By Rinelda Mouton
As the reigning Miss Namibia 2025, Johanna Swartbooi’s year is coming to an end in just a few weeks when the next successor will be crowned – she spoke to Confidence about her year.
Miss Teen Namibia 2016 will be crowned on 31 July and Miss Namibia 2026 on 1 August in Gobabis.
Swartbooi said her journey was filled with many “pinch me” moments.
“From the very beginning, my goal was simple: to be present, connect with people, and to make every moment count. In return, I was received with an abundance of love, kindness, and laughter. Everywhere I traveled, I was met with extraordinary hospitality and warmth that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” she said.
Swartbooi said her year was filled with meaningful opportunities to serve and represent Namibia. She highlights that one of her greatest moments was representing Namibia at the 74th Miss Universe competition in Thailand.
“I attended countless appearances and school visits, engaging with young people and communities across the country. I participated in regional tours, attended nation- al events, supported sponsor initiatives, and participated in fundraising gala dinners that raised awareness and resources for causes that positively impact young people across Namibia,” she said.
Swartbooi said this journey has strengthened many aspects of her character and abilities in ways she could not have anticipated. She
said the experience taught her that growth often happens when we step outside of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown.
During her year Swartbooi developed greater resilience and learned how to remain grounded through both challenges and opportunities.
“I also became more confident in navigating public spaces and carrying the responsibilities that come with being a public figure. On a lighter note, I significantly improved my makeup skills. I learned to trust myself more,” she said.
Swartbooi said one of her biggest challenges was balancing her naturally introverted personality with the highly public nature of the role.
She said her year was demanding, but one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.
“Being Miss Namibia requires you to constantly engage, connect, and be visible. While I genuinely enjoyed meeting people and serving communities, there were moments when I had to intentionally step beyond my comfort zone. However, this challenge became one of my greatest areas of growth. It taught me confidence, adaptability, and how to show up fully even when it felt uncomfortable,” she said.
Swaartbooi said while the crown opens doors and creates opportunities, it also calls you to grow, lead, and serve at a level you may not fully anticipate.
As her year comes to an end Swaartbooi said the crown may be passed on, but the purpose, passion, and lessons from this journey will remain with me forever. She said her life has changed tremendously and it will continue to evolve in new ways.
Swaartbooi said she will continue building her career as a creative entrepreneur, advancing the work of the ||Hapo Initiative, and pursuing academic goals.
She said her major focus will be growing the ||Hapo Walls initiative, an initiative aimed at inspiring Namibian pupils to dream through art and creativity.
The ||Hapo Wall project encourages schools across the country to transform blank walls into murals that symbolise hope, imagination and unity. The word ‘||hapo’ means dream in Khoekhoegowab, reflecting the project’s mission to nurture purpose-driven and confident young Namibians.
“What began as a dream during my reign has become a mission I am deeply committed to. I want to continue transforming learning environments across Namibia into spaces that celebrate creativity, confidence, and community, while creating places where young people can see themselves, their potential, and their dreams reflected on the walls around them. I also hope to continue growing as a speaker, using my voice and experiences to encourage others to believe in the possibilities available to them and to pursue their goals with courage and determination. I leave this chapter with immense gratitude and excitement,” she said.
Swartbooi urges the next winner to lead with authenticity and remember that her uniqueness is what earned you the crown. She encourages her to enjoy every moment, because the year passes by fast.
“Do not spend your year trying to fit into someone else’s mold. Live up to your version of Miss Namibia. Nobody can do it the way you can, and that is your greatest strength. Also never be afraid to ask for help. The Miss Namibia organization, pageant committee, sponsors, former titleholders, and the entire country want to see you succeed,” she advises.
