Shaandre Finnies

Today, we gather with heavy hearts and profound gratitude to pay tribute to a man who dedicated his life to uplifting and empowering the youth of Namibia, Mandela Kapere. 

His untimely departure has left a void that words alone cannot fill, but his legacy will forever inspire and guide us.

Mandela Kapere was not just a leader; he was a visionary whose passion for youth development was unmatched. From his early days, he understood the power of investing in young minds, and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation. 

His work with the National Youth Council of Namibia was a testament to his unwavering commitment to nurturing the potential within each young Namibian.

Kapere believed in us when a few did not. He saw in the youth not just future leaders, but current changemakers, capable of driving positive transformation in our communities and country. 

His initiatives, whether educational programs, leadership training or advocacy for youth rights, were all designed with a single purpose: to empower us to believe in ourselves, and to strive for greatness. His name, Mandela, was more than just a moniker. It embodied the spirit of resilience, hope and relentless pursuit of justice. 

Like his namesake, Nelson Mandela, our Mandela fought for a better world, one where every young person could dream without limits and achieve without barriers. He championed inclusivity, diversity, and the fundamental belief that every youth, regardless of their background, had a role to play in shaping Namibia’s future.

As we reflect on his life, we remember his infectious enthusiasm, inspiring speeches and genuine kindness. 

Mandela Kapere was a mentor, a guide and a friend to countless young Namibians. His door was always open, his advice always sage, and his support unwavering.

Mandela, you would be proud of the world you left behind. 

Emma Theofilus, the young Junior
Mayor of Windhoek you were insistent on inviting to various meetings and platforms, is today Africa’s youngest Minister of Information and Communication Technology in Namibia. Theofilus is here, and ready to continue to lead.

Mandela, the young lady from Tunisia who served at the time as Africa’s first Youth Envoy, whom you invited at the dawn of 2020 to address young members of Parliament, is here, and she is leading. This summit is central to her leadership, and she continues to inspire women.

Mandela, the young lady from Gobabis whom you mentored and decided to take along to a Saharawi solidarity conference, that young lady Patience Masua, is today Africa’s youngest Member of Parliament. She’s here virtually, ready to lead.

Mandela, finally, the young lady from Khomasdal who you took under your wing, whose political teeth you sharpened, is here virtually, and continues to lead in your footsteps. Thank you for Sharonice Busch. Thank you for empowering young women and opening doors for them.

May the men of my generation take the mantle from the men of your generation. May we do our part to ensure we open doors for our women too. May we allow them to lead us as wells.

Mandela’s impact goes beyond the programmes he spearheaded or the policies he influenced. It is found in the countless lives he touched, the dreams he nurtured, and the leaders he helped mould. He has left an indelible mark on Namibia, and we now must carry forward his vision.

To honour Mandela Kapere is to commit ourselves to the ideals he lived by. It is to strive for excellence, to fight for justice, and to uplift those around us. It is important to remember that our potential is limitless, and that our dreams are valid.

In his memory, let us continue to build a Namibia that reflects his vision, one where youth are not just seen but heard, not just present, but leading. Let us keep his legacy alive by being the change-makers he believed we could be.

Mandela Kapere, thank you for your unwavering dedication, boundless love
and enduring inspiration. 

You may have left this world, but your spirit will forever guide us. 

Rest in power, dear Mandela. The youth of Namibia will carry your torch forward, lighting the way for generations to come.

*Shaandre Finnies, One Young World Ambassador and Co-Founder of Empateamwork Namibia