• YOUTH

Youth Power: Accelerating AYO’s 2025 SDG Progress

• 1 Week Ago

“Our 2024 Annual Report not only chronicles and documents the impactful activities we undertook but also imprints the invaluable lessons learned, ” said Mr. Rivaldo Kanongo Kavanga, cofounder of AYO Namibia. “These insights are vital as we set our visions for a more impactful 2025”

As the world inches closer to 2030, AYO Namibia is committed to ensuring that the SDGs are not just global buzzwords but are translated into real action at the grassroots level. From creating employment opportunities to enhancing access to technology and supporting sustainable community projects, the organization aims to empower young Namibians to be the driving force behind change.

AYO’s Amazing Achievements from 2024

• Digital Engagement: Strengthened online platforms to better connect and collaborate with Namibian youth.
• Major Events: Hosted Namibia’s largest youth SDG event, bringing together passionate change-makers.
• Global Advocacy: Represented Namibian youth at high-profile forums like the UN General Assembly and UNESCO panels.

In addition to that, AYO also engaged 2,000+ youth online with targeted SDG information and cohosted the 8th National ICT Summit on Youth Day, attracting at least 200 youth.

AYO’s Ambitious Goals for 2025:

• Groot Aub Sustainable Garden & Soup Kitchen: Launching a flagship community project that addresses food security and community wellness.
• Digital Governance: Empowering young Namibians to leverage technology for local development.
• Rural Engagement: Prioritizing outreach and resources for rural communities to ensure inclusive progress.

Now that we've seen how AYO is hard at work trying to accelerate SDG progress, here’s how you—Namibian youth—can take action to keep that momentum going.

Here’s how you can contribute to the SDGs by 2030:

AYO Namibia emphasizes the essential role young people play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Below are some small actionable steps you can take to actively contribute to these global goals and make a real impact in your community.

1. Digital Content Creation (YouTube and Social Media)

• With the recent plans for the monetization of Youtube in Namibia, digital content creation now offers young creators a platform to earn income while advocating for positive change through the SDGs.
• You can create SDG-focused channels to raise awareness and educate others.
• Share personal stories and collaborate with international creators to promote SDGs.
• Create viral challenges to spread awareness about sustainable practices.

2. Engage in Local Community Projects

Young people offering their time, financial support, or expertise can greatly enhance the success of these projects and drive positive change.

• For youth in Groot Aub, you can volunteer with the sustainable garden & soup kitchen once it is operational.
• Volunteer with nature-based projects like the "Elephant Conservation Project" to protect Namibia's wildlife and natural resources.
• Start youth-led clean-ups, recycling initiatives, tree-planting campaigns, or water conservation campaigns.

3. Promote Quality Education

Supporting disadvantaged youth and children by providing alternative education or tutoring opportunities can make a significant difference.

• Volunteer as a mentor or tutor for younger students in your community
• Share free online learning resources through social media or community groups

4. Advocate for Gender Equality

Gender equality cannot be mandated by law alone— it must be driven by the people, especially by the youth.

• Create, promote or share social media content to raise awareness
• Support initiatives that empower women and girls
• Challenge harmful gender stereotypes both from men and women
• Join or support organizations that address gender-based violence and inequalities

There are many more ways to contribute, but these are simple steps to help us get started. For more information, visit AYO Namibia’s official social media pages.