Gondwana Collection Namibia Shares Branding Insights with WHCC Students

Earlier today, two representatives from Gondwana Collection Namibia delivered a guest lecture on branding at the Windhoek Hospitality & Culinary College (WHCC), engaging directly with a class of aspiring professionals studying Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts. The engagement was part of WHCC’s Consumer Marketing module, designed to expose students to practical industry perspectives alongside their academic curriculum.

Held at WHCC’s campus in Windhoek, the session focused on the development and execution of brand identity in the Namibian tourism sector. Gondwana Collection’s Jes Bekker (Group Brand & Marketing Manager) and Annette Beyers (Digital Marketing Specialist) led an in-depth discussion on three core topics: brand development, digital branding, and the emerging trends shaping the future of brand engagement.

This lecture is part of Gondwana Collection’s ongoing commitment to knowledge-sharing and industry development. As a company rooted in the values of sustainability, authenticity, and community, Gondwana Collection views its role in shaping the next generation of tourism professionals not as a formality, but as a responsibility. Contributing to education and sector-wide excellence is integral to the way Gondwana Collection operates, not only as a business, but as a long-term stakeholder in Namibia’s future.

“We believe that strong brands are built from within, through people, purpose, and consistent storytelling. Today’s conversation with students was a reminder of how vital it is to nurture that understanding early on,” said Jes Bekker.

Jes Bekker presenting Gondwana Collection's company identity and ethos during lecture. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia

“Staying relevant in the digital space requires more than just being visible, it demands clarity of message, consistency in execution, and a deep understanding of your audience. At Gondwana Collection, we approach digital marketing as an evolving conversation, not just a channel. Today’s session was a great opportunity to walk the students through how we balance strategy with agility in a landscape that changes almost daily,” said Annette Beyers.

Annette Beyers. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia 

The class explored how brands like Gondwana Collection evolve in response to market shifts and consumer expectations, particularly in the digital space. “The lecture was informative and insightful. It was a great opportunity to know Gondwana Collection up close and personal. The transparency made the lecture more authentic and relatable,” said Lydia Heelu, Marketing Lecturer at WHCC.

The session closed with an open Q&A, allowing students to engage with the speakers on everything from social media strategy to how brand values translate into guest experience. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with students expressing appreciation for the transparency and practical insights.

Gondwana Collection Namibia will continue to engage in meaningful educational outreach as part of its broader vision for sustainable tourism and sector collaboration. Today’s lecture reflects the company’s belief that shaping strong, informed leaders is key to building a resilient and thriving hospitality industry in Namibia and beyond.