A contestant participates in the Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe pageant in Harare, Zimbabwe, on July 4, 2026. (Photo by Tafara Mugwara)

NNA News – Contestants from across Zimbabwe gathered in Harare on Saturday for the Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe pageant, an event organised to mark International Albinism Awareness Day and provide a platform for discussions on the experiences of people living with albinism. The pageant, organised by the Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative (ADDI), was held under the theme "Proudly in My Skin." Contestants participated in a series of presentations and addressed the audience on issues affecting people with albinism in Zimbabwe.

Albinism is a genetic condition caused by reduced or absent production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of the skin, hair and eyes. People living with albinism often face visual impairment and an increased risk of skin damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. 

Contestant Tariro Chinyemba said she entered the competition to challenge misconceptions surrounding albinism and to encourage others living with the condition. "I am here to change the story, to rewrite everything, to be proudly in my skin," Chinyemba said. "I want to challenge the myths, change people's perceptions about albinism, and help other girls with albinism who have ever felt invisible to see their potential through me."

Another contestant, Nathaniel Madondo, said the pageant encouraged people with albinism and other skin conditions to accept themselves. "Proudly in my skin means that if you have albinism, or any skin condition, you should stand tall and be proud of who you are," Madondo said. According to the organisers, the event also sought to draw attention to the social, economic and health challenges experienced by people with albinism in Zimbabwe.

A contestant delivers a speech during the Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe pageant in Harare, Zimbabwe, on July 4, 2026. (Photo by Tafara Mugwara)

Brenda Mudzimu, founder and director of ADDI, said people with albinism should not feel compelled to apologise for their appearance. "We have to be proud of who we are," Mudzimu said. We do not have to apologise for who we are... Whichever skin you are in, you do not have to be afraid of society, discrimination, and stigma."

The event was also attended by Zimbabwean Senator Annah Shiri, who represents people with disabilities in Parliament. She said greater attention should be given to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities beyond awareness initiatives. "We need to move past charity. We do not want handouts," Shiri said. "Instead, we want economic inclusion, employment, opportunities, and a seat at the decision-making table."

A contestant participates in the Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe pageant in Harare, Zimbabwe, on July 4, 2026. (Photo by Tafara Mugwara)

The Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe pageant formed part of activities held in Zimbabwe to mark International Albinism Awareness Day, bringing together contestants, advocates and public representatives to discuss issues affecting people living with albinism.