Nedbank Namibia has provided a platform for staff to sell products, promote services and showcase their businesses. This innovative idea to promote employee entrepreneurship took shape in the form of an inaugural employee market day on 24 May.
The Staff Market Day took place at Freedom Plaza next to the Nedbank campus. Employees from the various departments within the bank transformed the area into a vibrant marketplace, and set up 18 stalls that displayed a wide array of products, including homemade confectionaries, handmade crafts, clothing, braai plates, fruits and vegetables, games and haircare products.
Nedbank stated that the market day was not only a celebration of creativity but also an opportunity for employees to engage with colleagues and the community in a newly-created and relaxed environment.
Nedbank’s human capital executive Bianca Muller said she was impressed by the turnout. “The employee market day was a mere thought two months ago, and seeing it materialise was one of the countless special moments I’ve experienced since joining Nedbank,” she said.
Muller continued: “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to supporting both the personal and professional goals of our employees. It’s inspiring to witness the passion and creativity that they bring to their ventures outside of their roles in the bank. At Nedbank, we appreciate our employees holistically, and encourage them to excel not only in their daily jobs, but also through offering support to their entrepreneurial hustle.
This also demonstrates Nedbank’s intentional commitment to living our purpose, which is ‘using our money expertise to do good’ not only for our employees, but also the broader society”.
The market day was attended by Nedbank Namibia employees as well as the public. One attendee was the chief executive of the Cancer Association of Namibia(CAN), Rolf Hansen, who told participants the market day initiative is “truly commendable”.
One of the highlights of the event was when vendors completely sold out their stock. “I feel appreciated by and am very grateful to Nedbank Namibia for this opportunity. This platform is one that is helping us make an extra income,” said vendor Hileni Eliakim. Another Nedbank employee, Rodenza Steytler, said she didn’t expect stock to sell out so quickly. “I am so proud of Nedbank for giving us this opportunity. This initiative has been a huge success and we can’t wait for the next edition,” she said.
“The success of the employee market day has laid the groundwork for future events and initiatives aimed at nurturing and celebrating the diverse skills and interests of Nedbank employees,” read a Nedbank statement.