At just 12 years old, Yamikani Shammah Marasha is proving to be one of Zimbabwe’s brightest young talents—an exceptional girl whose gifts stretch far beyond the runway.
A learner at Chivaraidze Primary School, she continues to build an inspiring journey that blends modeling, public speaking, philanthropy, creativity, and leadership.
Yamikani is currently in Kigali, Rwanda, proudly representing Zimbabwe at the ongoing Pan African Debate and Public Speaking Competitions, running from 21–24 November.
The prestigious event has brought together gifted young speakers from across the continent, giving her an opportunity to compete, collaborate, and grow her influence as an emerging African leader.
Her journey started early. She entered the world of modeling at just five years old, making her debut at Little Miss Zimbabwe where she won the People’s Choice and Brand Ambassador awards. Since then, she has earned an impressive list of titles—including Most Promising Model, Fashion Model, Best Personality, Rising Star, and Top Model.
Her dedication led to her being crowned Little Miss Global Zimbabwe 2024, securing her place at the Little Mr and Miss Global pageant in Malaysia in April 2026.
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But Yamikani’s talent extends far beyond pageantry. She is a thriving commercial model who has worked with well-known brands such as Kids and Teen Hub, Kids & Co, Mucheno Wevana.com, Playtime Queen’s Park Apparel, Edgars, and Creambell Zimbabwe.
Her creativity is limitless—she is a self-taught gymnast, poet, storyteller, singer, budding instrumentalist, and a confident public speaker.
Her passion for service makes her stand out. Yamikani is the young founder of three philanthropic initiatives:
- Feed One Share One Campaign
- Sole to Soul – 100 Pairs for 100 Smiles
- Period Power to Every Girl
Her humanitarian work earned her recognition at the Africa Kidpreneur Summit in Tanzania, where she received an award and was named Ambassador for the Africa Kidpreneur Summit.
Her growing experience—performing, competing, and connecting with diverse audiences—has shaped her into the articulate and confident young leader she is becoming. She has also represented Zimbabwe in South Africa as a storyteller, ranking in the Top 10 out of 48 pupils from across SADC.
As she competes in Rwanda, her mother, Sarah Marasha, says she is proud to see her daughter take on a new challenge that will enrich her confidence, build international friendships, and strengthen her profile.
While modeling remains a major part of her life, Yamikani’s participation in the Pan-African competition marks a defining moment—an expansion of her identity as a young Zimbabwean leader rising boldly onto the continental stage.
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