The crown now belongs to Ntandoyenkosi Mpofu.She emerged as the standout of Panthers Academy’s latest modelling showcase, taking the Miss Panthers Queen 2026 title in a night that placed Bulawayo’s young modelling talent firmly under the spotlight.

Rather than simply being another fashion event, the evening became a moment of recognition for models who have been working towards building their confidence, presence and identity on the runway.

When Ntandoyenkosi was announced as the new queen, the crowning brought the evening’s modelling journey to its defining moment. Minenhle finished as first runner-up, completing the top two in the women’s category.

The male crown went to Ashley Junior Chipayi, who was named Mr Panthers King 2026.

The future generation of Panthers models was also introduced, with Melisa Moyo taking the Miss Teen Panthers Queen 2026 crown and Thobani Lova being named Mr Teen Panthers King 2026. Mayibongwe Ngwenya was the first runner-up in the teen girls’ category, while Hope Ndlovu claimed the Little Miss Panthers 2026 title, with Elbethel Prayer Mabvovore finishing as runner-up.

For Panthers Academy coach and groomer Mzolisi Zibusiso Mtshayisa, the significance of the evening was not measured only by the number of crowns handed out.

He sees modelling as an industry in which young people need the right environment to develop their individuality, learn professionalism and eventually compete on much bigger stages.

“A crown is beautiful, but what matters most is what the young woman does with the confidence and platform that comes with it.

” Ntandoyenkosi now has an opportunity to grow, to learn and to represent herself with purpose. That is what makes a crowning meaningful,” Mtshayisa said.

His own experience in the modelling industry has influenced the way he works with emerging talent. Instead of viewing a model simply as someone who walks in front of an audience, he believes grooming should prepare them for the wider demands of the fashion industry.

“I have learnt that modelling is not only about appearance. It is about discipline, character, confidence and understanding how to carry yourself in different spaces.

When you are preparing someone for the international fashion world, you have to teach them how to become a complete model, not just how to walk a runway,” he said.

That philosophy was reflected on the runway as the models took their turns before the audience, giving designers a platform to showcase their work while allowing the contestants to demonstrate their presentation, poise and ability to command attention.
The showcase also highlighted the growing importance of modelling platforms in Bulawayo.

For many young contestants, stepping onto the runway is no longer simply about winning a sash or title. It can be the beginning of a professional journey involving portfolios, fashion campaigns, collaborations with designers and photographers, and opportunities to compete beyond Zimbabwe.

For Bulawayo, such platforms are also important in discovering and nurturing talent that might otherwise remain unseen. The city has produced models with ambitions extending beyond the local fashion scene, and consistent training and exposure can help transform those ambitions into international opportunities.
Mtshayisa believes the potential is already there.

“Bulawayo has talent. What we need is consistency platforms where models can be seen, trained and given opportunities to grow. If we continue creating those spaces, there is no reason why a model from Bulawayo cannot eventually stand on an international runway and compete with the best,” he said.

With Ntandoyenkosi now carrying the Panthers Queen crown, the attention moves beyond the celebration itself to what she will do with the platform.
Her new title gives her an opportunity to grow her profile, represent the academy and continue developing into a model capable of carrying her presence into wider fashion spaces.