Thirteen aspiring guides were awarded NQF level 3 local guide certificates during a graduation ceremony hosted by Gondwana Collection Namibia.
The programme equips participants with critical guiding skills, reinforcing Gondwana Collection’s dedication to nurturing community development and advancing professional opportunities in Namibia’s tourism industry.
It began in 2018, when Gondwana Collection joined the pilot Namibia Training Authority (NTA) apprenticeship programme, and it focusses on practical and theoretical training to equip workers for the changing hospitality industry. Apprentices are taught in a variety of fields, ranging from comprehensive knowledge of flora and fauna, celestial navigation for stargazing excursions, and cultural storytelling methods to produce memorable and responsible tours.
One of Gondwana Collection’s guiding principles – ‘You can only be successful if you make others successful’ – is a philosophy that drives initiatives like the apprenticeship programme.
By investing in people, Gondwana Collection, as a medium through which apprentices get the chance to participate in the programme, alongside NTA – the apprenticeship funder – and Namibian Academy for Tourism & Hospitality (NATH) – the training provider – built a foundation for long-term sustainability, not only for its own operations but for the communities that are direct and indirect beneficiaries of the industry.
“By training individuals from the communities where we operate, we are creating opportunities for the locals while promoting sustainable tourism practices,” says Gondwana Collection environmental and social impact manager Quintin Hartung.
“This programme not only transforms lives but also strengthens the connection between our lodges and the communities that support them.”
Apprentices spend 70% of their time gaining practical experience at Gondwana Collection’s lodges, and 30% attending theoretical training at an accredited institution. The hands-on mentorship provided by experienced guides ensures that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the evolving tourism sector.
NTA chief executive Erick Fundula Nenghwanya praises the apprentices’ perseverance in personal growth and professional development.
“Your journey through this programme is a testament to your resilience and commitment to excellence,” he says. “You are now equipped with the skills needed to meet the growing demands of the tourism sector and to contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s economic development. Remember, your learning does not end here – continue to grow, explore, and embrace opportunities for lifelong learning.”
NATH board chairperson Martin Wilkinson highlighted the programme’s transformative impact since Gondwana Collection joined the pilot apprenticeship initiative in 2018.
“Our guides that graduate today are not just ‘pointers’ explaining rocks, birds and stars. They are ambassadors of the outdoors and advocates for reconnecting humanity with nature,” Wilkinson said. “They inspire guests to step away from screens and immerse themselves in Namibia’s natural beauty, encouraging a deeper appreciation for our country.”
The graduation ceremony also awarded individuals for their extraordinary achievements.
Baldwin Bezuidenhout was recognised for strong theoretical achievement, while Rafael Vetunyengua was honoured for being the most diligent apprentice. Muhenje Wakambura was honoured for displaying the highest degree of discipline, while Isaks Nadhia was recognised as the embodiment of Gondwana’s key principles, receiving the ‘Gondwana DNA’ award.
The best overall apprentice award went to Viva Kuyonisa who has shown excellence, perseverance, and enthusiasm throughout the programme.
Asked what his thoughts are about the programme, Kuyonisa shared the following: “Through this programme, I found my purpose and passion for guiding, which feels like a calling – something I was meant to do. It taught me the value of serving others, whether my guests or colleagues, and instilled a deep appreciation for our beautiful country.
“Sharing knowledge, kindness, and love for nature isn’t just a practice; it’s a lifestyle that transforms us into better human beings. By embracing this, we inspire a new generation to love, protect, and treat the earth better than we have.
“As Mr Manni Goldbeck once said, ‘You should be ashamed to die and not have done anything for humanity’. I would add that we shouldn’t leave this world without doing something meaningful for both humanity and Mother Nature.”
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