Nurturing the next generation of creatives
Ignited by passion and rhythm
Bridging Through Talent aims to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence through art, specifically dance.
Born and raised in Windhoek, Joyce Waandja has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration in her community. Her journey is testament to resilience, determination and an unyielding commitment to a brighter future.Waandja is in her first year pursuing a bachelor’s degree in informatics. The 18-year-old founded an initiative called Bridging Through Talent, with the tagline 'ignited by passion and rhythm'.
It aims to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence through art, specifically dance, and lets people - especially the youth - know that there are places where they can go and seek help by speaking out.
“I came up with the idea because of the sexual and gender-based violence trauma I went through in my early childhood at the age of 14.”
The initiative had its first contemporary dance training at the Namibia Children’s Home in 2021 where 13 young girls and one boy between the ages of eight and 18 were trained.
Early influences
From a young age, Waandja's life was profoundly shaped by the influence of her father, a real-life superhero in her eyes. He instilled in her a powerful work ethic and an unwavering dedication to academics.
“He was my superhero, he was and still is the reason I take my academics very seriously,” she said.
Her family's impact on her life extended beyond academics. They instilled in her the values of respect and responsibility, which have helped shape her into a well-rounded and compassionate individual, she said.
The path to change
Waandja's path to realising her vision was paved through Upshift Namibia, an organisation that empowers youth to bring their ideas to life. Despite numerous challenges, her determination and the unwavering support of Upshift facilitators were instrumental in transforming her vision into a reality.
“I went through Upshift Namibia to bring this idea to life, although it was a challenging route, it was possible because of the assistance we got from our facilitators. They believed in us even when we doubted our ideas, and they held us till we could manage on our own,” she said.
Ambitions and hobbies
Her vision of the future is both ambitious and inspiring. Waandja firmly believes that the world is on the path to becoming a better place. Her unwavering confidence and determination drive her as she sees herself as the agent of change she wishes to see.
“I always dreamt of becoming a gynaecologist, and I’m sure that dream will come to life because the future is unpredictable. Besides creating safe spaces and empowering my fellow youth, karate remains my favourite hobby as it was my way of escaping from our cruel world.”
Two intriguing facts about her include her role as a radio presenter, even though she rarely listens to the radio herself. Moreover, she has a unique habit of biting down on her teeth when nervous.
Words of wisdom
Waandja’s advice to the youth is both poignant and powerful. She urges them to associate with like-minded individuals, know their purpose, pursue it with unwavering passion, and aim for excellence.
Her parting words resonate: "Go for it because the worst that could happen is being told no, but we try again tomorrow. Take up space and humble yourself”.