Emilie Shimbali

Lukas Akooko, a certified motivational speaker, is on a mission to help hundreds of high school learners rise above peer pressure.

Through his project, ‘It’s Possible - Power Talk’, Akooko aims to inspire students, who are growing up in distracting environments, reach their full potential and know that they are the future.

“The goal is to encourage our future generation, which is growing up in a world full of terrible temptations that pull them away from their studies and cause them to lose focus. I believe that through instilling positivity in the minds of Namibia’s youth, we will be able to establish a better country,” he told Youth Corner.

The 28-year-old, who was born in the Onampila village, said he was not sure what he wanted to do with his life after failing matric in 2015. 

On top of that, he lost his supportive father that same year. 

But he got his act together and managed to get into university and complete a business administration course, albeit under difficult circumstances.

At some point in his life, Akooko also abused alcohol, believing that this would help him overcome his difficulties but it brought on more problems.

“During my university years, I battled a lot of pressure from peers. Dressing up nice, creating a certain image to look nice in the society, as people making fun of me were also some of the psychological challenges I encountered.”

Coming from a low-income family, coupled with experiences of peer pressure and a tough journey – to now being a self-employed businessman, has brought Akooko into his motivational speaking roles to encourage young people.

“I’ve learnt a lot about life through my path and the only thing that keeps me going is faith and discipline. I have since realised my talent to preach the word of hope.”

So far, he has visited six secondary schools with his funds.

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