Gondwana Collection Namibia recently celebrated the graduation of the first of two groups, part of its in-house Leadership Academy, marking the completion of a transformative training programme designed to equip supervisors and assistant managers with the tools to lead with confidence, empathy and purpose.
The ceremony recognised 12 participants from across the group who engaged in an intensive two-phase programme blending classroom sessions, reflective exercises, practical assignments and on-the-job leadership projects. The Leadership Academy is structured as a 10-day experiential journey - two five - day modules held three months apart to allow for workplace application of lessons. Participants worked through topics such as self-awareness, Gondwana’s history, planning and organising, environmental stewardship, body language, mindful communication, team dynamics, conflict management, and the history of tourism in Namibia. A practical assignment between sessions challenged participants to apply what they learned directly in their roles.
First cohort that graduated at Moonraker. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia
One of the programme’s most memorable experiences was a group hike that culminated in a sleepout under Namibia’s clear skies at Moonraker Farm at the foot of the scenic Auas Mountain Range. Gathered around the campfire, participants shared personal stories and reflected on their journeys. The experience left many feeling rejuvenated and even healed - an affirmation that leadership development is as much about building resilience and human connection as it is about professional skills.
The team on a hike at Moonraker Farm. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia
Reflecting on the journey, graduate Jane Bezuidenhout, an Industrial Relations Associate noted: “There is power in leaning onto one another and being around a community.” Her words underscored a central tenet of the programme - that leadership at Gondwana is not only about personal growth but also about drawing strength from collaboration and shared purpose. By investing in a culture of trust and mutual support, the company aims to cultivate leaders who can inspire teams, connect meaningfully with guests, and extend Gondwana Collection’s impact into the communities and environments it serves.
Jane Bezuidenhout, a participant of the Gondwana Leadership Academy. Photo credits: Gondwana Collection Namibia
The focus on social impact is consistent with Gondwana Collection’s broader commitment through the Gondwana Care Trust and long-standing partnerships with conservancies - areas increasingly integrated into leadership training so its employees understand both business imperatives and community outcomes. Since establishing its in-house training structures in 2015, Gondwana Collection has consistently framed leadership development as core to career progression, service excellence and sustainable growth. The Leadership Academy (alongside the Go4Gold, an advanced leadership training) sits at the centre of this pathway, ensuring that participants gain not only technical knowledge but also the values and mindset required to lead within Namibia’s competitive tourism sector.
Programme facilitator Ume Goldbeck lauded the graduates for their growth and readiness to translate lessons into tangible outcomes. “These leaders are returning to their teams equipped not only with practical skills in communication, conflict resolution and service excellence, but also with a renewed sense of responsibility for Gondwana Collection’s environmental and community commitments. That combination is what sets Gondwana’s people apart and ensures we keep delivering exceptional experiences for our guests and partners.”