Project 29 offers guidance to Walvis Bay youth
Through mentorship, engagement and community support, the Walvis Bay-based Project 29 seeks to equip youth with the tools they need to thrive academically and socially.
Taati Niilenge, founder of Project 29, said the project's power lies in mentorship.
The programme was launched in 2017 to provide support to Walvis Bay youth.
Project 29 is driven by a group of young adults committed to nurturing the next generation.
“Young adults from diverse backgrounds volunteer their time and expertise to serve as mentors to teenagers aged 14 to 16. Each mentor adopts three teenagers, forming meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom," she explained.
"These mentors dedicate their off days and weekends to activities such as walks, tea dates and homework assistance, fostering an environment where open dialogue about life's challenges flourishes," Niilenge added.
Overcoming obstacles
Niilenge said the programme aims to instil purpose and resilience in young Namibians, moulding them into academic achievers with a strong moral compass.
Through regular communication with both mentors and parents, learners are encouraged to confront and overcome obstacles ranging from academic pressures to societal influences.
Niilenge says she has entrusted the project to the youth: “I started the group and handed it over to the youth. So far, there are 10 mentors. I check up on them every now and then, but leave everything for them to handle. I am satisfied with the effort they are putting in because the group has produced junior mayors, CEOs and project managers.”
Navigating life together
Reflecting on her experience as a mentor, Alina Imbili emphasised the importance of mentorship during the teenage years. "Life can be difficult to navigate, especially for teenagers, who may find it challenging to open up to their parents.
"Building an open relationship with mentors provides them with valuable insights and guidance, helping them gain a better understanding of life's purpose," Imbili said.
The success of Project 29 is not solely dependent on the dedication of its mentors and students. The programme has gained widespread support from local businesses, organisations and community leaders.
Teamwork ensures success
Companies such as Erongo Marine, Spur and Nedbank have generously contributed resources to ensure the programme's sustainability and expansion.
Additionally, partnerships with the Divine Kingdom Ministries and the Walvis Bay municipality underscore the community's collective commitment to nurturing its youth.
The project also focuses on and recognises the various social issues impacting today's youth. In collaboration with the Walvis Bay Correctional Facility's Coastal Offenders Drug Awareness Campaign Group (Codac), the programme provides a platform for dialogue between adolescents and former offenders. By engaging in open conversations about the consequences of negative choices, youth are empowered to make informed decisions and resist social pitfalls.
Taati Niilenge, founder of Project 29, said the project's power lies in mentorship.
The programme was launched in 2017 to provide support to Walvis Bay youth.
Project 29 is driven by a group of young adults committed to nurturing the next generation.
“Young adults from diverse backgrounds volunteer their time and expertise to serve as mentors to teenagers aged 14 to 16. Each mentor adopts three teenagers, forming meaningful connections that extend beyond the classroom," she explained.
"These mentors dedicate their off days and weekends to activities such as walks, tea dates and homework assistance, fostering an environment where open dialogue about life's challenges flourishes," Niilenge added.
Overcoming obstacles
Niilenge said the programme aims to instil purpose and resilience in young Namibians, moulding them into academic achievers with a strong moral compass.
Through regular communication with both mentors and parents, learners are encouraged to confront and overcome obstacles ranging from academic pressures to societal influences.
Niilenge says she has entrusted the project to the youth: “I started the group and handed it over to the youth. So far, there are 10 mentors. I check up on them every now and then, but leave everything for them to handle. I am satisfied with the effort they are putting in because the group has produced junior mayors, CEOs and project managers.”
Navigating life together
Reflecting on her experience as a mentor, Alina Imbili emphasised the importance of mentorship during the teenage years. "Life can be difficult to navigate, especially for teenagers, who may find it challenging to open up to their parents.
"Building an open relationship with mentors provides them with valuable insights and guidance, helping them gain a better understanding of life's purpose," Imbili said.
The success of Project 29 is not solely dependent on the dedication of its mentors and students. The programme has gained widespread support from local businesses, organisations and community leaders.
Teamwork ensures success
Companies such as Erongo Marine, Spur and Nedbank have generously contributed resources to ensure the programme's sustainability and expansion.
Additionally, partnerships with the Divine Kingdom Ministries and the Walvis Bay municipality underscore the community's collective commitment to nurturing its youth.
The project also focuses on and recognises the various social issues impacting today's youth. In collaboration with the Walvis Bay Correctional Facility's Coastal Offenders Drug Awareness Campaign Group (Codac), the programme provides a platform for dialogue between adolescents and former offenders. By engaging in open conversations about the consequences of negative choices, youth are empowered to make informed decisions and resist social pitfalls.
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