Shangandi seeks funding for GPC World Championships

Namibian powerlifter Phillipus Shangandi is aiming to represent the country at the Global Powerlifting Committee (GPC) World Championships in Brazil, but is seeking financial support to make the trip possible.The event is set for 22 to 26 October in Balneário Camboriú, Brazil. It will feature raw and equipped powerlifting, as well as squat, bench press, deadlift and biceps curl disciplines across the youth, junior, masters and open divisions.Shangandi will compete in the open category, testing his strength against athletes from nearly 20 countries.He qualified for the world championships after winning gold in the 75kg open category at South Africa’s African Powerlifting Championships in Johannesburg in September last year.He has also claimed numerous local titles, including six gold medals at events such as Fit City (2020), Genesis (2022), Bodyetch (2023), Hybrid and Iron House in 2024.“For me, this is more than just competing and winning medals. I want to fly the Namibian flag high and create opportunities for other young athletes to show that we can also stand tall in strength sports. Powerlifting is my life’s work and I am ready to help it reach new heights,” said Shangandi.He has largely self-funded his competitions and is now appealing for support from the government or corporate sponsors to cover the costs of representing Namibia.He expressed gratitude to Just Property Namibia, which has already covered his championship registration fee.He estimates that N$75 000 would cover his solo trip, while N$120 000 would allow him to bring along his manager for moral support.Shangandi’s journey in powerlifting began from humble beginnings in 2018, growing up in Onaame Village, Ohangwena Region.“At first, I wasn’t inspired by anyone in particular. It was just me pushing myself. Over time, people noticed my natural strength when I was lifting weights far above my bodyweight at the time,” he said.Encouraged by his progress, Shangandi took the sport more seriously, drawing inspiration from powerlifting names like Colton Engelbrecht and Austin Perkins.“It hasn’t been an easy journey. I am thankful for athletes like them [Engelbrecht and Perkins], who are truly blessed with strength, for paving the way for us in the sport,” he said.Those who would like to support him in his quest for international representation can contact him at 081 610 2906 or via email at jiveshangadi@gmail.com– mariud@nsh.com.na

Shangandi seeks funding for GPC World Championships

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-13

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Shangandi seeks funding for GPC World Championships

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-13

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