By Kaleb Nghishidivali
WINDHOEK, AUG 02 – Following the glamorous crowning ceremonies early July at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund, the Miss Namibia Organization has announced its Top Four contestants set to represent the nation on the international stage in the 2023/2024 pageant seasons.
The announcement was made during a high-profile sashing ceremony by Nico Mwiya, NBC’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer. Mwiya revealed the international pageants each title holder is set to participate in.
Miss Namibia Jameela Uiras is set to represent Namibia at the Miss Universe pageant scheduled for November 18 in El Salvador. Miss Namibia First Runner Up, Albertina Haimbala, will participate in the 72nd Miss World competition. Miss Namibia Second Runner Up, Martha Kautanevali, is scheduled to partake in the Miss Earth contest on December 16 in Vietnam. Finally, Miss Teen Namibia, Oriana Ribeiro will be competing in Miss Teen International in India next year.
At the sashing ceremony, an enthusiastic Uiras said, she is most excited about celebrating diversity with the other delegates, engaging in cultural exchange, and understanding their uniqueness on an international scale.
In an interview at the NBC head offices, Haimbala expressed her excitement about her upcoming international pageant. “It has always been a dream of mine to represent my country on an international stage. I am excited about everything, including meeting new people, going overseas for the first time, and getting acquainted with beauty queens from across the globe,” she added.
Kautanevali dedicated her journey to the Miss Earth contest to her country. “Namibia! This is for us, this is to growth and achievement. Thank you!” she exclaimed. “The journey to Miss Earth is a collective one, I’m going there as Namibia, and I want you all to keep up with the journey and support in all ways possible.”
Miss Teen Namibia, Oriana Ribeiro, shared her understanding of the responsibility her title brings. She understands that this is an ambassadorial position that comes with a great deal of responsibility and privilege – which is to be taken seriously and carried out with the utmost respect, integrity, and intentionality. “I will work diligently to leave a notable impact on our country and bring the international title home,” Ribeiro said.
NBC Public Relations Manager, Beaulah Boois-Beukes, reiterated the broadcaster’s support for the titleholders and encouraged Namibians to rally behind the Miss Namibia Organization. “We have worked diligently to bring the pageant to this stature and have thus far been successful in a 360 transformation into a national event,” she stated.
As the nation’s representatives prepare for their respective contests, the support and anticipation from Namibians remain palpable, a testament to the Miss Namibia Organization’s efforts in transforming the pageant into a significant national event.- Namibia Daily News
