2025 Thought Leaders

2025

THOUGHT LEADERS

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C O N T E N T S 03

Spotlight on Mr. Fanuel Shinedima

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Spotlight on Mr. Lawson Manyika

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Spotlight on Mr. Fabian Shaanika

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Spotlight on Mr. Stephen Dihwa

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Spotlight on Team Namibia

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Meet the Team: Nicole Felix

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Meet the Team: Silpa Kanghono

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Meet the Team: Grace Kangotue

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Meet the Team: Buruxa Aribes

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Meet the Team: Julia N. Embula

Executive Spotlight Spotlight on Mr. Fanuel Shinedima Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events - RDJ Publishing)

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n today’s Executive Spotlight Series, we are honoured to feature Mr. Fanuel Shinedima, the visionary founder of the Namibia Youth Energy Forum. This pioneering initiative is dedicated to

equipping and empowering young people to actively engage in shaping Namibia’s evolving energy landscape. With a steadfast commitment to fostering innovation, driving development, and contributing to sustainable growth, Mr. Shinedima is playing a pivotal role in advancing Namibia’s energy sector and beyond.

1) Can you describe your executive role?

As the Executive Chairperson of the Namibia Youth Energy Forum (NYEF), my role involves strategic leadership and oversight of our initiatives aimed at empowering young Namibians in the energy sector. I am responsible for setting the vision and direction of the organization, ensuring that our programs and activities align with our mission to educate, inspire, and create opportunities for youth.

Additionally, I engage with stakeholders, including industry leaders, government agencies, and educational institutions, to foster partnerships that support our goals.

2) Where does NYEF derive its mandate?

NYEF derives its mandate from the collective aspirations of young Namibians who are passionate about shaping the future of the country's energy landscape. Our mandate is further reinforced by endorsements from key industry players such as NAMCOR Namibia and TotalEnergies Namibia, who recognize the importance of youth engagement in driving sustainable energy solutions. We are committed to creating a platform where young people can actively participate in and contribute to the energy sector.

3) What is the Vision, Mission, and Value proposition of the organization that you lead?

Vision: Our vision is to empower young Namibians to become leaders and change-makers in the energy sector, driving a sustainable and innovative energy future for Namibia.

Mission: NYEF's mission is to educate, inspire, and create opportunities for youth in the energy sector. We offer a comprehensive program that includes educational resources, networking, events, training, workshops, and discussions designed to deepen young people's understanding of the energy industry.

Value Proposition: NYEF provides a unique platform for youth engagement in the energy sector, offering mentorship, networking opportunities, internships, and support for young entrepreneurs. We connect young people with key stakeholders and promote collaborative ventures that contribute to the growth and development of Namibia's energy industry.

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4) As a mentor, what are some of the key attributes you bring to leading your organization?

As a mentor, I bring a deep sense of passion and commitment to empowering young people. I believe in the power of education and mentorship to transform lives and create opportunities. Key attributes I bring include: Visionary Leadership: I am dedicated to setting a clear vision and inspiring others to work towards it.

Empathy: I understand the challenges faced by young people and strive to provide support and guidance.

Collaboration: I foster a collaborative environment where ideas and perspectives are valued.

Resilience: I encourage perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth.

5) What aspect of your sector keeps you awake at night?

The aspect of the energy sector that keeps me awake at night is ensuring that local content and the active participation of young Namibians are prioritized in driving Namibia's energy industry. I am deeply committed to seeing local talent at the forefront of our country's energy transformation. It is crucial that young people and local communities are not only beneficiaries but also key contributors and leaders in this sector. The challenge of creating opportunities for skill development, employment, and entrepreneurship for Namibians, while fostering an inclusive and sustainable energy landscape, is a constant focus for me. Ensuring that our youth have the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to lead and innovate within the energy industry is what drives my passion and dedication.

6) What has been your proudest moment to date leading the organization?

My proudest moment to date has been witnessing the tangible impact of our programs on the lives of young Namibians. Seeing our mentees secure internships, scholarships, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the energy sector has been incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, the successful organization of our various workshops, where young leaders from across the country came together to share ideas and collaborate on innovative energy solutions, stands out as a milestone achievement.

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Spotlight on Mr. Lawson Manyika Interview by Ms. Nicole Felix (Chief Designer - RDJ Publishing)

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n today’s Executive Spotlight Series, we are honoured to feature Mr. Lawson Manyika, the Founder and Managing Consultant of AgriTech Namibia.

2) WHERE DOES AGRITECH NAMIBIA DERIVE ITS MANDATE? We derive our mandate primarily from a combination of global climate goals, national development priorities, local development/community needs, and donor strategies/funding partner priorities to ensure that our work contributes to both top-down policy alignment and bottomup impact.

1) CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR EXECUTIVE ROLE? As the Founder & Managing Consultant of AgriTech Namibia, I serve as a key driver in scaling the impact of our Climate Smart Agriculture company, which focuses on mobilizing climate finance through engagement and partnering with rural communities, conservancies, farmers organisations and Community Based Organisations [CBO’s], and implementing innovative, sustainable projects primarily in rural communities.

3) WHAT IS THE VISION, MISSION, AND VALUE PROPOSITION OF THE ORGANIZATION THAT YOU LEAD? Vision "To create climate-resilient rural and urban communities [through urban smart agriculture concepts] where sustainable agriculture thrives, ecosystems are restored, and livelihoods flourish in harmony with nature."

My role blends strategic leadership, technical consulting, stakeholder engagement, and project execution to drive measurable climate resilience, food security, and socio-economic outcomes on the ground. I oversee the project design and needs assessment processes, and deployment of technical projects implemtation teams, while cultivating strategic partnerships with donors, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders.

Mission "To empower primarily rural communities through innovative, climatesmart agricultural solutions by designing, mobilising funding and implementing projects that enhance food security, build resilience to climate change, and promote sustainable natural resource management."

My key strengths and responsibility in this regard is my ability to align and translate global climate goals into actionable, community-led initiatives that are central to the success of our mission as a technical projects supporing entity.

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Value Proposition AgriTech Namibia offers a unique blend of technical expertise, climate finance know-how, and community-centered implementation. We specialize in transforming climate goals into practical, inclusive, and scalable agricultural projects that address food security, environmental degradation, and livelihood vulnerability through:

5. WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR SECTOR KEEPS YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT? As a Managing Consultant, I constantly ask myself: Are we moving fast enough to deliver truly transformative solutions and not just incremental change?

Are we listening deeply enough to the people on the ground, those whose lives depend on the land?

Climate Agriculture Proposal writing Partnering with Community Based Organisations and Conservancies to mobilise climate finance for climate mitigation and adaptation projects.

Project Management Agri-Structures [Greenhouses, Hydroponics models, Goat pens, Commercial poultry houses ets] Consulting, Advisory, Training & Development

The weight of these questions keeps me up, because while we’ve made incredible strides in climate-smart agriculture, the scale and pace of implementation still lag behind the realities of the climate emergency.

And perhaps most importantly, are we building systems that are truly just and inclusive or are we unintentionally replicating top-down approaches that leave people behind?

4. AS A MENTOR, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY ATTRIBUTES DO YOU BRING TO LEADING YOUR ORGANIZATION?

6. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT TO DATE LEADING THE ORGANIZATION?

Visionary Leadership This comes as a natural strength as I Inspires teams with a clear, purpose-driven vision rooted in climate resilience and sustainable development.

Technical Authority with Practical Insight I have expertise in climate-smart practices, agroecology, land restoration, and climate finance, and this allows me to easily draw audiences and gain respect from peers and colleagues.

Empowering & Inclusive I strive to fosters a learning culture that values diversity of thought, backgrounds, and lived experiences, whilst mentoring junior staff, especially women and youth, to take ownership of projects and grow into leadership roles.

Effective Communication & Listening Skills I encourage open dialogue, feedback, reflective learning, and model effective communication with diverse stakeholders, from smallholder farmers to government officials and donors.

My proudest moment has been when I pioneered the low cost hydroponics fodder production model that was eventually adopted by the Namibian Government in 2019 at the peak of the drought season.

Our intervention was rolled out nationally with administrative support from the Namibia National Farmers Union and the Ministry of Agriculture. We capacitated all the agricultural technicians within the Ministry of Agriculture through Training of Trainers, provided technical support and mentorship throughout the implementation of the national project. We managed to impact up to 15,000 communal farmers and the project was a resounding success. Farmers are still using our intervention and it has been taken up by neighbouring countries whom we hare also assisting in the project rollout.

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Spotlight on Mr. Fabian Shaanika Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events- RDJ Publishing)

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elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, where we engage with forward-thinking industry leaders who are driving innovation and shaping the future.

Today, we are honoured to feature Mr. Fabian Shaanika, the visionary Managing Director of Kelp Blue Namibia. With extensive expertise in the Blue Economy and marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), Mr. Shaanika offers invaluable local insights and a unique perspective.

1) Can you describe your executive role?

As Managing Director of Kelp Blue Namibia, I oversee the end-to-end cultivation and processing of Macrocystis pyrifera, or giant kelp, into high value bioproducts. This includes developing offshore kelp forests near Lüderitz, managing harvesting and processing technologies, and ensuring our products like StimBlue+, a biostimulant for agriculture meet both global quality standards and Namibia’s requirements. My role also requires balancing research partnerships, regulatory compliance, and commercial market development to create a robust new bioeconomy sector for Namibia. I balance the technical realities of building a new industry with the responsibility of ensuring it benefits Namibia’s people and ecosystems.

2) Where does it derive its mandate?

Our mandate derives from Kelp Blue’s founding mission: to revolutionize seaweed cultivation as a tool for climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable economic development.

Specifically in Namibia, our license agreements with government authorities grant us the right to establish offshore kelp forests, and with that comes the responsibility to ensure that our activities generate environmental, social, and financial returns in line with Namibia’s sustainable development goals.

Our mandate is twofold: from the Namibian government, through formal licensing to cultivate kelp forests offshore, and from society at large, which urgently needs solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity.

This mandate is strengthened by Namibia’s national goals of diversifying its economy, reducing reliance on extractive industries, and developing sustainable, knowledge-based sectors. Globally, our work aligns with urgent needs for carbon sequestration, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture inputs.

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3) What is the Vision, Mission and Value proposition of the organisation that you lead?

5) What aspect of your sector keeps you awake at night?

Our Vision is abundance: we envision healthier oceans, stronger communities and sustainable industries.

While kelp forests grow extraordinarily fast - up to 50 cm per day under ideal conditions, we need to build processing and distribution infrastructure at equal speed. Additionally, we are breaking new ground in quantifying the carbon sequestration capability of kelp forests. Very, very important is ensuring that Namibia has the appropriate and progressive regulatory environment. What keeps me awake is ensuring we don’t lose momentum, because the stakes are high: climate, jobs, food security, and the health of our planet.

Our Mission is to harness giant kelp as a catalyst for positive change - absorbing CO₂, restoring marine ecosystems, and producing bioproducts that serve agriculture, industry, and human health.

Our Value Proposition is holistic: we deliver the “4 Returns” inspiration, natural capital, social capital, and financial capital. This means creating jobs in Lüderitz, building skills for young Namibians, regenerating ecosystems, and delivering returns to investors who believe in long-term impact.

4) As a mentor, what are some of the key attributes you bring to leading your organisation?

I believe in leading with purpose and integrity. Transparency, adaptability, and resilience are the qualities I bring to Kelp Blue. In such a pioneering industry, uncertainty is part of our daily reality, so I encourage my team to view challenges as opportunities for innovation. I also encourage resilience: pioneering a new industry inevitably involves trial and error, and the ability to learn from experiments is vital. Equally, I see mentorship as a two-way street: empowering young Namibian professionals while also learning from their perspectives. Promoting diversity and inclusion is centralwe’re proud that nearly half of our team are women and that 95% are local hires.

6) What has been your proudest moment to date leading the organisation?

There have been many milestones, but the proudest for me is seeing the young Kelp Blue team – the average age of our 80 plus workforce is below 30- deliver well over 200 tons of production in the first half of this year. From a scientific perspective, seeing the results of our kelp extracts in farmer trials was a breakthrough. StimBlue+ not only improved germination and root development but also showed resilience effects under drought stress. Environmentally, witnessing marine life return to our kelp beds off Lüderitz was a confirmation that we are regenerating ecosystems while building new industries.

The impact of our company is also visibly felt in the town of Luderitz due to the direct and indirect employmet that we create. Together, these moments validate the impact of our work: scientific innovation, ecological restoration and social impact.

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Spotlight on Mr. Stephen Dihwa Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events- RDJ Publishing)

Image: Eng. Stephen Dihwa and our Editor, David Jarrett

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elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, a platform where we engage with visionary industry leaders who are driving innovation and shaping the future of

energy and infrastructure across the region.

In this edition, we are honoured to feature Eng. Stephen Dihwa, Executive Director of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) Coordination Centre. Eng. Dihwa brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in key positions across the SADC region, including with the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), as Senior Manager for Planning and Renewable Energy at NamPower in Namibia, and as System Planning Advisor for Electricidade de Moçambique (EdM) in Mozambique.

Most recently, SAPP made a notable contribution to the G20 Energy Transition Working Group (ETWG) side events held on 30 July 2025.

Eng. Dihwa participated as a panellist in the session titled, Bridging Borders – The Regulatory Path to Regional Power Integration, while the Chief Engineer for Planning and Operations took part in a panel on, Energy Planning & Principles.

The G20 ETWG serves as a significant platform for advancing South Africa's agenda, focusing on energy poverty, renewable energy corridors in Africa, and promoting clean hydrogen.

1. Can you describe your executive role at the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP)?

My role is to ensure that there is adequate and up to date coordination of planning (including project preparation), operations, electricity trading and environmental management aspects of the power sector in the 12 mainland states of SADC. I run the daily activities of the power pool including being the market operator for the competitive regional electricity market.

2. Where does SAPP derive its mandate, and how does it align with broader regional energy frameworks such as those of SADC and the African Union?

SAPP derives its mandate from an Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU) signed by the SADC Ministers responsible for Energy for the 12 countries, allowing the electricity undertakings in these countries to form an association as a power pool. The organisational structure is such that the highest committee of SAPP (the Executive Committee) reports to the SADC Secretariat through the Directorate of Infrastructure. This ensures alignment with the SADC energy activities. Reporting the African Union goes through the SADC Secretariat.

3. What is the Vision, Mission and Value Proposition of the Southern African Power Pool and how does the organisation uniquely contribute to the energy transition in Southern Africa?

SAPP Vision: To be a fully integrated, competitive energy market and a provider of sustainable energy solutions for the SADC region and beyond.

SAPP Mission Statement: To provide energy associated services in the region and beyond.

SAPP Values Customer Centric - the internal and external customer is central to the way we conduct ourselves

Courtesy:RDJ Consulting

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Courtesy:RDJ Consulting

Innovation - we have a culture where people are permitted to experiment Teamwork - we work together in unity Reliability - we are consistent in the delivery of the services we provide Integrity - we conduct our business with fairness and transparency SAPP uniquely contributes to the energy transition in Southern Africa by ensuring that there is a regional master plan that identifies priority generation and transmission projects, preparing the bankability of the projects through feasibility studies and sourcing for financing for the projects. SAPP also ensures that the interconnected regional grid is operated in a reliable manner and that electricity including renewable energy is traded in a transparent manner.

development bank has brought knowledge on how to prepare power projects towards bankability and how to attract appropriate funding for the projects. My experience in the Ministry of Energy provides leverage on policy issues and regulatory aspects that utilities need to influence to improve their operations.

5. What is that one aspect of the energy sector keeps you awake at night and why?

One aspect of the energy sector that keeps me awake is the integration of intermittent renewable energies into the interconnected regional grid is such a manner that grid reliability and stability are maintained at all times.

6. Reflecting on your leadership journey, what had been your proudest moment to date leading SAPP, particularly in the light of your recent participation in the G20 Energy Transition Working Group?

4. With your extensive experience in various national utilities and now at a regional level, what key leadership and mentoring qualities have you brought into your role at SAPP? I have brought into SAPP an awareness of the resources that are in the power utilities and how these can be harnessed to addressed regional electricity integration, an understanding of the challenges being faced by the utilities and thus influence policy changes at regional level through SADC. My experience in a

My proudest moment has been the recognition by other stakeholders that regional energy integration as demonstrated by the Southern African Power Pool is critical to energy transition in the region and in Africa.

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Spotlight on Team Namibia Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events- RDJ Publishing)

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elcome to the Spotlight Series, a platform where we engage with visionary industry leaders who are driving innovation and

shaping a more sustainable future. In this edition, we are honoured to feature Team Namibia, a member-based, nonprofit movement committed to empowering Namibian consumers to buy local while promoting the growth and production of high-quality local goods and services.

Through its initiatives, Team Namibia continues to play a vital role in strengthening national identity, boosting the local economy, and fostering pride in Namibian-made excellence.

1. What does Team Namibia do?

Founded in 2003, Team Namibia is a Section 21 company (association not-for-gain), established to enable Namibians to advance their own economically sustainable future by promoting the use of local products and services.

Team Namibia members support the country’s national objective of sustained economic growth, as outlined in the National Development Plans.

In essence, Team Namibia is a member-based, non-profit movement that mobilises Namibian consumers to buy local while promoting the production and consumption of quality Namibian goods and services.

2. Where does it derive its mandate?

Team Namibia derives its mandate from Namibia’s national development goals and policies, which aim to drive economic growth, industrialisation, and job creation. The organisation works in alignment with key public and private stakeholders to promote local value addition, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness within the Namibian economy.

3. What is Team Namibia’s Vision, Mission, and Value Proposition?

Vision: To make Namibian products and services part of everyday life.

Mission: To facilitate the increased consumption of Namibian products and services locally and internationally by inspiring competitive standards, stimulating consumer confidence, and promoting economic sustainability.

Value Proposition: Team Namibia unites local businesses and consumers under the principle of UUKUMWE - working together to make a positive impact on the Namibian economy. There is more strength in a team.

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4. How does Team Namibia build consumer confidence?

Team Namibia builds consumer confidence by promoting quality, credibility, and trust in Namibian products and services. Through collaboration with members, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders, Team Namibia ensures that products carrying the Team Namibia logo meet high standards and can compete effectively in both local and international markets.

By showcasing excellence and reliability, Team Namibia helps consumers feel confident that buying local also means buying quality.

5. How does Team Namibia promote economic sustainability in local industries?

Team Namibia promotes economic sustainability by fostering collaboration across industries and encouraging shared growth rather than competition in isolation.

By creating platforms for partnership, innovation, and visibility, Team Namibia helps prevent the duplication or misuse of resources. Through brand building, advocacy, and promotion, the organisation strengthens the competitiveness of Namibian products and services, ensuring they meet market demands locally and globally, while keeping economic value within the country.

6. What are the benefits of Team Namibia membership?

Team Namibia provides a sustainable competitive advantage for Namibian products and services by offering members the following benefits: 1. Use of the Team Namibia Logo: Members can display the official Team Namibia logo on their products and corporate branding, symbolising economic contribution and competitive quality.

2. Association with Competitive Standards: The logo represents high standards and inspires consumer trust and loyalty.

3. Marketing and Promotional Campaigns: Members gain exposure through Team Namibia’s national campaigns, which promote local brands to consumers.

4. Business Listings and Online Visibility: Free listings in directories and on Team Namibia’s online portal to improve brand accessibility.

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5. Business-to-Business Opportunities: Access to matchmaking platforms and SME information portals that enhance competitiveness and visibility.

6. Knowledge Sharing and Mentorship: Opportunities to share best practices, receive mentorship, and participate in knowledge-exchange sessions.

7. Digital Exposure: Features on Team Namibia’s blog, social media, and cost-effective online advertising options.

8. Networking Opportunities: Complimentary access to the Team Namibia AGM and other stakeholder events with highprofile speakers.

9. Market Intelligence: Access to insights from stakeholder perception surveys across industries and consumer segments.

10. Ongoing Communication: Regular newsletters and updates on campaigns, opportunities, and news relevant to members.

7. How can a company become a member of Team Namibia?

Companies can become members by completing the Team Namibia membership application form, available on the official website or by contacting the Team Namibia office directly.

Applicants are required to submit the following supporting documents: Business Registration Certificate from BIPA Good Standing Certificate from NAMRA Social Security Commission registration proof Quality Assurance Certificate (where applicable) Team Namibia offers different membership packages based on a company’s annual turnover, which can be requested from the Team Namibia office.

Once the application and supporting documents are reviewed and approved, members gain access to all branding privileges, promotional opportunities, and participation in Team Namibia campaigns that promote locally made products and services.

Email: marketing@teamnamibia.com or publicrelations@teamnamibia.com Mobile: 081 147 6669 Address: 4 Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, 4th Floor, Bridgeview Offices, Windhoek, Namibia

8. What has been Team Namibia’s proudest moment so far?

One of Team Namibia’s proudest moments has been the successful relaunch of its brand identity, which renewed public awareness and inspired a new generation of Namibians to support and buy local.

Other key milestones include strategic collaborations with institutions such as the Namibian Standards Institution (NSI), which recently launched the National Standardisation Strategy and Plan (NSSP), Brand Namibia, and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) through its Nationhood and National Pride Programme and the My Namibia, My Country, My Pride campaign.

Team Namibia has also been instrumental in implementing impactful consumer campaigns such as Buy Local, Grow Namibia and the Travel Local Campaign, both of which promote local consumption and tourism.

These achievements collectively highlight Team Namibia’s ongoing role in strengthening national pride, unity, and confidence in Namibian products and services.

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Meet the Team NICOLE FELIX

From New Media to Masterful Design

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eet Nicole Felix, the creative force behind the visuals at RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd. As Chief Designer, Nicole brings together logic and

imagination to craft designs that not only captivate but communicate with purpose. Holding a Diploma in New Media Design, she excels at transforming complex ideas into clear, visually engaging narratives. Since joining the team in 2022, Nicole has grown from a quiet newcomer into a confident and accomplished designer, one who thrives on turning information into impactful, meaningful design.

1. How would you describe your design style in three words?

Bold, Thoughtful and Impactful.

2. What’s your favourite part about working with the team?

My favourite part of working with the RDJ Team is that we work together seamlessly. This is only possible through clear communication. Frequently asking questions and asking for advice ensures that my design work improves. I trust my team to give me feedback and I respect everyone’s ideas. I know that my team members are willing to collaborate and that they will give their support any time I require it. Whenever faced with a problem, we work together to solve the problem.

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3. How do you stay inspired and keep your ideas fresh?

I am always looking for inspiration on and offline. Online I follow several local and international pages on Instagram where I draw inspiration from. More good sources for inspiration are Pinterest and Tik Tok. I also like to go old school and look at books and magazines for ideas and inspiration. In Namibia print media is still alive and kicking, so I like to look at what’s in the market. And let’s be honest nothing beats going out into the world to get inspiration. Going to the local galleries or even going for a walk-in town to look at posters or public art like graffiti keeps me inspired.

4. What’s one project you’ve worked on here that you’re particularly proud of?

While it might sound like the obvious answer, working on our monthly publications, InFocus Namibia and Energy and Sustainability Africa, is something I genuinely take pride in. Seeing each issue come together reminds me why I love what I do. Each issue is a chance to craft something that sparks conversation and challenges perspectives. I especially enjoy the creative freedom of designing eye-catching, thought-provoking cover images, often the first invitation to engage our audience.

I’m proud of how the quality of our publications has grown, and I’m excited to keep pushing the boundaries to make each edition even better.

5. What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?

Fun fact: as a child, I dreamed of working for a magazine.

When I began my studies, I had no idea that this is where my oath would eventually end up.

6. What advice would you give to anyone pursuing a career in graphic design? My piece of advice?

Just start. Whether you are still studying, job hunting or interning, begin creating and putting your work out there. Take on as many projects as possible, even if they are unpaid or self-started. Do it nervous. Do it scared.

Even if you’ve started something and quit, pick it up again. The most important thing is to start.

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Meet the Team SILPA KANGHONO

Driving Creativity Through Passion

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ilpa Kanghono is the powerhouse behind the stories and content at RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd. With an academic background in English and Linguistics, and

professional experience spanning public relations, communications, digital marketing, and event coordination, she brings both creativity and strategic insight to every project. Silpa specializes in crafting impactful content that drives engagement and supports brand visibility and growth. Passionate about storytelling, she is committed to highlighting meaningful initiatives and innovations that matter.

1.Can you describe your role at RDJ Group of Companies and what your day-to-day responsibilities typically involve?

At RDJ Group of Companies, I serve as a Digital Marketing and Events Coordinator, responsible for crafting and managing engaging content across our platforms. My dayto-day involves developing social media strategies, writing and editing articles, coordinating interviews (Women in Focus, Youth in Action, Executive Spotlight), and ensuring our publications reflect industry trends.

2. If you were a brand, what would your motto be?

If I were a brand, my motto would be: "Driving Creativity Through Passion." I live by this motto as it reflects my belief that true innovation and impactful work is born from a deep sense of purpose and genuine enthusiasm. Whether it's storytelling, content creation, or strategic communication, I lead with passion, because that's what fuels creativity and drives meaningful results.

3.What’s your favourite part about working with the team?

My favourite part about working with the team is the collaborative spirit and shared passion for meaningful storytelling. I especially enjoy interviewing people, uncovering their unique journeys, insights, and ideas, then shaping them into narratives that inspire and inform our audience. Every conversation feels like a window into a new world, and sharing those stories is truly rewarding

4.What are some skills or expertise you have developed while working here?

While working here, I’ve honed my skills in social media strategy, and stakeholder engagement. I’ve also sharpened

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my interviewing techniques, learning how to draw out compelling stories and present them in ways that resonate with our audience.

5.What are some of your favourite pieces or features that the publications have issued recently?

I would say each feature stands out in its own way, as they collectively highlight youth innovators, women leaders, and sustainability champions. I enjoy stories that not only inform but also inspire action, spark meaningful conversations, and all our features have captured that beautifully.

6.What is a fun fact about you?

When I’m not behind the scenes bringing ideas to life, I enjoys exploring new experiences that fuel my personal and professional growth.

7.What advice would you give to anyone pursuing a career in digital marketing and events co-ordination?

My advice to anyone pursuing a career in digital marketing and events coordination is to believe in your potential, stay curious, and remain open to learning and innovation. This field demands creativity, passion, and confidence, so never shrink yourself. It might take time, but arrival is guaranteed. Most importantly, stay grounded and purposeful by placing your trust in God and allowing Him to guide your journey.

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Meet the Team GRACE KANGOTUE

Where Economics Meets Sustainability

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ith a sharp mind for strategy and a heart for sustainability, Grace Kangotue is the powerhouse behind research at RDJ Consulting. As Chief

Researcher, she leads high-impact projects across climate change, renewable energy, and sustainability reporting, delivering data-driven insights that shape smarter decisions.

Armed with a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) and pursuing her MSc in Development Finance from the University of Namibia, Grace’s career spans investment management, compliance, fundraising, and now, energy research. From launching her career at Old Mutual to driving donor strategies at Impact Tank, she’s carved out a path defined by resilience and results.

Since joining RDJ in 2023, Grace has risen through the ranks - starting as a Research Trainee and becoming Chief Researcher in under a year. Her work doesn’t stop there: she also serves as Deputy Editor for RDJ Publishing House and moonlights as a Sales Development Consultant. In 2025, Grace was selected for the prestigious GWNET “Energising Women to Advance the Energy Transition” programme, representing Namibia in a mission to elevate female voices in the energy space.

Grace is more than a researcher - she’s a changemaker on a mission to innovate, lead, and inspire in the evolving world of energy and sustainability.

1.What inspired your journey into economics and research?

My journey into economics and research was inspired by a lifelong interest in social issues. Since childhood, I have been curious about how low-income households make strategic economic decisions with limited resources while still supporting those around them. This curiosity drove me to pursue a career focused on finding sustainable solutions to social challenges. Over time, learning about the impacts of climate change and the potential of renewable energy to both mitigate these effects and create economic opportunities deepened my commitment. This ultimately led me to focus on the energy sector, where I can combine my economic expertise with a passion for protecting the environment and advancing sustainable development.

2.What has been your proudest moment or most significant achievement in your role so far?

While there are several achievements, I am proud of, some I cannot disclose due to the confidential nature of our

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consulting work. That said, my proudest achievement to date has been the Puros Solar Mini-Grid project, aimed at electrifying the community of Puros in Kunene, Namibia, under the Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition (TIDRET) Project. Although the project is still underway, I am proud of the work RDJ Consulting has contributed to the overall project, from stakeholder engagement to feasibility studies and now the implementation. Knowing that our efforts will soon provide clean electricity and support improved health, education, and economic opportunities for the community is incredibly rewarding.

where I can contribute to this area. For instance, in my previous roles I would assist audits preparations and in other instances perform financial modelling for social impact ventures, even though I do not hold a formal qualification in accounting. Ultimately, this reflects my broader passion for using analytical and financial skills to strengthen projects and create real impact.

3.What excites you the most about being an economist, and how does that passion show up in your daily work?

I would like my legacy to be fact-based, well-informed renewable energy projects that truly reach Namibia’s most remote communities. With solid data and informed advisory, we can design projects that are not only effective but also easy to replicate, extending their impact far beyond a single site. This will help make electricity services accessible to everyone, support environmental sustainability, and drive economic prosperity across Namibia.

What excites me most about being an economist is the opportunity to contribute to projects that provide informed solutions to interconnected social, economic, and environmental challenges. This passion manifests in my daily work through rigorous research, meaningful engagement with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring that the advice and services we provide to our clients are evidence-based, independent, and contribute to the broader public good. I take particular satisfaction in knowing that the insights I help generate can inform decisions that create positive, tangible impacts on society.

6.What legacy or impact do you hope to leave through your work as a Chief Researcher and Economist?

4.Is there a particular book, economist, or thinker who has greatly influenced your approach to economics and research?

Yes, my approach to economics and research has been strongly influenced by the works of Antoine Augustin Cournot and Joseph Bertrand. Their contributions to understanding market and firm behaviour, particularly in the context of competition and strategic decision-making, have shaped the way I analyse economic dynamics.

5.If you weren’t an economist, what other career paths might you have pursued and why?

If I weren’t an economist, I believe I would have pursued a career as a financial accountant. My interest in this field began in Grade 8 when I was first introduced to the principles of accounting. I enjoy supporting projects

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Meet the Team BURUXA ARIBES Young Professional

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B

uruxa Aribes is a Graduate Intern (Young Professional Development) who is passionate about transforming complex ideas into clear, accessible, and engaging content. She spends much of her time conducting research, analysing data, and crafting narratives that inform and inspire. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce in Law at Southern Business School, Buruxa has developed a strong understanding of governance, regulations, and legal frameworks - knowledge that enhances her approach to research and content development. By combining her academic foundation in law with hands-on experience at RDJ Publishing, she has come to appreciate the critical role that clear and accurate communication plays in driving meaningful impact.

1. What inspired you to pursue this internship at RDJ Consulting?

Honestly, I was drawn to RDJ Consulting because I wanted a space where research wasn’t just theoretical, where it shaped real-world decisions. I’ve always been curious about how communities, policies, and infrastructure projects intersect, and this felt like the perfect place to explore that.

I also liked that this internship would challenge me to grow: to sharpen my research and writing skills while learning from professionals who’ve been in the field. I wanted to be part of work that matters, not just reports that sit on a shelf.

2. Can you share a recent piece you worked on that you're particularly proud of?

Two pieces I’m especially proud of are “WhatsApp Innovation in Africa” and “International Fishing Rights.”

Writing about WhatsApp innovation was fascinating because it’s not just about technology it’s about how people connect, businesses grow, and communities interact. The fishing rights piece was more complex; I had to break down international laws, treaties, and economic implications, which was a challenge, but seeing it all come together in a way that made sense to readers was incredibly rewarding.

Both taught me that with research and storytelling, you can make even complicated topics feel relatable and meaningful.

3. How do you balance creativity and accuracy in your writing?

I like to think of it like this: accuracy is the foundation, it’s what makes your work trustworthy. Creativity is the way you

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make it engaging, so people want to read and understand it. I usually start with research, factchecking, and analysis, and then I ask myself how I can present it in a way that tells a story, connects with readers, or paints a picture. It’s about making sure people understand and feel the importance of what they’re reading without ever compromising the truth.

7. In conclusion, what advice would you give your future self about staying inspired and grounded in your work?

I’d tell myself to stay curious, stay humble, and always remember why I started. Inspiration isn’t constant, it comes from connecting with purpose and seeing the real-world impact of your work. I’d also remind myself to celebrate the small wins, the quiet progress, and the thoughtful contributions, because they all build up to something bigger. Staying grounded and inspired is about keeping your eyes on the why, not just the how.

4. How do you plan to use your writing and research skills to contribute to real-world change?

I see my skills as tools to bridge knowledge and action.

Good research is useless if it stays locked in a document; it needs to reach people who can make decisions or understand its impact. I want to produce work that simplifies complex issues, informs policymakers, and inspires communities to engage with solutions. Whether it’s policy briefs, articles, or project reports, I want my writing to help people see the bigger picture and take meaningful steps forward.

5. What has been the most surprising thing you’ve learned during your time here?

I’ve been surprised by how much small; behind-thescenes work matters. A carefully written paragraph, a corrected figure, or even double-checking sources can completely change how a project is understood or executed. I’ve also learned just how collaborative development work is, seeing how different voices, from technical experts to community members, come together has been eye-opening. It’s shown me that impact isn’t always flashy; it’s built quietly, piece by piece.

6. How has this internship shaped your career aspirations?

This experience has clarified that I want to build a career at the crossroads of law, research, and communication. I now see that I can combine my legal knowledge with research and writing to contribute to projects that shape policy and development in tangible ways. I’ve learned that even small contributions, like a well-researched report or clear article, can help people make better decisions and influence real change. That’s exciting to me and keeps me motivated.

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Meet the Team JULIA N. EMBULA

Aspiring Data Analyst

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J

ulia N. Embula is a third-year student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Statistics. She is a dedicated and analytical individual with a strong passion for problem-solving and working with data. Her love for mathematics began in school, and her curiosity about how numbers and data can be applied to real-world situations to solve complex problems inspired her academic journey in this field.

During her internship as a Research and Data Analyst, Julia aims to apply her theoretical knowledge to practical environments while gaining hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, reporting, and interpretation. She views this opportunity as a key stepping stone toward her long-term goal of building a successful career in data analysis.

1. What attracted you to join the RDJ Group as a Research and Data Analysis Intern?

What attracted me to RDJ Consulting was that, after doing my research, I found out that they offer great learning opportunity and that around 80% of their interns are employed at renowned local and international institutions after their internship.

4. What do you enjoy most about working with this team or department?

What I enjoy most about working with the RDJ Consulting team is the supportive and collaborative environment.

Everyone is willing to guide me whenever I need help, which make learning easier, I appreciate how open the team is they value each members contribution, working in such environment has really motivated me to keep improving.

5. What advice, tips, or lessons would you give to fellow students pursuing the same course and looking for internships?

My advice to fellow students pursuing Mathematics and Statistics is to stay curious and open to learning beyond the classroom. Internships are a great opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in real situations, so don’t be afraid to take on challenges or ask questions that’s how you grow. I’d also say start looking for internships early and research the companies you’re applying to, choose one that offers real learning experiences, not just busy work.

6. Finally, when it comes to selecting an institution for your Work Integrated Learning (WIL), why do you believe it is important for students to thoroughly research the institution before deciding where to complete their placement?

2. What kind of projects or research areas are you currently working on?

Right now, I’m working on research and data analysis project where I collect, organise and analyse data to support decision making. I work with excel to identify trends, compare performances and generate useful insights. Through this work I’m gaining hand on experience in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.

3. What skills or insights have you gained so far from this internship?

It’s very important for students to thoroughly research an institution before choosing where to do their Work Integrated Learning (WIL) because the experience you gain depends a lot on the environment and opportunities the organization provides also understand the company’s culture, values, and type of projects also helps you know what to expect and how you can contribute meaningfully. In the end, choosing the right institution can make a big difference in developing your skills, building professional connections and preparing you for your future career.

I have improved data collection and analysis especially using excel to interpret and present data efficiency. I have also learned how to work with real world dataset, identify trends and communicate findings in reports and presentations.

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