Staff Reporter
THE Miss Namibia Organisation, powered by the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and Debmarine Namibia, has officially unveiled Miss Universe Namibia 2025 Johanna Swartbooi’s national costume — a powerful visual tribute to Namibia’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and enduring spirit.
The design reflects a harmonious blend of influences from across Namibia’s tribes, landscapes and traditional craftsmanship, capturing the essence of a united and resilient nation.
Rooted in symbolism, the national costume features a crown and cape inspired by Namibia’s iconic quiver tree, representing endurance and strength. Printed with the image of a quiver tree at sunset, the cape evokes the majesty of Namibia’s landscapes and timeless spirit. The crown includes a beaded headband and diamond centrepiece that mirror Namibia’s radiance on the global stage.
Around her neck, Swartbooi wears a striking beaded necklace crafted from ostrich shell and traditional beads in shades of yellow, orange, blue, green, red and brown — each colour signifying harmony among Namibia’s cultures.
The corset pays homage to Khoisan heritage, adorned with intricate beadwork and flowing coiled elements that celebrate femininity and traditional craftsmanship. The skirt draws inspiration from Caprivian and Nama dress artistry, with radiant patterns symbolising Namibia’s skies, oceans and sunsets. Additional handcrafted elements include the ondjeva made from ostrich shells, symbolising purity and the industrious spirit of Namibian women, as well as a waist belt and beaded front piece made by Khoisan women, embodying identity and pride. A front leather piece rooted in Himba and San traditions represents Namibia’s connection to nature, hunting and gathering. Completing the look, the anklets reflect Ovahimba and Ovambo customs, symbolising health and well-being.
Speaking on the significance of wearing this creation on the Miss Universe stage, Johanna Swartbooi shared: “My national costume proudly reflects Namibia’s rich cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, telling a visual story through every colour, texture and detail. At its core, the look symbolises unity among Namibia’s many tribes while celebrating resilience, identity and pride… Wearing this costume on the Miss Universe stage means carrying the heart of my homeland with me. It is a living celebration of who we are as Namibians: resilient, united and beautifully diverse.”
NBC Acting Head of PR and Marketing, Beaulah Boois-Beukes, added: “The national costume is a masterpiece that encapsulates the spirit of our nation. It reflects Namibia’s heritage with authenticity, elegance and pride, and we are honoured to support her as she represents our country on one of the world’s biggest stages.”
The national costume stands not only as a work of art but also as a testament to Namibia’s unity in diversity — a message Johanna Swartbooi is proud to share with the world.
