Empowering Namibian youth to be their own heroes

Junior Kapofi
The second edition of the MTC Teen Inspirational Summit took place at the International University of Management (IUM) main campus in Windhoek last weekend. The summit, themed 'Be your own hero', aimed to engage, stimulate, encourage and inspire Namibian teenagers to believe in and pursue their dreams.
The event was a testament to MTC's commitment to youth empowerment and community development. Through a series of performances and speeches, the summit provided a platform for teenagers to explore their passions, develop their talents and learn from industry experts and successful individuals.
One of the highlights of the summit was the performance by international dance group Ghetto Kids, all the way from Uganda. The group, known for their energetic dance routines and inspiring story, captivated the audience with their talent and message of hope. Their performance was a powerful reminder that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness through hard work and determination.
Kavuma Dauda, the founder of Ghetto Kids, shared the group's journey from the streets of Kampala to international stardom. He emphasised the importance of using music, dance and drama as tools for social change and empowerment. The group's performance included choreography to a Namibian song titled 'Bacardi' by DJ Spuzza, in which they paid tribute to Namibian culture and expressed their gratitude to Namibian fans.
The summit also featured a line-up of talented and inspiring local talents, whose performances left the audience in awe. From music to dance to spoken word, the event was a celebration of the creativity and individuality of Namibian youth.
Miss Teen Namibia, Oriana Ribeiro, was also present, sharing her journey to becoming a role model for Namibian teenagers. She encouraged her fellow teens to work on having a positive mindset and believe that every dream is within reach. She emphasised the importance of being intentional in one's journey and never doubting one's capabilities.
The summit was not just a platform for inspiration, but also a celebration of the power of unity and collaboration. It brought together adults and youth, the private sector and government in a collective effort to create a future where every teenager has the courage to pursue their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
Moreover, the MTC Teen Inspirational Summit was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on the attendees and the community at large. It served as a reminder that every hero starts with a dream and faces challenges and setbacks along the way. But with perseverance and determination, every obstacle can become a stepping stone towards achieving those dreams.