Beauty industry recalls Geingob as ‘passionate’

Over the years president Hage Geingob has shown great interest in the beauty pageant industry.

Miss Namibia 2023, Jameela Uiras, says she is deeply saddened by the passing of the president, as he was a remarkable leader who will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the people of Namibia.

“His selfless service and tireless efforts to promote unity, equality and progress have left a lasting mark on the history of Namibia. Geingob’s passion for the empowerment of all Namibians, regardless of their background, has been a source of inspiration to me and to many others.

“His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders and citizens in our country,” she says.

Uiras says it is important that Namibians come together to celebrate Geingob’s life and the contributions he has made to the country.

“To the late president’s family, friends and all Namibians, I offer my deepest condolences and unwavering support during this difficult time.

“I urge his family and friends to take comfort in knowing that his spirit and influence will live on in the hearts and minds of the people whose lives he touched. Let us honour his memory by standing together in solidarity, upholding the values he championed and working towards a future that reflects the vision he had for Namibia,” she says.

Miss Universe 1992, global ambassador, television host, MC and motivational speaker Michelle McLean says Geingob was an inspirational man, a phenomenal leader and a mentor to her.

She says he played a pivotal role in her life since the incredible journey of winning Miss Namibia in 1991 and subsequently Miss Universe in 1992.

“Namibia has lost an exceptional leader whose vision, dedication and compassion transformed lives. Geingob’s leadership was a beacon of inspiration, driving positive change and unity,” McLean says.

“I am devastated by the untimely passing of our president. To the Namibian nation, the ‘Land of the Brave’, I share in your grief, and I send my heartfelt blessings to a country mourning the loss of a remarkable statesman,” she says.

Umbi Karuaihe-Upi, the chief executive of the Miss Namibia Organisation, says Geingob was the Miss Namibia pageant’s patron for many years.

“Geingob supported the Miss Namibia delegates as future leaders of Namibia. Last year when he received us at State House he said he was pleasantly impressed by the calibre of Miss Namibia title holders we have.

“He warmly welcomed us and we didn’t want to leave State House. He was an amazing host. He had a young spirit. Geingob was one of a kind.

“I’m extremely heartbroken by his passing. It is indeed a privilege and honour for me to have known him,” she says.

Miss World Namibia 2022, Leonè van Jaarsveld, says Geingob was special because he had the rare ability to connect with people on a personal level.

“His genuine interest in the well-being of others made a lasting impression on me . . . Having had the privilege to meet his excellency during my reign as Miss World Namibia, I was deeply moved by his warmth, humility and dedication to the welfare of his people.

“He tirelessly advocated the rights of marginalised groups, particularly women and children and worked towards creating a more inclusive society. His efforts to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality were truly commendable, leaving an indelible mark on the nation,” she says.

“His belief in the potential of the Miss Namibia pageant to showcase the beauty, intelligence and talent of Namibian women, has been instrumental in our success. Under his leadership, the Miss Namibia pageant has flourished, providing countless opportunities for young women across the country to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on society,” she says.

Van Jaarsveld says Geingob’s commitment to the pageant has not only elevated the status of Miss Namibia, but has also strengthened the nation’s standing on the international stage.

Miss Namibia 2021 and model Chelsi Shikongo refers to Geingob as an inspirational figure and a loving, kind and humorous person.

“Geingob always made me feel like the child of the house whenever I visited State House. He was so proud of me for representing Namibia and it’s beautiful people.

“To the president’s family and friends, my sincerest condolences, and thank you for sharing such a wonderful person with the rest of Namibia. He will never be forgotten.

“May the whole of Namibia now actually show up and continue the work and wisdom of our late president, Oom Hags,” she says.

Miss Teen Namibia 2023 Oriana Ribeiro says she will always remember Geingob as a people’s person.

“I think he was just plain cool. I will always remember him as the dancing president. I’ve seen numerous videos of our late president dancing in public and engaging with people.

“I would encourage all Namibians to not only remember our late president for all the good that he was, but to also consciously honour his legacy each and every day,” she says.

Miss Earth Namibia 2023 Martha Kautanevali says Geingob welcomed pageantry in Namibia.

She says he was a people’s president who welcomed and attended to everyone.

“Tatekulu Hage was a visionary leader and innovation pioneer. It was because of him that we have a bright future through green hydrogen, the hope of the youth and Namibia’s economic emancipation.

“I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the first lady, family members and Namibians at large. May we all take heart and be consoled.

“I would like to specifically remind Namibians that tatekulu has set the foundation. He did his part, so we need to unite and continue his legacy.

“May we continue being innovative and constructive in our approaches, just like our late president,” Kautanevali says.

Miss World Namibia 2023 Albertina Haimbala says: “He broke barriers by appointing a 23-year-old in the position of deputy minister of information and communication technology. Let’s continue his legacy and be grateful that we got to experience a wonderful man in this lifetime.

“This is a season for us to unite as Namibians. Surely we will rise and our president will always be remembered. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”