By Hilja Shikongo

Outapi came alive this past weekend as the town hosted its first-ever Beauty Business Exhibition, a two-day event that brought together over 200 attendees and 22 exhibitors from across Namibia to celebrate beauty, entrepreneurship, and empowerment. held at O’Zodiac Star Pension on Saturday, 2 August and Sunday, 3 August 2025, the exhibition transformed the northern town into a hub of creativity, learning, and collaboration. Visitors and exhibitors travelled from as far as Walvis Bay, Windhoek, Ruacana, Okahao, and Oshakati to be part of what many described as a groundbreaking moment for Namibia’s regional beauty industry. The weekend kicked off with a vibrant activation night on Friday, 1 August at Ayoba Lifestyle, where award-winning Namibian artist Top Cheri set the stage with an electric performance alongside DJ Meknolis.
 

“The crowd was incredibly interactive and full of energy,” said Top Cheri. “You could feel the anticipation and excitement in the air. I am truly honoured to be part of such a great initiative that is getting people engaged, inspired, and actively involved in building something meaningful in the beauty and business industry.”
 

The exhibition was organised by CH Growth Advertising under the leadership of Zenao Andowa, whose vision was to elevate beauty and wellness professionals in northern Namibia. “We owe it to our people to have interesting, educational and uplifting platforms such as this,” said Andowa. “It is our responsibility to lift and empower our fellow Namibians with knowledge and opportunities. The goal of this exhibition was to create visibility, recognition and growth for beauty and wellness professionals in Outapi and surrounding areas  and it achieved exactly that.”
 

With over 15 exhibitors showcasing products and services in skincare, cosmetics, haircare, wellness, and entrepreneurship, the event also featured expert-led sessions focused on mental health, branding, finance, motherhood in business, and personal wellness.
The speaker lineup was both diverse and dynamic, including Matias Taukuheke, Ashanty Shatipamba, Albertina Nangolo, Ilke Platt, Dr. Helena Ileka, Maria Nepembe-Amunyela, and Linea Iipinge. 
 

Representing keynote speaker Hon. Emma Theofelus, the Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology, was Omusati Regional Governor Immanuel Shikongo, who delivered a message emphasizing the importance of visibility, inclusion, and innovation in the beauty and wellness industry. “The beauty, wellness, health, and fitness sectors are powerful forces, impacting both individuals and society,” the keynote speech noted. “While they offer opportunities for self-expression and economic growth, it is crucial to promote more inclusivity and celebrate achievements. You are the trendsetters, the artists, and visionaries who shape the narrative of the industry. 

This exhibition is a chance to ignite your passion, connect with your community and chart your course towards success in your various businesses.” Throughout the two days, attendees were immersed in live demos, pampering treatments, and real-time consultations.