“You will only be successful if you make others successful”. Gondwana Collection Namibia has been guided by this motto since it was founded over 25 years ago and has always encouraged its employees to accept internal and external training opportunities. In recent months, both the acquisition of professional skills and personal development played a major role as did the creation of a safe environment in tourism operations.
Participants of the TVET program at Etosha Safari Camp.
Effective participation and mentorship in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs and leadership development require a continuous quest for new knowledge and understanding. Gondwana Collection Namibia, hosts apprenticeships in National Vocational Certificates Hospitality and Tourism, focusing on Local Guiding Level 3 and Hospitality Level 3.
Learning team at Kalahari Anib Lodge.
Mentors play a pivotal role in guiding participants through practical placements within Gondwana establishments. Recently, Fillimon Ngairo from LEAP Consulting visited teams at the Etosha Safari Camp, Kalahari Anib Lodge, collaborating with colleagues to refine Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in terms of files and engage with workplace mentors. RPL programs assess candidates' skills against study unit requirements, requiring submission of evidence of knowledge. Notably, nearly 100 new Gondwana colleagues enrolled in this program in 2024.
Fillimon's commitment extends beyond these initial visits, with upcoming engagements planned at the Canyon Collection properties and Kalahari Farmhouse. Additionally, he hosts sessions on Financial Wellness and highlights Gondwana Collection Namibia's initiative of issuing shares to employees.
With a dedication to fostering professional growth and development, Gondwana Collection Namibia continues to pave the way for excellence in the hospitality and tourism industry.
SHE training at Omarunga Epupa-Falls Camp.
In a concerted effort to uphold standards of compliance and safety, the Zambezi Region embarked on an intensive training initiative from 3 to 19 April 2024, in collaboration with OSH-Med International. The training sessions, led by experienced facilitators, were conducted across various Gondwana establishments including Namushasha River Lodge, Chobe River Camp, Zambezi Mubala Camp and Zambezi Mubala Lodge. Additionally, Arthur Pearce, a colleague of the facilitator, conducted sessions at Omarunga Epupa-Falls Camp from 15 to 20 April 2024.
SHE audit team at Zambezi Mubala Lodge.
A key focus during these sessions was the Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) self-evaluation audit, coupled with comprehensive property walks conducted alongside the trainers. This hands-on approach ensures that safety protocols are not only understood but also effectively implemented across the properties. Furthermore, specific training sessions were tailored to address critical areas.
SHE training session at Etosha King Nehale.
Meanwhile, Fire and SHE training sessions were also conducted at Etosha King Nehale, facilitated by Vistorina Iyambo from OSH-Med International. This proactive measure aims to enhance emergency preparedness and ensure adherence to safety protocols.
These initiatives underscore Gondwana Collection Namibia's dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and employee development across its diverse properties.