We’re for Namibians: Renate Shikongo

Renate is not just a content creator. She’s a force. A storyteller. A spark of energy that refuses to be boxed in. From building homes through social media fundraisers to running her own bakery, The Loaf, to being Namibia’s self-declared “head girl”, Renate brings meaning, humour, and humanity to everything she touches.

She’s worn many hats – humanitarian, makeup artist, psychology graduate, and now entrepreneur – but what ties it all together is a passion for people. Whether she’s sharing hilarious real-life stories on YouTube or building community online and off, Renate’s gift is her honesty. Her platforms are filled with laughter, yes, but also lessons. “I realised I always end with something meaningful,” she says. “A lesson, a reflection – something that helps people grow.”

Her journey began during the stillness of COVID, when she started sharing personal stories as a way to bring light into dark days. What began as casual “story times” quickly turned into a platform with purpose – one that now raises funds for students, provides food and shelter to vulnerable communities, and reminds Namibians that kindness still wins.

“I may not always have the money, but I always have the will,” she says. “And I can mobilize others to help too.”

Renate’s creativity is deeply Namibian – vibrant, grounded in heritage, and shaped by a rich tapestry of cultures and stories. “We’re so diverse, but we all have something to say,” she reflects. “When we channel our roots, that’s when we become unique.”

Despite her growing influence, staying grounded is second nature. “I come from a home where my voice was valued,” she says. “I was raised to be myself. And that’s what I try to bring across online – just being real.”

When she’s not raising funds or baking fresh bread, she’s inspiring the next generation to step into their power – especially young women. Her advice? “Don’t overthink it. Just start. You’ll learn as you go.”

Her proudest moments are not awards or accolades, but moments of impact – like helping a man build a safe home from scratch using funds she raised in 48 hours. “Seeing how a small gesture can change someone’s life? That changed mine.”
For Renate, being for Namibians means showing up for her people – in the DMs, in the locations, on the ground. “It’s pride,” she says. “It’s knowing where you come from and doing whatever you can to support home.”

FlyNamibia is proud to celebrate Renate as part of our We’re For Namibians campaign – a trailblazer who proves that humour can heal, stories can connect, and digital platforms can transform lives.
She might be the “head girl” of Namibia’s internet, but her heart has always been for the people.