Festus Hamalwa
Panduleni Ananias is a 27-year-old unemployed graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the International University of Management. After just being at home without a job following the completion of her studies, she started making biscuits and dishwashing liquid in 2018.
Ananias sells her products directly to customers, and also offers training on how to make the abovementioned products. “I offer this training through face-to-face or online platforms. Individuals who are interested can register for their training by means of a phone call or email,” she told Youth Corner.
Both her products are homemade. “I produce biscuits with different flavours in my home setting. The flavours include lemon, ginger, vanilla and chocolate. I’m currently only producing one flavour of dishwashing liquid, because I cannot get other raw materials here in Namibia.”
Ananias stressed that due to the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, on top of financial constraints, it is difficult to import raw materials from other countries.
She also wants to expand her business, but needs money to buy the appropriate equipment to fasten the biscuit-making process. “I am finding it hard to find a suitable market or place to sell my products. I am also struggling to find a testing institution that will help test my products, especially the dishwashing liquid, so it can meet set standards or be authorised.”
Ananias said help from Good Samaritans will allow her to achieve her ultimate goal, which is to own a physical shop or workshop. So far, she has trained more than 100 people in biscuit-making. “I live by the philosophy ‘be the change you want to see in the Namibia nation’. So, as a young entrepreneur, I like to make a positive impact in our society.”
Ananias added that she will remain committed to assist her fellow youth to become the best version of themselves and reduce the unemployment rate by becoming self-employed. In doing so, she is meeting the government halfway.
“I would like to encourage all youth that it does not matter where you come from or what qualification you have; you too can make it. It is never too late to chase your dreams. What is more important is to remain focused,” she urged.
Ananias can be reached on her Facebook page Tina Panduleni Ananias or on her email:ananiaspanduleni490@gmail.com.