William Masvinu, the reigning champ of Mr. Ugly
The unusual pageantry has received record numbers of those wishing to participate this year.
13 November 2015 15:36
Brilio.net/en - The "Mr. Ugly" pageant has been going on since 2011.
The reigning champ, William Masvinu (pictured above) will face stiffer competition this year because more and more people are joining on the fun.
William Masvinu has been the winner since 2012 when there were only five contestants. He won $100 and a night's stay at a hotel, which he cashed in as food.
Organizer David Machowa said that this year will be the first time the contest is holding a preliminary round in order to whittle the number of contestants from 36 to 12.
"We are looking for natural ugliness," Machowa said.
Facial features make up the bulk of the judges' consideration. But a contestant's confidence strutting the runway as well as answers to questions lobbed by the judges will also factor in.
"People have always seen ugliness is something to be ashamed of," said Machowa, explaining why he launched this alternative pageant. "Looks are God given. We should all be proud of who we are."
This year, owners of a few Harare nightclubs have donated well over $1000 in prize money, a crown, and venue for the event.
