Please tell us more about yourself?
I am a young professional hailing from the humble streets of Oshakati. My journey began in a place where the sun would set, and we’d still be playing outside, only to return home for the occasional bum-whipping for staying out too long. I didn’t like wearing shoes back then, but those dusty streets gave me my roots, my strength, and my resilience. Today, I stand as a Namibian professional with a strong academic foundation in Industrial Engineering and Project Management. My humble beginnings have taught me that success is not a matter of luck but of hard work, resilience, and the courage to stand in the arena, even when the odds are stacked against you. I’m privileged to have moved from consulting to financial services and now to the public sector, where I serve at the Bank of Namibia. It’s a big responsibility, but I show up every day with the determination to make a difference.

What makes you ‘tick’? What motivates you to excel in everything you do? What are you passionate about?
What makes me tick is the thrill of the challenge and the satisfaction of seeing hard work turn into real results. Like the bus that Keri Washington talks about, I believe you pray to catch the bus, but you have to run to catch your bus, too —nothing is handed to you on a silver platter. I’m passionate about continuous growth, both personally and professionally. I collect wins and milestones, no matter how small, because each one pushes me to aim higher and dig deeper.

Do you have a female leader/ mentor and how have they inspired you and why?
Over the years, I have drawn inspiration from many remarkable women who have crossed my path and some admiring from a distance. Each one brought something different to the table—be it their eloquence, balance between career, family, and spirituality, or their unwavering authenticity. I’m particularly inspired by women like Indra Nooyi, Angélique Kidjo, and Sheryl Sandberg. My sister Tonata and Anne Juuko and Mercia Geises, closer to home, showed me the power of determination. Monica Geingos, our former First Lady, unknowingly influenced my career trajectory with her words about stepping into the public sector. “the belly of the beast”, to contribute to solving our nation’s complex problems. It’s a reminder that we all have a role to play in our country’s future.

You can be seen as an inspirational (and successful women) in your industry. Do you have some advice for other women coming from your own experiences?
One of my favorite quotes comes from Theodore Roosevelt’s “The Man in the Arena”: “It is not the critic who counts… the credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” My advice to other women is simple: Always try. Step into the arena, even if it scares you. Be persistent, be daring, and don’t be afraid to fail. You’ll make it eventually if you refuse to quit. Keep your attitude positive, and always believe in yourself. Success is about resilience and grit, not just talent. Talent will indeed get you through the proverbial door, but your attitude, discipline, and determination will ultimately lead to your success.

What do you do to relax? Do you have any hobbies or activities that you do in your free time?
I find relaxation in different forms. Exercising is something I love, though I admit consistency can be a challenge. It helps both my body and mind. Spending time with friends and family, traveling, spa days, and even indulging in a bit of shopping brings me joy. But lately, I’ve also discovered the peace of enjoying my own company at home. With a demanding job like mine, sometimes the best way to recharge is to simply be still.

As the Director of Strategy, Projects, and Digital Transformation at the Bank of Namibia what is your role?
In my current role, I oversee the strategic formulation process, lead digital transformation efforts, and manage the Innovation Hub as well as the Project Management Office at the Bank of Namibia. I moved from the private sector to establish this function at the Bank three years ago, and it has since created significant value and impact. The support I receive from our leadership team, the entire organisation and the dedication of my team are the reasons behind our success. It’s not easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is.

Tell us more about the Instant Payment Solution BON is planning to launch?
The Instant Payment Project is a game-changer for Namibia. This initiative aims to introduce a real-time instant payment system that will enable both banks and non-banks to collaborate in ways that were not possible before. It’s about more than just technology; it’s about financial inclusion and ensuring that all Namibians, no matter where they are, have access to fast, reliable, and affordable financial services.

It’s about leveling the playing field by providing equal access to financial services across the nation. The solution is not just about speed and efficiency; it’s about transforming how business is done in Namibia, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and reducing the reliance on cash transactions, which can be costly and insecure. The system’s design also considers the realities of our rural areas, allowing for offline transactions through USSD codes and ensuring that even those without consistent internet access can benefit. This initiative is truly about harnessing the power of digital transformation to drive national development and bridge economic disparities.

Who will it benefit?
The Instant Payment Solution is designed to benefit a wide range of stakeholders across Namibia. First and foremost, it will empower the unbanked and underbanked populations, particularly those in rural and remote areas, by providing them with access to fast, reliable, and affordable financial services. Additionally, the solution benefits the entire financial ecosystem by promoting greater collaboration between banks and non-banks, reducing dependency on cash, and ensuring that Namibia’s payment infrastructure remains competitive in a globalised economy. Ultimately, this initiative supports the broader goals of financial inclusion, economic growth, and sustainable development for all Namibians.

How does this fit into Vision 2030?
Namibia Vision 2030 is about transforming our nation into a prosperous and industrialized country with a high quality of life for all citizens. The Instant Payment Project aligns perfectly with this vision by promoting access to financial services, especially in underserved rural areas. It’s about creating opportunities for all Namibians to participate fully in our economy, regardless of their circumstances. It’s about unlocking the boundless opportunities and reimagining an inclusive economy that works for the prosperity of all Namibians.

When will we see this implemented?
The goal is to have the Instant Payment Solution live by the last quarter of 2025. We are currently working closely with both the banking and non-banking sectors to co-create a solution that meets the needs of our entire country. Collaboration is key, and we’re committed to making sure this solution reaches every corner of Namibia.

Do you have anything you think we omitted which you might need to add?
I have been given an opportunity to contribute to making Namibia a better place, and this is something I relish each day. It’s indeed a privilege to serve my country in my own little way. I often observe a lot of pessimism from my fellow youth, but our track record as a nation equally shows that we have more going for us than against us. Yes, we have challenges, but those are not insurmountable. All we need to do is roll up our sleeves and be in the arena in whichever field or occupation we find ourselves. Therein lies our collective success as a nation.