Leena Shipwata: Redefining Namibia’s influencer landscape
From Namibia’s stages to global aspirations
The model and media personality reflects on a transformative 2024, hosting Namibia's top events, and her plans to take her brand to the international stage in 2025.
Namibian model, lifestyle influencer, and media personality Leena Shipwata closed out 2024 with a dazzling string of accomplishments, cementing her place as a powerhouse in Namibia’s creative industries. From hosting prestigious events to laying the groundwork for her personal brand expansion, Shipwata’s vision for the future is nothing short of ambitious. In an exclusive interview with tjil, she reflects on her journey and shares her plans for 2025.
A Year of Milestones
2024 saw Shipwata take the reins of Namibia’s biggest stages, including the Miss Namibia pageant and the City of Windhoek’s New Year’s Eve countdown bash. Reflecting on these career-defining moments, she highlighted the energy and connection she felt with her audiences.
“Hosting both Miss Namibia 2024 and the New Year’s City Countdown were incredible milestones for me. What stood out the most was the energy and connection with the audience. At Miss Namibia, I witnessed the empowerment of women stepping into their power, representing not just beauty but intelligence and purpose. The New Year’s Countdown was about unity—bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate new beginnings. Both events pushed me to grow as a presenter, allowing me to connect deeply with people and celebrate Namibia’s vibrant spirit.”
A vision for 2025
As the new year begins, Shipwata is laser-focused on elevating her career across modeling, influencing, and hosting. “In presenting, I’m aiming to secure more high-profile hosting gigs both locally and internationally. As a model, I want to work with global brands that align with my image and represent Namibia on international platforms. I’m also focusing on building my own brand, including launching my hair business. This year is about fully owning my narrative, being intentional, and making bold moves that push me closer to becoming a global media personality.”
Influencing and industry growth
As one of Namibia’s top influencers, Shipwata is excited about her upcoming collaborations. “While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I’m currently working on campaigns with brands that align perfectly with my personal style and values: fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. I’m also developing my own brand in the haircare space, which I’m excited to share more about soon.”
She is optimistic about the growth of Namibia’s creative economy. “Lifestyle influencing is becoming a viable and impactful form of business. Brands are starting to invest in content creators who can tell stories that resonate with Namibian consumers. With the right structure, influencing can become a significant part of Namibia’s creative economy.”
Advice for aspiring influencers
To those looking to follow in her footsteps, Shipwata offers sage advice: “Be authentic and intentional. Know who you are and what you stand for because people connect with real stories. Consistency and quality are key. Treat influencing like a real business—set goals, build professional relationships, and know your worth. Growth takes time, so stay patient and trust the process. If you stay true to your voice and put in the work, opportunities will come.”
A Year of Milestones
2024 saw Shipwata take the reins of Namibia’s biggest stages, including the Miss Namibia pageant and the City of Windhoek’s New Year’s Eve countdown bash. Reflecting on these career-defining moments, she highlighted the energy and connection she felt with her audiences.
“Hosting both Miss Namibia 2024 and the New Year’s City Countdown were incredible milestones for me. What stood out the most was the energy and connection with the audience. At Miss Namibia, I witnessed the empowerment of women stepping into their power, representing not just beauty but intelligence and purpose. The New Year’s Countdown was about unity—bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate new beginnings. Both events pushed me to grow as a presenter, allowing me to connect deeply with people and celebrate Namibia’s vibrant spirit.”
A vision for 2025
As the new year begins, Shipwata is laser-focused on elevating her career across modeling, influencing, and hosting. “In presenting, I’m aiming to secure more high-profile hosting gigs both locally and internationally. As a model, I want to work with global brands that align with my image and represent Namibia on international platforms. I’m also focusing on building my own brand, including launching my hair business. This year is about fully owning my narrative, being intentional, and making bold moves that push me closer to becoming a global media personality.”
Influencing and industry growth
As one of Namibia’s top influencers, Shipwata is excited about her upcoming collaborations. “While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I’m currently working on campaigns with brands that align perfectly with my personal style and values: fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. I’m also developing my own brand in the haircare space, which I’m excited to share more about soon.”
She is optimistic about the growth of Namibia’s creative economy. “Lifestyle influencing is becoming a viable and impactful form of business. Brands are starting to invest in content creators who can tell stories that resonate with Namibian consumers. With the right structure, influencing can become a significant part of Namibia’s creative economy.”
Advice for aspiring influencers
To those looking to follow in her footsteps, Shipwata offers sage advice: “Be authentic and intentional. Know who you are and what you stand for because people connect with real stories. Consistency and quality are key. Treat influencing like a real business—set goals, build professional relationships, and know your worth. Growth takes time, so stay patient and trust the process. If you stay true to your voice and put in the work, opportunities will come.”
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