By Koviao Matuzee
Through education, mentorship and an unwavering belief in the potential of young people, Dawid Snewe, also known as “Mibalie”, says empowering young people has never been about quick success or short term achievements, but about equipping youth with the knowledge, confidence and resilience needed to build meaningful futures.
Born in Kalkrand, Snewe’s journey has taken him from the football field to the classroom, where he now dedicates his life to helping young people unlock their potential through education.
Today, he leads an educational institution in Otjiwarongo that is transforming the lives of learners through mentorship, mathematics and character development.
While many know the 63 year old for his involvement in football, education has always been at the core of his life.
“I started teaching at a very young age and worked at various schools across the country,” Snewe recalls.
His passion for youth development was further strengthened through football, particularly during his coaching years. Snewe added that coaching and teaching have many things in common, saying both require patience, guidance and a commitment to helping young people reach their full potential.
“When I became a soccer coach, I realised that our youth need teaching in some way or another. Coaching is similar to teaching,” he says.
He credits legendary Namibian coach Rusten “Zukhile” Mogane as one of the people who influenced his approach to mentorship.
“There were days when we would spend time in the classroom studying systems and analysing matches. It taught us that success is not only about physical ability, but also about understanding, preparation and discipline,” he added.
The turning point that led to the establishment of his institution, known as FELLAH’s School of Mathematics and Science (FESMAS), came in 2010 when his second born son entered Grade 10.
Concerned about the academic challenges facing learners, Snewe began teaching his son at home and soon realised that many other young people needed similar support.
“I always believed that if one has a good understanding of Mathematics, then you will be able to participate in any discussion by applying logic.”
Today, that belief forms the foundation of the institution’s mission. While the school supports learners across subjects, mathematics remains a key focus area.
“Not all of us will become scientists, mathematicians, medical doctors, architects or engineers, but everybody should have a proper basic knowledge of Mathematics because it is present in our everyday lives in ways we cannot imagine.”
Beyond academics, Snewe is intentional about instilling values that prepare learners for life. Patience and honesty are among the institution’s core principles.
“Patience helps you stay committed to long term goals instead of giving up. It builds emotional resilience and helps you manage stress and anxiety.”
He also believes honesty is essential for personal and professional growth, describing it as a value rooted in authenticity, integrity and self awareness.
His commitment to youth empowerment is informed by his own experiences growing up in some of Windhoek’s most challenging neighbourhoods.
“I grew up in Gemengde Location, Damara location and Dolam location, but I survived because I was always the peacemaker. I just wanted to play football and attend school.”
Those experiences strengthened his belief that education can help young people overcome barriers and create opportunities for themselves.
“Youth empowerment means helping young people gain critical skills and confidence so they can drive social, political and economic change in their communities.”
The institution’s impact is already visible. In 2024, five learners progressed to university, with students enrolling at the University of Namibia (UNAM) and the Namibian University of Science and Technology (NUST) to study fields including Medicine, Accounting and Computer Science. In 2025, another learner joined NUST to pursue Computer Science.
Snewe says some of the most rewarding moments are seeing younger learners gain enough confidence to assist their classmates with difficult topics. “It impacted the learners’ lives tremendously in a positive way.”
Despite economic challenges and uncertainty affecting some of the institution’s plans, Snewe remains undeterred and optimistic. He says the enthusiasm of learners and the support of parents continue to inspire him.
“The willingness of the learners to attend classes and the involvement of parents keep us motivated.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to see the institution produce a generation of young people equipped with practical skills that can help them thrive in an evolving economy. “I see our institution producing a workforce that has practical skills rather than just theoretical ones.”
To young people who feel uncertain about the future, Snewe says, “Focus on what you can control rather than stressing over an unpredictable future. Build small daily positive habits. Focus on internal growth, wellbeing and acquiring new skills.”
