• By Patience Makwele

As her reign as Miss Namibia 2024 nears its end, 29-year-old Prisca Anyolo, reflects on her journey into the modelling world and beyond. A business owner, journalist, and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, the beauty queen narrated how modeling sparked her confidence and how winning Miss Namibia afforded her recognition on a global scale. 

 “My journey into modeling started as a creative outlet and quickly evolved into a powerful platform of storytelling. As a journalist and presenter, I have always believed in using my voice and image to tell stories that matter,” Anyolo said. 

“From working with international brands like Huda Beauty and Old Mutual, to ultimately stepping onto the Miss Universe stage, the idea of using beauty and fashion as a vehicle for empowerment and change has always inspired me,” she added. Anyolo further described her journey as transformative and that she embraced every challenge as a stepping stone as well as a life lesson. 
“I have grown into a more courageous, intentional, and impactful version of myself as a leader, businesswoman, and advocate,” she reflected.

According to Anyolo, before winning the title, she would always describe confidence as just looking the part, walking tall, speaking clearly and smiling widely. However, this narrative changed when she was crowned Miss Namibia and evolved into something bigger. 

“Confidence now means showing up for myself even on the hardest days. It is the quiet assurance that I am enough.  That my voice matters, and that my dreams are valid, with or without a crown.” While it was a privilege to represent Namibia at the prestigious Miss Universe last year, Anyolo recalls that launching her business was most memorable. 

Being a young woman in the public eye, she stressed that: “the pressure to be perfect, always polished and always composed, was overwhelming at times.”  However, despite these challenges, she maintains that she stayed focused by staying grounded and staying connected to her purpose. 

“I leaned into my charity work with Crowning Gardens, surrounded myself with a supportive inner circle, and reminded myself constantly, [that] I am human first, queen second,” she indicated.

Speaking on expectations on what it takes to be Miss Namibia, she explained that, she redefined the role by blending beauty with business and advocacy.  According to her, she promoted sustainability in underserved communities through her charity initiative, and has also launched a business that empowers women. 

“I have shown that Miss Namibia can be a model, entrepreneur, activist, and leader all in one,” she stated. Her hope is to continue serving as an inspiration to young Namibian girls and women who are motivated by what she does. 

“I want young Namibian girls to see that there is power in their voice, their dreams, and their roots. I hope they see that you can come from humble beginnings and still build something beautiful. That you do not have to choose between ambition and authenticity. You can be soft and strong, elegant and driven.” 

While pageantry may appear glamorous from the outside, Anyolo is of the opinion that, it as a full-time job with significant responsibilities.  “People often see the glamour but not the responsibility. From planning charity projects and attending events to managing your brand and traveling internationally, it is a high-stakes balancing act.”

To the next Miss Namibia, she advices: “know your ‘why’ and lead with it. The spotlight can blur your vision if you are not rooted in purpose. Surround yourself with people who support you, not just the crown. Be ready to work, it is not always easy, but if you stay true to your values, you will leave a legacy that lasts far beyond your reign.”