The Women in Gemstone Association of Zimbabwe (WIGAZ) has handed over the uniquely crafted “Maribwe Crown” to the Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe organisation.
The crown is set to be given to the winner of this year’s pageant.
The handover took place during a breakfast meeting early this month in Harare, in what was described as a move towards championing local value addition and girl child empowerment.
The “Maribwe Crown”, whose name is derived from the Karanga word “mabwe”, meaning “stones”, is more than just an emblem of beauty — it is a profound symbol of cultural heritage, resilience and empowerment.
“Each element of the crown has been meticulously handcrafted by skilled WIGAZ members using a vibrant array of locally sourced Zimbabwean gemstones,” said Ruvimbo Kadenhe, WIGAZ secretary.
“The creation of the ‘Maribwe Crown’ is a direct reflection of WIGAZ’s core vision — to champion value addition within Zimbabwe's rich gemstone sector. As WIGAZ, we believe in showcasing the immense talent and potential of Zimbabwean women in transforming raw materials into exquisite works of art.
“This crown embodies that belief, highlighting the beauty and worth that can be unlocked through local craftsmanship.”
Beyond its material value, the “Maribwe Crown” carries deep symbolic meanings.
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The carefully selected local gemstones are imbued with narratives of peace, resilience, and various spiritual connotations unique to their mineral properties. A prominent feature of the crown is the inclusion of the iconic Zimbabwean bird, symbolising unity and the collective spirit of the nation.
“By adorning the future Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe, the ‘Maribwe Crown’ becomes a powerful beacon for the empowerment of women and the girl child,” Kadenhe said.
“It signifies that true beauty emanates from strength, inner resilience, and a deep connection to one’s roots and purpose.
“It serves as an inspiration for young girls across Zimbabwe to recognise their own inherent value, embrace their potential, and understand that, like these precious gemstones, they too can be polished into a radiant force for good.”
The Miss Teen of the Universe Zimbabwe pageant is scheduled for July 26.
WIGAZ representatives have announced that they will be present, supporting the girl child.
WIGAZ is a pioneering organisation dedicated to empowering women within Zimbabwe's gemstone sector.
They focus on skills development, value addition, market access and promoting ethical practices, ensuring that women play a central and beneficial role in the extraction, processing, and marketing of local gemstones.
