Crowns In Sight as Namibian Queens Take Shape
The journey to crown Miss Namibia and Miss Teen Namibia 2025 has begun, with the top 10 finalists announced and nationwide activities already under way.
The top 10 finalists for both titles were recently unveiled in Windhoek, marking the start of a season that embraces the diversity and excellence of Namibian women and girls.
Miss Namibia Organisation chief executive Umbi Karuaihe-Upi describes the atmosphere as positive.
“It is always hard for the contestants who didn’t make it, but I guess it is part of competitions,” she says.
“It gives them the opportunity to learn about good sportsmanship and to be courageous enough to handle defeat and try again next time.”
What the Judges Were Looking For
This year’s judging panel comprises Stella Ipinge, Tjuna Daringo, Gladwin Groenewaldt and principal judge Gerine Hoff.
“The judges look for delegates who can represent Namibia locally and internationally in a fashion that is congruent with high international standards,” says Karuaihe-Upi.
This includes intelligence, eloquence, confidence and a pleasant personality, combined with beauty.
The panel was impressed with the wide range of professional and academic backgrounds of contestants, including doctors, legal experts and teachers.
Among the Miss Namibia top 10 is 25-year-old Melissa /Uises from Windhoek. She describes her crowning moment as surreal.
“I was in complete disbelief. I had to ask someone to repeat my name just to be sure,” she says.
/Uises’ philosophy on beauty reflects a deep sense of purpose and compassion.
“For me, beauty is more than just the outer shell, it’s about how you treat other people, how you show up in the world and how you carry yourself,” she says.
She views the Miss Namibia platform as a bridge between influence and impact.
“It offers women a space to showcase their capabilities, not just their looks. It’s an opportunity to educate, inspire and uplift others through your journey,” she says.
/Uises says reaching the top 10 has already been a life-changing experience.
“This journey has taught me so much about resilience, preparation and the power of sisterhood. Being among these incredible women reminds me that Namibian women are a force.”
At just 15 years old, Sylleste Nandago’s inclusion in the Miss Teen Namibia top 10 is a testament to her courage and poise.
Representing the next generation of Namibian role models, her excitement was out of this world.
“My heart was pounding, and I was in shock,” she recalls.
“I was super happy and proud of myself for making it this far.”
For Nandago, this platform goes far beyond wearing a crown.
“Being in the top 10 has boosted my confidence. It’s helped me overcome my fears and realise my potential.
“I am hoping to grow as a person and as a model, and become more confident. I want to use this opportunity to inspire other girls my age to be bold and fearless.”
From Ruacana Falls to the Royal Palace
The finalists kicked off their roadshow at Ruacana Falls’ Omulunga Lodge.
“We are treated like royalty,” Karuaihe-Upi says.
The roadshow route this year focuses on northern Namibia, with the team travelling through the Oshana, Omusati, Ohangwena and Oshikoto regions.
Key stops include Etosha National Park in partnership with Namibia Wildlife Resorts, and the historic Ondonga Palace, where the finalists will be hosted by Miss Namibia 2025 patron Queen Adelheid Nangolo.
The queen at the preliminary event over the weekend said this year marks the beginning of a new chapter where cultural heritage and modern expression are not at odds but complement each other.
“The power of a woman is not diluted by her tradition, but enhanced when she is rooted in her culture,” she said.
Empowering Rural Youth and Celebrating Culture
In recent years, the Miss Namibia Organisation expanded beyond pageantry into a fully fledged social movement.
“It is empowering the rural youth by travelling throughout the rural areas to give motivational speeches at schools,” Karuaihe-Upi says.
Last year alone, the team visited schools at Aminius, Epukiro, Otjinene, Okahitua, Impalila Island and in Kavango East alongside universities and urban schools in Windhoek and Lüderitz.
Cultural preservation is also high on the agenda.
The finalists participate in visits to Namibia’s living museums, including those of the Damara, Mbunza, Mafwe, Khwe San and Himba people, among others.
These encounters provide an immersive way to promote Namibia’s hidden treasures and traditional lifestyles to both locals and international audiences.
All roads now lead to the Ongwediva Trade Fair Hall, where the crowning of Miss Namibia and Miss Teen Namibia 2025 will take place on 18 and 19 July.
“This year has an amazing line-up of activities to showcase Namibia at its best,” Karuaihe-Upi says.
Platform for Unity and Representation
She emphasises the crucial role of media and public support in making Miss Namibia a national success story.
“The Miss Namibia Organisation is now a fully respected and celebrated social movement for change,” she says. “It has become a true representation of all Namibian people and our amazing diversity in beauty.”
As Namibia prepares to cheer on its representatives on global stages like Miss Universe, Miss Earth International, Miss Teen International and Miss Charm International, Karuaihe-Upi believes one thing is certain: “Namibians unite to support the candidates that represent them. Their support goes beyond measure.”
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