Miss Namibia 2026, Charene Labuschagne, is preparing to represent the country at the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico.

The Miss Namibia Organisation hosted a farewell celebration ahead of her departure for the international competition.

The event also recognised the contributions of sponsors and partners, including Debmarine Namibia and NASRIA.

NASRIA Acting Manager for Sales and Marketing, Herman Shihungileni, says the partnership with the Miss Namibia Organisation provides an opportunity to promote insurance awareness and community empowerment.

"This collaboration is important because insurance awareness helps individuals and businesses prepare for unexpected challenges and protect what they have worked for."

Miss Namibia Organisation's National Director, Beaulah Boois-Beukes called on all stakeholders to continue supporting Miss Namibia.

"With your thrive, collective advocacy, there are so many areas that we can reach, so many women that we can empower using the NVC's platforms, our three television stations, our 11 radio services, and our digital platforms online. And with that, I encourage Namibians to just keep on voting. Keep on voting for Shireen, and let's get her into the top 30."

Labuschagne says representing Namibia is a great honour, describing her national identity as central to her journey.

"I always say that I'm a Namibian before I'm anything else, because it is such a cornerstone to my identity. If the world were to remember me as anything, I'd want them to remember me as that Namibian girl. So this sash, this crown and this privilege to be able to carry Namibia in my heart."

Miss Namibia departs for the South American country on Saturday.