In spite of failing Grade 11 last year, Fredrick Vaendwanawa, Hendrick Filipus and Aveshe Gervasius decided to pick themselves up and try something new. 

The three started performing in dramas three years ago, and it is now part of their careers to bring comical and educational drama/plays to the fore.

They have thus far made and recorded three dramas: Epandulo (Always give thanks), Ouxupilo (Waelthy) and Omadu okwali ayamba (When soils were rich), which are available on DVDs. 

None of them received formal drama lessons before but say they are learning the trade by watching professional actors and asking for advice and guidance from professionals.  

“We are inspired and fuelled by professional actors such as Ndjeke ya Malimba and others. They gave us the inspiration to play in dramas in our indigenous language, Oshiwambo,” said Fillipus.

They are working towards becoming the best actors in the country, meanwhile praying for good Samaritans to help them with monetary donations in order to further their dreams.

They love what they do despite the challenges such as a lack of funds, paying a person to shoot their dramas on camera, buying their own cameras, amongst other things.

The trio received help from the Ongwediva Town Council, which enabled them to start selling DVDs of their work. The DVDs cost N$ 120 each. 

The money generated from sales of the DVDs is used to pay their Namcol fees, and also to buy their basic needs as their parents do not work.

Even though they are acting, the young men did not quit school and are registered at Namcol to improve their grades.

They are encouraging their fellow youth to make use of their talents, so they are able to provide for themselves and others.

“Make the right choice about yourself, do not give up on what is important in life,” they advised. 

They are based in Ongwediva, and can be found on Facebook and YouTube under Vuhkah Film Production.

- fthamalwa@gmail.com