On December 16, the Economist Businesswoman Club convened in Windhoek to celebrate the mentors and mentees of the 2023 Katuka Mentorship program. The event marked a significant occasion with a record-breaking participation of 21 mentors and 24 mentees, constituting the largest cohort in the program’s history.
Desere Lundon-Muller, the program organizer, described Katuka as a mentorship initiative launched in July 2001 to empower entrepreneurs and professional women. The program’s aim is to match mentors and mentees with similar interests in a supportive environment, fostering personal and professional growth.
Lundon-Muller emphasized the program’s core objective of providing a platform for personal and leadership development, contributing to both personal and institutional success. In its 22nd year, the program has seen significant results, with 485 entrepreneurs completing it so far.
During the certificate presentation, Naemi Ekandjo, a nurse and mentee, shared her transformative journey. Her mentor encouraged her to set personal goals, leading to achievements such as learning to say no, a work promotion, and obtaining a driver’s license.
Annamarie Van der Riet, an outgoing mentor with 18 years of experience, expressed gratitude for the journey, having mentored 26 mentees. She advised mentees to never stop learning and to take care of their well-being.
Hailey Allen, Head of Strategic Communication at Bank Windhoek, the program’s sponsor, acknowledged the power of the women’s movement and emphasized the bank’s support for Katuka mentorship. She encouraged mentees to apply newfound skills to elevate their careers.
Zaamwani-Kamwi, Patron of the Katuka Mentorship Program, highlighted the program’s significance and encouraged previous mentees and mentors to be ambassadors. She expressed the need for the program to continue, affirming its impact on women’s lives.
Overall, the December 16 event proved instrumental in empowering women, fostering personal and professional growth, and creating a supportive community for mentorship and learning.