Speak Out!

I am pretty excited at how the world is evolving, with people who are becoming more confident about speaking out. Perhaps not as much in Namibia just yet, we still need to master the right to stand together.

This is something we can learn from neighbouring South Africa, a nation that stands up in full force.

We live in a world where the corrupt are in leadership positions. They use their authority to manipulate and deprive people of their human rights and equal opportunities.

It is unfortunate that we have to witness how the ordinary person is taken for granted and robbed by greedy officials who were entrusted to leadership positions by the very people they steal from. I am not only referring to material things like money, natural resources and land but something as simple and critical as time, opportunity and recognition.

Abuse in society is rife. Whether it is at home, at school or in the workplace. People are easily taken advantage of and misused or abused by those in positions of power. At school by the older child who bullies you or the teacher who manipulates you to his/her advantage.

Even at your work place you can be easily walked over if you don’t know your rights. Your boss who forces you to do more than you are paid to do, or who takes all the credit for your hard work. There are even friends who love to take advantage of your generosity, or family who just seem to take, take, take.

If you don’t stand up for yourself and for what is just and fair, these people will simply continue to use and abuse you.

Make an effort to know your rights. At school, at work and in society. Always be adamant about protecting those rights. Don’t be intimidated by superiors. Don’t let anyone walk all over you. If they are true leaders, they will have respect for your rights and will understand your need to stand up for yourself.

Sometimes corruption and ill-treatment occurs because we allow it. We allow people to do as they please. We allow them to disrespect us and talk over us.

We know when someone is doing wrong yet we don’t confront them which gives them the freedom to continue.

Know your job profile and your assigned duties, so that you are familiar with what you are paid to do. I am not saying don’t go the extra mile – sometimes doing that contributes significantly to the fruits you reap, just be sure you are not being misused.

Know the boundaries required between you and your superiors. This will serve as a tool for your own protection. Know your constitutional rights and hold on to the values instilled by your forefathers.You will be surprised at how far this takes you in life.

People take advantage of others, especially those with good hearts. People who are fair and honest. This is an unfortunate reality. And if you are not in tune with your rights, you will be their stepping stone – willingly or not.

Keep an open mind, stay informed and educate yourself so that you will not ever allow yourself to be taken advantage of by greedy, heartless, selfish and ruthless people.

I know it is not always easy to stand up for yourself, especially when you have a very intimidating boss but I hope 2018 will be the year we rise to the occasion and speak up when we need to. At the end of the day, you won’t only be doing it for yourself, but you will be standing up against corruption and the ill-treatment of others.

Speak up and speak out gents, and ladies.

Till next time, cheers!

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.