Pageantry is a starter pack for adulthood – Swartbooi

“The Miss Namibia Organisation offers far more than the opportunity to represent Namibia on an international stage. It’s not just a pageant filled with appearances and interviews, it’s what I like to call a starter pack for adulthood,” says reigning Miss Namibia 2025 Johanna Swartbooi.

As the search for the next ambassadors of the nation begins, Swartbooi is urging potential applicants to look beyond the glamour and prepare for a transformative, demanding journey. Entries for both the Miss Namibia and Miss Teen Namibia 2026 pageants are officially open, with the deadline set for 30 January.

Reflecting on her tenure, Swartbooi emphasises that the industry forces contestants to introspect and evolve as leaders. However, she notes that practical preparation is often underestimated by newcomers.

She says she underestimated the time commitment required for the preliminary and final shows, as well as the necessity of technical skills like makeup application.

“I wish I knew how to do my makeup professionally before entering,” Swartbooi says. She advises that preparation must go beyond natural beauty. “Aspiring Miss Namibia contestants should invest in professional coaching, particularly in public speaking, on-stage Q&A, closed-door interviews, walking and posing. Confidence, articulation and stage presence are key differentiators. The most important thing that will help them stand out is them just being the best version of themselves.”

The call for entries, announced by Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) spokesperson Beaulah Boois-Beukes, is open to eligible women and teens across all regions of the country.

The organisation aims to reflect the nation’s cultural richness, diversity and intelligence.

The winner of the Miss Namibia title will receive a comprehensive prize package including a brand-new house, a car, cash prizes and a scholarship to further her studies. Furthermore, she will earn the honour of representing the country on the Miss Universe stage.

Boois-Beukes outlines specific criteria for the flagship title, emphasising the need for a candidate who is socially aware and resilient.

“For Miss Namibia 2026, we are seeking a proud, purpose-driven Namibian woman who exemplifies confidence, intelligence, eloquence and authenticity,” Boois-Beukes states. “She carries herself with grace and integrity, is an effective communicator and natural leader, and is socially aware with a genuine commitment to driving positive change. As a cultural ambassador, she represents Namibia with professionalism… while demonstrating physical wellness, resilience and the ability to inspire through media engagement.”

The Miss Teen Namibia 2026 winner will secure a scholarship, cash, in-kind prizes and the chance to compete at Miss Teen International.

“For Miss Teen Namibia 2026, we are looking for a confident, ambitious and values-driven young Namibian who is full of hopes, dreams and ready to serve as a positive role model for her peers,” Boois-Beukes says.

The upcoming pageants mark a significant shift in the organisation’s management. Boois-Beukes notes that the winners will act as ambassadors at official events, working closely with sponsors and national institutions to promote tourism and social causes.

“This year marks an exciting new chapter as the pageant is placed firmly back into the hands of Namibians. With this said, major changes are on the horizon, and the nation is encouraged to watch this space as important announcements unfold,” she adds.

Aspiring contestants can apply via the NBC website or visit any NBC office nationwide. For further information, applicants can contact 061 291 3143.

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