After attending the Youth in Oil and Gas Summit 2025 (2nd Edition), one thing was clear: oil and gas are Namibia’s future, and that future is here.

The summit was not just about the industry itself; it was also about vision, clarity, and readiness. It gave us, the youth, a front-row seat to what is possible if we dare to step outside our comfort zones. It was a wake-up call to stop waiting and start building.

From academic discussions to real-world industry advice, the experience was impactful. Connecting with professionals, fellow youth, and industry pioneers was a blessing. I left not only with new knowledge but also with a deeper sense of purpose.

“No one owes you anything.”

Furthermore, “When you get an opportunity, work hard. Be disciplined. Be respectful. Be you,” said Nilliam Mulemi, CEO of Petrofund Namibia.

Also, “When doors don’t open, build new ones.”

King Kakona, Petroleum Inspector at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, reminded us that success should be shared and stated: “Don’t be a gatekeeper. Open the door for others.”

And Dr Martha Uumati, Founder and Managing Director of Tridock Shipyard Namibia, shared lessons I’ll never forget:

• Be brave: Ask the hard questions.

• Be disciplined: Learn the contracts and policies.

• Be bold: Lead with integrity (do right even when no one is watching). 

This experience changed how I viewed my journey. As a trained teacher, I now see that my story doesn’t end in the classroom. I have leadership skills, passion, and a strong desire to grow. I also understand that the energy sector has opportunities for me, whether in oil, gas, marine, or renewables.

Thank you to Justina Erastus. You have no idea how this platform is transforming lives. On behalf of every young person who walked away changed, we are grateful. You are ambitious, purpose-driven, and a light to many.

To the unemployed youth of Namibia

Let’s be honest, many of us feel stuck. Some of us studied fields that no longer excite us or have struggled to find work. But hear this clearly: you are not stuck. You just haven’t explored broadly enough.

Ask yourself: What do I love? What else am I good at? Where can I grow?

Then take action. Make that initial move. Acquiring a new skill. The internet is packed with resources. Start with Alison, Coursera, or edX, platforms offering free and affordable short courses in health and safety, marine operations, procurement, communication, hospitality, project management, and more.

Interested in working offshore? Take a marine course. Passionate about business? Enroll in sales or logistics. Want to lead? Study people management and strategic leadership. One qualification isn’t the end of your journey; you can grow and shift directions. But you must step out of your comfort zone. Opportunities won’t come to you; you have to seek them. Update your resume. Write a professional cover letter. Apply for internships. Be willing to learn. Start from where you are with what you have. Namibia’s energy future holds great potential — but it needs bold, skilled, and visionary young people.

The oil and gas industry is now accessible. It is open and present. We, the youth of Namibia, must step up and take our place in it.

Let us rise. Let us learn. Let us lead.

*Esther Ananias writes in her personal capacity.