Martins sets her sights on another international win

Seeking support for Miss Asia Pacific International
After a triumphant run at Miss Petite Global, the Namibian model faces financial hurdles as she prepares to compete in Manila.
Michael Kayunde
Esperansa Martins, one of Namibia’s rising stars in the modelling world, is preparing to take her talents to the international stage once again. Following her success at the Miss Petite Global pageant in Malaysia in May, Martins is now gearing up for the Miss Asia Pacific International competition in Manila, the Philippines, from 28 September to 8 October.

However, the path to international success is not without its financial challenges. Currently seeking sponsorship for her N$21 200 flight ticket, Martins is determined to represent Namibia on this global platform.

In an exclusive interview with Namibian Sun, she reflected on her modelling journey, highlighting her participation in the Miss Petite Global competition. “With Miss Petite Global in Malaysia, it exposed me to the international world, showing how pageantry is conducted differently from what we are used to at home,” she explained.

“I decided to pursue this path because I need to achieve something bigger. One never stops at their first attempt, and Miss Petite Global was my first ever pageant.”

New heights

Martins’ win of the African title in Malaysia was a pivotal moment in her career, propelling her to new heights. “Winning the African title gave me confidence,” she said. “I’ve since been teaching a few young girls how to model, sharing what I learnt. With a population of just about three million Namibians, it reminds me that I’m not alone. I have a nation looking up to me, and I have to fully embrace that responsibility.”

As Martins prepares for her trip to the Philippines, sponsorship is a crucial aspect of making this dream a reality. She envisions that support from sponsors will not only advance her career, but also inspire future generations of Namibian talent.

“With my advocacy, I am able to give back to the community in the same way I am receiving from potential sponsors,” she noted.

“[Supporting Namibian] talent is the only way we as a nation will be recognised. Younger generations will learn from us and continue the chain of representation.”

Still pushing

Despite her efforts since 1 July, Martins has only secured N$10 000 toward her flight ticket and is still seeking an additional N$11 200. “It will be a great disappointment if I don’t attend this pageant, especially in the eyes of my current sponsor,” she said. “I’m still pushing, looking for individuals who can help me cover the remaining fee, as well as my mini expenses, which I’m not yet able to cater for.”

Looking ahead to the Miss Asia Pacific International competition, Martins remains focused on her goals. “This event is not just about exposure,” she shared. “I see potential opportunities to make history. I’ve put in so much effort, and I believe I can become one of the most recognised Namibian international models, representing my beloved land with pride.”

For those interested in contributing towards the beauty queen's expenses, donations can be made to the following FNB Namibia account: Esperansa Martins, account number 62274859639.

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Namibian Sun 2024-10-04

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