The Namibian creative and entertainment industry has blossomed in recent years, increasing at a rate that may not meet everyone’s expectations. 

However, it is certainly a far cry from where it stood 35 years ago, said Helena Ngaifiwa, the managing director of Simply You Magazine.

She said there is a need to recognise and acknowledge that the industry is going somewhere – it is not stagnant.

“We have been hosting a variety of awards. I believe that in a way, it set standards for the international space, whether fashion, creative art, modelling, dancing, singing or visual art. We have made a mark. There is representation internally. It is something worth smiling about 35 years after independence,” said Ngaifiwa.

She added that even in terms of movies or local film productions, they have started finding space in the industry.  One can now go to the cinema and watch a locally produced movie or short film.

“Back then, it wasn’t just about the fact that going to the cinema to watch a movie was a special decision – it has now become an experience of actually going to the theatre and watching a film made by Namibians,” she said.

Simply You Magazine recently collaborated with Forbes Woman Africa for the Leading Women Summit 2025 in Pretoria, South Africa.

 “That is a Namibian publication, a media house sitting at a table with other powerful African media houses having a conversation on how to grow and empower women on the continent. That was an invitation to take a seat at the table. That is the recognition we are getting,” Ngaifiwa noted.

She urged creatives to appreciate the work that organisations do for the art industry in the country because they are eager to make a mark in the creative space.

“Sometimes, we ask ourselves, ‘am I doing enough for my people and art industry in Namibia?’ ‘Am I doing enough to celebrate Namibian creatives?’ We think the grass is much greener on the other side – and we know, sometimes it’s not. If anything, the industry has grown tremendously,” said Ngaifiwa.

Brand strategist Kalistu Mukoroli noted that having been in this industry for over 15 years, hosting events, working in media, publishing magazines and collaborating with creatives, he has seen the incredible growth of Namibia’s creative sector. 

“We’ve come a long way – from an emerging industry to a space where local and international brands recognise and work with Namibian talent. But for this momentum to continue, we must actively support each other,” he said on Instagram recently.

Mukoroli added that it costs nothing to share fellow creatives work or to like a post, drop a comment or attend an event when one can. “These small actions build visibility, create opportunities and strengthen our ecosystem. Some are already doing it but we need more. The goal isn’t just growth – its sustainability. Let’s move beyond competition and build a culture of collaboration because support isn’t just a word – its action,” he stated.

Notable Namibians who made a mark in the international art scene include John Muafangejo, a revered artist, celebrated for his unique approach to linocut printmaking, which seamlessly merges African traditions with modern themes. 

His powerful work, addressing pivotal social and political issues like Apartheid, the liberation struggle and the challenges of postcolonial life, has been displayed in prestigious galleries around the globe, including in the United States, Germany and South Africa.

EES, also known as Eric Sell, is a skilled Namibian musician, who has captivated listeners in Namibia and abroad with his distinct musical style and captivating charisma. Born and bred in Windhoek, EES has established himself as a significant player in the Namibian music industry and a well-known ambassador for the country’s music and culture. 

He is based in Berlin, Germany.

Shishani Vranckx is a multi-award-winning and internationally touring artist, whose versatility in music transcends genres and cultures.  Thier work expresses a strong sense of social consciousness and intersects between research and art. 

Shishani is a vocalist, guitarist, songwriter and producer, loved for a soothing and powerful voice. 

They are  Namibia-born, based in Amsterdam.