For the past five years, Bank Windhoek has proudly supported the Katuka Mentorship Programme, championing the development and empowerment of women in Namibia. The initiative continues to provide valuable mentorship, helping women overcome the challenges of the Namibian job market and achieve their career aspirations.
Celebrating Success and Welcoming New Participants
On Thursday, 21 November 2024, the Katuka Mentorship Programme hosted its annual certificate ceremony in Windhoek. The event marked the culmination of the 2024 mentorship cycle and welcomed the new cohort for 2025. The Programme pairs mentors and mentees with similar professional or personal interests, fostering skill-sharing and growth. By creating a nurturing learning environment, the initiative helps women unlock their full potential.
Empowering Women for a Brighter Future
Speaking at the ceremony, Bank Windhoek’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Sponsorships, Bronwyn Moody, emphasized the importance of empowering women for societal progress.
“Empowered women contribute to economic productivity and uplift community living standards through sustainable development and progress for all,” Moody said.
Commitment and Growth
Programme Patron Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi highlighted the importance of time in mentorship.
“Time is an irredeemable commodity. It benefits those who respect their time and the time of others,” she remarked.
Programme Organiser Desiree Lundon-Muller outlined the Programme’s goal to foster personal and institutional success.
“In its 23rd year, we have seen 525 entrepreneurs and businesswomen complete the Programme. Today, 40 mentors and mentees will receive certificates, while 56 participants have enrolled for next year’s intake,” Lundon-Muller said.
Transformational Journeys
Real estate agent and 2024 mentee Angeline Shaningwa shared her inspiring growth journey during the event.
“The journey was not easy at the beginning. It took time and effort. Eventually, I became more disciplined, and it got easier. I was afraid of making mistakes, but I learned that mistakes are opportunities to grow and do better next time,” Shaningwa said.
Simonee Shihepo Mulamata, a 2024 mentor who started as a mentee, described the Programme as life-changing.
“As a mentor, you grow while witnessing your mentee’s growth. I’ve learned to embrace my uniqueness and navigate challenges with resilience. The journey may not be easy, but it’s possible,” she said.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The Katuka Mentorship Programme, founded in 2001 by the late Lena Markus, who was named Businesswoman of the Year in 2000, continues to transform lives. Now in its 23rd year, the initiative remains a beacon of hope and empowerment for Namibian women, fostering personal and professional growth.
Through its support of the Katuka Mentorship Programme, Bank Windhoek reaffirms its commitment to building an inclusive society where women thrive and contribute to sustainable development.
