Miss Universe Namibia 2025 Johanna Swartbooi’s national costume, unveiled by the Miss Namibia Organisation, symbolises the nation’s cultural diversity, natural beauty and unity.
The Miss Namibia Organisation, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and Debmarine Namibia this week unveiled the ensemble, highlighting its symbolic depth and cultural intention.
NBC spokesperson Beaulah Boois-Beukes says the design was created as “a powerful visual tribute to Namibia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and enduring spirit”.
She says the costume blends influences from across Namibia’s ethnic groups and landscapes, aiming to “capture the essence of a united and resilient nation”.
Central to the design is the quiver tree, referenced both in the crown, featuring a beaded headband with a diamond centrepiece, and in the printed cape.
“Rooted in symbolism, the national costume features a crown and cape inspired by Namibia’s iconic quiver tree, representing endurance and strength,” Boois-Beukes says.
She says the sunset-printed cape evokes “the majesty of Namibia’s landscapes and timeless spirit”.
Around Swartbooi’s neck will be a beaded ostrich-shell necklace crafted in colours that carry cultural meaning.
“Each shade of yellow, orange, blue, green, red and brown signifies harmony among Namibia’s cultures,” she says.
The lower half of the costume draws from Namibia’s most recognisable traditional dress forms.
The corset pays homage to Khoisan heritage through intricate beadwork and coiled decorative elements celebrating femininity and craftsmanship.
The skirt incorporates Zambezi and Nama influences, with patterns symbolising the country’s “skies, oceans and sunsets”, Boois-Beukes says.
Further handcrafted elements link the design to the daily lives and traditions of Namibian women.
The ostrich-shell ondjeva (beaded belt) symbolises purity and the industrious spirit of women, while a beaded front piece crafted by Khoisan women represents identity and pride.
“A front leather piece rooted in Himba and San traditions reflects Namibia’s connection to nature, hunting and gathering,” she says.
The ensemble is completed with anklets inspired by Ovahimba and Ovambo customs, symbolising health and well-being.
Swartbooi herself has said the costume is more than an aesthetic showcase; it is a cultural statement.
“This national costume proudly reflects Namibia’s rich cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, telling a visual story through every colour, texture and detail,” she says.
“At its core, the look symbolises unity among Namibia’s many tribes while celebrating resilience, identity and pride.”
She says wearing the ensemble on the Miss Universe stage carries deep personal meaning.
“It means carrying the heart of my homeland with me. It is a living celebration of who we are as Namibians: resilient, united and beautifully diverse.”
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