The One Economy Foundation’s 11th Annual Fundraising Soirée raised N$4,924,048, mobilising resources to sustain its programmes and strengthen access to essential services and opportunities for young people.
The Foundation noted that the funds raised will be used to support the delivery of its 21 programmes, which focus on sexual and reproductive health, education, youth development, entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
Hosted under the theme “Rooted in Purpose,” the event celebrated the Foundation’s 11-year journey while reinforcing the importance of sustained investment in its mission.
The event was attended by the President, H.E. Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Her presence underscored the significance of collective action and partnerships in advancing initiatives that respond to the needs of local communities. Partners, donors, and supporters were also in attendance.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks by the Foundation’s Executive Director, Ms Pauline Thomas Kahupi, accompanied by #BeFree Youth Campus member Tarumbizwa Munyoro.
“#BeFree has taught me that sometimes changing a young person’s life doesn’t require one big moment. Sometimes it starts with one opportunity, one safe and non-judgemental place, one person who believes in you, and one reason to hope,” reflected Tarumbizwa.
In her address, former Third Lady and Founder of the Foundation, Ms Monica Geingos, reflected on the 11-year journey, the purpose that has guided its work and the importance of building a sustainable future for the work. She described the Foundation’s role as a bridge between communities with limited opportunities and those with greater access, while addressing structural inequality.
She highlighted partnerships with government, particularly the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, and described the public-private partnership as an important model for addressing complex social challenges.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised the impact of partnership between public and private entities, stating, “The government cannot do it alone. Youth empowerment and development are one of the key priorities of the Namibian government. Therefore, youth development is very close to my heart. Any initiative that focuses on building capacity and skills of the youth is very much welcomed and highly appreciated.”
The fundraising initiative featured the draw of the Impact Raffle, an intentional giving moment and pledge collections, inviting guests to contribute directly to the Foundation’s mission. The night’s top three pledges came from Standard Bank with N$600,000, Capricorn Foundation with N$500,000 and FNB Namibia with N$455,972.
The majority of the Foundation’s work is delivered through the #BeFree Youth Campus in Katutura and the #BeFree Cares Clinic, which provides accessible, youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services, mental health counselling, and vital health information.
