Paulina Ndalikokule 

Toini Aikali, the recently-crowned Miss International University of Management (IUM) for Nkurenkuru campus, said through her role, she intends to empower young women and advocate for women’s rights. 

The pageant, designed to celebrate women and strengthen cultural ties among students, highlighted Aikali’s dedication to advocating for all kinds of women, which set her apart from the other contestants.

“Winning this crown, I want to advocate for women, be a positive brand ambassador for IUM, and a role model for all kinds of women, empower them to believe in themselves, that they can become whatever they want to be,” said the 25-year-old student.

The mother of one said she began her modelling career when she was in the eighth grade, making her debut at Miss Valentine in high school, where she walked away with the title.

With several pageant wins under her belt, Aikali said getting pregnant did not deter her from her commitment to utilise her budding career as a platform for advocacy.

“I strongly believe that being a mother should not be a reason why any woman cannot take part in a beauty pageant, I am truly grateful to IUM for not restricting me,”  said the beauty queen. 

Reflecting on her journey, she said the competition was both challenging and rewarding.

“I never had a problem with walking. I had to practice so much for my public speaking skills because you know, I grew up in the village. But the most rewarding part was meeting so many inspiring women and learning from them,” she said.

Aikali hopes to become Miss Namibia one day if restrictions about women who are mothers are lifted. Last year, South Africa announced that married women and those with children will be allowed to take part in the iconic contest for the first time.

She encouraged pageant contestants to remain determined and focused on their goals.

“Believe in yourself, and never give up. With perseverance and hard work, anything is possible,” Aikali said.

Meanwhile, Kayembe Elias (18), who scooped the title of Mr IUM, said he intend to use his platform to influence more men to embrace their talents.

“I’m particularly passionate about cultural fashion and talent empowerment. I plan to use this platform to advocate for youth to see their talents and use their cultures as opportunities that many people take for granted,” he said.

Men’s talents when it comes to modelling are highly unrecognised and misunderstood, a perception he hopes to change.

*Paulina Ndalikokule is an Information Officer at MICT Kavango West region.