While many learners used their August school holiday to relax at home, 48 children used the time away from school to improve their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills at the JA Leadership Academy, held 27-31 August 2012 at Spitzkoppe Camp.

The camp brought together children from a wide variety of backgrounds, including children from the Namibia Children’s Home in Windhoek, Achievers from JA Mini Companies at secondary schools in Windhoek, and learners from Mariental, Schlip, and Bergsig.

The setting at the foot of the Spitzkoppe mountain provided several opportunities for participants to improve their leadership and teamwork skills through hikes, dramas, role plays, and fireside chats. Additionally, speakers from the Namibia PEACE Centre and Namibia Blue Cross visited participants to speak about communication, the dangers of drug abuse, and alternatives to violence.

In summarising her experience at the Leadership Academy, one participant nicely articulated the value of the week, saying that “we talked a lot about our dreams, careers, and leadership skills which put my life in a whole different positive perspective. I now feel motivated to make a better success of my life and live up to the role of a true achiever as well as a role model”

The JA Leadership Academy was a successful week, and JA Namibia would like to thank donors, volunteers, and all stakeholders for their contributions to a successful event.