Kashindi Ausiku

As 2025 draws to a close, The Namibian reached out to leaders, changemakers and key public figures across the government, business and civil society to take stock of the year that was and share their visions for what lies ahead.

Photographer at the Sam Nujoma Foundation, Kashinidi Ausiku gives a review of his 2025.

• 2025 was?

Painful due to the passing of founding president Sam Nujoma.

• 2026 will be?

More promising.

• Last three things you spent money on?

A drone, two pairs of jeans and Aweh YoData (three days).

• Last text you sent?

Why Starlink wants to come to Namibia?

• 2025 in philanthropy?

Sponsoring students in need.

• 2025 taught me?

Life is a lesson. The current situation of the Angolan children is a painful lesson about the African child.

• What is the single most important quote or line of text that defined your outlook in 2025?

Colours are the smiles of nature.

• If artificial intelligence (AI) could magically fix one everyday task for you, what would you pick?

Driving me to work.

• The song you played most this year?

‘Ino tila’ by Ras Sheehama.

• What put philanthropy in the spotlight?

Public opinion and policy environments.

• Dream Namibian holiday destination?

Wilderness Serra Cafema.

• Which philanthropic project in 2025 taught you the most?

Etunda Farm Primary School.

• How do you measure impact versus resources?

By evaluating society’s transformation.

• What is your main focus for 2026 in social investment?

Youth Training.

• Most overrated trend or idea?

AI and electric vehicles.

• Biggest blunder of 2025?

I didn’t attend a single year-end party.

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