A prominent figure in Namibia’s debating and public speaking community, Olivia Akawa has been selected to represent Namibia at the upcoming Federation of African Law Students Association (FALAS ) Conference in Rwanda.
It starts from 20 to 28 October 2023.
FALAS, recognised as the largest organisation of its kind in Africa, is dedicated to unifying the African voice through legislation. Her selection is a testament to her passion for the legal field and her commitment to advancing legal frameworks throughout the continent.
“I serve on the international cabinet as the assistant for the Bureau of Media and Publicity, as well as the FALAS Female Forum Secretary in Namibia; I believe I have been very active towards issues on the international organisation, and thus being chosen to represent, from the international body, as well as the Namibian executive body.
Her journey into law began with a strong desire to become a diplomat. She views her legal studies as a stepping stone toward her ultimate goal of holding a diplomatic office someday. Her passion lies in public international law and human rights, topics she has been vocal about since a young age.
Encouraged by her grandfather and supported by influential teachers, her path in law became evident during her high school years. These mentors recognised her potential and advised her to pursue law as her perfect fit.
The greatest topic is the one the conference is centred upon, The African Continental Free Trade Area, this topic is so close to her heart, because it’s a step towards true economic emancipation for the African continent. Issues such as the colonial boundaries and apartheid laws that are still affecting the continent negatively, are some that she needs to address at this conference. She has quite a number of issues and topics that she hopes to address at the conference, but the two mentioned are of top priority.
Her motivation to make a continental and global impact on legislation fuelled her decision to participate in the FALAS conference. Her friend often emphasises the importance of taking up space to bring about change, a philosophy Akawa fully embraces.
“I have been a debater, a writer, and a public speaker for close to a decade. For the past four years, I have been in law school and it has opened doors of issues, opportunities and possible solutions that exist and are needed in our legislation, solutions that could be of significant use to Africa as our mother continent. Representing Namibia at this conference is really just a great opportunity and I will forever be grateful. I believe all these have really just groomed me into a strong patriot of Namibia to the international platform,” she said.
Challenges will be expected during her representation of Namibia at the conference, but Akawa is prepared to respond sincerely, even if it means seeking additional information to provide informed answers.
With an eye on a future diplomatic career and a deep passion for law, Akawa aims to make a lasting impact on legislation, working towards collective legislation for Africa’s peace and harmony.
“I just really hope I make an impact, continentally and globally. I hope this is one step closer to the diplomatic office. One of my wildest goals I hope to achieve is that I know Rome was not built overnight, but I pray that one day, Africa can be able to pass collective legislation and live in peace and harmony with one another,” she said.
Akawa explained that, in 2022, she was the coach of the Omusati Regional Debate team that won the championship, and she then helped coach the Anamulenge Circuit teams that came 1st and 2nd, and the Regional Championship in 2023. Those were the greatest moments that really made her believe she could do anything.
She is looking forward to a productive conference. An implementation-filled and engaging conference.
She urged the youth to take up space because it is important. “Act as the change they want to see. The doors are always open; all that is needed to do is build the means of support and confinement so that they can thrive inside. Be active; legislation is the foundation of everything. There’s always space for development; be open to learning. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. You can accomplish anything, no matter how big or small. When doors open for you, there is no such thing as ‘I don’t know how to exist in this room’,” she said.
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