Miss Namibia launches ||Hapo Wall to inspire Namibian pupils

Miss Namibia 2025 Johanna Swartbooi launched the first ||Hapo Wall at Augustineum Secondary School in Windhoek last week, an initiative aimed at inspiring Namibian pupils to dream through art and creativity.

The ||Hapo Wall project, founded by Swartbooi, encourages schools across the country to transform blank walls into murals that symbolise hope, imagination and unity. The word ‘||hapo’ means dream in Khoekhoegowab, reflecting the project’s mission to nurture purpose-driven and confident young Namibians.

“We are empowering Namibian dreamers,” Swartbooi said at the launch. “Through the initiative, I strive to nurture Namibian dreamers, inspire bold ideas and build a legacy of empowered creatives. The wall symbolises belief – a reminder that every great achievement begins with a single dream.”

Swartbooi said the initiative will bring together artists, mentors and pupils to turn school environments into creative spaces that reflect innovation and collective purpose.

“Through art, mentorship and collaboration, we can transform schools into places of hope and unity,” she said. “Together, we can turn walls into windows of opportunity, painting a brighter future for generations to come.”

Miss World Namibia 2025 Selma Kamanya, who delivered the keynote address, commended Swartbooi for “planting a seed for several other people’s dreams to be birthed”.

Kamanya urged pupils to pursue their aspirations with confidence and perseverance. “Let’s lift each other up because one person’s dream can spark another,” she said. “Namibia and the world need your dreams – and may we all have the courage to make them come true. Never give up on yourself, even when you feel discouraged.”

The ||Hapo Wall initiative will expand to other schools nationwide, serving as a platform for young artists to express themselves while fostering a culture of collaboration and inspiration among pupils.

Swartbooi said the project’s theme, ‘If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It,’ captures its core message – that every Namibian child holds the potential to shape their own destiny.

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