Kaviveterue Virere
Namibian contenders are requesting national support as the Miss HOPE Journey International 2025 pageant draws near. The pageant will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 26 to 30 November 2025.
Among them are Pedro Nambandja, a 37-year-old single mother, and Henry Kondo, a 24-year-old Otjiwarongo resident, who are passionate supporters of utilising beauty to promote hope.
Kondo will compete internationally for the second time, representing the centre of the Otjozondjupa region, and building on her achievement as Miss HOPE Journey International second runner-up in 2024. “Modelling and pageantry are not just about physical appearance; it’s about purpose and leadership and being able to make a positive impact,” she said.
Unlike conventional beauty pageants, the Miss HOPE Journey International competition emphasises empowerment, leadership, and community development. Participants must start initiatives that tackle social concerns in their areas, such as poverty, mental health, gender-based issues, and education.
Kondo’s advocacy is firmly anchored in her fight against teenage pregnancies, with the goal of promoting fair health outcomes and lowering unemployment, poverty, and school dropout rates. “Creating meaningful platforms that enable young people to believe in themselves is my vision. The goal is to develop young, purpose-driven leaders who can change their communities, not to celebrate beauty,” she said.
Kondo’s career began in 2019 when she won the title of Miss Otjiwarongo Youth Expo. She has been in the modelling business for seven years and has won nine titles. Since then, she has represented Namibia on a number of platforms, such as Miss HOPE International 2024 and Miss Face of Africa Namibia 2023.
She persisted with little assistance despite facing financial difficulties during her prior involvement. “I really struggled last year to pay for everything. I was nevertheless able to finish as the second runner-up with what little I had. I aim to take home the crown this year with the support of sponsors,” she said.
Kondo is currently seeking support from private organisations, individuals, fashion designers, and businesses to assist with her upcoming trip. Sponsorships will help cover travel, accommodation, clothing, photo shoots, and meals during the competition. In return, sponsors will receive international exposure through public acknowledgements, social media promotion, and event branding opportunities.
Nambandja, who is competing alongside her this year, presents a message of empowerment and tenacity based on her conviction that hope is independent of age or situation.
“I am a returning contestant for the Miss HOPE International 2025–2026 title. Driven by the pageant’s mission of giving us hope and mostly giving the less privileged hope, I am committed to using this platform to amplify the voices and dreams of those often overlooked,” Nambandja said.
Nambandja’s goal is to uplift those who have experienced adversity by demonstrating to them that perseverance can conquer any challenge. “I want to show that reaching one’s highest goals is not hindered by age, situation, or past experiences. I can increase my influence and be a ray of hope for my community and beyond by taking part once more,” she said.
Kondo and Nambandja embody Namibia’s increasing involvement in global pageants that prioritise compassion, leadership, and social responsibility. Their participation highlights the importance of empowering women to lead with purpose and drive meaningful change within their communities.
In addition to the international competition, Kondo is hosting the national pageant Miss Top Regions Namibia 2025, which will take place in Otjiwarongo on 26–30 November 2025. Through fashion, music, and mentorship, the event will honor youth empowerment, culture, and mental health. “It’s about giving our youth a voice and a stage. A community is empowered when one individual is empowered,” she said.
Funding for travel, logistics, or wardrobe needs is one way that sponsors and supporters can participate. “This is more than a competition. Hope and transformation are the goals of this mission. By working together, we can raise Namibia’s flag high and demonstrate to the world the true values of the land of the brave,” Kondo stressed.
For sponsorships or questions, reach out to Miss Henry Kondo at +264 81 324 4066 | henrykondolina114@gmail.com. For additional information on Miss HOPE Journey International, visit www.actinghope.co.za.