Namibia is the second most unequal country in the world, with per capita consumption inequality about 45% higher than the average for upper-middle-income countries, according to the World Bank.
In a country where youth unemployment is a major issue, career guidance becomes essential, and human resources practitioner Tuuda Haitula takes this to heart.
Haitula and fellow life coaches voluntarily mentor boys, equipping them early with skills in communication and career paths, vital for success in today’s competitive job market. Kaweyenge Mathias, who has participated in the sessions, has praised Haitula’s mentoring method, adding that he has been adequately exposed to how the job market works.
“Firstly, thank God we have people like him (Haitula) in Namibia. His sessions have been very helpful to me. I now have a modern CV, equipped with interview preparation skills, and I understand how to approach interview sessions and other human resources processes,” said the Chief Environmental Health Practitioner.
He emphasized that targeted career guidance is crucial, and when young men have the right tools and knowledge, they can access opportunities and contribute to the economy. Now in its third year, the programme was founded to equip boys with the tools, knowledge and confidence to navigate the world of work. While mentorship varies, this initiative focuses on career guidance, helping young men seek opportunities in a competitive environment.
Cyprianus Muranda, founder and CEO of Betterminds Namibia, an online therapy platform, credits guidance and mentorship for helping him achieve his professional and entrepreneurial goals.
“It has been a true story of how much difference the power of youth empowerment can achieve,” said the aspiring chartered accountant currently enrolled in the Accounting and Finance Honours programme at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.
The mentorship is enriched by contributions from diverse professionals.
Moneni Ndeshi Shilumba guides participants on setting personal goals, Yvonne Kandakuzee shares reflections on life, challenges, and triumphs, and Nakathingo “Blacksheep” Shimwino, a regular mentor, offers insights into entrepreneurship, balancing family, and building a creative career in Namibia’s evolving economy.
Haitula said that each year the programme attracts significant interest, with over 150 registrations and close to 300 young men expressing interest overall.
“From this pool, approximately 50 to 70 participants actively complete the sessions each year. While attendance remains a challenge, largely due to the online nature of the programme and occasional technical difficulties, the impact on those who fully engage is clear,” he said.
The life coach said young men get support in developing mindsets and skills for challenges such as self-discipline, goal setting, resilience, and growth. This bridges employability and personal development.
“Structured into four sessions yearly, the programme focuses on practical career skills. Participants learn to build a strong professional profile, craft effective CVs, write compelling cover letters, and prepare for interviews. The sessions also cover confidently answering interview questions, presenting professionally, and understanding workplace expectations,” stated Haitula.
“As the programme expands, there’s a strong push for collaboration. Public and private stakeholders are urged to partner in enhancing career guidance for youth. Combating unemployment needs collective effort, and initiatives like this show how targeted mentorship can make an impact,” he said.
Registration for the 2026 intake is currently open. Interested participants can register via the following link: https://forms.gle/cHRQmNLrHraBjFZn8
Registration closes on 5 April 2026. All sessions will be online on Saturdays from 10h00 to 13h00. For more info, contact Tuuda Haitula at htuuda@gmail.com.