OSHAKATI – The rise of Simeon Shimwino, a planner, from the small village of Onesi to the busy town of Oshakati was not easy. It was a journey filled with fear, hope and uncertainty. Leaving home meant leaving comfort behind and facing a hard reality.
Life did not offer quick success; it offered challenges that required patience, strength, and belief in tomorrow.
After completing Grade 12 in 2012, Shimwino’s life tested him immediately.
There was no money, job or clear direction. Survival became the priority, and he started working as an assistant in construction companies, doing heavy work under the hot sun.
He accepted the work because he knew it was better to struggle honestly than to give up. When Shimwino later became a security guard at G4S, the work was demanding.
He worked long hours, including night shifts, with very little rest.
“People saw me as just a security guard, but I saw myself as someone preparing for a better future,” Shimwino says.
He said the job taught him discipline, patience, and respect for honest work.
During this time, Shimwino remembered a talent he had since childhood. He loved art and could draw, paint and even make sculptures.
He then decided not to ignore the gift. “Art helped me express myself when life was difficult,” Shimwino said.
He joined the College of Arts and obtained a certificate. On his off days, he taught arts, which gave his life new meaning. After two years, Shimwino made another brave decision and enrolled in computer studies. He paid for his studies using the same security guard salary.
Life became even harder during his job attachment. During the day I was on attachment, and in the evening, I went to work. I was always tired, but I did not want to fail,” he recalled.
His determination helped him complete a diploma in computer studies.
Along the way, Shimwino faced mockery from others; some young people laughed at him and called him ‘Sekeseke’, trying to make him feel insignificant. “Those words were painful, but I refused to let them stop me,” Shimwino said. He remained focused on his goals and continued pushing forward. With his diploma completed, Shimwino aimed higher and decided to go to university. Once again, life tested him.
When it was time to register, he had no money, and the years continued to pass.
He said growing up without a mother made the journey even harder.
“I had moments when I felt alone, but I never gave up,” Shimwino says. With support from caring people and faith, he was accepted at the International University of Management, Ongwediva Campus. University life was again very difficult to survive, Shimwino cut grass in people’s yards to earn money for food, rent and electricity.
“It was painful, but it taught me humility. During this time, I also volunteered at the Ongwediva Town Council to represent the youth, hoping my experience could help others,” he added.
Today, Shimwino is a graduate and is continuing his studies towards a master’s degree.
He has a driving licence, has immaculate people skills and spends much of his time motivating the youth. “I come from a poor family, and I still do not have permanent employment. but I am educated, alive, and hopeful,” says Shimwino.
He encouraged fellow young people that the current situation is not their final destination. “If you do not give up, one day your story will inspire others,” he advised.