4 minute read
Creatives, assemble!
The Namibia Creative Summit, a groundbreaking event and the first of its kind in the country, is more than just a symposium; it is a bold declaration of the power and potential of Namibia’s creative industries. Having taken place on 6 September at the National Theatre of Namibia, the summit served as a meeting ground for artists, creators and visionaries who are pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a creative in Namibia today.
Not merely a gathering of talent, the event was a free-to-attend initiative designed to break down barriers, inviting the public to engage without the worry of financial strain. The inclusive nature of the summit highlighted one key truth: creativity should be accessible to all, regardless of one’s socio-economic standing. By offering the event at no cost, the organisers demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that arts and culture are seen as vital, not just by the elite but by everyone.
The summit drew some of the country’s most esteemed figures. Among the honoured guests were Minister of Education Ester Anna Nghipondoka, and Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. The vice president’s eloquent speech resonated deeply with the audience. She reminded us all that arts and culture are the soul of our nation, stating, “We must create an ecosystem where creativity is not only nurtured but recognised. A nation without a culture is not a nation.” These words echoed in the hearts of the audience, who know all too well the struggles of being a creative in a world that often underestimates the value of artistic expression.
For far too long, the creative sector in Namibia has been treated as secondary – something to be enjoyed, perhaps, but not taken seriously. Many of us in the creative community have felt the weight of this dismissive attitude. Our work is seen as a hobby, not a career. The lack of standardised financial remuneration speaks volumes. How can we be expected to thrive when the value of our craft fluctuates so wildly? When one client is willing to pay a fair rate for a project, while another offers mere pennies, it leaves us questioning our worth.
And yet, despite this, the summit highlighted a growing realisation: creativity is not just entertainment; it is an economic driver. Around the world, the creative economy is booming, and Namibia is ripe with untapped potential. If properly nurtured, the arts can create jobs, build industries and contribute to the GDP. The “starving artist” trope, as old as it may be, does not have to be the reality here. The summit was a call to action to challenge this outdated narrative and to prove that creativity is a legitimate, viable career path.
But this change does not come without effort. We, as creatives, need to unite, raise our voices and demand the respect and recognition we deserve. As the vice president pointed out, we must build an ecosystem where our work is not just seen but valued. It is time for standards, for fair pay, and for a societal shift that acknowledges that art is not just a “nice-to-have” but an essential part of a thriving, dynamic culture.
So, here’s to the Namibia Creative Summit – the first of many. Let it be the spark that ignites change, not just in how others see us but in how we see ourselves. Because, as creatives, our work is not just a phase. It is our life, and it is time the world starts treating it as such.
