modern Zimbabwean woman globally aware, community-driven, elegant, and fearless in occupying spaces once thought unreachable.

Pic Credit: Dorian Qi