Miss World International 2023 postponed

By Rinelda Mouton 10 May 2023

The 2023 Miss World International pageant has been postponed, while Miss Namibia 2022 first runner-up Leoné van Jaarsveld will represent Namibia in Dubai as Miss World Namibia 2023.

According to a statement issued by the Miss World organisation, the 2023 Miss World edition was postponed until the end of the year and will most likely be held in November or December in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

“I am disappointed that Miss World has been postponed, as I have been working extremely hard alongside my sponsor to accommodate all the requirements.

“To represent Namibia internationally as Miss World Namibia is a major financial expense, as most of the costs I have to cover or seek sponsors to cover.

“I am most grateful for each and every sponsor that has come on board to make this dream of mine a reality, as I would not be able to achieve what I have achieved or represent Namibia internationally without them,” she said.

Van Jaarsveld urged the public to support the pageant as this is an incredible opportunity for Namibia to be represented on an international platform.

“With Miss Namibia 2023 around the corner, taking place at Swakopmund this year, the Miss Namibia organisation has confirmed that although the new crowning will take place before I have represented Namibia internationally, I will, however, remain the titleholder to do so later this year,” Van Jaarsveld said.

“It has been a dream of mine to represent my country on an international platform, to proudly stand alongside everything Namibia has to offer, our rich and vibrant cultures and ethnic groups, our unique and diverse landscape and why Namibia is the most incredible holiday destination.”

She said the journey to where she is today has not been easy and her aim is to encourage Namibian youth that anything is possible through faith, discipline to one’s craft, consistency, perseverance, and dedication to the task at hand.

“It has most definitely not come easy, as it has taken me six years of competing professionally within the Namibian pageant industry to get where I am. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity,” she said.

All Van Jaarsveld’s attire is Namibian designed and handmade, she said, including her custom designed evening gowns by Namibian designer Amazing Designs CC, and handmade jewellery from Stergiadis Leather and Jewellery.

Stergiadis is a proudly Namibian based company that specialises in handcrafted leather products and jewellery from the Erongo region.

Van Jaarsveld said her national costume will represent the most unique qualities and value Namibia has to offer, and a public announcement will take place once her national costume is ready.

https://www.namibian.com.na/miss-world-international-2023-postponed/