Miss Teen Eco Tourism World Namibia 2023, Zandré Josephs (19) is currently busy with preparations to represent Namibia at the Miss Ecotourism World pageant.
The competition is aimed at selecting a representative to endorse ecotourism worldwide and encourage the principle of keeping the earth secure and clean – not only environmentally, but also culturally.
The contest will take place in KwaZulu-Natal, in South Africa, from 25 September to 1 October.
Hailing from Keetmanshoop, Josephs is currently studying education.
She says she started participating in pageants at the age of 13.
Titles she has bagged include second runner-up in Miss Glitz International 2020, first runner-up in Miss Snow White 2020, Miss Beauty Queen 2020, first runner-up in Miss Expo 2022, and first runner-up in Miss Wonderland 2022.
Josephs says she enjoys taking part in beauty pageants because they provide her with opportunities to develop skills, such as public speaking, self-confidence and leadership.
It is also a great way to meet new people from all over the world, she says.
She says she hopes to inspire younger girls and women.
“I decided to participate because pageants have always been close to my heart, and this is what I want to do.
“This opportunity means a lot to me. It is also giving me the opportunity to encourage the young girls and women in my community to do what they love, and to grab every challenge coming their way by the horns.
“This has always been my dream. I want to meet all the queen sisters from all over the world,” she says.
Growing up charity work has always been important to Josephs.
She says she loves helping people, as well as the environment
.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to participate in this pageant, and I hope that by the end of it I would have gained greater confidence and improved my communication and social skills.
“Additionally, I hope to learn more about myself throughout the experience, and discover new strengths I can continue to develop.
“Furthermore, on this stage I aspire to represent my community with the utmost dignity and respect,” she says.
Josephs says while beauty and physical attractiveness are important, she also aims to show that intelligence, resilience and self-confidence are equally valuable traits everyone should focus on.
“I am excited to engage in the learning opportunities this pageant provides, and I am looking forward to meeting new people and making meaningful connections.
“Through this pageant, I strive to become a better version of myself and to use the skills I have gained for future endeavours,” she says.
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