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Draft:Kevin Calvin Wessels

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Kevin Calvin Wessels (born 22 February 1996) is a Namibian social entrepreneur, human rights activist, and public policy expert. With a background in political science, law, telecommunications engineering, and accounting, Wessels is recognised for his work in promoting human rights, advocating for LGBTQI+ rights, and contributing to the development of Namibia's informal communities, arts and creative sector.

Early Life and Education

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Wessels was born in Windhoek, Namibia and grew up in Windhoek, Namibia with his grandmother, Elizabeth Wessels. Wessels also lived in Zambia and South Africa for a couple of years. He holds qualifications in:

  • Political Science and Law
  • Telecommunications Engineering
  • Accounting

Career

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Wessels began their professional journey in private legal practice, focusing on on civil law. He later transitioned to government service, gaining extensive experience in public administration and policy-making.

Currently, Wessels serves as the Head of Public Policy and Legal Affairs at New Elementary Namibia, an NGO dedicated to rebuilding and rehabilitating early childhood centres in informal settlements. In this role, he oversees policy advocacy, legal administration, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, Wessels manages legal administration for Equal Namibia and Drag Night Namibia, promoting equality and inclusivity.

Human Rights Advocacy

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A committed human rights activist, Wessels has been instrumental in advancing LGBTQI+ rights in Southern Africa. They have participated in various forums, including the Southern African Litigation Centre's Regional Activist Forum, where they discussed litigation strategies, gender persecution, and inter-country learning. They are also a vocal advocate for the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Namibia and the broader region.

Political Involvement

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Wessels is an active member of the Republican Party of Namibia. He serves as the Head of the Youth Wing, leading efforts to engage young Namibians in political processes and policymaking. He has also supported party president Henry Ferdinand Mudge in his campaign for Presidency of the country. In 2024, Wessels earned a place in the party’s top 10 parliamentary list, underscoring his growing influence in Namibian politics.

Contributions to the Arts

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As an arts enthusiast, Wessels is passionate about fostering creativity and innovation in Namibia's arts and cultural sectors. He has supported numerous initiatives to empower artists and promote cultural expression.

Junior Council Initiative

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Wessels has contributed to the City of Windhoek Junior Council Initiative, which recently celebrated its silver jubilee. His involvement emphasises his dedication to youth development and community engagement.

Awards and Recognition

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Personal Life

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Publications and Media

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References

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https://civicus.org/index.php/media-resources/news/interviews/7138-namibia-our-victory-can-inspire-and-encourage-lgbtqi-activists-in-other-countries

https://www.namibiansun.com/news/a-peoples-person-2019-03-12

https://economist.com.na/18246/education/helping-students-help-themselves/

https://www.civicus.org/index.php/media-resources/news/interviews/6561-namibia-we-have-seen-some-progress-on-lgbtqi-rights-but-there-is-a-lot-of-work-still-to-be-done

https://www.facebook.com/myzonenamibia/videos/today-we-are-joined-by-kevin-wessels-and-our-new-interns/419938975243919/

https://x.com/EqualNamibia/status/1818915525914743064?mx=2

https://www.contribyoute.org/user_uploads/frontend_pictures/New%20Elementary%20Project%20Proposal%202021_compressed.pdf

https://www.namibian.com.na/men-need-love-too/

https://beta.namibiansun.com/news/coalition-wants-n500-grant2021-11-23

https://www.namibian.com.na/miss-drag-queen-namibia-opens-for-contestants/

https://neweralive.na/private-schools-top-khomas-regional-science-fair-awards/

https://welwitschia.org/2015/03/15/neuer-vorstand-in-namibia/