Michelle McLean
Global Ambassador • Philanthropist
Entrepreneur • Miss Universe 1992
Michelle McLean became an international figure when she won Miss Universe in 1992, placing Namibia on the global stage.
Her win launched a lifelong career as a television personality, speaker, emcee and ambassador for tourism, conservation and education.
She has hosted global events including the World Economic Forum in Davos and an event for President Bill Clinton, and has spoken at major conferences and UN gatherings representing Namibia.
About Michelle
For 35 years, Michelle has led the Michelle McLean Children Foundation, raising over $40 million and implementing hundreds of projects focused on education, community upliftment and gender equality.
The Foundation established the Michelle McLean Primary School, which educates more than 1,410 children annually, and provides scholarships, entrepreneurial training and financial literacy programs to thousands of young people.
Michelle has served as an ambassador for UNICEF, SOS Children’s Villages and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Foundation, and worked closely with Archbishop Desmond Tutu during South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Her humanitarian work has earned her global recognition, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from U.S. President Donald Trump and multiple international awards for leadership and philanthropy.
Tourism, Investment & Global Ambassador Work
Michelle is a leading voice for Namibian tourism, investment and conservation. As a Global Ambassador, she promotes eco‑tourism, education, natural diamonds, conservation and the film industry.
She serves as the International Business Officer for Gondwana Collection Namibia in the USA, representing one of Namibia’s most respected safari lodge and conservation groups.
Based in Miami, she travels globally to champion Namibia’s development and international partnerships.
IAOTP Awards & Global Professional Leadership
Michelle’s professional achievements have been recognised worldwide.
She has been named one of the 100 Most Successful Women in Business, Top Entrepreneur and Philanthropist, Spokesperson of the Year for Eco‑tourism and Renewable Energy, one of the 50 Fearless Leaders, Top Global Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, Top Humanitarian of the Decade, and Top Global Business Woman of the Year in Tourism and Investment.
She is a sought‑after keynote speaker on children’s rights, education, women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship, and founded the Michelle McLean University in 2020.
Michelle McLean Children Foundation
The Michelle McLean Children Foundation is dedicated to uplifting the youth of Namibia through positive and ongoing action. The foundation encourages young Namibians to commit to their future, accept accountability, and achieve their full potential, thereby preparing future generations for success.
Personal Life
Michelle is based in Miami and is married to former Manchester United goalkeeper Gary Bailey.
She has one son, Luke, three step‑children — Lara, Jenna and Ross — and six grandchildren. She continues to travel between Namibia, the USA and international destinations, promoting education, tourism, investment and conservation.