The Katuka Mentorship Programme participants Naemi Ekandjo and Josephina Kanyeumbo said that the Programme created a platform for their personal growth, advancement and self-esteem.
A registered nurse, Ekandjo, said she has grown into an individual with more confidence. “I used to be fearful. The Programme has allowed me to face my fears. I can now express myself more and confront my fears,” she said.
Kanyeumbo, who is a Senior Economist from the Ministry of Finance, shared that being a participant made her a better person by making her focus on achieving her goals in a structured way. She said she has gained industry knowledge because of the exposure to reputable economists and industry practises. "The Programme allowed me to represent Namibia on the Financial Inclusion Sub-committee in the Southern African Development Committee (SADC). I achieved this because of the Programme’s exposure, which allowed me to step out of my comfort zone,” she said.
Bank Windhoek’s Head of Strategic Communication, Hayley Allen, said that the Bank has been a proud sponsor and partner of the Katuka Mentorship Programme since 2020. She told the participants that embarking on a journey like the Katuka Mentorship Programme improves, elevates, and enriches lives. “This journey allows people access to information and expertise and, particularly, allows ordinary, aspiring women access to what other ordinary women with experience have encountered on their paths to business success,” she said.
The objectives of this year’s Katuka Mentorship Programme were to increase participation and increase exposure and influence. Aligned with these objectives, 21 Mentors and 24 Mentees received certificates on Thursday, 23 November 2023, in Windhoek. Allen congratulated the Katuka Mentorship Programme for the work done in equipping and empowering women to believe in themselves and take charge of their destinies. “Bank Windhoek wishes both mentors and mentees all the best in their endeavours,” said Allen.
Ekandjo and Kanyeumbo encouraged other women to join the Programme. “Bank Windhoek supports the Namibian women through this Programme. It is empowering, and we are learning from each other and building long-lasting relationships,” said Kanyeumbo.
Desèré Lundon-Muller, Organiser of Namibian Businesswomen Projects, expressed her sincere appreciation towards Bank Windhoek for their profound commitment towards the development of women in Namibia.
Launched in 2001, the Katuka Mentorship Programme aims to empower and encourage entrepreneurs, business and professional women to achieve their goals by matching a mentee
and mentor with a similar professional and personal interest. The Programme's core objective is to create a platform for personal growth and advancement of leadership skills for participants to enhance their individual and institutional success. To date, 485 entrepreneurs and businesswomen have completed the Programme.
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