We are always inspired by stories of young people doing remarkable work to facilitate development in their communities and throughout the continent.
Youth Village South Africa, a youth developmental initiative that highlights young people on the continent who are doing remarkable work within their communities, recently identified a list of 30 inspirational young Africans. These young people are all prominent in their areas of activism and expertise and are coming up with innovative ways to address some of the challenges faced by the continent.
Representing Namibia on the prestigious list is none other than popular Spoken Word poet, NAMAs Blue Room host, law student, gender activist and now a presenter on ‘Tutaleni’, 22-year-old Tanyaradzwa Daringo from Windhoek.
“I was identified for various work done within my career as well as for my role within Her Liberty Namibia where I have been advocating for young Namibian women’s rights both nationally and regionally,” said the bubbly young woman.
“Her Liberty Namibia strives to be a pivotal and active young feminist organisation uniting women and creating awareness of issues including sexuality, self-worth, gender equality, and human rights,” she said.
The YouthPaper sat down with Tanyaradzwa to find out more…
Tell us about yourself?
I was raised in Windhoek by my mother. Amagoes and playing plak-boek with the children in my neighbourhood are all part of my happy childhood memories. I went to Academia High School and I have a handsome older brother named Panashe.
What are you studying?
I am currently pursuing my LLB Degree at the University of Namibia.
Tell us about Her Liberty Namibia?
I’m one of three founders of Her Liberty Namibia, a young feminist organisation aimed at liberating young Namibian women in all aspects of their livelihood. Though still in its primary stages, our network has made Her Liberty Namibia visible and placed young Namibian women on the agenda not only nationally but regionally. It is something I believe is strengthening the women’s movement in Namibia.
How were you identified as one of the top 30 inspirational young people in Africa?
I was selected as a 2013 Milead fellow, which identified me as one of Africa’s most emerging women leaders. Recently I have been nominated as one of three shortlisted candidates for the Windhoek Lager Community Ambassadors award of which I am very proud as I’m one of the youngest nominees in this category to date.
What are your favourite hobbies?
I love writing poetry and pretending that I’m on a television cooking programme.
Tell us about your experience on ‘Tutaleni’?
I have recently started working for NBC as a presenter on ‘Tutaleni’, after having had the privilege of hosting the Blue Room at this years Annual Namibian Music Awards. I absolutely love it. I love the never ending opportunities to learn granted to me by the NBC. Nothing beats an amazing team that believes in you and is there to watch you blossom.
Tell us about your favourite TV shows and books?
Ironically, I am not a fan of watching TV, but I do have my little personal library filled with African literature that makes up for that. Favourite books, they are quite plenty. I’m currently reading ‘The Mistress Contract: A Memoir’ by She and He.
What inspires you?
Change and growth.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?
I would continue to challenge the norm, redefine boundaries and do away with patriarchy, stereotypes and pre-mediated perceptions.
Who inspires you and what is your favourite quote?
I am inspired by so many shared testimonies and my motto is ‘be unapologetic as a woman’.
Achieving ultimate happiness is the only plan I maintain.
‘Flawless…
because (ph)at girls too wake up like this’
