Namibian rhythmic gymnast Emilia Ekandjo has secured qualification for the 42nd Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships, set to take place from 12 to 16 August, marking a major milestone for both her career and the growth of the sport in Namibia.
The qualification, recently confirmed by the Namibian Gymnastics Federation, places Ekandjo among the athletes who will compete on one of the biggest stages in world gymnastics. For the young gymnast, the achievement represents years of sacrifice, discipline and perseverance.
“I was honestly really shocked and happy as my hard work has paid off,” Ekandjo said.
She explained that the journey to qualification demanded years of commitment, including intense training schedules, balancing academics and sacrificing social activities to stay focused on her goals.
Reaching this point, she said, was not only about medals or recognition, but about proving her resilience to herself.
“This qualification means I’ve proven my hard work and resilience to myself. For my journey, it’s not the finish line, it’s the moment I step into a new level of confidence and growth,” she added.
Ekandjo said she first realised qualification for the World Championships was possible after performing well at the African Championships.
One of her biggest challenges was dealing with recurring ankle and back injuries, which often interrupted her progress and forced her to take breaks from training. She admitted that learning to see recovery as part of the process, rather than a setback, helped her push through difficult moments.
Her qualification also shines a spotlight on the steady development of rhythmic gymnastics in Namibia. Although still considered a small sport locally, Ekandjo believes interest and competition levels are steadily improving as more young girls join gymnastics clubs around the country.
She said international exposure is helping put Namibia on the map and inspiring more young athletes to pursue the sport seriously.
Representing Namibia at the World Championships carries deep meaning for the gymnast, who says she is proud to carry the country’s name onto the global stage.
Ekandjo credited her coach and mother as the two people who played the biggest role in her success. She described her coach as someone who pushed her even during moments when she wanted to give up, while her mother provided emotional support and stability throughout her journey.
She also acknowledged the support of the Namibian Gymnastics Federation, saying qualification would not have been possible without the federation’s assistance, coaching guidance and family support.
Looking ahead to the World Championships, Ekandjo’s focus remains on delivering clean routines and improving her personal best scores rather than chasing medals.
The gymnast, who feels most confident performing with the ball and ribbon apparatus, hopes her achievement will encourage more young Namibians to dream bigger and pursue opportunities in gymnastics despite limited resources and exposure in the country.-hnalupe@nepc.com.na