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Mondesa Youth Opportunities, MYO is a well-known and intensive after-school education program in the Mondesa Township in Swakopmund, Namibia. MYO has been operating for over 20 years. Their focus is on learners with potential but little support at home. Until recently, 120 learners ranging from Grade 4 to 8 receive extra instruction in English, Mathematics, Reading, Life Skills, Computers, Sports and Music. This year they started a pilot program of an extra support class, so that the number of learners now stands at 144. They cultivate positive thinking and high self-esteem to lay the path for a future generation of forward-thinking Namibian leaders. Their aim is not only to enhance the education of our promising learners but also to guide them into being responsive, confident and well-rounded individuals. MYO is supported by Rotary clubs around the world, including the local club in Swakopmund, Namibia.
I had the opportunity to visit this wonderful non-profit while I was in Namibia in Feb. 2025. I saw and heard firsthand the difference this program is making in the lives of young people. Children that have great potential but due to overcrowded public schools and low family income would be left behind.
When the learners get to the Mondesa Youth Opportunities (MYO) location, the first thing they do is have lunch. For many of these children it may be the only meal of the day for them. We all know children cannot learn on an empty stomach. Nutrition is essential for learning.
This grant will help fund meals for these learners. The costs for providing these meals is 35,000 Namibian Dollars per month. ($1,857.98 US dollars per month). In 2024 MYO served more than 600 liters of pea-soup, more than 1,000 loaves of bread, more than 10, 000 fruit, 90 kilograms of fish and more than 400 kilograms of chicken stew. All to fuel great learning and growth.
I have received donations from two Rotary Clubs in Alaska and several individuals. Totaling $1,500.00. If DDFunds are received, the total of $3,000 would fund 1+ months of food for lunch for these 144 learners. I am hoping donations and pledges will continue to come in after the grant application deadline, increasing the number of meals we can provide for these learners.
Once grant funds are received I would complete an International Wire transfer. Within 3 months I should receive proof of payment or food receipts from MYO.
Unfortunately unless Rotarians travel to Namibia, there isn't a way for Rotarians to participate. Rotarians can sponsor a student for one year for the cost of $1,084 US dollars.
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