Namibia – Gregor Afrikaner

“Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference – it’s never about the goal it’s always about the role.”

The most memorable experience I have as a leader is when I was elected as National youth council executive member in the constituency. It has given me power to change what I believed in and to be a voice for the voiceless youth. As a leader you have to make a lasting impact that makes you a true leader in whatever you take on to bring change.

I grew up in small village called Gibeon. I failed my grade 10 after a year I was elected as a chairperson for Gibeon local youth forum whereby we deal with youth development and women empowerment in rural areas. After I completed my second year term I came to Rehoboth to find greener pastures. Then, after three years I was elected as Rehoboth urban west constituency national youth council executive. At present I am still serving as a youth council executive.

My personal mission statements is to see my fellow youth leaders in decision making positions and to see younger woman in parliament and high positions. I would also like to see that development and empowerment of women and youth.

The nature of my work is to advocate and lobby for youth development in the constituency, whereby we host campaigns, trainings and youth entrepreneurship development. However, currently we do not have the necessary resources and support from the stakeholders and government to enhance our work.

Championing gender has changed me positively and made me aware of gender related issues and matters that affect gender and LGBTQ people in our country. It has also built my confidence so much that I can talk and stand up for what I believe in.

Moreover, championing has encouraged national government to enhance gender policies such as gender 50\50 policy.  This has made sure that there are more women representatives in the parliament and also in political arena. To add, it has also implemented acts and laws that protect women’s rights.