WINDHOEK-There is a saying that says a dynamite comes in small packages, and when it comes to Seraya Mentor, a bubbly 12 year old, the adage makes perfect sense.
Not only was she selected to represent Namibia as part of a girls gymnasium team at the South African Games taking place in Pretoria Centurion next month, but has made her debut as presenter of the I am Key children’s programme on the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC).
The Grade 6 Eros Primary School pupil has hauled in her fair share of local championships, which includes the Best Level 1 – 2010 and the 2nd Overall Level 2, 2011, of the Namibia National Gymnastics Championships. But to make sure this dream lasts, Mentor must raise N$ 8000 to cover various costs and expenses, she therefore appeals to good Samaritans who want to invest in the future to assist her to realise this dream.
She is, however, not leaning back to wait for hand-outs and has kicked off a modest muffin venture to earn a few dollars to get closer to her dream of becoming a world class gymnast champion. Mentor is one of 14 girls aged 9-17 that will partake in Artistic Gymnastics at the SA Games in Pretoria from 23-25 September this year. According to the groups facilitator, Manny Human, this is a big achievement for each one of these girls who needed to work extra hard to qualify for these games. “It is very difficult to keep girls in gymnastics, which makes it difficult for us to send a team every year,” says Human who has accompanied four girls teams over the years.
Anyone interested in financing her tour to South Africa can do so via her S. E. Mentor, Standard Bank, Main Branch, Savings Account NO: 347 933 459
By Jemima Beukes