I grew up in the remote northern part of Namibia’s Ohangwena region in the village of Okadila. I was raised by my grandmother, who truly understood the importance of education even though she never had one herself. She would share stories about her life and how she wished she’d had the opportunity to get an education, and used her government pension to support me throughout my schooldays.
I chose to study accounting over agriculture at secondary school as I always enjoyed working with numbers and there was an excellent teacher. This has proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made. I was then awarded a bursary by the Bank of Namibia to study for a bachelor’s degree in accounting, which changed my life.
Balancing work, studies and family responsibilities really tested my resilience
I began my career in public practice, where I gained strong technical skills through diverse audit and assurance work. However, joining an audit firm while at the same time pursuing my ACCA qualification was definitely a step out of my comfort zone. Things became even more challenging when I became a mother midway through – balancing work, studies and family responsibilities really tested my resilience. However, my family, friends and especially my husband provided me with incredible encouragement, so I persevered and reached my goals. It showed me the value of a solid support network.
Now, at the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia and Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme, my role is to ensure that the financial records are accurate, complete and well maintained. I have found that I enjoy life more in this role as I’m involved in business operations, decision-making and strategic finance. I see myself growing further within this world, rather than returning to audit.
What I enjoy about my work is supporting informed decision-making and accountability. I also value working as part of a team, as effective financial management cannot be achieved in isolation.
Namibia is an emerging economy and is rich in natural resources and minerals, including diamonds, copper, manganese and uranium. Its long Atlantic coast provides significant marine resources, while the growing oil and gas sector is attracting significant foreign investment, creating partnership opportunities. Namibia also aims to be a global leader in green hydrogen production and I’m excited to work in this emerging sector.
However, the country is also challenged by limited access to funding, creating difficulties for many local entrepreneurs. The domestic market is also relatively small and heavily dependent on international trade, making it vulnerable to external shocks, such as conflicts in the Middle East, where developments significantly affect overall economic stability. High operating costs, especially for electricity, also present problems, as does the need to recruit and retain skilled employees.
My favourite quote comes from the Bible, Psalm 127: ‘Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.’ I believe that I am who I am because God has watched over me, and sustained me throughout my journey. I also feel that progress in life is closely linked with having the right mindset; believing that tasks can be successfully completed makes you more likely to achieve results.
Effective financial management cannot be achieved in isolation
If I had law-making powers, I would allow more flexible working arrangements, including options to work from home and choose working hours. Having flexibility in the workplace would improve work-life balance, increase productivity and support employee wellbeing.
If I were not an accountant, I might have become a statistician because of my strong interest in numbers and data analysis.
Outside of work, I devote most of my time to my daughters. My job is demanding, so I truly value spending quality time with my family whenever I can. I also enjoy running, which always relaxes me.
