Bank empowers women through mentorship programme

BANK Windhoek has launched the 2024 Katuka Mentorship Programme, with the first training sessions held in Windhoek last week.

The programme is aimed at empowering women.

Spokesperson Hayley Allen at the event said the bank is dedicated to delivering real value for Namibians and their future.

“The essence of what you are about to experience is authenticity.

It is about building trust between mentor and mentee and understanding what each of you needs to move forward and make an impact as Namibian women in business,” she said.

The Katuka Mentorship Programme has been funded by Bank Windhoek for the past five years.

Spokesperson Samuel Linyondi said 22 mentors and 21 mentees participated in the programme this year.

Allen encouraged mentees to embrace the opportunity for life-changing guidance and to share authentic stories of transformation.

Expressing their excitement, five mentees – Maano Shimanda, Beauty Katjina, Elizabeth Mbidi, Esther Hatutale and Angeline Shaningwa – shared their aspirations for personal and professional growth.

The diverse group includes professionals from various sectors, such as social security, education, accounting, marketing, events and property.

Mbidi, the head of the Accounting Development Fund at the Social Security Commission, said: “I needed some spark and motivation in my career. I believe this platform will help me achieve this goal.”

The programme’s impact on sales targets in the competitive property market was highlighted by property agent Shaningwa, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the programme.

Desere Lundon-Muller, the organiser of Economist Businesswoman Projects, said the programme empowers and encourages business and professional women to achieve their goals.

She urged participants to be flexible, committed and maintain constant communication throughout the year.

“Remember, you are the main actress in your life,” she said.

With nearly 500 entrepreneurs and businesswomen completing the programme, Hatutale expressed gratitude to Bank Windhoek for creating a platform for young corporate businesswomen to develop their careers and personal lives.