From small school initiative to national outreach

Since its establishment in 2022, Gals’ Emerge Charity, founded by Selma Hamushila, has been supporting vulnerable young people across Namibia.

What began as a small community initiative while Hamushila was assisting in the Life Skills and Counselling Department at Moses van der Byl school has grown into a wider mission focused on mentorship, emotional support and practical assistance for disadvantaged youth.

The organisation primarily supports vulnerable girls, particularly school learners who struggle to access basic necessities such as sanitary pads. Its outreach also extends to disadvantaged boys and homeless young people when resources allow.

Through donations of sanitary pads, clothing, food and other essentials, the organisation says it aims to restore dignity and hope to those facing difficult circumstances.

“My passion for community outreach grew from working closely with learners and witnessing the challenges many vulnerable children face every day,” Hamushila says. “Every child deserves dignity, support and the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances.”

Hamushila, who donates 10% of her personal income to support vulnerable youth, says she remains committed to ensuring assistance reaches those most in need.

Beyond providing essential items, the charity also focuses on mentorship and personal development. Young people are encouraged to remain focused on their education, build confidence and develop positive futures.

Participants are also helped to develop practical skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving and community engagement. “Sometimes a simple act of kindness, such as providing sanitary pads or listening to a learner’s concerns, can change the course of a young person’s life,” Hamushila says.

Like many community-based initiatives, the organisation faces challenges, including limited funding, transport costs and storage constraints. Despite this, Hamushila says she remains determined to expand its impact.

“I believe leadership is not about position or recognition; it is about serving others and making a meaningful difference where you can,” she says.

Looking ahead, she hopes to grow Gals’ Emerge Charity into a fully fledged organisation offering educational support, life-skills training, mentorship programmes and eventually a safe shelter for vulnerable girls, boys and homeless youth.

“My dream is to see Gals’ Emerge Charity become a place of hope, mentorship and opportunity for vulnerable young people across Namibia,” she says.

“Start with what you have and never underestimate the impact of helping even one person. Real change begins when ordinary people choose to care.”

Through compassion, dedication and community service, Gals’ Emerge Charity continues to support vulnerable young people and promote positive change in communities across Namibia.