… Redefining pageantry at forty-four
By Feni Hiveluah
Meet Miss Womalenga 2026, the epitome of grace, grit, and cultural pride. Having returned to the pageant stage stronger and more determined after a second-place finish last year, 44-year-old Elise Namashisha has officially proven that confidence and passion have no expiration date.
From mastering public speaking to drowning out the noise of skeptics who focus on age rather than character, she shares her vision for empowering the youth, expanding her businesses, and using her powerful new platform to ensure her heritage thrives for generations to come.
Q: You were the first runner-up last year, but you came back and won it all this year. What went through your mind the exact moment they announced you as Miss Womalenga 2026?
“The moment my name was announced as Miss Womalenga 2026, I was overwhelmed with gratitude, joy, and pride. I remembered all the hard work, sacrifices, and determination that brought me back to the stage. It was proof that persistence pays off and that dreams can come true when you refuse to give up.”
Q: Many people give up after getting so close to the crown and missing it. Where did you find the renewed determination to step back onto that stage a second time?
“My determination came from believing in myself and knowing that my journey was not finished. Being first runner-up in 2025 motivated me to work harder, improve myself, and return stronger. I wanted to prove that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to grow.”
Q: You won this title at 44-years-old, proving that age is just a number. What is your response to critics who believe pageantry is strictly a game for younger women?
“.I respect everyone’s opinion, but my victory shows that confidence, character, discipline, and passion are more important than age. Women of all ages have value, beauty, wisdom, and the ability to inspire others. Age should never stop anyone from pursuing their dreams.”
Q: The title of Miss Womalenga carries deep cultural weight, especially within the context of the Oshakati Totem Expo. In your own words, what does it mean to be a Womalenga woman?
“To me, a Womalenga woman is a woman who respects her culture, values her community, and carries herself with dignity and pride. She is strong, hardworking, and committed to preserving and promoting our traditions while inspiring future generations.”
Q: Knowing the competition from your experience in 2025, what did you do differently in your preparation this year to ensure you took home the crown?
“This year, I focused more on self- confidence, personal development, public speaking, and understanding the responsibilities that come with the title. I prepared mentally, emotionally, and physically while staying true to myself and my values.”
Q: Stepping onto a public stage in your 40s takes immense confidence. How did your family, friends, and the Oshakati community react when you told them you were competing again?
“Many people were surprised, but the majority were supportive and encouraging. My family, friends, and community believed in me and motivated me to continue. Their support gave me the strength and confidence to compete again.”
Q: Your victory has gone viral as an inspiration. What is your direct message to ordinary Namibian women in their 30s, 40s, and beyond who feel it’s ‘too late’ to chase their personal dreams?
“My message is simple: it is never too late. Do not allow age, fear, or other people’s opinions to stop you from pursuing your goals. Believe in yourself, stay disciplined, be patient, and keep moving forward. Your dreams remain valid regardless of your age.”
Q: The Totem Expo is all about celebrating local identity and heritage. How do you plan to use your new platform over the next year to promote Namibian culture and traditions?
“I plan to promote our cultural heritage by encouraging young people and women to participate in cultural events, supporting local traditions, and creating awareness about the importance of preserving our identity. I want to be a proud ambassador of Namibian culture.”
Q: With the Miss Womalenga crown comes a lot of sudden public attention and media spotlights. How are you navigating this newfound fame?
“I remain humble and focused on my purpose. I understand that the crown comes with responsibility, and I want to use this platform positively to inspire others, serve my community, and promote important causes rather than focusing only on the attention.”
Q: Now that you have fulfilled the dream you kept telling yourself you would achieve, what is the next big boundary you want to break?
“Winning Miss Womalenga 2026 is a major achievement, but it is only the beginning. I want to continue empowering women, growing my businesses, promoting culture, and encouraging people to believe in themselves. I want my journey to show that determination can break any barrier.”
