Tension is high among the Top 20 semi-finalists of the Miss Teen Namibia and Miss Namibia as they step onto the runway at Droombos tonight and tomorrow evening in the preliminary rounds of the two beauty pageants.
Umbi Karuaihe-Upi, the CEO of Miss Namibia Organisation (MNO), expressed confidence in the process, stating that everything is on track for a spectacular event.
“The preparations are going very well. This year, we have 20 semi-finalists as opposed to 30 semi-finalists for both Miss Namibia and Miss Teen,” she said.
She added that as last year, the contestants are on “another level”.
Apart from the numerous prizes on offer, the Miss Namibia winner will participate in Miss Universe 2024, which will take place in Mexico in September 2024.
The first and second runners-up will not represent Namibia at other international beauty contests this year. Any further announcement will be made accordingly, should the need arise, Karuaihe-Upi said.
“Our aim is to create a stepping stone for Namibian youth and women to excel in their respective fields of interest, and to prepare outstanding leaders for our country. Additionally, the MNO endeavours to honour titleholders with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their excellence,” she said.
The Top 10 Miss Namibia finalists who will be announced tomorrow were selected after rounds of interviews by a panel of respected professionals from different career fields.
They are Beaulah Boois-Beukes, Maria Huudueli Shiyuka, Albertina Haimbala, Gerine Hoff and Ilke Platt.
Boois-Beukes is the public relations manager at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation, and blends her media expertise with lecturing and voice-over artistry. She is passionate about social issues, and directed the short film “Bleeding Love” on teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence. By serving on beauty pageant judging panels, Boois-Beukes adds to her other roles as wife, mother and educator.
Shiyuka is a multi-faceted personality, who balances her roles as a pilot, model, entrepreneur and motivational speaker. Rising above adversity, she’s a licensed pilot and holds a Bachelor of Science degree. With 21 beauty pageant titles, including Miss Namibia First Princess, she inspires Namibian youth to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Platt is a seasoned communications specialist. She boasts nearly two decades in public relations and broadcasting. Holding a Master’s degree from the University of Namibia and pursuing a PhD, her accolades include induction into the Namibian Business Hall of Fame, and recognition as a top media partner. She has been a judge for prestigious events like Miss Namibia, and the Namibia Annual Sports Awards.
Haimbala, who hails from Mount Etjo Safari Lodge, is a model, fitness enthusiast and advocate. With numerous pageant titles to her name, she founded the Haimbala Foundation, advocating for children with disabilities.
She recently ventured into hair styling, and continues to empower others through her talents.
Hoff is a veteran in the media with over 20 years’ experience, and is the regional editor at Network Media Hub. She’s the driving force behind Republikein’s Bridal Couple of the Year competition, and has been on the Miss Namibia pageant judging panel for years, heading the final panel in 2023.
The Miss Teen Namibia judges are:
Martha Kautanevali, a civil engineer with a BSc degree from the University of Namibia. She also holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification. A 2021 YALI alumni and Katuka Mentorship Programme graduate, Martha co-founded the Queenshono Mentorship programme to aid STEAM students. She also co-founded the Women in Business Network, fostering support among businesswomen. Beyond engineering, she’s the reigning Miss Earth Namibia, public speaker and wellness ambassador, engaging in various community projects.
Liezel Ms-Lee Ndjaronguru is the dynamic force behind Divas & Gents lifestyle fitness centre, which prioritises youth development and community empowerment. Partnering with EPP to end period poverty and organising the renowned Little Black Dress event, Liezel fosters empowerment and sophistication.
She champions the neglected boy child through the He_Leads men’s summit, embodying ambition and social responsibility.
Leoné Renate van Jaarsveld, hailing from Swakopmund, was Miss Namibia first runner-up in 2022, and Miss World – Namibia 2023. Beyond her accolades, she manages human resources at The Swakopmund Station Hotel, and heads LR Beauty and Rentals CC, focusing on make-up and hair styling. Her philanthropic venture, LR Youth Support, uplifts disadvantaged coastal youth.
She recently represented Namibia at the Miss World International, and continues her dedication to community service.
Melisa Poulton is the creative director of House of Poulton. Locally known as the queen of ruffles, she has a higher national tech diploma in fashion and textiles, and has run her business since 2012. She has served on the board of directors of the Fashion Council of Namibia, and is an advocate for Namibian fashion.
She has showcased for five consecutive years at Windhoek Fashion Week, and has also dressed the presenters for the Namibian Music Awards for five consecutive years. And recently she became part of Africa Fashion International designers. She believes strongly in collaboration and mentorship for other young Namibian designers.