#1 “Do what makes you happy and follow your dreams” – Himba Leader Rimunikawi Tjipurua

Rimunikawi Tjipurua is my friend. He is a deeply inspiring Himba
leader and the founder of Omunganda campsite and living museum in
North Namibia. At the early age of 18 he had a vision – to do
something big in life. He decided to help and support his
community by building the campsite. No-one believed in him,
no-one. But he pursued his dream. It took him many years to
succeed. Today, the campsite fully supports his community and his
vision came to life: today, 59 Himba people live in the camp
while tourists are invited to come and visit. With this camp,
Rimunikawi gives money to the community and enables them to
educate their children while living a traditional and happy life.
For Rimunikawi it is self-evident that he does not earn money
from his camp but rather uses it to provide for the community.
“They are like family to me”, he says.  Whilst I am amazed
by his achievements, Rimunikawi smiles: “This is not yet enough.”
Continuously, he questions the status quo and tries to give back
even more to his people. 


He shares with us what encouraged him to keep working towards his
dream, to never give up despite all challenges and why he thinks
the Himba are the happiest people in the world. We also speak
about leadership and how nature and meditation inspire him as a
leader. He is convinced that taking young people to poorer
communities is essential and helps them understand their
privilege and the importance of sharing. I am deeply inspired by
Rimunikawi and his story, by his vision and the overwhelming
kindness of the Himba people. While our recording was
occasionally interrupted by baby goats, children and the sound of
the wind, the listening experience of this podcast episode could
not be any more authentic. 


Omunganda Campsite: omungunda-camping-opuwo.com/


Rimunikawi Tjipurua on Facebook: bit.ly/3lj18Pm


Support Rimunikawi's project: https://gofund.me/980c321a


 


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