Persistence, dedication, patience and hard work are some of the key traits Rosalia Haufiku, to which the first runner-up for Youth in
Tourism Innovation Challenge in Gaborone, Botswana, attributes her success.
The electronics engineering student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) came out on top with her project, ‘Secure Environmental Data Acquisition Portal’ (SEDAP). The project aims to streamline the environmental management plan audit system.
SEDAP incorporates automated data collection and reporting, artificial intelligence (AI) integration for compliance monitoring and a user-friendly interface, revolutionising the traditional audit process.
The project also gained her recognition and an award in May at the Africa Youth in Tourism Summit (AYITS) in Windhoek. The young academic was one of three Namibian finalists representing the country in Gaborone.
Speaking to Youth Corner on her journey, Haufiku said she was being patient with herself and kept
her long-term goals in sight, adding that real change takes time.
“I’m incredibly honoured and grateful to be the first runner-up in the YTIC. It feels rewarding to see the hard work and vision behind my project being recognised on such a significant platform. This experience has given me even more motivation to continue driving innovation in tourism and sustainability. It is also a reminder that there’s so much more to achieve, and I’m excited for the opportunities ahead to make a lasting impact,” she said.
She said she is excited to continue expanding her work, and making a real impact within the tourism sector.
Haufiku added that the recognition will open doors for new opportunities, partnerships and further development of her project.
“I am looking forward to using this platform to drive more innovation and contribute to sustainable tourism, while also inspiring others in the youth community to pursue their ideas and passions,” she noted.
She encouraged fellow youth to stay curious and embrace learning and to overcome their fears by
taking risks and pursuing their ideas no matter how challenging they may appear.
“Apply for all these opportunities because the worst they can say is ‘no’. Always shoot your shot. Surround yourself with positive influences – with people who push you to grow, and never stop looking for opportunities to improve,” she advised.
Her fellow nominee, Heinrich Hafeni of Hafeni Tours in Swakopmund, took fifth position.
He said he was happy to have been nominated and shortlisted the top five from more than 300 entries.
“Indeed, I did not secure the top prize, but I appreciate the fact that I was nominated and built new networks that unpack new opportunities as I grow this inspiring cultural focus tourism organisation from the Land of the Brave,” he said in a recent interview with NBC.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na