My Namibia, My Pride

(By Kimberley-Rose Madzima)

Sheya Nangombe

Independence has given Namibia’s youth a platform to dream big, lead boldly and contribute to the nation’s growth.

For Sheya Nangombe, Student Representative Council (SRC) for Internal Affairs at Triumphant College, being Namibian means taking pride in the country and embracing its rich heritage. He believes independence has created opportunities for young people to shape the nation through leadership, education and innovation. 

Reflecting on Namibia’s journey since independence, Nangombe says the milestone represents both progress and responsibility for the younger generation.

“Namibia celebrates 36 years of independence and this is no small feat. We’re taking steps into oil and gas, youth empowerment programs and poverty eradication. Unemployment is still a lingering reality but as a young Namibian leader I believe with my whole heart we will find a plan.”

For Nangombe, being Namibian carries a strong sense of patriotism and responsibility.

“Being Namibian means being a patriot and being willing to carry responsibility for the Namibian people. Our forefathers fought for the ideal of a free and educated Namibia and I am proud to be a son of the Namibian nation.”

He believes independence has opened doors for young people in education and leadership.

“Independence is a symbol of hope and courage. It reminds us that systems which once limited our people, such as Bantu Education, have been dismantled. Today, every Namibian has the right to education and the opportunity to pursue their ambitions,” he explained.

As a student leader at Triumphant College, Nangombe encourages fellow students to use education and community engagement as tools for positive change.

“We encourage students to think about how they can contribute to their communities and the country. Education plays a crucial role in this. The opportunity to study and gain knowledge is something that can empower young people to build solutions and create opportunities for others,” he noted.

Reflecting on the sacrifices made by previous generations, Nangombe says his father’s story reminds him of the responsibility young people carry today.

“My father went to war at the age of 25, and I am that same age now. It makes me reflect on how I can show that what he fought for still lives on,” he said.

Nangombe believes young people must be brave enough to take initiative and shape the nation’s path forward.

“Be brave enough to take the first step, be brave enough to start your first business and be brave enough to finish that degree.”

“Happy Independence Day Namibia! And to my mother, look meme, ondili mo magazine!”

You can find him on Instagram @shey_nangombe