First-ever Kavango talent competition set for Rundu in December
Sponsors invited to support show competition
The first-ever Kavango Talent Show is set to kick off in Rundu on 6 December, promising to spotlight hidden creativity across the Kavango regions.
In a recent interview with Ewi IyaNooli, the visionaries behind the idea, Shapi Sackeus and Mateus Jonas, said the event is aimed at offering a platform that identifies, nurtures and
Sackeus said the Kavango regions have “not yet made it a norm to nurture creativity”, adding that many talented young people remain unrecognised simply because they lack opportunities to showcase their abilities.
“There’s a lot of talent among our youth, but it’s not recognised because we don’t give them the platform or the time to show it,” Sackeus explained. “That’s why we decided to bring the youth together, to create something that gives them a chance to be seen.”
The event, scheduled to be held at Rundu Beach, will feature auditions, performances, workshops and interactive sessions aimed at inspiring and empowering young people to express their creativity.
Jonas described the show as a “youth-initiated programme” that seeks to empower, motivate and promote cultural heritage, not only in Kavango but across Namibia.
Meaningful platform of support
Participation is open to individuals aged 16 to 35, though younger children may also take part with parental consent. The talent show will also include people with disabilities, whom the founders say are equally skilled and deserve visibility.
“This show is not just about winning or losing,” Jonas added. “It’s about promoting youth creativity and helping participants build something meaningful from their talents.”
Despite excitement surrounding the launch, the duo admitted it has been challenging. Planning only began in July, which left little time to secure sponsors.
“So far we have no sponsors, but we’re hopeful that those who have shown interest will come on board for next year’s edition,” Sackeus said. “It’s been tough doing the logistics and paperwork ourselves, but we are determined to make it happen.”
Big prizes
The show will unfold over several rounds, beginning with auditions and leading up to semi-finals and finals. Five judges will evaluate participants based on their performances, with the audience also getting a chance to vote via SMS during the final rounds.
The top three winners will share cash prizes totalling N$10 000, with first place receiving N$5 000, second N$3 000, and third N$2 000.
Tickets for the event are already on sale, priced at N$50 for regular entry and N$30 for children per night. VIP and VVIP tickets will cost N$100 and N$250, respectively, while discounted multi-night passes are available for those attending the full show.
The event initially starts on 6 December and will continue on 13, 20 and 27 December.
Rundu Beach has been chosen as the venue for the competition due to its open-air setting and cool atmosphere. “It’s summertime, and it can get very hot in Rundu. The beach offers a good breeze and space for everyone to enjoy safely,” Jonas said.
The organisers have assured that proper security arrangements will be in place to ensure safety for both participants and guests.
“We’re calling on parents, youth and the community to come out in numbers,” Sackeus urged. “It’s not just about entertainment – it’s about empowering our young people and showing that Kavango’s creativity deserves the spotlight.”
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In a recent interview with Ewi IyaNooli, the visionaries behind the idea, Shapi Sackeus and Mateus Jonas, said the event is aimed at offering a platform that identifies, nurtures and
Sackeus said the Kavango regions have “not yet made it a norm to nurture creativity”, adding that many talented young people remain unrecognised simply because they lack opportunities to showcase their abilities.
“There’s a lot of talent among our youth, but it’s not recognised because we don’t give them the platform or the time to show it,” Sackeus explained. “That’s why we decided to bring the youth together, to create something that gives them a chance to be seen.”
The event, scheduled to be held at Rundu Beach, will feature auditions, performances, workshops and interactive sessions aimed at inspiring and empowering young people to express their creativity.
Jonas described the show as a “youth-initiated programme” that seeks to empower, motivate and promote cultural heritage, not only in Kavango but across Namibia.
Meaningful platform of support
Participation is open to individuals aged 16 to 35, though younger children may also take part with parental consent. The talent show will also include people with disabilities, whom the founders say are equally skilled and deserve visibility.
“This show is not just about winning or losing,” Jonas added. “It’s about promoting youth creativity and helping participants build something meaningful from their talents.”
Despite excitement surrounding the launch, the duo admitted it has been challenging. Planning only began in July, which left little time to secure sponsors.
“So far we have no sponsors, but we’re hopeful that those who have shown interest will come on board for next year’s edition,” Sackeus said. “It’s been tough doing the logistics and paperwork ourselves, but we are determined to make it happen.”
Big prizes
The show will unfold over several rounds, beginning with auditions and leading up to semi-finals and finals. Five judges will evaluate participants based on their performances, with the audience also getting a chance to vote via SMS during the final rounds.
The top three winners will share cash prizes totalling N$10 000, with first place receiving N$5 000, second N$3 000, and third N$2 000.
Tickets for the event are already on sale, priced at N$50 for regular entry and N$30 for children per night. VIP and VVIP tickets will cost N$100 and N$250, respectively, while discounted multi-night passes are available for those attending the full show.
The event initially starts on 6 December and will continue on 13, 20 and 27 December.
Rundu Beach has been chosen as the venue for the competition due to its open-air setting and cool atmosphere. “It’s summertime, and it can get very hot in Rundu. The beach offers a good breeze and space for everyone to enjoy safely,” Jonas said.
The organisers have assured that proper security arrangements will be in place to ensure safety for both participants and guests.
“We’re calling on parents, youth and the community to come out in numbers,” Sackeus urged. “It’s not just about entertainment – it’s about empowering our young people and showing that Kavango’s creativity deserves the spotlight.”
[email protected]
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