Reigning Miss Earth Namibia, Albertina Haimbala has left for Manila in the Philippines to participate in the 24th edition of the Miss Earth competition on the 9th of November.

Haimbala will compete for the coveted title of Miss Earth 2024 with other 80 contestants from across the globe.

An advocate for environmental awareness, she is set to participate in a series of pre-pageant activities designed to promote the pageant's core message of environmental sustainability. 

These include environmental seminars, eco-tours, community service projects, and various competitions focused on eco-fashion, talent, and advocacy.

"It's a privilege and an honour to represent my country; this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I feel so honoured and I'm so excited to represent my country. I was crowned last year, so finally we are here, and I'm about to leave to showcase our culture and our talent on an international stage," she said.

Each contestant's advocacy platform forms a crucial part of the competition, and the eventual titleholder is expected to champion environmental causes throughout her reign.

"Miss Earth is a pageant that loves and cares for our mother Earth, so basically we are ambassadors of the Earth, and we are there to teach, educate, and raise awareness because this is our Earth and we are supposed to take care of it."

The Miss Earth pageant, one of the big four international beauty contests, is renowned for its emphasis on environmental responsibility. 

Haimbala spoke with great confidence about her potential at the competition.

"I am ready to bring down the Miss Earths stage. I am ready. I've been preparing the whole year, and having my country's name almost across my chest is my biggest achievement at this point, so I am really ready to show the world what Namibia is made of."