WINDHOEK, Namibia – A group of young entrepreneurs in Katutura is transforming their lives and community through the Tidy Tekkies Shoe Laundry Initiative. Implemented by the One Economy Foundation as part of the UNFPA's "Leaving No One Behind" project funded by the Government of Japan, the Shoe Laundry Initiative aims to empower youth with business skills and opportunities.
The initiative was launched on 21 May 2024, at the #BeFree Youth Campus in the Katutura informal settlement, in Windhoek. Hilma Imene (22), Secilia Iyambo (19), Fautinia Kondjeni (22), Lazarus Ndiilenge (27), Olga Tobias (23), and Jefflinu Kautondokwa (20) are the driving force behind Tidy Tekkies. For them, this initiative is a chance to change their socio-economic status and reach their full potential.
"Growing up in Katutura, opportunities are limited. But through Tidy Tekkies, I see a chance to build my future," says Ndilenge. "This project is making a difference in our lives," adds Imene. "It's teaching us skills and giving us confidence to follow our dreams and help our families and community. We thank the Government of Japan and the people of Japan for their support."
The sextet were among the 16 entrepreneurs trained by the Leaving No One Behind project in September 2023 on how to start and run their own shoe business and also received start-up kits. In addition to the training was the opportunity to run a container “Shoe Laundry” business from the #BeFree Youth Campus. Tidy Tekkies emerged victorious and were chosen to establish an innovative business-in-a-box concept, their first shoe laundry business. "The training was an eye-opener," recalls Olga. "It gave us the confidence and the tools to start our own shoe-cleaning business."
Ms. Yano Mariko, the Third Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Namibia, expressed during the launch that the shoe laundry initiative empowers unemployed youth to initiate their own businesses and earn income to sustain themselves and their communities. As such, the initiative was supported with over US$19,000, approximately N$370,000.
Initiatives like these offer not just a chance for economic empowerment, but also a space for passion to flourish.
Ms. Mariko stressed, “The significance of providing a platform like Tidy Tekkies for young entrepreneurs cannot be overstated. Initiatives like these offer not just a chance for economic empowerment, but also a space for passion to flourish. As these entrepreneurs thrive and expand their ventures, the ripple effects will be felt far beyond the confines of their shoe laundry containers.”
Ms. Erika Goldson, the UNFPA Namibia Representative, emphasised, “Through the Shoe Laundry Initiative, similar to other projects in Namibia supported by the Government of Japan, we empower young individuals by equipping them with income-generating skills. This initiative not only boosts their self-reliance but also protects their sexual and reproductive health and rights.” Goldson encouraged the young people, stating, “You are important, valued, and deserving of every opportunity that comes your way. The shoe laundry initiative is more than just an endeavour; it is a chance for you to seize your potential and make a positive impact on your own lives and the future of our country. We believe in you, and we urge you to make the most of this opportunity.”
“We hoped that this would be one of many shoe laundry initiatives to come and serve as a beacon of hope to other young entrepreneurs, a benchmark of innovative entrepreneurial solutions to addressing high unemployment, and an example of the significance of impactful and smart partnerships,” said Dawid Gawaseb, Senior Youth Officer delivering remarks on behalf of the Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service, Hon. Emma Kantema-Gaomas. He emphasised that “Power to the Youth” was more than just a slogan; it serves as a compelling call to action.
Tidy Tekkies was more than just a workplace; it is a dream come true.
"Tidy Tekkies is more than just a workplace; it is a dream come true," said Iyambo, one of the beneficiaries. With continuous support, Tidy Tekkies aims for sustainable success and hopes to inspire others in their community. "We are just getting started," said Tobias. "The sky is the limit for us."
“The Youth Opportunity pillar would assist Tidy Tekkies with support and hold their hands tightly as they navigate the rough seas of entrepreneurship,” said Ms. Uajorokisa Karuaihe, Chief Executive Officer of the One Economy Foundation at the launch.
The entrepreneurship skills and opportunities provided by initiatives like Tidy Tekkies are crucial for the UNFPA mandate. Entrepreneurship skills and business opportunities for youth serve as catalysts for improving the sexual and reproductive health and well-being of young people. By empowering young individuals with income-generating skills, these initiatives not only boost their self-reliance but also contribute to the protection of their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Through such initiatives, the UNFPA and its partners are equipping young people with the tools to make a positive impact on their lives and the future of their communities.
