Johnathan Harris: Changing the conversation on true service, mental health

At just 23 years old, Johnathan Harris has emerged as one of Namibia’s most inspiring young leaders, a humanitarian, mental health advocate and changemaker whose vision is rooted in compassion, growth and service. Born and raised in Swakopmund, Harris embodies the balance of peace and purpose that his hometown instilled in him. “Swakopmund taught me to stay grounded yet dream big,” he reflects. “To lead is to serve; service is not loud, it just gets done.”From an early age, Harris was drawn to community work, influenced by a culture where helping one another was a natural part of life. That passion evolved into purpose when, in 2018, he founded the Swakopmund Youth Organisation. The initiative gave young people a platform to build opportunities rather than wait for them, an idea that has since defined his work. “Empowerment isn’t given, it’s built,” he says. “We don’t wait for change; we become it.”Harris’s dedication to service took on new meaning when he joined the Leo Club movement. As president of the Swakopmund Omega Leo Club and later as District 410W Leo president, he led impactful initiatives, including a feeding scheme that provided 10 000 meals a month to learners at Festus! Gonteb Primary School, and the annual “Walk for Childhood Cancer”, now a cherished Swakopmund tradition. His leadership style, grounded in empathy and action, has inspired countless young Namibians to find purpose in service.Seen, heard, safeYet, it is Harris’s work with The My Mind Matters Foundation that most clearly reflects his heart. Born from personal experiences of silent struggle, the foundation promotes mental and emotional wellness through education, advocacy and creative outreach. “So many walk around carrying silent battles,” he says. “I wanted to create a space where people feel seen, heard and safe.” Under the theme 'A Journey to Wellness', the foundation aims to establish hubs in all 14 regions by 2026, making mental health resources accessible nationwide.Alongside his advocacy, Harris is a marketing professional, life coach and founder of The HARRIS GROUP, a multidisciplinary company merging creativity and purpose. He is also an international model, holding titles such as Mr Teen Star Namibia 2021 and Mr Face of Namibia 2022. Despite the many hats he wears, his mission remains consistent: to empower others to live with purpose, confidence and compassion.“The most rewarding moments”, he says, are “when someone tells me, ‘You inspire me to do better, be better, and grow more.’ That’s when I know it’s all worth it.”Looking ahead, Harris envisions a Namibia where mental health is prioritised alongside physical health, and where every young person has access to hope and healing. His message to youth is simple yet profound: “Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Leadership isn’t about being in front; it’s about lifting others as you rise, but above all else, have God at the centre.”

Johnathan Harris: Changing the conversation on true service, mental health

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Republikein 2025-12-24

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Johnathan Harris: Changing the conversation on true service, mental health

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