Laina Mwatukange (27) has been selected to represent Namibia in the third international edition of the Universal Woman Pageant, which will take place from 1 to 11 August in Jaipur, India.
The international beauty pageant celebrates women’s confidence, leadership and social contributions with the theme ‘The New Era of Beauty’.
Open to 21 to 45-year-old women, Universal Woman revolutionises pageantry by welcoming contestants of all shapes, pasts, and experiences of life – pregnant, plus-sized and transgender women included.
According to organisers, this year’s pageant is especially historic with the participation of Keylyn Trajano, the first openly transgender candidate in the pageant, along with titleholders Jasmine Omay of the Philippines and Lushomo Kaumba of Zambia.
Mwatukange, whose roots are in the Hanover estate at Ongwediva, had a journey that began with a passion for modelling.
She has been among the top three contestants in national beauty pageants.
“I am a determined and ambitious individual, a human testament to the power of resilience and determination,” she says.
“Growing up in a resource-poor community, I learned to stretch beyond the boundaries and believe in the strength of my foundation.”
At the centre of her campaign is her own initiative, ‘Stand Up, Speak Up’, promoting inclusion, empowerment and self-advocacy among all genders, with a strong focus on individuals with disabilities.
“This initiative is about creating inclusive societies where every person is capable of thriving,” says Mwatukange.
“By encouraging teamwork and understanding, we can demolish the social and psychological barriers that lock out marginalised groups.”
Her participation is a national opportunity to grant Namibia a louder voice on an international stage – specifically regarding youth empowerment, gender equity and cultural diplomacy.
Mwatukange wants to be both a role model and cultural ambassador who inspires young people to be ambitious despite their socio-economic backgrounds.
“This pageant is not about beauty,” she says.
“It’s about purpose, presence and pushing for progress. It’s about saying to the world: Namibia has a voice, and it is powerful.”
She encourages other Namibians to join her on her mission: “Let’s stand tall together, and show the world what Namibia is made of.”
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