Natalie Mageza: Zim ex-refugee to represent Britain on global stage

By stokesentinel.co.uk

LONDON: A Stoke-on-Trent mum-of-one who moved from Zimbabwe as a refugee at the age of 13 – is set to represent Great Britain on the global stage. Natalie Mageza, 26, was recently crowned Universal Woman Great Britain 2024.

The national beauty pageant took place in Chorley. Natalie will now represent Great Britain at the Universal Woman international competition, where she will compete with women from all over the globe.

Previous international finals have been held in Dubai and Cambodia, and Natalie will soon discover the exciting location for the 2024/25 edition. The Universal Woman Great Britain competition, for women aged 25-45, champions the unique brilliance and beauty of women, making a positive impact in the world today.

The pageant provides women opportunities to gain confidence, skills, and friendships, as well as opening doors for their future. Natalie is a devoted mother to her three-year-old son and is currently studying policing and criminal investigation at university, with the aim of becoming a homicide detective.

Her journey to the crown is a story of resilience and inspiration. Moving from Zimbabwe as a refugee at age 13, Natalie was taken into the care system shortly after arriving in the UK. With the support of her incredible foster parents, she has overcome numerous challenges and hopes to inspire other children in the care system.

Natalie began her pageant journey in 2018 after being scouted at a dance show. Her passion for advocacy is evident in her project, Teacher (Teach-Her), which aims to educate communities about gender-based violence and support charities that help women and children take their first steps toward independence.

“Gender-based violence is an issue that affects women globally, and I hope that bringing my project to the Universal Woman stage will bring more attention to this issue and give hope to victims that someone out there is speaking up for them,” Natalie shared.

The Universal Woman Great Britain title not only recognizes Natalie’s beauty and poise but also her dedication to making a difference. As she prepares for the international competition, Natalie is eager to showcase her advocacy on a global stage and inspire others with her story.