In the northern reaches of Germany, where charming villages and lush greenery abound, Kaja Danzer discovered her passion for the vibrant world of hospitality. She hails from the small island of Juist, located in the North Sea off the northern coast of Germany. Growing up in this picturesque region, Kaja developed a keen interest in economics and tourism—fields that would shape her future. The allure of tourism captivated her, offering incredible opportunities to travel, meet new people, and create unforgettable experiences.
Kaja Danzer from the small Island of Juist in Germany setting off for an internship in Namibia. Photos: Kaja Danzer
Kaja's journey into the hospitality industry took a significant turn when she was introduced to Gondwana Collection Namibia through Romantik AG, Gondwana's marketing partner in Europe. During a presentation, she had the pleasure of meeting Manni Goldbeck, the Brand and Marketing Director at Gondwana. His enthusiasm for the lodges and their various projects left a lasting impression on Kaja. Inspired by the depth of Gondwana's work, she eagerly sought to join their dynamic team as a Hospitality Intern for a three-month period.
Now, as she interns at Namib Desert Lodge, her experience has been amazing as she also takes on roles at The Desert Grace, Desert Whisper and Namib Dune Star Camp. The team welcomed Kaja with open arms, making her feel right at home. She enjoys working alongside supportive colleagues, and the flexibility of her role allows her to engage in various capacities, from reception to restaurant and office duties. This diversity has not only enhanced her skills but also provided her with the chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Namibia during her time there.
At the reception, her primary responsibility is managing guest interactions, but she also has the freedom to delve into office work and initiate small projects. Her previous experience in hospitality has made adapting to different roles a seamless process, enriching her understanding of the industry.
One of the most striking cultural differences she has noticed since arriving in Namibia is how people unwind after work. While the work environment shares similarities with what she is accustomed to—characterised by mutual respect and warmth—the local customs of relaxation and socialising offer a unique glimpse into Namibia's vibrant culture.
Throughout her placement, Gondwana has provided incredible support, helping to organise her visa and ensuring a smooth arrival in Windhoek. Silke Ahrens from the Learning and Development Team has been especially helpful, addressing any concerns and assisting with travel arrangements during Kaja’s week off.
As she navigates this enriching experience, Kaja aims to deepen her understanding of the hospitality industry by exchanging knowledge with the Gondwana team. She looks forward to learning about their unique operational approaches and guest experiences—insights she can take back to enhance her family's business.
Kaja emphasised, “This internship aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. My passion for hospitality stems from the joy of meeting people from diverse cultures while traveling for work. By primarily working at my parents’ hotel, I see this opportunity as a valuable chance to gain new knowledge and fresh perspectives that will benefit our family business. True growth, I believe, happens when one steps beyond the familiar and embraces the unknown.”
She further concluded, “For anyone contemplating an internship abroad, especially with Gondwana, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap. The experience is not only professionally enriching but also offers a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture. Gondwana’s excellent support and the opportunity to work in such a beautiful and diverse environment make this an experience of a lifetime.”
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