Windhoek: The discussion, titled 'From Ideation to Impact: Who Is Holding the Door Open?', brought together young people and leaders to discuss youth leadership and the support systems needed to advance youth-led initiatives.

According to Namibia Press Agency, One Economy Foundation Executive Chairperson and United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Advocate Monica Geingos emphasized that young people should not wait for perfect conditions before taking up leadership roles. She urged, "Lead from where you are. You don't have to wait for perfection." Geingos also called for greater investment in youth-led ideas and stronger intergenerational collaboration, highlighting the importance of allowing youth organizations the space to learn from failure.

UN Resident Coordinator to Namibia Hopolang Phororo encouraged young people to clearly articulate their priorities, engage strategically, and use platforms like UN youth advisory structures to advance their recommendations. Member of Parliament Willem Amutenya added that everyone is capable of leadership, but it must translate into measurable impact. He stressed the necessity of creating ecosystems that provide opportunities for young people and ensuring that legislation supports achieving the SDGs.

Environmental Investment Fund representative Keith Handura advised young people to exercise patience, take ownership of their initiatives, and remain accountable when developing sustainable projects. Using the phrase "Rome wasn't built in a day," he encouraged them to focus on the issues they wish to address, seek mentorship, and explore funding opportunities such as the National Youth Fund.

Commonwealth Youth Council Africa Regional Representative Rosy Schaneck challenged young people to look beyond leadership titles and focus on how they utilize the opportunities and resources available to them, asking, "What are you doing with what you have been given?" She further encouraged young people to move beyond cliques, make optimal use of resources, and strengthen networks among themselves.

The panel discussion underscored that while creating opportunities for young people is essential, they also require trust, resources, networks, and space to translate their ideas into tangible impact.