At the core of our People Team lies a fundamental Gondwana value: "You can only be successful, if you make others successful." This underscores our ongoing commitment to invest in the growth of our team members. Here are recent updates on the initiatives led by the Learning and Development Team since the beginning of 2024.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) encompasses a diverse range of procedures, all designed to evaluate an individual's personal details, existing skills, work and life experiences, as well as formal and/or informal learning. This assessment is conducted against clear criteria and serves various purposes, which is accredited by the Namibia Training Authority (NTA). Teams from Kalahari Anib Lodge, Namib Desert Collection, Etosha Safari Collection, Zambezi Mubala Lodge, Namushasha River Lodge, Omarunga Epupa-Falls Camp, Hakusembe River Lodge, and The Weinberg Windhoek engaged in assessments from 12 to 15 February 2024. After a thorough preparation phase, they commenced practical assessments on 19 February 2024. Anticipation is high for the issuance of numerous certificates to team members, marking the successful conclusion of submissions since April 2021. The induction for the new intake of 54 RPL candidates will start in April 2024 at various lodges, with a significant focus on guiding qualifications.
Participants in the Go4Gold Programme 2024 have completed module two, having met at Moonraker Outdoor Adventure Rest Camp from 19 to 22 Feb 2024. The People Team conducted a day session covering workplace conversations, labour-related matters, compliance, and topics relevant to the participants.
Essential Fire Training and First Aid Level 1A sessions were held from 7 to 10 February 2024 at The Weinberg Windhoek and continued from 24 to 29 March 2024 at the Kalahari Collection.
The Gondwana Value Induction took place from 11 to 14 February 2024. New team members received insights into the company's history, Gondwana Values, and the functionality of Brand.
Marianne Zappen-Thomson, a retired language professor from the University of Namibia (UNAM), facilitated the German Foreign Language practical at Kalahari Anib Lodge from 29 to 31 January 2024. Apprentices from Okakarara Vocational Training Centre and RPL candidates participated in this language course, highlighting the inclusive nature of the training initiatives.
Iyalago Foods Assurance Consultants conducted comprehensive Food Safety Training at the Canyon Collection properties from 5 to 8 February 2024. The workshop included theory, practical components, self-evaluation, hygiene audit booklets, and skills assessments for participants. The next training will be at Damara Mopane Lodge from 08 to 11 March 2024.
Local Guide Apprentice Workshop (back, left to right): Hanakeyi Jimmy Limbo, NATH Facilitator, Uararavi Urizora, Viva Kuyonisa, Baldwin Bezuidenhout, Vetunyengua Rafael, Vaino Shuuveni, Andreas Kashamba; (front, left to right) Venderaaize Rutavi, Wakambura Muhenje, Fewstar Sikwana, Maria Shekupe, Grace Muyangwa, Nadhia Isaks, Innock Mawaya
Twelve employees undergoing the Local Guide Apprenticeship spent a week during the week of February at Namib Desert Lodge with Kurt Schlenther, a Guide Trainer. The training covered astronomy, tourism in Namibia, ethical and legal responsibilities. A further group of Local Guide Apprentices spent 1 to 6 March 2024 with Guide Trainer, Jimmy Limbo at Kalahari Anib Lodge for a workshop focusing on driving skills.
Guide team members participated in short courses at NATH. The training focused on Desert Guiding, Elephant practical and theoretical courses, and other courses with dedicated guide-relevant information.
Various interns from Namibian Training Institutions are currently at lodges in departments of maintenance, kitchen, and general hospitality placements. Meanwhile, a volunteer from the Dutch University, Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences started a 3-month Placement at Kalahari Anib Lodge.
Four team members from various properties participated in a 5-day train-the-trainer workshop with modern communication emphasis at Namibia Academy for Tourism and Hospitality (NATH).
Moombela Mika, Sinvula Sankasi, Mabuku Emma, Lizazi Bornventure,
Liswaniso Vivian, Timoti Serio, Sibungu Memory, Nyambe Nasilele,
Kanepa Mayumbelo, Rwamuruti Goliath; Jonathan Kashikola, Ottilie Naftali
(slight different order of standing)
The Learning and Development Team visited properties in the Zambezi Region, engaging with Zambezi Hospitality Apprentices, who the program joined in January 2024. This is a pilot program for us in the region, together with Zambezi Vocational Training Centre team. The apprentices from Mashi, Sikunga, and Salambala conservancies, are on a three-year program, spending 30 percent at the training centre and 70 percent gaining practical experience at the respective lodges.
After a successful 3-year apprenticeship program with 16 participants that commenced in July 2023, a further intake of 18 individuals was facilitated for January 2024 to December 2026. The candidates applied from Joint Venture Partners of conservancies Epupa, Sesfontein, Anabeb, Torra, King Nehale and include individuals from Otjozondjupa Region through the Okakarara Vocational Training Centre. The two groups will alternate in their placements. These opportunities are possible with the continuous support and engagement of Namibia Training Authority (NTA), Work Integrated Learning Team, and the Training Providers.
These initiatives underscore our commitment to the growth and development of team members. As Gondwana Collection Namibia invests in their knowledge and skills, it lays the foundation for a successful and harmonious workplace, aligning with our core values.