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Posted by Michel Haoses | May 18, 2026 | Health
The One Economy Foundation recently hosted #BeFreeBallers: Next Gen Men, a youth-centred initiative designed to bring young men together for open conversations about constructive masculinity.
The event provided a safe, engaging space for the youth to discuss personal development, mental health, and positive leadership.
The event also formed part of the Foundation’s celebration of the International Day of the Boy Child.
The event served to respond to the challenges faced by men in mental health and sexual reproductive health, since expectations around masculinity often discourage help-seeking behaviour, contributing to untreated trauma, higher suicide rates, sexually transmitted infections, and gender violence.
Speaking at the event, Director of Operations at the One Economy Foundation, Saddam Biwa, echoed the message that “silence is expensive” and emphasised the importance of creating spaces where young men feel safe enough to speak openly about the pressures and challenges they face.
“Being able to say ‘this is what I’m going through’ matters. Spaces like #BeFreeBallers exist so young men can engage honestly, support one another, unpack real psychological and psychosocial challenges, and collectively shape a healthier vision of masculinity,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Executive of SanlamAllianz Investments, Tega Shiimi Ya Shiimi, encouraged attendees to understand that mistakes do not define their future, and that accountability and intentional change through healing and therapy can still lead to success and purpose.
“I have made mistakes and learned from them. I’ve done things I’m not proud of. Growth comes when you finally reflect, take accountability and decide what kind of man you want to become.”
The event also addressed the dangers of emotional suppression and shame. Dr Schalk Botha encouraged attendees to move away from harmful ideas around vulnerability. “We need to stay away from weakness and shame. We all feel vulnerable in life. Thinking we must be strong or dominant can keep us from sharing and seeking help,” he said.
The discussion challenged stereotypes that often discourage men from expressing emotion, seeking support, or engaging honestly about their struggles.
Moreover, Rachimo Haradoeb reflected on how poor decision-making contributed to choices that ultimately led him to a 25-year prison sentence. “Make peace with yourself and do not be afraid to seek support. If you do not find support at home, there are churches, organisations, and people willing to help you. You do not have to carry everything alone.”
Conversations continued through engagement stations focused on mentoring young men on communication, sexual and reproductive health, identity, purpose, and personal growth. According to the Foundation, a highlight was the Know Your Numbers station, where attendees received information and engaged in conversations around sexual and reproductive health, routine testing, and informed health decisions.
Gerson Neumbo, a member of the Children’s Parliament, said one of his biggest takeaways from Haradoeb’s testimony was the importance of not allowing pain, anger, or disappointment to shape harmful decisions, while also recognising how difficult situations can test a person’s character and emotional resilience.
Reflecting on the keynote address by Shiimi Ya Shiimi, Neumbo said the discussion showed that even successful leaders have faced struggles, made mistakes, and had to change and grow through those experiences.
He added that mentorship becomes more impactful when influential figures openly share their journeys, helping young men realise that struggles are shared and that honest conversations can happen without judgment.
This initiative extends beyond one-day events through ongoing weekly programmes at the #BeFree Youth Campus, including #MajitaMondays, every Monday. The programme brings together young men aged 13 to 35 for conversations on constructive masculinity, emotional well-being, accountability, and personal growth.
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Michel Haoses is a journalist with a keen interest in economics. She started out as an intern at the Namibia Economist in 2024. She is a final year student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, reading a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics.
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