Episode 04: Empowering Namibian Youth with #BeFree Youth Campus - A Conversation with Kaarina Iita

Join our host, Selma Ndasilohenda Iyambo, as she engages in a compelling conversation with Kaarina Iita, the Technical Director and Head of Programmes at the One Economy Foundation. Despite her background in agriculture with over eight years of experience, Kaarina has ventured into the vital realm of Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), passionately empowering young people nationwide. In this enlightening episode, Kaarina delves into the recent launch of the groundbreaking #BeFree youth campus on September 1, 2023. Discover the myriad services it extends to the youth aged 13-30. Kaarina emphasizes the critical importance of informed sexual health and rights for young individuals and unveils the inspirational origins of this pioneering youth campus, the first of its kind on the African continent. Moreover, she sheds light on the strategic location chosen for the campus and the rationale behind this decision. Learn how this innovative center will provide tailored support to both university students and high school attendees in the vicinity. Kaarina also shares insights into the challenges confronting young people when seeking sexual health services. These insights are rooted in extensive feedback gathered from over 150,000 young individuals across the nation during youth consultations dating back to 2016. To conclude, our guest offers valuable perspectives on fostering collaboration among young people and various stakeholders within this domain, ensuring that the services provided by the campus, as well as mobile vans stationed in the northern regions, reach those in need. The conversation wraps up with a glimpse into the campus's future aspirations and how young people can become part of the first 5,000 beneficiaries of this transformative center.