Finding purpose, belonging in sport
Athlete Hanganeni Fikunawa believes that sport plays an important role in creating a sense of belonging and purpose for young people. It provides structure
2026-08-192026-08-19By Paheja Siririka
Athlete Hanganeni Fikunawa believes that sport plays an important role in creating a sense of belonging and purpose for young people.
It provides structure, discipline and a safe environment, where they can feel included and valued.
She added that sport helps young people discover their potential and gives them hope for a better future.
“Sport can also help reduce social challenges such as youth unemployment, crime and substance abuse by keeping young people engaged in positive activities,” shared the sport manager.
She noted that it creates pathways for education, scholarships and career opportunities, while also building unity across different communities in Namibia.
She was recently recognised as the Young Olympic Ambassador in Greece, representing fellow youth in Namibia.
Fikunawa stated that sport also develops teamwork and leadership, encouraging young people to support one another and grow together. She added that sport teaches goal setting, responsibility and how to make better decisions under pressure skills that are valuable both on and off the field.
“In a Namibian context, where many youths face social and economic challenges, sport can serve as a positive outlet that keeps them engaged, focused and away from negative influences such as alcohol and drugs,” she said.
She added that it is an opportunity to represent Namibia while also learning to lead with purpose, integrity and excellence.
“Being recognised as a Young Olympic ambassador in Greece is deeply significant to me because it means I have been entrusted to embody these values both as an athlete and as a leader,” she said.
The programme at the International Olympic Academy further broadened her perspective through lectures, discussions and cultural exchange with participants from across the world. It reinforced that, despite the different backgrounds, people are connected by shared values and a common commitment to making a positive impact through sport.
“One of the biggest lessons I learned is that although we come from different parts of the world, we are united by a shared passion for sport and a common responsibility to create positive change in our societies. It was inspiring to see how young people are using sport as a tool for development, education, and unity within their own countries. It reminded me that sport is a universal language that connects us beyond borders and that we all carry the responsibility to make a difference in our communities,” she said.
Fikunawa stated that experiencing Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, gave her a deeper appreciation of the history and purpose of the Olympic Movement.
“Visiting Ancient Olympia showed me that the games have always stood for more than competition. They promote peace, education, respect and unity. Learning that conflicts were once paused to allow athletes to compete was a powerful reminder of sport’s ability to bring people together,” she reminisced. The sportsperson encouraged her peers to believe in themselves and their dreams, even when the path is uncertain.
“Take advantage of every leadership opportunity you are given, whether it is being a class captain, team captain or student leader,” she said.
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