Faith Ndlovu, Sunday Life Reporter
IN a remarkable display of determination and resolve, 21-year-old Amanda Peresu Moyo has become a beacon of hope for many young women in Zimbabwe after she clinched the Silver Voice of Change title at the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024 pageant held in the capital.
Hippodrome, Amanda exemplifies the essence of Zimbabwean excellence and is poised to inspire future generations.
Amanda’s decision to enter the Miss Universe pageant was deeply rooted in her life experiences and values. She viewed this opportunity as a platform to amplify her voice, inspire others and drive meaningful change.
Competing against 18 contestants in May, her commitment to advocacy shines through her diverse pursuits; she is an Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering student at the National University of Science and Technology (Nust), a philanthropist, a nature enthusiast, a table tennis player and the founder of the Amanda Green Foundation, which aims to empower young girls and women.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday Life, Amanda shared how receiving the Miss Universe Zimbabwe 2024 Silver Voice of Change award has elevated her platform to address pressing environmental challenges both nationally and globally.
“As we work towards breaking bias, I host and participate in programs focusing on women’s empowerment and gender equality,” she stated.
“Winning this award shows that my voice is being heard, and I’m on the right path to positively transform the world through the Amanda Green Foundation.”
Amanda’s commitment to Stem(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) as a woman in Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, highlights the importance of empowering women. “Empowering women is empowering a nation,” she declared.
Her passion for nature and wildlife drives her advocacy to preserve the environment, recognising the unique struggles faced by women in agricultural communities impacted by climate change.
“I believe that by empowering each other, women can achieve their goals through mentorship and collaboration, creating a supportive circle of strength,” she added.
Amanda emphasised the necessity of proactive change, urging individuals not to wait for someone else to make a difference. “Change will not come if we remain passive, be the change you want to see—everyone is capable of making an impact,” she noted.
She encouraged young people to balance their passions with their commitments and shared her strategy of scheduling and prioritising, supported by a strong network of friends and mentors.
“My mission is to keep making a difference and to be a voice for the voiceless. I will not stop until the vision of ‘A Green and Empowered Future’ is a reality,” she said.
Amanda’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and purpose, as she continues to inspire a movement toward empowerment and environmental stewardship in Zimbabwe.