Namibian model and fashion designer Julia Kandjimbi, who scooped the Miss Africa Unite title in Botswana last December, says she is looking forward to a bright future.
Kandjimbi says being crowned Miss Africa Unite was an overwhelmingly emotional experience.
“I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride, as it wasn’t just a recognition of my efforts but also a validation of my dreams. I drove instead of flying, really covering a large number of kilometres. It was an adventurous, unique experience, which I truly felt spoke of my ability to be strong and do something different.”
She says these experiences will go a long way in shaping her future.
“Along the way, I had time to reflect, connect with myself and appreciate the beauty of the African landscape. The whole competition was amazing, full of fun and moments that I will never forget and which helped me grow and ultimately, led me to the crown.”
Kandjimbi says she hopes to work with organisations that deal with youth empowerment and community development.
“I look forward to launching awareness campaigns and workshops that will help develop skills, as well as establish mentorships for young Africans. All this is part of my vision at the Frans Foundation, which I started [during] my fashion and modelling career.”
Kandjimbi says handling the demands that come with her new role as Miss Africa Unite, coupled with her personal and professional pursuits, will require responsible time management.
“With the many responsibilities, I will be balancing staying organised and managing my time. I’ll delegate where necessary and work with teams so that my advocacy work doesn’t interfere with my career or personal development. I will align my goals to grow professionally, creating impact where it truly matters, while pursuing my passions.”
Kandjimbi says she took some well-deserved time out over the festive season to rest and recharge from a busy year.
“It gave me time for introspectection and recharge my batteries. This year has been quite promising, and I have focused on and approached it with a lot of drive and energy. In as much as I rested, I also thought of how to be effective in the role of Miss Africa Unite by juggling between advocacy and self-care, and ensuring I give my best to both my responsibilities and personal growth.”
Kandjimbi further says she is excited about launching initiatives that focus on empowering young women through education and skills development.
“I will work on a campaign that will foster mentorship programmes and vocational training, so that young ladies can thrive in their communities and careers. I would also like to create awareness in mental health in order to encourage open dialogue and thus develop support structures for young Africans,” she says.
Kandjimbi urges Namibians to join her cause.
“Support comes in many ways – it could be financially, volunteering time or using social media. It’s about building a community that empowers one another, one that works together to create real change.”
Kandjimbi advises Africa’s youth to apply their minds to overcoming challenges.
“Believe in your potential and never underestimate the power of hard work, resilience and self-belief. You don’t have to fit into a particular mould to succeed – embrace your uniqueness and take pride in your heritage.
“I hope to remind you that with determination and the right support, you can overcome challenges and build th
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