For many young Namibians entering skills competitions, the experience is about testing their abilities and building confidence in their trade. For Wilhelm Puliselia, it marked the beginning of a career.
Wilhelm’s professional story took a pivotal turn in 2024 after winning silver in the food and beverage category at WorldSkills Namibia, earning her the opportunity to complete an internship with Gondwana Collection Namibia. Today, she is permanently employed as a Guest Relations Officer at Etosha Safari Lodge.
Her foundation in hospitality and business is rooted in both academic and vocational training. Wilhelm holds a Higher Certificate in Finance Management from the International University of Management and completed Core Commercial Cookery Level 3 at Nakayale Vocational Training Centre.
Wilhelm Puliselia (second) and other Worldskill competitors from Nakayale
Vocational Training Centre.
Her decision to participate in WorldSkills Namibia was driven by a desire to challenge herself and showcase the skills she had developed during her training. More than a competition, Wilhelm saw it as an opportunity to grow and a platform to inspire other young people to pursue technical careers.
“Winning the competition was a proud and rewarding moment,” she recalls. “It made all the hard work and dedication worthwhile and motivated me to continue improving my skills,” she added.
Her journey with Gondwana Collection began shortly after the competition. Initially placed at Canyon Village, she later transferred to Etosha Safari Camp, where she gained hands-on experience in daily lodge operations. The internship introduced her to the rhythm of the hospitality environment, from early mornings preparing guest areas to supporting colleagues across departments and assisting guests to ensure their stay ran smoothly. “It was a valuable opportunity to learn, work as part of a team, and gain real experience in hospitality,” she said.
After completing six months of internship training, Wilhelm returned home as no position was immediately available. Two months later, however, she received a call that changed everything: an offer to return to Gondwana Collection as a permanent employee.
Today, as a permanently employed Guest Relations Officer, Wilhelm has strengthened her communication skills and confidence, allowing her to represent the lodge in a warm and professional way.
Looking back, she believes it was her dedication, willingness to learn and positive attitude that opened the door to permanent employment.
Wilhelm hopes to continue developing her skills within the hospitality sector and eventually move into a supervisory or managerial position, where she can guide and support others starting their careers.
Wilhelm Puliselia now a permanently employed Guest Relations Officer at
Etosha Safari Lodge after working Worldskill Namibia in 2024.
For young Namibians considering skills competitions or internships, her advice is simple: take the opportunity and give it your best. “Be confident, work hard and always be willing to learn,” she says. “These experiences can open doors and help you build a strong future,” she continued.
Wilhelm’s journey reflects the broader impact of initiatives like WorldSkills Namibia, creating pathways from training to meaningful employment, and nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals in Namibia.