Changemakers celebrated as EU bids farewell to first youth sounding board
The EU Residence in Windhoek was filled with energy and emotion last Saturday as the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Namibia held a farewell event for the first-ever EU-Namibia Youth Sounding Board (YSB).The celebration marked the end of a two-year journey for 25 young Namibians who helped shape the way the EU engages with youth in its development work.
Launched in July 2023, the YSB was created to give young people across Namibia, aged 18 to 30, a direct voice in EU programmes and policy decisions. Coming from a variety of backgrounds and regions, the board members brought fresh perspectives to the table and played an active role in influencing real-world change.
Their efforts were part of the EU’s Youth Action Plan (2022–2027), a global initiative aimed at making sure youth have a say in shaping international policy and development agendas.
Over the past two years, the YSB members didn’t just talk, they acted. They provided feedback on EU projects, co-led initiatives on digital literacy, renewable energy, voter education, women’s rights, and early childhood development. Their hands-on work included helping organise the EU-Namibia Education Fair and several other major events.
Going global
Several members also had the chance to represent Namibia at global platforms. These included the African Youth Climate Assembly in Kenya, the Global Gateway High-Level Event on Education, the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event, and COP29 in Azerbaijan – where they discussed Africa-led solutions and the future of education and climate action.
EU Ambassador to Namibia, H.E. Ana Beatriz Martins, praised the outgoing members for their dedication. “It’s been a fantastic two-year journey. These young people exceeded expectations with their ideas and actions, especially on issues like green energy, education, and gender equality. We are proud of the legacy they’ve created and excited for the next chapter.”
Ambassador Martins also announced that a new Youth Sounding Board will be appointed in September.
Speaking on behalf of his peers, outgoing Chairperson Mattheus Shivute reflected on the impact of their time together: “Being part of this board has been life-changing. We’ve proven that youth can lead and be part of the solution. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see what the next group achieves.”
Although their official term has ended, the outgoing members will stay connected as YSB alumni, continuing to share their insights and support youth engagement through other platforms.
As the baton passes to a new generation of youth advisors, the EU-Namibia Youth Sounding Board remains a shining example of what’s possible when young people are empowered to help shape the future.