At Gondwana, systems are not just tools, they are platforms that enable people to grow, support one another, and do their work with confidence.
Over the past year, our Systems Team has deliberately reshaped how learning takes place across the business. What began with a Train-the-Trainer programme in 2024 evolved into a more focused and human-centred approach in 2025: smaller group sessions, real-time system engagement, and training designed around the realities of each role. This shift moved learning away from large, one-size-fits-all sessions and towards practical, hands-on experiences where colleagues could ask questions, practise skills, and build confidence in a supportive environment.
Photo: Gondwana Collection Namibia
Training was delivered using dedicated laptops and live systems, allowing employees to learn by doing. Sessions were intentionally shorter and more focused.
Over an 11-month period, six trainers delivered 4,878 hours of training across all lodges and several head office departments. In total, 530 employees were trained, representing 36% of Gondwana’s workforce. The focus extended beyond technical skills to include collaboration, peer learning and a deeper understanding of how systems support daily operations across departments.
From this process, a new layer of leadership emerged. Twenty-seven colleagues volunteered to become ‘Systems Champions’ – individuals who demonstrated strong system knowledge, initiative and a willingness to support others. These champions now lead cross-training pathways, such as supporting transitions from waiter roles to Guest Relations, and from Guest Relations into administrative positions. Each champion mentors at least one colleague, creating an on-site, first line of support for new staff members and reinforcing consistent system practices across the company.
Photo: Gondwana Collection Namibia
In December, all Systems Champions came together at Damara Mopane Lodge for a dedicated Systems Champions event. Over the course of the week, champions shared successes, challenges and lessons learned from their training and implementation experiences. They presented on assigned topics, engaged in insightful sessions with the Operations and People Teams, and gained practical exposure to lodge operations, deepening their understanding of how systems function within the broader operational environment.
The week was enriched through interactive learning, educational games and team-building activities, and concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating commitment, leadership and growth. Certificates were awarded to all colleagues who completed the Gondwana Online Academy (GOA) certification process, recognising effort and achievement beyond formal titles. Each Systems Champion was acknowledged for stepping up into this voluntary role, with additional recognition given for collaboration, communication and creativity.
Photo: Gondwana Collection Namibia
This initiative is about more than systems. It is about building confidence, career mobility and internal resilience, empowering colleagues to teach, learn and lead together. Through continued collaboration between the Systems Team, Operations, People Team and lodge management, Gondwana remains committed to growing this network of champions and strengthening pathways for professional and personal development across the business.