What was once a glittering annual display of beauty and composure has now evolved into something far more impactful. The Miss Namibia and Miss Teen Namibia pageants have grown into a powerful social movement, one that speaks directly to the hopes and challenges of young women across the nation.

Chief Executive Officer of the Miss Namibia Organisation (MNO) Umbi Karuaihe-Upi is redefining what it means to wear the crown.

“We are here to expose the ladies to high-level events to educate and groom them to become confident leaders of today and tomorrow. This is no longer just about pageantry, it’s about purpose,” she said. 

For the first time in its 45-year history, the pageant has witnessed the inclusion of two San girls in the Top Twenty, hailing from Tsinsabis and Otjinene. 

This milestone represents more than a moment of pride; it is a symbol of inclusivity and representation long overdue.

Karuaihe-Upi personally travelled to all 14 regions of Namibia in a courageous and inclusive scouting effort aimed at finding young women from all walks of life. Her mission was to ensure that beauty, talent, and leadership potential from even the most remote corners of the country were given a platform.

“We created value around the MNO that highlights rural and urban youth development, women empowerment, cultural promotion, and Namibian tourism,” she explained.

This approach has breathed new life into the organisation, transforming it into a national platform for advocacy.  

Contestants are not only judged on their physical presentation but also on their intellect, compassion, and commitment to community service.

From workshops in leadership and public speaking to cultural exchange and tourism promotion, the MNO is crafting a generation of women who are ready to take up space not only on stage but also in boardrooms, communities, and policy circles.

“As the spotlight shines on Namibia’s next queens, it also illuminates a future built on inclusion, empowerment, and national pride. 

The Miss Namibia Organisation is no longer just about crowns, it’s about creating changemakers,” she said. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na