Namibia: Youth Hour

The Youth Hour radio segment examined the growing vulnerability of LGBTIQ youth in Namibia within a rapidly evolving digital world. Social media has become a major space where identity is shaped, displayed and judged. For many young LGBTIQ people, these platforms come with significant emotional and social risks. The programme explored how cyberbullying, online shaming and forced identity disclosure can cause deep harm, particularly in societies where conversations around sexual orientation and gender identity remain sensitive.

The segment highlighted the pressure young people face to present themselves online in ways that conform to societal expectations. Many LGBTIQ youth feel compelled to hide their real identities out of fear of family rejection, cultural judgement or community backlash. This dual life, lived between authenticity and fear, often leads to anxiety, depression and a sense of isolation. By placing these issues at the centre of a youth‑focused platform, the programme created a rare space for empathy‑driven dialogue.

The radio discussion also explored how emotional wellbeing is shaped by the intersection of digital behaviour, cultural expectations and mental health. The segment helped listeners understand how harmful online comments, community gossip or family reactions can impact the confidence, safety and self‑worth of LGBTIQ individuals. It encouraged young people to prioritise their mental health and to navigate digital spaces with caution and self‑awareness.

By including LGBTIQ experiences within mainstream youth content rather than presenting them as isolated or controversial topics, the programme helped normalise these discussions. This approach supported gradual attitude change by framing LGBTIQ issues as part of everyday youth experiences. Listeners were reminded that identity, acceptance and emotional wellbeing affect all young people, regardless of background.

The media work contributed to creating a more informed and conscious youth audience. By encouraging active reflection on empathy, digital responsibility and inclusion, the broadcast helped shift conversations from silence and stigma toward understanding. The segment also provided reassurance to LGBTIQ listeners, demonstrating that their experiences are valid, recognised and worthy of public discussion.

The impact of the broadcast was evident in listener engagement. The topic generated online interaction, personal messages and reflections shared through social media. Some listeners expressed relief that the topic was addressed, while others used the platform to share experiences or seek guidance. This feedback demonstrated a real connection with the audience and helped spark peer‑to‑peer conversations about diversity and digital safety.

The programme also made an important contribution by encouraging the public to consider how their online behaviour affects the emotional safety of others. By reinforcing the value of empathy and responsible social media use, it encouraged listeners to rethink how they respond to differences.

Sustaining the visibility created through the programme will involve continuing to integrate LGBTIQ perspectives into broader youth conversations on wellbeing, digital culture and identity. Collaboration with youth organisations, counsellors and advocates can help deepen understanding and extend impact through school activities, community dialogues and social media campaigns.

Future Youth Hour segments can build on this momentum by addressing topics such as mental health, safety online, the role of families in fostering acceptance and the experiences of young people navigating stigma in different settings. This ongoing, multi‑platform approach can help strengthen inclusion and create safer environments for all youth in Namibia.