On May 19, the U.S. Embassy in Namibia hosted the Youth Sandbox on Sports and Economic Benefits at the American Center in Windhoek. The event brought together Namibian youth, policymakers, educators, and sports professionals for an engaging evening of dialogue focused on how sports can be leveraged to drive economic development, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment.
Delivering opening remarks, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Brandon Hudspeth emphasized the transformative role sports play in the American economy and the potential for similar growth in Namibia. “In the United States, sports are a billion-dollar industry that supports jobs, fuels tourism, and uplifts small businesses,” Hudspeth said. “Namibia has the talent and vision to build its own thriving sports economy—one that creates opportunities for young people, attracts investment, and strengthens communities.”
The Youth Sandbox featured a series of moderated sessions exploring a range of topics including infrastructure development, the business of sports, sports tourism, and youth entrepreneurship. Through dynamic panel discussions and case study videos, speakers shared practical insights on how Namibia can build a sustainable sports economy. Panelists included Hon. Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture; Hon. Utaara Mootu, Member of Parliament; Simataa Mwiya, Chief Administrator of the Namibia Sports Commission; Matheus Haitota, Head of Sports at the University of Namibia; Peter Haufiku, FIFA-licensed sports agent and lecturer; and David Norman, representing the U.S. Embassy.
Throughout the evening, panelists highlighted the importance of accessible and equitable sports infrastructure, stronger government-private sector collaboration, and policies that encourage innovation and investment in youth-driven sports ventures. Attendees were encouraged to think of sports not just as competition, but as a powerful engine for job creation, small business growth, and national pride.
The event concluded with a live pitch competition, where selected youth participants had 60 seconds to present innovative sports-related business ideas. The winning pitch earned the opportunity to meet with Deputy Minister Ballotti for mentorship and further engagement.
The Youth Sandbox is part of the U.S. Embassy’s broader efforts to support economic opportunity and youth leadership in Namibia and reflects the U.S. government’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties and promoting broad-based development through public diplomacy.