Namibia reigns supreme at Miss Supranational 2021
Namibia’s Chanique Rabe was crowned Miss Supranational 2021 on Saturday out of 58 contestants from across the world, becoming the first African to win the title since the competition started in 2009.
The 24-year-old fashion designer was crowned in Malopolska, Poland by outgoing Miss Supranational 2019, Anntonia Porsild of Thailand.
The stunning Windhoek native beat Karla Guilfu Acevedo from Puerto Rico to the prestigious crown. Acevedo ended as first-runner up, while South Africa’s Thato Mosehle finished as second runner-up.
Rabe said during a live Facebook broadcast soon after scooping the crown that she did not expect to win. “I came here to do my best and to work hard with a perception that whatever happens, happens”.
The zealous beauty queen said she was immensely appreciative of the support she got from Namibia, considering how small it is.
“Coming from a Third World country, such a small country, and the support I have received from all over the world is just amazing,” she beamed.
In a message shared earlier Sunday on social media, Rabe said: “Namibia, we did it! (followed by heart and Namibian flag emojis)”
“I’m honoured to win the first Miss Supranational crown for Africa!”
“It is still sinking in... All I can say is Thank you! Thank you to the Miss Supranational organisation for giving me this opportunity, and thank you to everyone for every single message, phone call and gesture! A big congratulations to all the contestants; what a wonderful journey it has been… I am so grateful and honoured to be here, and excited for what’s to come.”
Rabe, who is an ambassador for the Hope Village Orphanage, said she will continue pushing her charity initiative called ‘The Mending Project’, through which she teaches Namibian youths and children how to sew, which she described as an essential life skill to learn.
The long-haired brunette also holds certificates in make-up artistry and photography.
Rabe, who stands 1.75m tall, was crowned Miss Supranational Namibia in November 2020 from 13 candidates who competed.
Her beauty contest titles include Miss Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool, her alma mater; Miss Teen Namibia 2014; Miss Teen Continents 2015; and Face of Queen Spark 2015.
Namibia’s last and memorable victory in the pageant industry at international level was Miss Universe 1992 when Michelle McLean won the crown.