In the heart of Goreangab, stands a humble yet spirited fitness hub: Empire Gym and Boxing Club. It’s not just a place to lift weights or throw punches; it’s a lifeline, a dream born from sacrifice.

Founded four years ago by Shimungeni Naftal, a former teacher with a deep passion for fitness, the gym was created out of a burning desire to give back to a community in dire need of recreational spaces.

“I’ve always been a fitness fanatic, even back in high school. Bodybuilding fascinated me, and I wanted to share that passion,” Naftal said.

But this was no easy feat. With limited funds and no external support, Naftal made a bold move – he sold some of his household belongings to buy basic gym equipment. 

He now rents a small portion of land in a residential yard and erected a makeshift structure to house the gym. It’s modest, with only one boxing bag and a few weights.

“I have a lot of young boys who want to become boxers. They come to me full of dreams, but I don’t have enough space or equipment to train them properly. There’s no dedicated boxing room, and that’s something I hope to build if I can get a partner or sponsor.”

Naftal’s call for assistance is not for profit – it’s for impact. He envisions a larger facility, properly equipped with essentials like leg press machines, additional weights, and a secluded space for aspiring boxers.

Open seven days a week from 05h30 to 21h00, Empire Gym serves a wide range of clients: from students and employed adults to taxi drivers who finish work late. The gym charges N$250 per month for working individuals and N$200 for students, making it a more affordable option for people who can’t access high-end fitness centers.

“Both men and women come here. They want to improve themselves, but more importantly, they want to stay away from the negative influences around,” he said.

Naftal is especially concerned about the youth in Goreangab. Surrounded by taverns and a lack of positive alternatives, many young people fall into crime and substance abuse. He believes that recreational facilities like Empire Gym can be the key to turning things around.

“This area needs more recreational centers. Let’s get the youth off the streets. Let’s give them something better to do than drinking and stealing. If we invest in their potential, we’ll see a real difference in our communities,” he said passionately. Naftal can be reached on 081 2772865

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na