Matheus David
When Taleni Udeiko first discovered the joy of music back in Grade 7, he didn’t know that a simple melody would grow into a lifelong mission.
Today, at 31, he is living proof that dreams, no matter how humble their beginnings, can grow into something powerful when nurtured with passion and purpose.
“I started doing music in Grade 7,” he says, his face lighting up at the memory. “From that moment, I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” he added.
What began as a young boy’s curiosity has now blossomed into a career spanning over a decade. Udeiko is a multi-instrumentalist who plays the violin, saxophone, trumpet, clarinet, trombone, guitar and even a bit of piano. He is also a talented painter and the creative mind behind AKAPO Jewels in South Africa, where he designs and manufactures beautiful jewellery pieces.
But for him, music and art are more than just skills, they are a way of life.
“Music is my passion,” he says softly. “I followed it because it makes me happy and allows me to pass my knowledge to others. I want to help the next generation see that art, too, can create opportunities and jobs.”
Over the years, Udeiko has taught countless students across Namibia from Tsumeb to Ondangwa, and later in Windhoek. “I’ve lost count of how many students I’ve trained,” he says with a modest laugh. “What matters to me is seeing them grow not just as musicians, but as people who believe in themselves,” he added.
His journey, however, has not been an easy one. Without financial backing from sponsors, Udeiko relied on his own performances to raise funds. “I perform at weddings, corporate events and other gatherings,” he explains. “That’s how I’ve kept my work going. It’s not always easy, but I believe in what I do.”
He also teaches six days a week at his music studio, located in Khomasdal’s Witvalk street opposite VTC and sometimes on Sundays if requested. His classes are filled with laughter, rhythm, and the sound of students discovering their own talents. “Teaching is more than giving lessons,” he says. “It’s about connecting with people, helping them find healing and joy through music,” he added.
For Udeiko, art plays a vital role in society. “Not everyone is meant to be a doctor or engineer.” “Artists are just as important, we bring people together, lift their spirits, and connect the physical and spiritual worlds,” he added.
He hopes that more parents and institutions will start recognising the value of art and music in education. “Art helps children express themselves and develop both sides of their brains. “It’s a universal language that teaches empathy, patience and creativity.”
Looking back, the musician is proud of how far he has come, from a boy with a dream to a man using his gifts to inspire others. “I’m not one to talk much about my achievements,” he says humbly, “but I believe in doing things with honesty, purpose and a positive spirit.” As his instruments rest neatly beside him after another long teaching day, one thing is clear: for Udeiko, music is more than just sound, it is a heartbeat that connects people, heals souls and keeps dreams alive.