Jameela Uuras was recently crowned Miss Namibia 2023. She managed to grant Observer Weekend a quick sit-down in between a hectic schedule of photoshoots and interviews, both from the local and regional media.
Do you follow politics?
Absolutely. If you don’t follow politics, politics will follow you.
Which 3 political issue are close to your heart?
Youth unemployment: We face high levels of unemployment, particularly among the younger generation, which poses a significant challenge for our country’s development and stability. Land reform: Specifically because I did research on this during my preparations as a Miss Namibia finalist and it’s sad to see that after 33 years of Independence we’re still facing these challenges. The issue of land redistribution and ownership remains a divisive topic in Namibia, with calls for more equitable land distribution. Corruption: This is a significant concern in Namibia, with reports of high-level corruption and mismanagement of public funds. The success of our country should not be tainted with scandalous acts by dishonest leaders.
What’s your definition of a good leader?
A good leader is someone who has strong qualities such as integrity, empathy, effective communication, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. They should also possess good decision-making skills, the ability to delegate tasks efficiently, and the willingness to lead by example.
Who’s your political hero?
I don’t know if she can be classified as a politician, but Monica Geingos, the First Lady of Namibia. She has made significant contributions to the country since 2015. The change she brought that is dearest to me is, youth empowerment. Mrs Geingos has been actively involved in empowering Namibia’s youth. As the founder of the 1+1=3 initiative, she has worked towards providing quality education and mentorship opportunities to young Namibians. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment and equip young people with the necessary skills for the job market. Her personal commitment to the development and the protection of the girl-child is unparalleled in our country.
Is Namibia ready for a young leader?
It depends on various factors such as experience, and ability to garner the support and trust of the population. However, age alone should not be the sole determining factor, as effectiveness in leadership is not solely dependent on age. I believe we could mould great young leaders if we get them involved in civic and political participation.
Is Namibia ready for a female leader?
Gender should not be a barrier to leadership if the individual possesses the necessary qualities and capabilities. Yes, Namibia is ready for a female leader! Women have been ready since Day 1.
Do you ever see yourself going into politics?
This will be determined by my commitment to public service. My dedication, knowledge, and genuine interest in contributing to the betterment of society is quite high, so I might consider it in the near future.
What inspired you to participate in Miss Namibia?
I have always been passionate about making a difference in my community, and I knew that being granted a national platform would allow me to do just that. Another determining factors behind my decision to participate was my strong desire to overcome my fear of speaking in front of a large audience. I also recognized that in order to effectively inspire and impact others, I needed to conquer my anxiety and develop the confidence to address a crowd. Miss Namibia provided the perfect platform for me to grow and step outside my comfort zone and be granted a national platform.
Do you think Namibians appreciate the Miss Namibia platform?
The appreciation for the Miss Namibia platform may vary among Namibians. Some see it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, as well as a chance to represent the country on an international stage. Others may view it as superficial or irrelevant to their lives. It ultimately depends on individual perspectives and priorities. As a Miss Namibia title holder, I personally appreciate the platform because of the transformation it has brought to not only my life but various young women.
Do you think African women are judged fairly in international beautiful pageants?
African women in international beauty pageants face criticism and challenges in terms of representation and fairness. While progress has been made in recent years, but there is still room for improvement to ensure equal opportunities and a fair judging criteria for African women in these competitions.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about you?
That I am extroverted.
How important is family to you?
I prioritize family above all else. For me it’s a great source of love, support, and stability.
What’s your strongest memory of your mother?
My greatest memory of my mom is so vivid. The year 2018 I was leaving the country to visit Portugal and I needed a long list of essentials. With little money in her bank account and zero to nothing in mine she made all my problems go away within a split second. She promised us that day, she has dedicated her life to God and her kids and we’d never go through any struggles alone for as long as she was around.
What’s your relationship with your siblings?
After we lost our mom, I took over the responsibilities of the household. Circumstances have forced us quite early to be more responsible and it was never a struggle with my siblings. The personal dynamics of our relationships vary from one sibling to the other. They’re really proud of me and have been a great support system. It is important to have open and honest communication to understand each other’s viewpoints and build strong sibling relationships and that is one of our mottos as a family.
Democracy or dictatorship?
Democracy because it promotes equality, freedom, and the protection of human rights.
Capitalism or Communism?
Capitalism! I believe in free enterprise. Where in the world has Communism ever succeeded?
Land or Money?
LAND! PLEASE! it represents ownership and financial stability.
Do you follow developments in technology?
Absolutely! Following developments in technology is important as it allows for staying informed, adapting to changes, and leveraging opportunities. Technology plays a significant role in various aspects of our lives, including communication, education, healthcare, and business. By staying updated on technological advancements, individuals and societies can harness the benefits and navigate the challenges effectively.
Yes or no for social media
Social media can facilitate communication, connection, and information sharing, but it also has potential negative effects, such as privacy concerns, addiction, and the spread of misinformation. If not for my career choice I’d say NO to social media.
What’s the biggest issue in technology right now?
The biggest issue in technology right now is arguably privacy and data security and the biggest one of them is Artificial Intelligence. I don’t think humanity is ready for its impact.
Is Namibia ready for the 4IR?
We better be and fast. The 4IR presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and societal advancements, but it also poses challenges in terms of skill gaps and potential inequalities. Proper planning, investment, and engagement are necessary to ensure Namibia can benefit from the 4IR. I personally don’t think we’re ready YET.
What’s your view of tourism in Namibia?
Tourism is a crucial sector for our country’s economy, contributing to job creation, foreign exchange earnings, and cultural preservation. Namibia’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for international travelers. However, sustainable management, responsible tourism practices, and community engagement are important considerations to ensure the long-term viability and positive impacts of tourism in our country. One of Namibia’s biggest challenges with tourism is its relatively low international visibility and limited air connectivity. Despite the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife, Namibia has struggled to attract a large number of international tourists compared to other popular African destinations.
Your favourite holiday destination in Namibia?
That would be the farm, I love our resorts but nothing gives me more peace and tranquility than the farm life. Another challenge is the lack of international marketing and promotion. Namibia’s tourism industry has not received as much attention and promotion as some of our neighboring countries, such as South Africa or Botswana. Limited marketing efforts have resulted in a lack of awareness among potential tourists about the unique attractions and experiences that we have to offer. This question excited me because this topic was on the list of my advocacies.
