Not just a crown, but a promise

Miss HOPE extends a hand to young Namibian ladies
In an era where beauty pageants are evolving beyond glamour and crowns, today's competitions emphasise purpose-driven contestants who dedicate themselves to meaningful causes.
Francouis Pretorius
  • 1 Day Ago
Beauty pageants are no longer just about crowns and swimsuit bodies; they're a battleground for social change. From breaking stereotypes to championing humanitarian causes, today’s contestants are rewriting the rules of the competition.

This is especially true for the Miss HOPE pageant.

Miss HOPE is an international beauty pageant that focuses more on philanthropy, personal development and helping one’s community. This year, Miss HOPE Namibia was held on 29 March in Gobabis at Die Dam restaurant and lodge.

Former winner Anita Senekal spearheaded the pageant. “My journey with HOPE began in 2018 when I was crowned Ms. Elite Hope International. Since then, my mission has been clear: to empower young women to believe in themselves and their ability to create change.”

With the goal of Miss HOPE being to inspire young women, encourage them to break the stereotypes surrounding them, and to support underprivileged communities, the judging criteria is different from other beauty pageants, as it has a larger focus on community impact and advocating for a cause.

Senekal, last year's winner of Miss Teen Hope International, said that the most important criteria for contestants is charity projects, and whether or not they are sustainable, impactful, and the passion the contestant has for their charity. "Miss HOPE stands out from other beauty pageants because it has shown itself to be a platform where young women can empower themselves and inspire others. This pageant has cemented itself as a movement for positive change."

Despite the number of amazing young women who took part in the pageant, there could only be one winner in the three categories: Miss HOPE Pre-Teen, Miss HOPE Teen, and Miss HOPE.

Speaking to these talented young women, they each had a message they wished to share.

Miss Pre-Teen HOPE Jané van Schalkwyk said “It is an incredible honour for me to be crowned Miss Pre-Teen HOPE Namibia National 2025. This title allows me to make a difference."

Amoré Smith, Miss Teen HOPE, echoed these sentiments, saying: “I look forward to using my voice and platform to support community projects, raise awareness about important social challenges, and inspire other young people to pursue their dreams with hope and perseverance.”

Finally, Miss HOPE Namibia Lehana Nel said that there is a great responsibility resting on her shoulders. "Miss Hope Namibia carries the message of hope at a time when Namibian women need to hear it.”

In November this year, the national Miss HOPE winners will step onto a grander stage in Cape Town. There they will be expected to make a grand stand against multiple other talented young women, fighting to prove that they deserve the title of Miss HOPE International, and gaining support for their charity movement.