ZIMBABWE’S Rosanna Hall was among the top three finalists at this year’s Mnet Face of Africa finals, barely missing out on the top prize which went to Zambia’s Lukundo Nalungwe.
The 17-year-old model from Harare was put up a strong showing at the glamorous continental event and emerged among the top three girls along with Mozambique’s Ernania Rainha Manuel in a tense final held at a Lagos Hotel on Saturday.
Hall was one of two Zimbabweans who made it to the finals of the continent’s premier modelling event along with 23-year-old Tholakele Dlamini of Bulawayo.
However it was Zambia’s Nalungwe who clinched the life-changing top prize which comes with US$50 000 in prize money and a modelling contract.
“I am grateful to the Lord and Zambians for having been with me in their prayers.
“There are so many girls who could have easily been picked as winners and for everybody who supported me, I say thank you…I am honoured,” the 22-year-old accounting student said.
The finalists were selected from an initial batch of over 400 entrants.
Meanwhile Lukundo will start her new career with a trip to America this week to take part in the New York Fashion week.
She however insists that despite winning the glamorous award, she will not stop her education.
“I know this has opened doors to many things but I will remain focused. I am writing my examinations in June and I will remain myself,” she said.
Other finalists were drawn from Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya, Angola and South Africa.