Niël Terblanché
The Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Ester Anna Nghipondoka, urged young Namibians at the launch of the MTC Teen Inspirational Summit to embrace the hero within themselves.
The minister stated that under the inspiring theme “Be Your Own Hero,” the summit will aim to light a fire of ambition and self-belief in the hearts of teenagers navigating the complexities of modern life.
In her opening address, Nghipondoka painted a vivid picture of the challenges and uncertainties facing today’s youth, likening the journey of adolescence to standing at the base of a daunting mountain.
Yet, amidst these challenges, she reiterated the summit’s role as a beacon of hope and encouragement.
“This summit is a celebration of resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit within each of you,” Nghipondoka declared adding that the event’s goal is to stimulate, engage, and uplift through inspirational talks and showcasing talent.
According to the minister, the path to becoming a hero is filled with obstacles, but it is through perseverance and belief that dreams become attainable.
She urged the teenagers to hold fast to their unique dreams, no matter how grand or unconventional, drawing inspiration from historical figures who dared to dream big and transformed those dreams into reality.
A highlight of the launch event was the presence of Christine Mboma, Namibia’s track sensation and a living testament to the power of belief and determination.
Minister Nghipondoka praised Mboma’s journey to becoming a champion against all odds, using her story as a beacon of inspiration for the youth.
“Just like Christine Mboma, and many other inspirational Namibians, you too have the potential to achieve greatness,” she affirmed.
The summit will not only serve as a platform for motivation and self-expression but also as a call to action for inclusivity and support from the broader community.
Acknowledging the efforts of Tim Ekandjo and the MTC team, Nghipondoka expressed her hope that the summit, now a beacon of inspiration for the youth, will continue to be a fixture in Namibia’s calendar.
She called on schools, parents, and guardians to support this initiative, ensuring that the message of empowerment and self-worth reaches every teenager.
The minister stated that the summit is a testament to the collective efforts of adults, the youth, the private sector, and the government in crafting a future where every teenager feels empowered to chase their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.
“The MTC Teen Inspirational Summit is not just an event; it is a movement towards creating a generation of heroes who believe in the power of their dreams,” she said.
