In the realm of beauty pageants, where glamour and grace take centre stage, Cassia Sharpley, the outgoing Miss Namibia, has left an indelible mark during her reign.
Looking back at her journey, she reminisces on the moments that defined her purpose, the challenges she faced and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on her nation.
Sharpley’s Miss Namibia experience was not just about personal achievement. She says it was about using her position of influence to bring unity to her “beloved” Namibia, with the overwhelming support she received from the nation during her participation in the Miss Universe pageant proving the power of togetherness.
“There was just so much unity within the nation and so much support,” she says.
“And that is something that I will cherish forever.”
Sharpley says it wasn’t always easy, and she quickly discovered that pageants are a business in which the title-holder is the face that sells the organisation.
Understanding the values and mission of the organisation, as well as defining her own personal values, became crucial as she recognised that though she and Miss Namibia shared the same goals and aspirations, the organisation’s backing and support for her fell short.
Despite this realisation, Sharpley embraced the challenge and fully utilised her personal sponsors to cover all aspects of her preparations for international competitions. From plane tickets to wardrobe, make-up and outreaches, they stood by her side, ensuring she was equipped to compete at the highest level.
The absence of support from the organisation, however, served as a valuable lesson for Sharpley, who says she would have been better prepared if she had known beforehand about the lack of financial and other forms of support.
Nevertheless, she says her unwavering dedication and resourcefulness allowed her to remain content, irrespective of the outcome at Miss Universe.
“It’s actually something that didn’t bother me because I knew that I was at the right place at the right time, doing the right thing in the right season,” she says.
Sharpley’s resolve to fulfil her mandate went beyond the title; she says her purpose extended far beyond the realm of pageants.
As an influential figure, she has established her own non-profit organisation, the Honeycomb Haven Foundation, aimed at poverty alleviation through sustainability, access to information, quality healthcare, and meeting the basic needs of communities.
She says the foundation’s impact has extended beyond Namibia’s borders, focusing to various social ills by providing support and ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles.
Sharpley says she understands that poverty manifests in different forms, be it economic, mental, physical or emotional. With the foundation, she aims to address each aspect and empower individuals to overcome their challenges.
Representing Namibia on an international stage was an awe-inspiring experience for the young beauty, who donned a cape which bore the handprints of children benefiting from the Honeycomb Haven Foundation.
“It felt like my ‘why?’ was literally on my shoulders and I was walking with this confidence of ‘wow! I am a brave Namibian, I am a bold Namibian, I am a disciplined Namibian, I am a hard-working Namibian and I deserve to be seen on this stage!’ That is what motivated me.”
As her reign draws to a close, Sharpley says she has meticulously planned her life beyond the crown.
Pursuing her modelling and entertainment aspirations, she eagerly anticipates collaborations with artists from various disciplines. However, she emphasises that her pursuits extend beyond entertainment, as she remains committed to her studies in emergency medical care at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.
If all goes according to plan, her future will encompass both medicine and entertainment, with a strong focus on making a lasting impact and leaving a legacy.
As she passes on the crown, she says she remains content knowing that she gave her all during her reign.
“And knowing that I can apply that work ethic to what I truly love, truly want to achieve after this reign, that is what motivates me.”
– Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and commentator from Windhoek.
Follow her online or email her
annehambuda@gmail.com
for more.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
