Juvia Mufaweli Simasiku

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?

I am 14 years old and attending Eluwa Intellectual School, where I am in Grade 6. I was born with Down Syndrome, and I am the proud child of Sensei Yotham Simasiku and Helena Inga Armas. I have a unique personality and enjoy music, dancing, graphics, and sports. I’m very flexible and can often be found with a smile on my face.

How did you first become interested in karate?

I fell in love with karate when my dad started taking me to one of his dojo (karate trainings). This is when I was still a toddler. He would stretch my legs and hands, which made me fall in love with the sport. This experience challenged my abilities, fostering muscle memory that reminded me that if I could jump higher, kick with more precision, and perform acrobatics, then karate truly runs in my veins. So, I decided to embark on the journey of martial arts, eager to see where it would take me. And here I am today, having started at a young age, mastering not only the physical aspects but also the vocal expressions like shouting ‘kiai’ and acknowledging my dad as ‘Onsu, Sensei Uncle dad’.

Can you share your journey of how you got involved in Para-karate and what it means to you?

I began competing in developmental competitions like dojo contests and regional events at the young age of four. It was quite fascinating because I would often find myself pitted against able-bodied athletes, sometimes emerging victorious and other times not. However, now that the Namibia Karate Federation (NKF) has officially acknowledged me as the very first Namibian karate Para-athlete, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of pride. I sincerely believe that my involvement in the sport can now flourish even further. However, competing against able-bodied athletes has become increasingly challenging, and my enthusiasm was gradually waning.

Are there any specific role models or athletes in karate who have influenced you or whom you admire?

My dad was my ultimate role model. I frequently accompanied him to competitions and found his competitive style to be fascinating. He displayed a wide range of techniques, each executed with great vigour and skill.

What do you wish to become in 10 years?

In the near future, one of my goals is to receive World Karate Federation (WKF) accreditation as a recognised Para-karate athlete from Namibia. On a professional level, I am driven to work within a non-governmental institution dedicated to addressing the specific needs of Para-athletes in my home country, Namibia.

Last weekend, you competed at the nationals. How did you feel about it?

During the recent NKF competition last weekend, I had an incredibly heart warming experience. I truly felt wanted and special. It was a remarkable moment when Sensei Wikus, the chief referee, not only announced but also paused the other rings, directing everyone’s attention towards me. This
gesture made me feel genuinely cherished and unique. The applause I received after my performance was nothing short of overwhelming.

Furthermore, it was a truly memorable and humbling experience to have Sensei Suzel, a well-known female karate ambassador in Namibia, lead me off the tatami. At that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment, marking a significant milestone in my life once again.

How do you feel about breaking barriers and stereotypes as a young female Para-athlete in the world of karate?

I stand as a living example, determined to shatter barriers and dispel stereotypes, particularly within communities that tend to keep physically and mentally challenged children away from sports. In today’s world, sports have evolved into a potential source of income, and Namibia is making strides in that direction.

Parents should never feel ashamed of the unique gifts their children are blessed with. We are not disabled; we are simply differently abled. It’s a message that underscores the value and potential of individuals who may face challenges, showing that our differences can be our strengths in the world of sports and beyond.

What kind of support have you received from your community or organisations that promote Para-karate and sports for individuals with disabilities?

It’s true that we haven’t seen the expected level of promotion and recognition for Para-athletes yet, but it’s promising that we might soon witness a more comprehensive acknowledgment of our efforts. I believe it’s crucial for each individual Para-athlete to be closely monitored and provided with the necessary support and assistance required to thrive in their respective sports.  The corporate world should step in and collaborate with the government to ensure that Para-athletes receive the backing they need. My father, who is loving and caring, exemplifies this dedication. He works with various students, some of whom cannot afford their training and travel expenses. Nevertheless, he ensures that all athletes, regardless of their financial capacity, have access to the necessary resources. This motivates me to work closely with him.

His patience, courage, and strength are truly admirable. His unwavering commitment to accompanying me to competitions, training, and even travelling with me across borders has had a profound impact on my growth as a karate practitioner.

How do you see yourself contributing to the world of Para-sports and karate in the future, and what impact do you hope to make?

My future goal is to represent my country at the highest levels, particularly at the Olympics.

Can you tell me how your school supports you in balancing your academic commitments with your karate training and competitions? Are there any special accommodations or assistance provided to ensure you can excel in both areas?

I’m grateful for the synchronicity of my academic pursuits and my involvement in sports. I want to extend my appreciation to our school management for their support, allowing me to attend regular
training and travel as needed without hindering my academic progress.

In conclusion, I want to take this opportunity to encourage everyone, especially the corporate world, to provide assistance and support to all Para-athletes who are striving to achieve their dreams. Your support can make a significant difference in helping us reach our goals.