For Julia Shilongo, transitioning from logistics and procurement to oil and gas was not a walk in the park.
It became instead a journey of learning, personal growth and purpose. She said that working on complex Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FSPO) projects with SBM Offshore has ignited a passion for contributing to the country’s energy sector. SBM Offshore is a Dutch-based global group of companies selling systems and services to the offshore oil and gas industry.
Its constituent companies started their offshore activities in the early 1950s.
SBM subsequently became a pioneer in single buoy moorings (SBM) systems.
The company leases and operates floating production, storage, and offloading vessels.
It is involved in the design and engineering, construction, installation, operation and maintenance of floating production equipment for the offshore oil and gas industry.
“I was given the incredible opportunity to travel to Brazil and Guyana in South America, where I received additional on-the-job training and witnessed the real-life impact of SBM Offshore in those countries. Seeing the positive change first hand has been inspiring. It excites me even more for what’s coming to Namibia,” Shilongo remarked.
From boardrooms to offshore training in Brazil and Guyana, every challenge has been a stepping stone, and every step was a testament to the power of persistence, curiosity and belief in local talent. “As a local content assistant, I am truly honoured. The fact that a local Namibian was entrusted with this role speaks volumes. I understand my country, our needs and our people. I’m committed to doing what is best for Namibia. It’s encouraging to see international companies investing in our future and including us in the process from the ground up,” she said.
When she first started, she recalled sitting in meetings where she barely understood some of the technical terms.
“But I didn’t shy away. I asked questions, took notes and went home to do my research. That mindset has helped me grow. I encourage others to do the same,” Shilongo stated.
She said: “As Namibia rises in the global energy landscape, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s powerful call for more women in the energy and oil gas sector stands out and must be taken seriously. To my fellow Namibian women, if this is where you want to be, start small and learn. The foundation you build today will unlock doors tomorrow”. As a local content assistant, she has advised Namibian companies interested in the oil and gas sector to have a professional website for their business.
“I hear my fellow Namibians complaining that it’s only certain companies dominating all industries, but how will people be aware of your presence if you cling to the notion of ‘it’s about who you know’? It is time to shift the focus. Let’s transition from ‘who you know’ to ‘who can discover you’.
“Networking is valuable in today’s globalised market, but relying solely on that limits your potential significantly,” she stressed.
Shilongo said the first place investors look before investing is the internet, so the digital footprint has to be noticeable with befitting curated content. “If you don’t have a website, you are essentially invisible to potential clients and partners. You are missing out on opportunities from outside Namibia and for local partnerships. Procurement teams are searching for Namibian vendors online.
“A website showcasing your capabilities is a powerful introduction. The same goes for potential new customers. Many potential clients are actively searching online for businesses like yours,” she outlined.
Shilongo said investing in a professional website is an investment in your business future.
It is a critical step towards increasing visibility, expanding the network, winning new business and ultimately contributing to local content development.
-psiririka@nepc.com.na