Gondwana Collection Namibia proudly celebrated the second group of apprentices that graduated from its local guide apprenticeship programme designed to empower Namibians while safeguarding the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage and continues to make a lasting impact.
The apprenticeship programme, developed in collaboration with the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) and the Namibian Academy for Tourism and Hospitality (NATH), equips participants with specialised skills in fields such as fauna and flora conservation, astronomy, and game driving.
The thirteen graduates were encouraged to be global participants in the hospitality and tourism industry throughout the graduation ceremony. The participants who were handpicked by their respective conservancies, received an NQF Level 3 qualification, enabling them to work as professional local guides.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at The Weinberg Windhoek last Thursday, King Nehale Conservancy chairperson Fabian Venasiu emphasised the importance of sustainable resource use and the transformative power of knowledge.
“I am deeply grateful for this program, which plays a vital role in empowering our youth and providing them with meaningful opportunities,” Venasiu shared. “By equipping them with the skills to balance industrial development with the management of Namibia's natural resources, this initiative is fostering a generation of professionals who can drive sustainable change. As communities see tangible benefits from natural resources, they are inspired to take an active role in conservation efforts.”
Gondwana values, which Brand and Marketing Director, Manni Goldbeck described as a "tripod of environmental, social, and financial sustainability," are central to the apprenticeship's mission. Speaking at the event, Goldbeck highlighted the company’s philosophy: You will only be successful if you make others successful." Without investing in people from the very beginning, we cannot build a better Namibia.”
Gondwana’s commitment to community tourism was also celebrated. While only 5% of Namibia’s tourism beds are in conservation areas, Gondwana has worked tirelessly to change this narrative. Today, 30% of Gondwana’s accommodation is located within community areas, providing tangible benefits to local conservancies and their people.
During the event, Gondwana’s Group Environmental and Social Impact Manager, Quintin Hartung, reflected on the broader impact of Gondwana’s initiatives, particularly in creating opportunities for local communities. “The other major impact—and what I believe is the biggest impact we can have in these communities—is the employment opportunities we’ve created. Over the last 12 years, we’ve created close to 400 employment opportunities at our lodges for community-based people, for those within conservancies, people who do not have many other opportunities in those areas. That makes up about a quarter of our entire employment base,” Quintin shared.
Next year marks Gondwana’s 30th anniversary, and the organisation is determined to build on its legacy. Plans include piloting a Facility Maintenance Program in partnership with Gobabis Vocational Training Centre, further expanding opportunities for skills development and community empowerment.
The event also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of conservancy partners who have supported Gondwana’s mission, including King Nehale Conservancy, Torra Conservancy, Epupa Conservancy, Mashi Conservancy, Sesfontein Conservancy, Sikunga Conservancy, Salambala Conservancy, Anabeb Conservancy and !Gawachab Conservancy.
As the graduates embark on their next chapter, they carry with them not only a certificate but also a profound sense of purpose to drive sustainable tourism and conservation in Namibia. These young leaders symbolise the future of the nation—one that balances industrial development with environmental stewardship and community well-being.
Names of graduates: Maria Matheus, Vaino S. Vaino, Isaks Nadhia, Muhenje Wakambura, Rafael Vetunyengua, Innock M. Innock, Viva Kuyonisa, Uararavi Urizora, Baldwin Bezuidenhout, Fewstar Sikwana, Grace Muyangwa, Andreas Kashamba, Venderaize Rutavi
Congratulations to the 2024 Gondwana local guide apprentices. The journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.