Julina Kaakunga
Non-profit organisations are shaping the lives of individuals within communities. The International Youth Fellowship (IYF) and Ejameno Charity Organisation are making a huge impact on the lives of Namibian youth.
Ejameno Charity Organisation is a non-profit organisation that was founded by Rinaune Kandjii, who decided to start his organisation after sympathising with the less fortunate as well as the marginalised community. He then decided to start an organisation that would help them put food on the table and help improve their living standards. “It has not been the easiest due to financing, but I am determined,” he said.
“The aim of the Ejameno Charity organisation is to encourage a youth spirit in the country, coordinate and promote the San, Ovatue and Ovatjimba learners as well as youth in the communities; to help them reach regional, national or international level through their talent and improve their living standards. The aim is to also promote friendship with others in Namibia and support them, and to foster a spirit of goodwill, equality and fraternity through San, Ovatue and Ovatjimba communities in general,” explained Kandjii.
In 2022, they held a primary school tournament, soccer, netball and beauty pageant in Windhoek. In the same year, the organisation also had a beauty pageant for a secondary school and more educational informative events. Moreover, they introduced afternoon classes at Ella du Plessis.
One of the parents whose children were part of this organisation says it has helped her two grade nine children, Kavenandangi Kahamba and Lourencia Haghomea excel academically.
IYF was established in South Korea as a worldwide youth organisation and international NGO in 2001 based on a Christian mindset.
Since its establishment, IYF has grown exponentially and is now active in almost 80 countries. Many governments, including Malawi, Eswatini, Zambia and Lesotho have recognised the power of IYF in changing youths and have requested the guidance of IYF in educating their youth. In Namibia, IYF was registered in 2007 by the health ministry as a national welfare organisation under the National Welfare Act (Act 79 of 1965). The organisation’s board members comprise 10 members, of which 80% are Namibians. More than 50 local volunteers assist at various annual events. There organisation has more than 400 students who are members of IYF society clubs and are studying at the University of Namibia, Namibia University of Science and Technology and Triumphant College.
Upcoming events include the Christmas cantata from November to December, targeting community schools.
The sole purpose of the programme is to present a special time of joy where hope and happiness can replace the difficulties and hardships in people’s lives.
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