NAM Coamedy back with Easter laughs

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Valuing millennials

≪ Previous: Back to consciousness

$

0

0

NAM Coamedy back with Easter laughsSharing satirical insights on Namibian trending topics Watch out for the eighth regular NAM Comedy Circle on Wednesday, 24 April 2019, just after the Easter long weekend. The regular comedy event, which takes place at the Hilton Kalabar on the last Wednesday of the month, this time around features three of the most celebrated comedians on the circuit. Again, the Hilton Hotel offers prizes galore: a cocktail for two at the Skybar, a complimentary massage for one person at the Hilton Breeze Spa and, of course, a dinner for two at the Ekipa restaurant, with a choice between Indian, International, Local is Lekker, Inter-Active Dining and Italian Pizzas, depending on the evening of the week the lucky winner selects to cash in the prize.

Sibongile Tshabala will open the show at 20:00. Ms Sibo, as she is affectionately referred to by her fans, shares with us her personal take on Easter and her latest escapades at the recent Wika event and, not unrelated thereto, sports her new chosen life motto 'what does not kill me makes me stronger'. The explosive Ms Sibo demands her audience's undivided attention from the word go. She may spontaneously pick out a member of the audience and, in good humour, challenge and engage the unsuspecting individual. The organisers' advice: do not sit in the first row during a comedy show if you are faint-hearted.

Next on is Joh White, a veritable veteran comic with 10 years of stand-up comedy and an uncountable number of live performances that took him, inter alia, “to the USA and to SA without the U”. Also, and without doubt Joh remains the best (and so far the only) white comedian in town! Joh will give us a part-time accountant's stance on the Chinese buying our mines, on current Namibian local matters that are not always 'lekker' and, finally, wraps up with a belated review of the year 2018 (highlighting why the year 2019 must be better).

Normally he is the master of ceremonies and host of NAM Comedy Circle, but this time around Mark Kariahuua changes hats and takes centre-stage as a certified, full-grown and award-winning comedian in his own right, presenting his first, full-length comedy performance of 2019. With his distinctive, energetic style and keen insight into modern culture, Kariahuua is a representative of the generation current lawmakers often refer to as our 'future leadership'. Against this background Kariahuua claims the right to take on politicians who make headlines for the wrong reasons; and he advises on Namibian methods to survive the current economic adversities in style and generally promotes the lighter side of life in the capital.

Entrance to NAM Comedy Circle is free of charge. The event begins at 20:00 and it is advisable to come early for a good seat in front of the stage. Excerpts from previous NAM Comedy Circle shows may be seen on YouTube. For further information contact Ernst Herma @ 081 122 3709.

STAFF REPORTER

---

Valuing millennials

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Unleashing the juice

≪ Previous: NAM Coamedy back with Easter laughs

$

0

0

Valuing millennialsYoungsters take centre stage at Pupkewitz The Pupkewitz Group of Companies recently appointed a group of ten young adults to come on board and form its millennial advisory team. Ester Kamati

After an unconventional recruitment process, including a series of interviews, ten millennials were officially welcomed on board as part of the Pupkewitz team on 11 April.

The ceremony was held at The Barn and was attended by representatives of both Pupkewitz and Deloitte, their valued partner.

Priscilla Husselmann, who is the senior manager of human capital at Deloitte Namibia said they appreciate the millennials and commended them for their level of creativity and the time they took to display their talents and abilities.

She shared statistics from Deloitte’s research which proves that in 2020 half of the organisation will comprise of millennials.

Husselman said these 21st century youth are no longer on the fringes but are decision-makers in positions of power.

“There is a strong case to engage and unlock the power of millennial employees and clients,” she added.

She highlighted that this is an opportunity for the selected team to be innovative, inspirational and dedicated.

It will be a creative process for them to come up with solutions that can make a lasting impact on the future of Pupkewitz, she added, while saying the millennial advisory team’s formation was a strategic response to the world of work and that it is progressive. The move is expected to set Pupkewitz apart in terms of how it engages millennials from an employee as well as client perspective, Husselman added.

Pupkewitz talent management executive Schalk Pienaar said he is aware of common misconceptions about millennials and burdened the team of ten with changing them.

He added that being selected puts them in a good position to do so.

“Stop talking about making a difference - be the difference,” he advised.

Pienaar added that millennials value social justice and should therefore help the company to be a responsible corporate citizen.

He further encouraged the group to break open doors for not only themselves but future generations, in the pursuit of inclusion.

He urged millennials to make it impossible for people to ignore them through the quality of their contributions.

He reminded the advisory team that there is still a large amount of effort to put in and emphasised the only thing that can be started from the top is digging a hole.

Pupkewitz Group CEO Dougie Truter shared that he has always been passionate about understanding millennials as both employees and customers.

He added it is crucial to understand how they see the world and what insights and knowledge they can bring to the strategic thinking group.

“As leaders of businesses, we need to evolve our thinking and ensure we embrace and lead changes,” he said.

He affirmed that the company is ready to explore and unlock the true power that this group of employees hold.

He said he appreciates Deloitte as a key partner and their assistance and contribution in the recruitment process.

One of the advisory team members, Schalk Burger, said the initiative shows the forward-thinking culture of the company and is a platform for some fresh perspectives.

His strategy to tackle millennial stereotypes is through utilising this opportunity to the fullest and showing that purpose-driven initiatives brings out the best in everyone.

He affirmed said what he brings to the table is the experience he has gained over the years and the people skills he possesses, as well as a lot of enthusiasm.

Unleashing the juice

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: UPM wants Rehoboth by-elections

≪ Previous: Valuing millennials

$

0

0

Unleashing the juiceVikta Juiceboy set to bless the game with his debut Here is a musician who is slowly and steadily earning his stripes his own way through the music that he's been putting out. His singles catalogue has developed to a point where it is getting quite difficult not to notice his moves, and so when tjil got the nod to have a chat with the These Beats hit-maker, we grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

The trust and confidence from music fans in Vikta Juiceboy's music is clearly there, so we had to find out more about the voyage leading to the release of his first album scheduled for release on Tuesday, 30 April.

He shared that the title of his debut album is called Bless Up, a phrase he said he adopted from DJ Khaled and one he uses to spread positive energy. “The phrase Bless Up helps me express how grateful I am in life, despite ups and downs. With the album I want to cultivate this way of thinking in the community of people who listen to my music,” he said.

Vikta Juiceboy, who describes himself as a rapper who does other genres as well, explained that his main focus during the making of the album was creating music that would resonate with different music fans. He mentioned that the album is packed with kwaito, house, Afro-pop and hip-hop bangers. “I want my music to reach a lot of people and making songs in various genres makes it easy for me to attain this goal. I don't just make music for a certain group of people, I make music for everyone and my debut album will prove this,” said Vikta Juiceboy.

He revealed that the album has 18 songs with features from ML, Exit, Neslow, Princelou, King Elegant, K-Dio and Kay Rock. He also shared that he had recorded a lot of songs and the selection process of the songs that made it to the album was lengthy and stressful. “I had to ask my producer and friends to help me pick the songs. Fortunately for me they actually nominated the songs that I also wanted to be on the album.

“My favourite song on the album is Been There. In this song I am talking to God. I cannot wait for people to hear it,” he added. In essence, Vikta Juiceboy maintains that this album is a medium he is using to encourage young people to not fear failure but rather to fear not trying. “I just want my fellow youth to not be scared of pursuing their dreams. Keep growing, be humble and always be grateful for the gift of life.”

Outlining his roll-out plan for Bless Up, he said that he is going to have a media launch, album launch and a national tour. “My wish is to sell 2 000 copies in the first three weeks of release and I believe with these strategies coupled with the strong support from my fans this wish will come true. I want it to be commercially successful.”

“My team are busy finalising the tour dates and towns, but I can share that we are going to start with activations at high schools in Windhoek because university students and high school pupils make up the majority of my fan base,” said Vikta Juiceboy.

Ready to share his fully fledged body of work with the world, he said of his growth: “Being in this position where I am just counting down to the release of my first album is such a fulfilling feeling.





It took a lot for me to get to this point and I pray it only gets better from here on.”

As we conclude our conversation, his entourage congratulates him for having completed his album. You can sense the self-belief as Vikta Juiceboy embraces every word, complementing it with actions. He truly means what he says by the title of his album, he is indeed blessed up. He has just shot his album cover which has been shared by many of his fans on social media. With one of the biggest singles of the year in the form of These Beats featuring ML, he has the ability of dominating the music space, the backing of a strong team and the drive to become one of the biggest artists of his generation – and he will not 'half-step' as he puts it. “Work never stops. I will push this album for a few months then follow it up with a strictly rap EP. I have so much material and I do not like keeping music to myself.”

“Dad, I am sorry, the talent kept calling and I picked up. I have to be heard. This is my debut album from me to you all, please listen fully. I am telling a story,” he summed up.



MICHAEL KAYUNDE

UPM wants Rehoboth by-elections

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Pledge zero crashes this weekend

≪ Previous: Unleashing the juice

$

0

0

UPM wants Rehoboth by-elections The United People's Movement (UPM) has called for by-elections to take place at Rehoboth, following the en masse suspension of the town's councillors last year.

The opposition party has also questioned the recent revelations about the massive debt the council owes NamWater and NamPower.

In March last year, urban and rural development minister Peya Mushelenga suspended the entire Rehoboth town council and appointed Natalia /Goagoses to run its affairs.

In a statement issued this week, the UPM said the council is still plagued by corruption and mismanagement and called on Mushelenga to deal with the culprits.

The party also questioned the council's staggering NamWater and NamPower debt, saying it makes no sense because the majority of the town's people use prepaid services.

According to the UPM parliamentarian Jan van Wyk, pensioners are flocking to the council to pay their accounts every month.

“The skyrocketing bills are a direct result of mismanagement and corruption by the Rehoboth town council. The information provided at a community meeting on 8 April is in big contrast to the information provided to the community at a meeting during October 2018.

“At this meeting /Goagoses bragged about how she had turned around issues at Rehoboth and said Rehoboth now has the money to meet its obligations,” Van Wyk said.

According to him, the town council has seemingly fallen back into a state of incompetence and corruption.

Van Wyk added that government was not taking action because the culprits are either Swapo councillors, members or loyalists.

Last week /Goagoses told the community that the town is drowning in debt of about N$120 million, owed to NamPower and NamWater, while residents owe the council N$150 million for water, rates and taxes.

The council owes NamWater N$20 million, while NamPower is owed a whopping N$99.6 million, as the town battles to keep its lights on.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Pledge zero crashes this weekend

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Supreme Court upholds State appeal

≪ Previous: UPM wants Rehoboth by-elections

$

0

0

Pledge zero crashes this weekendAuthorities urge restraint A call has been made on motorists to not only adhere to the road rules and ensure vehicles are roadworthy, but also to exercise restraint and show respect. As the long weekend looms and the risk of death and injury on national roads rises steeply, Namibian authorities are asking all motorists to pledge showing respect to fellow road users and to stick to traffic laws in an effort to save lives and prevent crashes.

Although recent months have shown a decline in crashes, and despite well-developed road networks, fatalities and injuries linked to road accidents remain one of top three causes of death in the country.

Namibia has been rated as one of the countries with the highest car crashes and road deaths globally.

In 2018, 3 562 men sustained various degrees of injuries, while 205 lost their lives, while 2 056 women were injured and 158 died on the roads as a result of crashes during the same period.

Between January and March 2019, the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund recorded a total of 672 crashes, 1 067 injuries and 120 fatalities.

A 2018 study on the high rate of accidents in Namibia conducted by Silas Nghishihange stated some of the factors contributing to crashes are speeding, drinking and driving, non-seat belt use and lack of child restraints.

Another major issue is driver attitude and impatience.

“All road users must please be patient. We know the road is going to be congested, so be patient and allow others to also use the roads safely. We must not be in a hurry. If you are in a hurry, leave early, and drive slowly and safely,” Nampol head of operations at the Traffic Law Enforcement Division, Chief Inspector Polly Shivute Sem said yesterday.

Sem urged motorists departing on travels this weekend to ensure their vehicles, including tyres, lights, seat belts and other functions are in top-notch order before embarking on a trip, and to obey all traffic regulations.

He said it is critical that drivers avoid taking unnecessary chances such as overtaking on blind spots, or speeding and drinking and driving.

“Buckle up at all times,” he added. Sem said extra uniforms have been deployed to man road blocks to check vehicles and to keep an eagle eye on lone stretches.

“Law enforcement is ready for action. They have been deployed all over to deal with inconsiderate and reckless drivers. We are there, on the road, and will check all the vehicles. Whoever we find acting on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with accordingly.”

Sem added that apart from law enforcement and other roads authorities, motorists should also pledge to ensure road safety at all times to help keep the number of crashes, injuries and death down.

One of the main campaign goals of the Easter Public Passenger Transport Campaign 2019, launched last week, was to reach as many potential road users, passengers and drivers, at hot-spot areas such as terminals, to educate and raise awareness.

Another campaign objective is to achieve zero deaths involving public passenger transport during the campaign period, the organisers said.

As part of the campaign leading up to the long weekend, authorities deployed at least 50 people at various terminals in and around Windhoek to engage potential road users and provide passenger and driver education on safety on the roads.

Public transport associations, including the Namibian Bus and Taxi Association (Nabta) were also brought on board to help spread the message.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Supreme Court upholds State appeal

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Namibia faces 'high water stress'

≪ Previous: Pledge zero crashes this weekend

$

0

0

Supreme Court upholds State appeal A man who was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment for indecent assault is heading back to the High Court for a new sentence after the Supreme Court found him guilty of attempted rape instead.

In May 2015, Stephanus Hendrik Ruba Gariseb was acquitted on two charges of raping a nine-year-old girl at Mondesa, Swakopmund. He was convicted on a lesser charge of indecent assault by High Court Judge Naomi Shivute.

The State appealed against the verdict, arguing there had been sufficient evidence warranting a rape conviction.

Gariseb, who was 42 years old at the time, was caught red-handed by the victim's guardian on 1 April 2011.

The girl claimed the sexual abuse had been going on for some time.

Supreme Court judges Sylvester Mainga, Dave Smuts and Fred Chomba concluded that the conviction for indecent assault was not a competent verdict, but agreed with Judge Shivute that rape had not been proven.

They set aside the verdict of indecent assault and ordered the High Court to sentence Gariseb for attempted rape.

During the trial, the girl testified that Gariseb had taken her to school, where he informed a teacher that the girl was ill. Permission was given to take her back home.

At home, he instructed her to lie down on the bed and sexually assaulted her.

A doctor who had examined the girl on the same day testified that her hymen was intact, indicating that no vaginal penetration had taken place.

In her verdict, Judge Shivute said the legal definition of a sexual act under Namibian law was the crux of the matter.

She concluded that Gariseb had committed indecent assault, and not rape.

The State argued in its appeal that the Combating of Rape Act does not make provision for the offence of indecent assault. The appeal succeeded on this ground.

The State also argued that the Riotous Assemblies Act of 1956, which provides for a verdict of attempted rape, was relevant to the case.

Namibia faces 'high water stress'

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Cops grill man over NIMT killings

≪ Previous: Supreme Court upholds State appeal

$

0

0

Namibia faces 'high water stress' ?



Namibia, which is already challenged by prolonged droughts and severe water shortages in some areas, has been identified as one of the countries that will face high water stress by 2040.

According to a report by international not-for-profit organisation WaterAid, physical water scarcity is getting worse, exacerbated by the growing demand on water resources by climate and population changes.

By 2040 it is predicted that 33 countries are likely to face extremely high water stress, while many other countries including Namibia and most of southern Africa, India, China, the United States and Australia will face high water stress.

Over the past years, Namibia's water sector has increasingly come under pressure. Demand for water has steadily increased driven by increased urbanisation, mining operations, the construction sector and developments in tourism and agriculture.

According to a 2016 report by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) Namibia's total estimated renewable freshwater water resources were around 600 million cubic metres per year - a pitiful amount that will be overexploited at current rates of demand, with projected demand for 2025 anticipated at 635 million cubic metres. Namibia's dams are currently 29.6% full, while last year this time they were 44% full.

Windhoek's water consumption in 1990 was estimated at 15 million cubic metres per year and the city's growth at 3.5%. It was calculated that groundwater reserves together with the surface water used through the pipeline supply system was sufficient for residents. However, since the capital grew at a rate of 4.3%, Windhoek was classified as a water stressed city.

Its current water abstraction is estimated at about 40 million cubic metres per year, which is expected to double within the next 30 years.

The WaterAid report says globally about 4 billion people in the world live in physically water-scarce areas and 844 million do not have access to clean water close to home.

“The world's water crisis is getting worse, yet globally we use six times as much water today as we did 100 years ago, driven by population growth and changes in diets and consumer habits.” It says the progress made since 2000 to deliver clean water to 1.5 billion people around the world, is now under threat. “The human right to water must take priority ahead of other competing demands.

“It is important that production is made sustainable, so that it does not impede the day-to-day ability of people to get clean water for their basic needs.” The report calls for everyone, everywhere to have secure access to water when and where they need it by 2030. According to the report progress made to provide basic household access to water in Namibia from 2000 to 2015 increased from 77% to 79%.

The report called on governments to prioritise the human right to clean water, ensure that effective regulations and monitoring systems are in place for sustainable water use and safely manage sanitation, as well as recognise the true value of water.

It said this meant that limits should be imposed on the amount of water extracted from aquifers for irrigation or manufacturing and the monitoring of the impact of production on shared aquifers to help ward off shortages.

“It means ensuring the safe separation and treatment of human waste to prevent water contamination. And it also means supporting producers to change inefficient water use practices and providing incentives for companies to recycle water, harvest rainwater, irrigate more efficiently and reduce the amount of water used in production.” According to the report the focus should be on reducing water consumption in areas of greatest shortage, rather than setting general targets.

Cops grill man over NIMT killings

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Be safe this Easter

≪ Previous: Namibia faces 'high water stress'

$

0

0

Cops grill man over NIMT killingsNIMT employee in custody The police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murders of Eckhart Mueller and Heimo Hellwig on the NIMT campus at Arandis on Monday. The police are continuing their questioning of one of the two potential suspects arrested in connection with Monday's killings at the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) main campus in Arandis.

NIMT executive director Eckhart Mueller and his deputy, Heimo Hellwig, were gunned down at the entrance of the campus when they arrived for work. Police spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Edwin Kanguatjivi, confirmed yesterday they brought in two men for questioning on Tuesday night.

One of the men was taken into custody at Karibib and the second at Tsumeb, on the suspicion that he might have had prior knowledge of the murders. However, the second man was released after he was questioned, Kanguatjivi said. A message circulating on social media, purportedly written on 26 December 2017, appears to warn that “blood is going splash” at NIMT during April this year. “You guys don't forget to pray for our good NIMT officials, mostly just their souls. Something will happen to them, but I can't testify when exactly, all I know is in April 2019 blood is going to splash. Blood is going to splash and the whole country is going to lose a couple of souls unexpectedly that specific cursed day,” the message said.

Kanguatjivi said the first man was taken into custody at Karibib on Tuesday night after his wife, who is a teacher at Otavi, reported him missing earlier this week. According to Kanguatjivi the man, who is an employee at NIMT and is based at Tsumeb, was transferred to Walvis Bay for further questioning by the police.

Thereafter a decision will be taken on whether he will face any charges.

He apparently had a document in his possession that states he is a PLAN war veteran. The suspect is a lecturer at the Tsumeb NIMT campus and lives at the town. Reports indicate he was among the employees retrenched by NIMT and then reinstated.

By yesterday afternoon it could not be confirmed whether the suspect had been arrested and charged.

The suspect has allegedly previously been charged for being in possession of illegal weapons and ammunition.

In 2013 he appeared in the Karibib Magistrate's Court on two separate charges under the Arms and Ammunitions Act when the police discovered a cache of allegedly illegal weapons at a farm located near Karibib.

The firearms were buried near a farmhouse. The police found two pistols, one semi-automatic rifle and nine hunting rifles. The police also discovered a hand grenade and ammunition of various calibres in his vehicle, it is alleged. He was arrested on two separate charges - one of being in possession of illegal and unlicensed firearms, and the other of being in possession of explosives and unauthorised ammunition. The identity of both suspects are known to Namibian Sun, but cannot be revealed before a court appearance.

---

Be safe this Easter

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: ACC probes Katiti

≪ Previous: Cops grill man over NIMT killings

$

0

0

Be safe this Easter Easter is always a busy period on our roads, as thousands embark on journeys to various destinations, so they can spend time with their loved ones. In fact, more people are expected on our roads this weekend, considering that the school holidays are also in full swing. This means there will be sharp focus - once again - on road safety. It is quite disappointing that despite several efforts and campaigns to improve road safety awareness and education, accidents that could have been easily avoided still occur on our national roads. From one campaign to another, the message of ensuring safety on our public roads has been overemphasised by various stakeholders, including law-enforcement agencies, the media, government and critical roleplayers like the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund and the National Road Safety Council. As motorists we have a responsibility to ensure that our vehicles are roadworthy and meet all the necessary traffic standards. Speed also plays a major role and therefore speeding must be strongly discouraged. We should all aspire to be good road safety ambassadors, because the shenanigans on our roads affects us all. It is against this background that we urge all road users to stay safe and responsible on our roads this Easter, by practicing tolerance and patience. As motorists we also have the moral obligation to adhere to road traffic laws and regulations at all times. We also urge law-enforcement agencies to ensure that there is hardline approach to reckless driving, especially when someone is found to be intoxicated behind the wheel. It is really sad that so many lives have been lost to preventable and unnecessary crashes. Namibia cannot continue to be robbed of productive citizens because of the irresponsible conduct of a selected few. The dramatic costs associated with crashes also have far-reaching consequences for us all. It is thus paramount that road safety should always be among our top priorities as a nation. Happy travels this Easter weekend, and be safe!

ACC probes Katiti

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Gangster's paradise

≪ Previous: Be safe this Easter

$

0

0

ACC probes Katiti Augustinus Katiti's attempts to have the Anti-Corruption Commission investigate his successor at the Namibia Institute of Pathology have backfired. The ACC is now investigating Katiti instead.

Katiti, who had been the CEO of the NIP until August 2018, claimed that acting CEO Mecky Nghipandulwa had not followed the Public Procurement Act when she appointed lawyers handling his disciplinary hearing.

Katiti was facing disciplinary charges of failing to protect the interests of the NIP and bringing the institute's name into disrepute.

NIP board spokesperson Frans Kwala yesterday confirmed that the ACC had now opened a case against Katiti.





“Mr Katiti, out of desperation, went to open a case with the ACC against the acting CEO for corruption, alleging that the Public Procurement Act was not followed in the appointment of the lawyers overseeing the disciplinary matters against him and the suspended executives,” Kwala said.

According to him, the board had unearthed Katiti's wrongdoing during his tenure as CEO of the NIP.

“[The] NIP's response through the board chairperson laid bare the malfeasance by Mr Katiti and the tide turned against him. Instead, the ACC started investigating him and the rest. Any further information in respect of the case can be obtained from the ACC,” Kwala said.

“NIP did not out of its own open any case with ACC but only responded to the allegations from Mr Katiti,” Kwala added.

Earlier this year, the NIP paid Katiti for the remainder of his contract.

“Mr Katiti opted to accept the six months' payment, which was the remainder of his contract since his dismissal. This was a humane gesture from the board's point of view as he was put in a position he would have been in had he concluded his contract. This should not be construed to mean a golden handshake,” Kwala said.

Kwala said there was never an intention to pay Katiti a performance bonus.

“Before the assessment of Mr Katiti and given the precarious financial position NIP found itself in due to Mr Katiti's malfeasance, the board resolved not to pay out any performance bonus to him because it was not justifiable. After the assessment it came out that he didn't achieve the requisite points to entitle him to a performance bonus,” he said.

When approached for comment, Katiti would neither confirm nor deny that he was being investigated by the ACC.

“Mr Kwala or the ACC must elaborate on what I am being investigated [for],” he said.

ACC spokesperson Josephine Nghituwamata did not respond to a query by the time of going to press.

Katiti's charges at the time of his suspension from the NIP in August 2018 included breach of trust, failure to protect NIP's interests, dishonesty, bringing the name of the NIP into disrepute, and wrongful withdrawals of money on more than one occasion, The Patriot reported.

OGONE TLHAGE

Gangster's paradise

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Chained worker 'joke' backfires

≪ Previous: ACC probes Katiti

$

0

0

Gangster's paradiseN$9bn linked to tax evasion, fraud, smuggling Transactions involving N$9.2 billion, allegedly the proceeds of tax evasion, fraud, corruption, drug trafficking and illicit wildlife trading, are being investigated by the country's law-enforcement agencies. President Hage Geingob has revealed that 329 red-flagged financial transactions, involving N$9.2 billion, have been referred by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) for further investigation by the country's law-enforcement agencies.





The head of state, who delivered his 2019 State of the Nation Address (SONA) in the National Assembly yesterday, said: “According to the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), 7 813 reports were submitted during the period under review, of which 329 cases were referred to law-enforcement agencies for further action.

“The value of these cases was N$9.2 billion, involving the top five offences of tax evasion, fraud, corruption, drug trafficking and illicit wildlife products.”

Geingob, who used sections of his speech to paint a picture of an administration that was taking a hard line against corruption, also revealed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) had investigated 701 cases in 2018, of which 156 have been referred to the prosecutor-general with recommendations to prosecute. A total of 49 of these cases have been finalised.

“In addition, practical measures have been taken to enhance transparency and mitigate corruption, including the promulgation of the Public Procurement Act of 2016. Regulations and guidelines to the Act were passed and relevant institutions operationalised. Since commencement, the Central Procurement Board of Namibia has awarded 15 contracts to the value of N$1.74 billion and has issued 46 extensions of contracts and price variations, to the value of N$4.32 billion,” Geingob said.

He also made reference to letters he had issued to ministers in 2018 following reports of maladministration and alleged corruption.

“This was done to provide fair opportunity for those concerned to give their side of the story. Based on the responses, the letters were referred to the Anti-Corruption Commission for a determination whether further investigation was warranted.

“In all instances, and contrary to demands to see the 'big fish' caught, a due legal process must be followed and permitted to run its course.”

Geingob said contrary to widespread perceptions that government was not doing enough to fight corruption, a “principled decision” was taken to cancel the Hosea Kutako International Airport upgrading tender, which had been inflated from N$3 billion to N$7 billion.

“This was despite the urgent need to upgrade the airport. We also launched an investigation into alleged irregularities in the implementation of the National Oil Storage Facility.

“The contract was denominated in US dollars instead of Namibian dollars, thereby exposing the project to currency fluctuations. Those implicated were subjected to disciplinary hearings.”

Geingob also made reference to lifestyle audits that started in 2017/18 to determine possible tax evasion, money laundering and illicit proceeds, which were broadened during the reporting period.

“Of the 26 cases handled, 19 have been completed and a total of 40 entities (individuals and companies) have been reviewed to date. Of the N$49.8 million assessed to be due to the Receiver of Revenue, N$12.8 million has been recovered to date.”



Wage bill

Geingob also touched on the thorny issue of the civil service wage bill.

“The government is currently the largest employer and I should caution that in an environment characterised by high levels of unemployment, attempts at downsizing should be treated with utmost care.

“It would be unreasonable to downsize overnight, as rapid reductions in the public service would only exacerbate the already high unemployment rate in the country.

“However, contrary to popular belief, the total wage and benefits of political office-bearers represents N$160 million out of the N$29 billion wage bill. Said differently, this is 0.06 percent of the public service wage bill, including both houses of parliament,” Geingob said.

In order to lead by example during these trying economic times, he said political office-bearers should agree to a one-off, voluntary salary contribution of 2% of their net salaries for this year.

“If parliamentarians, who are being consulted, are agreeable, contributions will be deducted as a payroll deduction, with the potential to raise the sizeable amount of approximately N$3.2 million. The funds will be channelled towards identified social programmes, as a demonstration of our personal commitment.”



Poverty and drought

Geingob also claimed that the Swapo-led government had reduced poverty to 18% in 2016 from a baseline of 70% in 1994.

“In terms of social mobility, we have lifted 400 000 Namibians out of poverty since independence.”

He also mentioned other interventions to reduce inequality and income disparities, pointing out that the government's N$557 million for drought relief over the past year had reached 622 444 people, with additional resources to be allocated in the coming season.

“We are assessing the situation, which is expected to worsen, with a view to declaring a national drought emergency.”

He said the food bank, established in 2016, had registered 17 260 households in seven regions in the past year “translating into a broader impact, reaching 77 910 food-insecure Namibians each month”.

Geingob also mentioned the sustained school feeding programme, which in 2018 reached 377 521 learners, up from 330 000 in 2016.

Access to drinking water, he said, had increased from 50% to 95%, and those who needed to walk to their water source had water available “within a radius of 2.5 kilometres”.

Sanitation, according to Geingob, is also on a much better footing.

“Of the 1 856 bucket toilets that existed in 2016, 65% have been replaced with 1 213 functioning units” and 2 153 rural toilets were constructed in 13 regions.

Housing remains a major challenge. According to the president, 10 584 houses have been handed over since 2016, of which 1 885 were financed by the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) and 8 699 by the government.

“In addition, 14 694 residential plots were serviced countrywide.”





JEMIMA BEUKES

Chained worker 'joke' backfires

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Redesigning the business world

≪ Previous: Gangster's paradise

$

0

0

Chained worker 'joke' backfires Nic Kruger, the owner of Kruger Trading Enterprises (KTE) Custom Body Work in Windhoek, yesterday vehemently defended the honour of his foreman who had chained a worker to a car in their workshop.

Kruger expressed disappointment with the fact that the police dragged his foreman out of the workshop without “reading him his rights” or getting “the other side” of the story.

Kruger insisted that it was nothing but a “bad joke” and that they were two weeks behind with their work.

The foreman, who was identified only as Franna, has been suspended.

A video clip of the worker, who identified himself as Nicodemus, with a chain around his waist circulated on social media this week.

Kruger told Namibian Sun in an interview yesterday that Franna had made a simple joke. It was not his intention to stir up trouble and he did it without realising what the implications would be.

Kruger also emphasised that he had not ordered the foreman to chain any worker and that he was not at the office when the incident took place.

“We came here when everything was already done. But Franna is an unbelievably good man, the workers and clients like him a lot,” he said.

He said Franna told him that he had joked with Nicodemus that he would tie him up because he never finished his work.

“It was not a racist action. On Monday he found him not at his work station and he called him and told him, I will now tie you up. He was not even in the chains for 15 minutes when the union arrived. It was really just a joke, it would not have been the whole day, they were laughing,” he said.

According to him Nicodemus demanded N$100 000 in exchange for dropping the issue.





“I told him 'I gave you so many chances but now you want to take this guy for N$100 000, what is this about? Is it because you were tied? You were laughing?'” he said, adding that “he even ran around the truck, that thing allowed him to finish all his work, we were two weeks behind.”

According to Kruger the shop steward likes stirring controversy in the office and never discusses issues with him.

“My workers are really very happy. Most people would like to work here,” he said.

Nicodemus said it was not a joke and he felt “very bad”. He said he had been mistreated for a while now.

“He told me already on Friday that he would chain me and that time I thought it was a joke. On Monday he called me and told me that he will now chain me and I said no, and he pulled me and said I must stand so he can chain me. We went back and forth for three times but I realise I will not win so I just gave in an allowed him to chain me. I felt bad, very bad,” he said.

Nicodemus also accused the foreman of locking him in until 21:00 one evening to finish his work.

According to shop steward James Matamu, Nicodemus never laughed when he was chained and in fact was just quiet and subdued.

“He was chained to the car on which he was working and this never happened in this workshop. Nic is a good man but Franna is difficult person to work with,” he said.

The police confirmed the incident but cannot pursue the case because Nicodemus is not willing to open a case.

The director for the Legal Assistance Centre, Toni Hancox, said it was not a private matter but a criminal matter, which gives the police the power to investigate it without a charge being laid.

“In any event, there is evidence that this occurred. You might also want to report this to the ombudsman. If they state they need a complainant then I would raise the very good point that the man probably does not want to lose his job,” she said.

Labour Commissioner Bro-Matthew Shinguadja also said it was a criminal case but he agreed that the police could do nothing if the complainant did not want to open a case.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Redesigning the business world

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: The confidence to succeed

≪ Previous: Chained worker 'joke' backfires

$

0

0

Redesigning the business worldOne makeover at a time Starting small and broadening their footprint, the team at Kake’s Renovations is aiming for the stars. Ester Kamati

Founded by Tuhafeni Kashe, a renovation, landscaping, décor and construction company in Windhoek is changing the construction scene one renovation at a time. Kake’s Renovations was established in 2016 under Juka Investments after a niche was observed in the market for landscaping. The entity gradually moved into renovations and then moderate construction because they saw a scarcity of that type of service.

This one-stop-shop does it all from renovations to décor leaving nothing else for clients to do but move into their newfound space. Currently, the company has eight permanent workers and 20 part-time employees. When hiring, the company aims to secure a workforce of young people have just recently graduated and do not have the opportunities that they deserve due to a lack of experience. This gives them a platform to learn from experts in the industry while simultaneously curbing unemployment in the country.

The executives of the business believe that the best marketing tool is word of mouth which they keenly believe is a powerful but, they also rely on social media platforms to get some traction. Kake’s Renovations is trusted by clients because they are very detail-oriented and pay close attention to everything from major construction to the most minor elements that could easily be overlooked.

The company is strongly driven by a team which believes in guidance and encouragement, something which has led the firm from its infancy. The team is evolving day by day and learning new and exciting ways to turn their clients’ houses into the dream homes that they have always wanted, and while they are at it, establishing strong connections with their clients.

It is a lasting goal for the establishment to grow and eventually provide employment for increasing numbers of people. Another target for the renovations company is the manufacturing industry which they plan on gradually getting into - albeit slowly but surely. They already have one foot in the door after they started producing blinds which they make and sell locally. This way, they secure a profit margin for the blinds and ensure quality work and products.

What makes the entity successful is that they are a close-knit team which believes in the strength of working together and having everyone on the same page which improves the efficiency and effectiveness of their work. They are a group of smart workers who ensure that the client’s needs are met at a fair and reasonable price.

Despite their positive mindsets and team effort however, every company faces challenges and this one is no exception. They are currently faced with the challenges that come with changes in the economy, which has decreased the number of jobs the company gets. The firm is nonetheless putting its best foot forward and countering this problem by expanding the business into various sectors. An example of this is how the entity does landscaping and soon, garden maintenance.

Kake’s Renovations maintains constant communication with clients, letting them in on most if not all of the decisions which makes the renovation process inclusive of the client’s opinions. In addition, they value after-sales service to the extent of doing check-ups on their clients once they have completed the job to ensure there are no problems with the services performed.

The business is also not Windhoek-bound as it has taken on projects in northern Namibia, namely in Ongwediva, in the coastal towns as well as farms all over Namibia. Speaking on motivating his employees, Kashe told Careers that he encourages an open policy with his employees and encourages them to speak up about any problems they experience at work or at home as he is willing to help however he can. Furthermore, employees are offered incentives for completing projects on time or before deadlines. He said these are not just employees but family.

The confidence to succeed

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Standard Bank awards bursaries

≪ Previous: Redesigning the business world

$

0

0

The confidence to succeedLanding a job right after graduation Alexandra Mbako was recently appointed as a legal officer in the directorate of the master of the high court in the justice ministry. Justicia Shipena



Alex Mbako is a legal officer who is responsible for the supervision and administration of deceased estates in the directorate of the master of the high court.

His role includes drafting letters of authority, letters of executorship, query sheets and supervising liquidation and distribution accounts.

Mbako completed her secondary education at Windhoek High School.

She then completed her LLB degree at the University of Namibia (Unam).

In August 2018 she started working at the ministry of justice as an intern until January 2019.

In March this year she started working permanently as a legal officer.

Mbako told Careers the highlight of her career so far is landing a job at the justice ministry right after she finished law school, as jobs are currently scarce in Namibia.

“I feel very privileged and blessed to be here,” she said.

To make a positive impact in the organisation she plans on doing her work diligently and serving the public wholeheartedly, as she is a public servant.

“I will strive to bring excellence to my work environment by being as efficient and productive as possible,” she said.

Mbako said the power of self-belief and self-assurance is honestly one of the strongest tools you can possess.

She added that one will not always have people in your corner, but true belief in yourself is more important than any assurance anyone else can give you.

She said whatever is meant for you will never miss you, be it a job or a specific opportunity.

“God has a specific plan and we need to try and figure out what lessons are meant to be learnt from certain failures or when things don’t go our way. I had a specific plan for after I received my degree, but it didn’t work out that way, it worked out God’s way, which ended up being better,” she said.

Besides being in the office she enjoys cooking, mediating as well as catching up over a glass of wine with her friends.

Standard Bank awards bursaries

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Willa Brandt, a devoted worker since 1993

≪ Previous: The confidence to succeed

$

0

0

Standard Bank awards bursaries Standard Bank recently awarded bursaries to four students studying cybersecurity, forensic science and actuarial science, as part of its annual bursary programme.

The bank awarded bursaries to Namalwa Amakali, a second-year bachelor’s in forensic science student at the University of Free State, Muningandu Tjingaete and Petros Kambinda, second- and third-year cybersecurity students, respectively, at Nust, and Lara Bartholomae, a first-year actuarial science student at Stellenbosch University.

Standard Bank head of human relations (HR), Isdor Angula, said the bursary recipients are almost guaranteed employment at the Blue Bank, which employs close to 2 000 people in Namibia. The recipients were carefully selected out of over 1 000 students that had applied for financial assistance.

“The bursary conditions are clear that you will forfeit the bursary if you fail, so please make use of the great opportunity,” Angula said.

The bursary recipients are expected to undergo internship training during holidays at different Standard Bank branches and departments across the country, where they will also be paid an allowance.

As part of the bursary scheme agreement, Standard Bank will pay for all tuition and living expenses, including a monthly allowance, accommodation costs and an additional four flights per year for students studying outside the country.

Amakali said she wants to specialise in forensic pathology after completing of her bachelor’s degree.

“Forensic science is a field that is overlooked in the country and in most cases when forensic scientists are needed they are brought in from other countries. I want to motivate other students to take up the same studies, so that Namibia can stop relying on expatriates,” Amakali said.

Tjingaete said her financial challenges at home forced her to seek assistance from Standard Bank.

“My mother is the father-figure in our family. I never had support from my dad, who unfortunately passed on two years ago. We are a lot for my mom (to take care of), so it’s quite hard for her to support us,” she said.

Kambinda said a university education has become so expensive that many people who come from poor financial backgrounds, like him, have limited opportunities to further their studies.

“I come from a background where even if all my family members were to put all their hands on deck, they would still not be able to pay for my studies. My mother is unemployed and my dad is a stock controller in a furniture shop. I would like to thank Standard Bank because this bursary means that I will be able to do my internship here at the bank,” Kambinda said.

Standard Bank head of marketing, communications and corporate social investment, Magreth Mengo, said the bursary programme is a very important project, geared towards training the country’s future leaders who would otherwise not have had the opportunity to realise their potential.

“Our bursary programme is designed in a way that it gives academically gifted students from all backgrounds the opportunity to study at any regional university of their choice, so that they can help contribute to the growth of our country and economy.

“We at Standard Bank are happy to play our part in making dreams come true for these gifted recipients, who all have a vision for a better Namibia.

“It is my hope that this year’s recipients will take full advantage of this great opportunity granted to them by the bank and excel in their various fields. I wish them the best of luck,” Mengo said.

---

Willa Brandt, a devoted worker since 1993

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: A passion to unlock potential

≪ Previous: Standard Bank awards bursaries

$

0

0

Willa Brandt, a devoted worker since 1993 Evany van Wyk

Willa Brandt is born and bred in Windhoek, and is the epitome of what we need in the workforce of today. Brandt attended Ella du Plessis High School and started her first job at Premier Milling while the country was still under South African rule. She prides herself in staying loyal and making the workplace a safe and friendly environment. “Things such as discrimination are a no-go for me,” Brandt said.

She has been working for Namibia Media Holdings for the past 26 years. She was first assigned to the mailroom and was later moved to the finance department, however her work in the mailroom called out to her and she went back. Today, her job title is Mailroom Supervisor and she is happier than ever with what she has achieved. Brandt has over 20 people working under her and she is doing a great job, seeing as we read the paper every day. “I really enjoy what I do, it’s a challenge and I never shy away from anything,” says Brandt.

Her workload is very heavy during the first two weeks of the month, but it quietens down for about a week. She is responsible for making sure the production process of newspapers, flyers etc., is finished and they are ready to distribute. Motivating staff and keeping an organised and efficiently flowing work pace is also important.

It is a fast pace at which they have to work and a lot of difficult hours, but delivering a good service is what drives Brandt. She is definitely someone the young people can learn a thing or two from.

A passion to unlock potential

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Baking a name for herself!

≪ Previous: Willa Brandt, a devoted worker since 1993

$

0

0

A passion to unlock potential Ester Kamati

Justina Mulokoshi is a chartered accountant (CA) at PwC who has big dreams and is constantly on the lookout for new ways to improve her skills.

Mulokoshi grew up in Windhoek. She matriculated from Windhoek High School in 2011 and went on to complete her honours degree in accounting at the University of Pretoria.

She recently passed her second qualifying exam and completed her three-year articles at PwC, which qualified her as a chartered accountant.

Mulokoshi’s job entails a critical examination of financial statements in order to provide reasonable assurance to the users of these statements.

This means providing comfort to those not involved in management, such as investors, banking institutions and the public that the financial information is sensibly correct. She is also tasked with working with people and maintaining good relationships.

“My greatest accomplishment is my recent qualification as a CA. The road to being a CA is not easy and it's filled with many challenges, including passing exams,” Mulokoshi said.

She added the greatest challenge for her was keeping a positive attitude and healthy mindset, no matter the situation she was faced with.

A typical day in the office begins with her reviewing emails and organising her day, according to priorities that are based on her clients’ deadlines.

She mostly works from her clients’ premises and after communicating with them to obtain any additional information she needs, and consulting her managers about any concerns, she performs audit procedures.

She also communicates with her team and ensures that everyone knows what is expected of them. She provides coaching where required to ensure that the work is performed efficiently.

Mulokoshi describes herself as very analytical, as she pays close attention to detail.

“This is an excellent quality and skill to have as an auditor,” she added.

She also prides herself on being able to maintain her composure during stressful situations. She said she works well under pressure.

She is very family-orientated and believes they play a big role in motivating and providing her with structure.

In addition, her self-motivation and inspiration comes from the love of learning new things and the determination to be better today than she was yesterday.

Mulokoshi advises young people to be team players, chase their dreams, have confidence and always do the best they can. She is a good example that dreams are attainable - all you have to do is believe and have confidence in yourself.

Mulokoshi is currently focused on developing her soft skills and perfecting her management and communication skills, as she considers these vital in terms of becoming a professional leader in the near future.

Baking a name for herself!

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Kabajani blossoms at GIPF

≪ Previous: A passion to unlock potential

$

0

0

Baking a name for herself!Treats galore at Tangi’s Cakery After obtaining her degree in microbiology, Alma Tangi Nakanduungileh decided to open her own cake business, as she believes in the power of being independent and self-employed. Ester Kamati



At the age of 28, Alma Tangi Nakanduungileh is climbing the entrepreneurial ladder and adding sweetness to her clients’ lives.

A qualified microbiologist by training, the Windhoek-born and raised young woman owns and manages her own cake shop called Tangi’s Cakery.

It caters for all types of events, from birthdays, graduations, weddings and whatever else one can think of.

With an impeccable work ethic, muffins, cupcakes as well as cake baking and decorating are her specialty.

She has done it all, from Cinderella-themed birthday cupcakes to Las Vegas-themed bachelorette party cakes.

Nakanduungileh said as a child she watched her aunt bake and she grew to love the process, without knowing that baking would become her career.

With three businesses running, Nakanduungileh is a triple threat. She emphasised the importance of being self-reliant, adding the best part about being an entrepreneur is being in control.

“I am a very independent soul and from the few years I have been in business, I have come to realise how important that is,” she said.

She manages Tangi’s Cakery, which caters for sweet-toothed clients, Tarzan Investments CC, which sells and distributes potjie packs (red meat soup bones) all over Windhoek, as well as Eembeke oil products for hair and skin.

“You have to work hard to play hard,” she said, adding she barely gets any free time. After a hard working day, she will most likely be found hanging out with her loved ones, while having deep and meaningful conversations about who is the better footballer is between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

When stressed, Nakanduungileh finds relief in listening to fiction and non-fiction audiobooks, especially when baking.

“It makes the process that much more fun.” She advised start-up entrepreneurs to trust in their abilities and practice patience, as it would otherwise be difficult for people to trust in their capabilities.

“It becomes difficult to not just throw in the towel, but you have to persevere and show people what you are made of. Luckily for me, it paid off.”

She said many of aspiring entrepreneurs think that success comes overnight, but they are highly mistaken.

“Many influential entrepreneurs failed multiple times before they could finally get traction, and it was the same for me”.

Nakanduungileh urged the youth not to sit around idly, but rather teach themselves the necessary skills you do not learn in the classroom. These include how to do their taxes, as well as the difference between good and bad debt, among others.

“Once you have learned all this, you have already taken a step towards becoming an entrepreneur.”

Nakanduungileh is always trying to better herself and her craft.

She believes that social media is a powerful tool that should be used to reach out to more people and make them aware of products. She religiously posts all her latest work on her social media pages and engages her clients on these platforms. All the information you may need regarding Tangi’s Cakery is available on their website.

Fun facts about Tangi

1.She loves to solve problems and therefore really likes maths;

2.She is a decent singer and dancer;

3.She has a really bad aim;

4.She describes herself as charmingly awkward;

5.She normally only speaks when spoken to;

6.She has a paralysing fear of water;

7.She gets bored easily;

8.Her brother nicknamed her after a witch in an Indiana Jones movie when she was eight and still calls her by that name;

9.She won awards for best performance in her faculty and didn’t know she was a recipient until the day prior to the awards;

1. Her baking career is a happy accident that started when she was unsuccessful while applying for a microbiologist post.

Kabajani blossoms at GIPF

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Taking charge

≪ Previous: Baking a name for herself!

$

0

0

Kabajani blossoms at GIPF Michelline Nawatises



Annette Likeleli Kabajani is a holder of a bachelor’s degree from the University of Namibia (Unam).

She has also attained several management and financial certificates, as well as ones in customer care.

Kabajani is the head of the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) regional office at Katima Mulilo, where she is responsible for implementing branch operational systems and procedures, developing strategies and action plans, facilitating regional budgets, conducting workshops with members and stakeholders, processing claims, verifications, tracing beneficiaries, counselling on pension matters and conducting general administration.

Kabajani started working at GIPF on 1 November 1999. She is currently pursuing a masters’ in administration.

The highlight for her so far is the exposure she has received to the financial world.

“I got exposed to the pension industry and that in itself taught me a lot, hence I am working for one of the largest companies, not only in my country, but the world at large,” she said.

Kabajani added GIPF has opened up her way of reasoning when it comes to, for example, investments and financial management, and understanding human beings and their different cultures and backgrounds.

One of the challenges she faces in her work is the misuse of beneficiaries’ benefits by their guardians.

“Some guardians take advantage of the beneficiaries’ monies and this results in unfavourable living conditions for our members,” she said.

She said each and every colleague in her department is unique in their own way.

Kabajani described herself as humble, not easily intimidated and slow to anger.

She is inspired by people who work hard to put food on their tables through their own sweat, as well as people who have genuine hearts and those who go the extra mile to assist people without judging them.

She said young people should learn to structure their lives as soon as possible.

“Do not wait until you are too old to start making changes and an impact on society,” she said.

She plans to stay at GIPF for the next few years, and then do something else.

“I have set myself some challenges and goals, which I intend to work towards with vigour and hard work,” an ambitious Kabajani said.

In her spare time, she is a part-time farmer. She farms with cattle, chickens, maize and vegetables. She is also a businesswoman.

Taking charge

April 17, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Thought Leadership

≪ Previous: Kabajani blossoms at GIPF

$

0

0

Taking charge Doing what you love and loving what you do Anthea van Heerden believes in pursuing your passion and reaching for the stars. Mariselle Stofberg



Anthea van Heerden decided to take a leap of faith to start her own company in Windhoek.

She is the managing director and head industrial psychologist at AvH Psychology Consulting, which offers a wide range of services within the field of industrial and organisational psychology.

Van Heerden was born on 23 April 1992 in Rustenburg, South Africa. In 2006 her family moved to Pietersburg, now known as Polokwane, in the Limpopo province. She matriculated in 2010 from Pietersburg High School.

Van Heerden began her tertiary studies in 2011 at North-West University and ended them on a high note by graduating cum laude with a masters’ degree in industrial psychology in May 2018.

She has been a registered psychometrist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) since 2015 and officially qualified as an industrial psychologist by passing the HPCSA board examination in October of 2018.

During her time in South Africa, Van Heerden worked within the mining and automobile industries and also has other experience in the private sector.

“A mentionable accomplishment for me was when I had the opportunity to be a speaker at the 19th annual SIOPSA (Society of Industrial and Organisational Psychologists of South Africa) conference in 2017, where I presented my masters’ thesis concerning engaging leadership. That being said, I would not have done it without the encouragement of my research supervisor, Professor Leon de Beer.”

She made her big move to Windhoek from South Africa after marrying Fanie van Heerden in March of 2018.

“Namibia is a very proud country and its people are true patriots. It is wonderful to see how the people are mostly harmonious and unite when they are passionate about something.”

After going through job adverts and talking to family and friends, she soon discovered that industrial psychologists are a scarce commodity in Namibia.

After gradually building business connections she decided to take a leap of faith and opened AvH Psychology Consulting in January 2019.

“I finally took the leap to starting my own business. I never envisioned starting my own practice so soon in my career. Regardless of the end result, I believe that the journey will be fruitful and it is something that I can be proud of.”

Starting your own business provides many challenges, but also provides one with new and exciting opportunities, she said.

“I think anyone with their own business can agree that there are many highs and lows, and especially at the start it is difficult to carve out a business path and gain people’s trust.

“Being your own boss provides you with the freedom to explore and be creative. All of this develops you as a person and contributes to overall character strength and resilience,” Van Heerden said.

Her short-term goals include networking, creating awareness of the company and its services, as much as possible, and establishing trusted client relationships.

Her biggest role model and inspiration is her mother.

“My mother has always been a huge inspiration and support. She worked within the learning and development field, and as such, has some knowledge of my field. It’s a great comfort when someone you love takes an interest in what you do.

“She also started her own company in a brand new location and in that sense you can see that the apple does not fall far from the tree. She is a go-getter, while being graceful at the same time. I look up to her a lot,” Van Heerden added.

She is very passionate about her field and believes it is of utmost importance to follow your dreams.

“My field is something I find very interesting and I love being able to follow my passion. I am a strong believer in loving what you do, and ultimately, doing what you love.”

Services offered

AvH Psychology Consulting offers the following:

· Psychometric assessments of employees for recruitment/selection purposes, as well as for talent management and employee well-being needs;

· Analyses of available work positions to ensure a proper employee fit;

· Coaching and workplace counselling to address employee well-being in the workplace;

· Career guidance to school-leaving pupils who are unsure about their future career path; and

· Organisational research in association with Fisher Consulting. This can include obtaining data for campaign launches, customer service satisfaction, change-readiness within the company and industry-specific data.

Van Heerden fun facts

• She might appear to be an extrovert, but needs a lot of alone time;

• Being in big crowds can make her anxious.

• She’s an over-thinker;

• She loves spending time with her husband and pets;

• She has a sweet tooth and cannot function properly without coffee;

• She absolutely hates exercising;

• She loves to tend to her garden; and

• Her favourite two series at the moment are ‘Outlander’ and ‘That '70s Show’.