Selma Kamanya, former Miss Namibia 2018 and newly crowned Miss World Namibia 2025, has opened up about the challenges behind the pageant crown, proving that even prestigious titles don’t shield one from life’s struggles.
At the Miss World 2025 pageant in Hyderabad, India, Kamanya achieved a remarkable top-eight finish globally and was among the top two contestants from Africa. She also earned the “Top Model Africa” recognition, which helped her advance to the final rounds, marking one of Namibia’s strongest showings in decades.
Despite the glitz and recognition, Kamanya emphasizes that the life of a beauty queen is far from easy. “Wearing the crown is not easy,” she said. “As a title holder, you face more ‘nos’ than ‘yesses’ and have to maintain mental stability while navigating daily challenges.”
Kamanya credited the support of her community for keeping her grounded, and she encourages young people to pursue their dreams relentlessly, even when faced with setbacks. “A dream is almost like a planted seed. You have to bury it, and sometimes the burial can feel like it’s killing the life out of you. But if you don’t give up, there will be success one day,” she reflected.
Her journey has not been without personal challenges. Kamanya founded two businesses and a foundation for youth empowerment and social projects, but she struggled with anxiety and depression when her plans faced setbacks. “My biggest dream was to be an entrepreneur… at just 25 years old, I fell into depression and struggled badly with anxiety,” she admitted.
Through her experiences, Kamanya has learned the importance of resilience, self-discovery, and purpose. Her work in mental health advocacy and social entrepreneurship became a core part of her platform at Miss World and continues to shape her mission.
Kamanya’s story serves as a reminder that titles and public recognition are only part of the journey. True success comes from perseverance, inner strength, and the courage to keep pursuing your dreams despite obstacles.
