The Miss Namibia Pageant 2012 was launched in the capital on Wednesday. In the picture are previous holders of the Miss Namibia title, (back row, from left) Michelle Heitha (Miss Namibia 2001), Happy Ntelamo (2009), Leefa Shikwa (2005) and Marichen Luiperth (2007). In front are (left) Luzaan van Wyk (2011) and (right) Odile Gertze, Miss Namibia 2010.

Since the victory of Michelle Mclean, Namibia is yet to celebrate another Miss Universe. Well in fact Namibia is declining at the pageant. Here's last week's press release that sends a powerful message that the Miss Namibia pageant and its quest for a second Miss Universe crown is still alive - and kicking.

WINDHOEK - The search for the country’s next beauty queen has begun with the launch of the Miss Namibia pageant last Wednesday.

The 32nd Miss Namibia pageant will take place on August, 4. The launch was attended mainly by sponsors and media representatives where reigning Miss Namibia, Luzaan Van Wyk announced this year’s confirmed sponsors for the prestigious event.

She also announced that the search for Miss Namibia 2012 has begun.

“Today marks an exciting moment for the whole nation, because the search has again begun for the most beautiful young woman in Namibia. A role model with attitude and commitment, who will be an ambassador not only for our country, but at international pageants as well,” she said.

Van Wyk described her year of reign as a “remarkable journey” that changed her life.

“I represented Namibia at the 60th Miss World pageant in London and have been involved in numerous initiatives in Namibia. These will be shown as part of my farewell audiovisual presentation during the event,” she said.

The search for the ‘Women of Excellence’ has also begun. The ‘Women of Excellence’ campaign was launched in 2007. Contributions of women who have excelled where specific communities need their support is recognised through the campaign.

Miss Namibia 2012 will work closely with the ‘Women of Excellence’ nominees.

“So many Namibian women contribute to uplifting the needy in our communities, but sadly their dedication and unselfish commitment often goes unnoticed. As Namibians, we are all now being requested to nominate such special women who have made contributions towards the alleviation of poverty in our communities,” said Auriel Aweries, Advertising Manager at Standard Bank.

Entry forms for the ‘Women of Excellence’ campaign can be downloaded from the Miss Namibia website, www.missnamibia.com.na or at Standard Bank branches countrywide. Entry forms for Miss Namibia 2012 can also be obtained from the Miss Namibia website.