Miss Universe Namibia 2023 Jameela Uiras has made history by reaching the top 20 and scooping the Miss Universe Beauties’ ‘Face Of The Universe’ award during the finale of the 72nd Miss Universe Competition in El Salvador on Saturday.
The event was held at the José Adolfo Pineda Arena in San Salvador.
Miss Nicaragua, Sheynnis Palacios, was crowned Miss Universe 2023.
With over 84 contestants from around the globe competing for the coveted title, Uiras says making it to the top 20 is a milestone for Namibia.
“I fought for acceptance and acknowledgement at this competition for my nation. It’ll only get bigger and better from here, Namibia. Miss Universe, forward and upward,” she says.
Uiras is pleased about the support she has received thus far.
“Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive. You are the people who are allowing me to be myself,” she says.
Uiras believes her origin is what made her stand out among the other contestants.
“I want people to always believe in themselves. What makes me stand out is the story I’m telling and the legacy I’m leaving behind. What makes me different here is where I am coming from and where I am heading,” she says.
Uiras says she participated in the international pageant to be a beacon of hope.
She says her preparation process consisted of various activities.
“I manifested, did speaking training and worked out to stay fit. I also did a lot of mental preparation, because I believe as a contestant I need to be mentally stable.
“I love it in El Salvador. I enjoy the warmth I’ve been receiving from the people. Everyone in El Salvador is so loving towards me.
“I love the food and hospitality. For me it feels like home,” she says.
Umbi Karuaihe-Upi, who is currently the chief executive of the Miss Namibia Organisation says during Uiras’ journey she was active and very visible on the Miss Universe social pages.
“Miss Namibia did great. She is sharing a room with Miss Nigeria. She is extremely popular locally and globally.
“Namibians were voting and urging one another to vote. The competition was tough, but I had full confidence in Jameela. She is beautiful and very smart,” Karuaihe-Upi said.
This year’s Miss Universe marks a historic milestone by welcoming mothers and married women as contestants for the first time, a shift towards inclusivity and diversity.
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