The sixth edition of the 2024 Influential Youth Summit brought together over 90 young Namibians at the Unam Rundu campus to discuss pressing issues affecting the youth, share innovative ideas, and develop strategies for a better future. 

Hosted in the Kavango East region on Saturday, the summit aimed to empower young leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to create opportunities for themselves.

“The Influential Youth Engagement Summit is a dynamic gathering that brings together young individuals from diverse backgrounds to address critical issues affecting the Kavango East region and beyond,” said founder Lloyd Sikeba.

Since its inception in 2017, the summit has evolved into a significant annual event, fostering resilience, development and growth among the region’s youth. The International University of Management (IUM) diplomacy student said the summit serves as a platform for civic education, empowerment, inspiration, education, entrepreneurship and the resolution of societal challenges impacting youth. 

He said the event hosted young people from the Kavango East region, community leaders, experts, professionals in various fields and representatives from government and non-governmental organisations.

“The event last year saw more than 115 young people attending, and it was amazing. This is a free event, and all costs are mostly on me and my friends. 

We try to handle the cost of the venue and refreshments. We are pleading with any good Samaritan who is willing to sponsor anything to make this event greater and more impactful,” he stated.

NBC producer John Ikondja, who formed part of the panel, said motivation needs to come from within oneself, which is the first point of departure for any activity.

He said cases of depression, negative peer pressure and stress can be picked up from social media, hence “the youth should be cautious of how they engage social media platforms. In as much as we appreciate social media for its benefits, we should take note of the harm that comes with it,” he said.

Themed ‘Igniting the Future’, the event evoked input from attendees, including Unam student Rose Kameya. 

“The summit was an incredible experience. I learned so much, and made connections with amazing young leaders from around the region and country at large,” she said.

Also from Unam, Shakira Kakuizike said the influential youth summit was a blessing. 

“Many factors affecting the youth in Namibia, such as the high rate of unemployment, financial illiteracy, lack of passion, GBV and job application issues were brought up, and solutions were provided,” she said. -psiririka@nepc.com.na