Simply You extends deadline for countrywide entries

The Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards 2025 have announced an extension of its nomination deadline to 22 August, citing the need to create space for broader participation from regions outside the Khomas region.

Organisers say while interest has been strong, most submissions have so far come from Windhoek and a handful of towns, leaving many parts of the country underrepresented.

Speaking on behalf of Simply You Magazine, Helena Shigwedha talks about the reasoning behind the move.

“We have received an exciting number of entries already, but one thing we noticed is that many of them were centralised around Windhoek and a few key towns,” she says. “By extending the nomination deadline, we want to give more regions the chance to participate. Our hope is to see representation from every corner of Namibia meaning from the north to the south, east to west, because talent is everywhere. The awards are for the whole nation and we want to make sure every region has a seat at the table.”

The awards, scheduled for 25 October under the theme ‘Namibian Excellence – Black Tie & Diamonds’, remain one of Namibia’s most prestigious platforms for creatives across lifestyle, fashion and entertainment. With 12 categories open to public nomination, the awards have become known for spotlighting rising and established figures who are shaping the country’s creative landscape.

Shigwedha says the theme for this year was chosen to reflect both sophistication and the strength of local talent.

“This year’s theme was inspired by the spirit of celebrating Namibian talent at the highest standard. ‘Namibian Excellence – Black Tie & Diamonds’ is about elegance, class and sophistication, but most importantly it’s about putting the spotlight on the brilliance of our own creatives,” she says.

According to the organisers, the diamond element symbolises resilience and distinction.

“Just as diamonds shine under pressure, Namibian talent has continued to rise and prove its worth on every platform, and we want the awards night to reflect that level of excellence,” Shigwedha adds.

Questions are often raised about fairness and inclusivity within award shows, but they insist the model is designed with transparency in mind.

“Fairness and inclusivity are at the heart of the Simply You Lifestyle & Fashion Awards. Each of our 12 categories has clear guidelines to ensure nominees are evaluated on merit and impact. Winners are strictly determined by public voting, so that the voices of Namibians themselves are central in deciding who gets recognised,” Shigwedha says.

“The public can expect a truly unforgettable evening. From the red carpet glamour to world-class entertainment, this year promises to be very exclusive. Guests can look forward to dazzling fashion, powerful performances, and of course, the recognition of outstanding individuals across our 12 categories. With the theme ‘Black Tie & Diamonds’, we are creating an elegant yet vibrant atmosphere where Namibian excellence will shine bright,” she says.

Public participation remains central, with nominations and voting conducted online. Full details, including categories and guidelines, are available on the Simply You Magazine Lifestyle & Fashion Awards’ official platforms.

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