Physically Active Youth

In my first blog post, i want to introduce Physically Active Youth, a model in Katutura, Namibia. Katutura is a high density suburb in Namibia where the greater percentage of Windhoek based Namibians are from. The name ‘Katutura’ means ‘The place where we do not belong’. Physically Active Youth has been in existence since 2003 – Using a holistic approach it addresses the needs of the young person, harnessing talent, and building confidence, and leadership skills. Through a comprehensive STEM education curriculum, integrated sport and life skills , the results have seen graduates of the program go on to reach the future of their dreams.

As a youth development activist, I’m an advocate for concepts and programs that prioritise through whatever medium the positive engagement of young people and shaping them to take up decision making roles in the future. 120 young people call P.A.Y  home and my work with this organisation has inspired the start of this blog. Because of the stories of the young people whose lives i see changed everyday, because of their everyday realities and fights to make something of their lives in an environment that doesn’t give them many positive role models. I have started this blog as a way of documenting their stories, and sharing them with the world. Its not about gathering pity but its about inspiring hope and i hope this blogging platform will show you exactly what i mean.

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Author: girlonink

Thuba Sibanda is a Zimbabwean born, Namibian based woman who works as a Senior Program Manager for an afterschool N.G.O in Katutura that is home to 120 children and youths from disadvantaged backgrounds. She finds writing and motivational speaking as a release from a high-pressure job she is very passionate about. Thuba Sibanda is a recent graduate of the FIFA Master course, a course which admits 31 participants from all over the world each year. Candidates of the FIFA Master are identified as experts in their fields and future global sports leaders. The daughter of a single parent household, the sheer belief in her dream has taken her from the township to sitting with top sport minds, across 3 countries, UK, Italy and Switzerland. A well-travelled, bubbly natured girl, she draws a lot inspiration from nature and the outdoors – she has been to over 15 countries in Europe and Southern Africa and most of her learnings and sharing points are from her travels and work. View all posts by girlonink