From Swakopmund to Moscow

Raised in the coastal town of Swakopmund, Aina Talishi Ihambo graduated as a medical practitioner in Russia in June this year.

Aina attended Swakopmund Primary School and completed her Grade 12 at Namib High School in Swakopmund. Namib Times interviewed her recently upon her arrival back on Namibian soil.
Talking about her upbringing, Aina praised the role that Mondesa Youth Opportunities (MYO), a non-profit organisation that runs an afternoon school program in Mondesa, played in her life. It helped her to achieve what she has today.
Aina joined MYO in 2009. “At the time I joined MYO, I guess I was still narrow minded. MYO however, opened my mind and see life and myself from a different perspective.
Aina completed her studies in Moscow after six years of intense studies and very, very hard work
“I used to read a lot at school. I didn’t have so many friends. When I was at MYO, I always took advantage of reading books and participate in competitions. I won these competitions a few times. My love for reading helped me get through my studies, as medical studies involves an incredible amount of reading”, explained Aina.
Aina hails from a family of teachers. She explained her initial motivation for choosing the field of medicine was she wanted to do something different. Different than for instance from pursuing a career in education.
Aina’s ultimate vision is to specialise as a pediatrician. She admits there were challenging times for her in faraway Russia, but said it is important to remember your vision and keep focused on what you want to achieve.
Aina had an opportunity last week to address a group of Grade 7 and 8 learners in Swakopmund and shared with them her journey from the township to Moscow. Her encouragement and motivation for the pupils was clear and precise. “Time flies. Use your time at school wisely and focus on what you want to achieve.” Having taken advantage of a Government scholarship, Dr. Ihambo Aina Talishi is now back home and grateful for the opportunities she received. She is an example of success from hard work and making the best of opportunities availed.