Women at Work opens doors to new beginnings

For many young Namibians, finishing school can feel like the end of one journey and the beginning of another – one filled with uncertainty.

For Juvanni Elia, however, a short course at Women at Work became the first step towards building a career and opening doors he never expected.

Elia, who left school in Grade 11, said he had spent time at home unsure of what direction to take when his cousin introduced him to Women at Work.

“I was always at home, had nothing to do,” he said. “So I decided, let me quickly try this school and do the hospitality course.”

The one-month hospitality programme equipped Elia with practical skills in cleaning, laundry and other aspects of hospitality. He said the experience also gave him the confidence to try something new.

“I met good people here, and the course was very great. We did so much about laundry, cleaning and everything,” he said.

His training soon translated into practical experience when he secured a job attachment at Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino. Determined to prove himself, Elia worked hard and eventually caught the attention of his supervisors.

His efforts paid off when he was offered casual work at the hotel.

“For me, graduating here is something very big. At least you have something in life rather than just staying home,” he said.

The opportunity has since led to further connections, including being approached for a government-related tender through someone he met while working at Avani.

“That is just how you grow, step by step. It is like getting your foot in the door,” Elia said.

A brighter future

Women at Work office administrator and student facilitator Charoline Claasen said witnessing students like Elia progress into the workplace was one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.

“I am super proud of the work that we do, as well as the students who are willing to come here, break the barriers back at home and do something with their future,” she said.

Founded in 2009, Women at Work is an NGO providing practical training in hospitality and needlework. The centre was initially established to help women who had not completed formal education gain skills, but today welcomes both men and women.

Hospitality students receive training in life skills, basic home cooking, laundry, ironing and cleaning before completing a six-week workplace attachment at hotels and guesthouses.

The needlework programme takes students from having no experience with a sewing machine to producing their own garments within three months.

Strong outcomes

Claasen said the centre has seen strong employment outcomes, with more than 70% of its trainees finding employment through its network.

Among the students is Samson Malvina, originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who completed the needlework programme and learned to make skirts, dresses and T-shirts.

Although she is still searching for employment, Malvina’s new skills have given her something valuable: a practical skill she can build a future around.

For Claasen, Women at Work is ultimately about creating opportunities.

“Once you get your foot in the door, you work hard,” she said.

And for graduates like Elia, that first step can be all it takes to begin a new chapter.