For Onesmus Mwafangeyo, popularly known as Onesto Papy, creativity is more than a career; it is a way of life, whether he produces music, designs graphics, sketches, or spends time in his home studio.

The Windhoek-based artist has built his identity around creating what does not yet exist, while remaining grounded in his roots, family and belief in living authentically.

“I am an artist who loves creating things that did not exist before,” he says.

A writer, music producer, composer, musician and professional graphic designer, Onesto’s creative world extends beyond music. Yet, away from the demands of his craft, he is a father and family man who finds happiness in the simple things, from enjoying pizza with his children to a comforting serving of mahangu pap and Oshikandela.

From the village to the city

Born in Windhoek, Onesto spent his early childhood at Ondwi yaHamupolo village in Ovamboland, where life revolved around cattle herding and working the fields.

Schooling was irregular, as his guardians prioritised household responsibilities. That changed when he returned to Windhoek at the age of 10. His grandmother, now late, was determined that her grandson would not spend his entire life herding cattle at the expense of his education.

Looking back, he credits her decision with opening doors to opportunities and experiences that shaped the man he is today.

“I am grateful for her decision,” he says. “The English, the music, the money, the cars, you name it!”

Growing up between village and city life gave him a perspective he continues to value. His traditional upbringing taught him responsibility, while his urban experiences exposed him to new possibilities.

Raised in a household full of children, he also learnt that survival depended on cooperation.

“Sharing is caring, and there is no ‘I’ in team,” he says, recalling how families worked together in the fields to ensure there was enough food for everyone, sometimes even helping less industrious neighbours.

Today, family remains his safe place, providing support through both celebrations and difficult times.

The man behind the music

At home, Onesto is the happiest in his mini studio, where he can experiment with sounds, develop ideas, and give his imagination room to breathe.

“When I am at home, you will most likely find me in my mini studio, spending time creating music or working on ideas,” he says.

When he steps away from the studio, he enjoys playing snooker or pool, confidently inviting anyone who doubts his skills to challenge him to a game.

Fatherhood, however, occupies a special place in his life. Despite professional commitments, he makes time for his children, whether through outings for pizza or long drives with snacks and everything they might need along the way.

For him, quality time does not require elaborate arrangements. Being present, sharing experiences and creating memories are enough.

His favourite comfort food takes him back to simpler pleasures: warm mahangu pap served with Oshikandela.

Dream takes shape

Onesto’s musical journey began during an era when Congolese kwasa-kwasa and Zimbabwean sungura dominated local airwaves. As Namibian music gained prominence, artists such as Pablo, The Dogg, Gazza, Matongo Family and Big Ben inspired him to explore his own songwriting.

He began writing songs in Grade 7, if not earlier. In Grade 8, he connected with fellow aspiring musician Eddy Lajoz, whose real name is Hafeni Nghifindaka. They shared a passion for music and began writing together.

Their efforts culminated in 2006 with Ghetto Luv, recorded and produced by Flame at Extreme Entertainment studios.

The song became a hit and earned them a nomination in the Best Single category at the Sanlam/NBC awards, an important milestone for the young musicians.

His stage name also carries a personal story. Onesto is derived from Onesmus, while Papy was a nickname given to him by his girlfriend at the time. Combining the two created the identity through which audiences came to know him.

For Onesto, recognition is welcome, but the creative process remains the real reward.

Success on his own terms

Onesto believes success is not defined exclusively by wealth or public recognition. It is about achieving something that once seemed beyond reach, whether earning a qualification, receiving a nomination, or accomplishing a personal goal.

He encourages aspiring creatives to pursue their ambitions despite setbacks and criticism. “If you do not shoot, you will never score,” he says, describing his belief that commitment is essential to making
progress.

He compares the creative journey to a diamond undergoing pressure before revealing its brilliance, arguing that difficulties should not prevent artists from expressing themselves.

His philosophy is straightforward: people should follow their own paths rather than measure their lives against others.

Legacy built on love

Ultimately, Onesto wants to be remembered as someone who lived authentically, made his own choices and did not feel compelled to compete with everyone around him.

His children remain a reminder that life extends beyond professional milestones and creative accomplishments.

Above all, he believes love should guide how people treat one another and care for their families. “God is love,” he says. “If you do not have love, then I struggle to understand how you can claim to have God.”

Whether through music, design, or the time he spends with his family, Onesto hopes his life reflects that conviction.

For the artist, being at home is not merely physical space. It is about having the freedom to create, the people who keep him grounded and the values that give everything else meaning. isipunga@nepc.com.na