INTERVIEW; One Economy Foundation’s CEO Uajokorisa Karuaihe Discusses August 2024 Activities with Future Media’s Leonard Witbeen

In an exclusive interview with Future Media’s Leonard Witbeen, One Economy Foundation’s CEO, Uajokorisa Karuaihe, shared insights into the foundation’s upcoming activities for August 2024. This conversation highlighted the foundation’s commitment to bridging socio-economic gaps and empowering youth through innovative programs.

The Vision and Mission

Uajokorisa Karuaihe, who has been at the helm of the One Economy Foundation since its inception in 2016, emphasized the foundation’s role as a connector between the haves and the have-nots. “We see ourselves as bringing opportunities to those who lack access due to systemic disadvantages and socio-economic challenges,” she explained. Over the past nine years, the foundation has focused on creating impactful programs that address these disparities.

Youth-Focused Initiatives

A significant part of the foundation’s strategy involves targeting young people, a shift that became more pronounced in 2020. “High unemployment rates, school dropouts, and mental health challenges among youth guided us to redesign our programs,” said Karuaihe. This led to the creation of the Be Free Youth Campus, a safe space for open dialogue and support for young people, particularly in Katutura.

The Be Free Youth Campus offers a range of services, from adolescent-friendly healthcare to educational and life skills programs. “We wanted to bring something of value to an area often overlooked when it comes to quality services,” Karuaihe noted.

Key Partnerships and Projects

The foundation has also benefitted from significant partnerships, including with the UNFPA and the government of Japan. Recently, a fully equipped mobile clinic van was donated to enhance the foundation’s capacity to provide sexual reproductive health services and GBV prevention. This van is a vital addition to the Be Free Cares and Clinic at the youth campus, which integrates medical services with psychosocial support.

In May, the foundation launched the Tidy Tiki shoe laundry container in partnership with the government of Japan and UNFPA. This initiative empowers young people with entrepreneurial opportunities, such as running a shoe laundry business.

Future Plans and Community Engagement

Looking ahead, Karuaihe emphasized the importance of being present where services are critically needed. “Why not bring our services to where the youth are?” she questioned, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to accessibility.

The One Economy Foundation continues to prioritize dialogue and collaboration, fostering an environment where young people can thrive. With upcoming activities and ongoing projects, the foundation aims to maintain its impact on Namibian society.

For more detailed insights, the full interview with Uajokorisa Karuaihe is available on Future Media’s platforms, highlighting the foundation’s journey and future endeavors in uplifting the youth and bridging socio-economic gaps.

For updates on the One Economy Foundation’s programs and activities, visit their website or follow them on social media.