How supportive do you feel the Namibian society and peers are of the LGBTQ youth today?

Lethu Garises “I think the Namibian youth and society could do better and be more supportive. Namibia is still quite a traditional and conservative country that limits acceptance and conversations about the community. Amongst peers, there tends to be more support and awareness due to direct exposure to the community and LGBTQ individuals. However, as a whole, we still need to grow, continue evolving our mindset and create spaces where the youth feel valued and included.”



Filllemon Nashilongo “While the conversation of LGBTQ rights has become a topic of conversation in Namibia, certain communities have kept an open mind towards its acceptance and recognition. However, the existence of stigma, discrimination, lack of social acceptance and social exclusion persists from both peers and the wider society. Support systems remain limited, with acceptance often being limited to individual circles rather than a broader societal shift. This has left many LGBTQ youth navigating their identities in environments that may not always be relatable and hospitable.”



Jerry Geingob “Support for LGBTQ youth in Namibia is limited because many follow the Bible’s teaching that the lifestyle is wrong. But Romans 12:9 reminds us to ‘love sincerely’ and ‘hate what is evil.’ So, while the lifestyle isn’t accepted, people are encouraged to show love and respect to everyone.”



Destiny Hausiku “In Namibia, LGBTQ youth are finding more allies, especially in cities and among open-minded young people, but acceptance still has a long way to go. Many rely on close friends or online communities to feel safe and understood. Sadly, bullying and judgment are still part of daily life for some, especially in rural areas. Activists are working hard to change this, but true acceptance and protection are still growing.”