2015-04-22Staff Report 2 WINDHOEK - Neville Hembapu has been an employee at Namibia Dairies - a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group - for the past two years and he started his career as a Talent Attraction Programme (TAP) student at the !Aimab Superfarm at Mariental. So far, his journey at the company has been an exciting one and he considers himself very fortunate to make it through the tough process of selecting the best candidates for the programme. He also concedes to challenges in the job due to lack of experience and previous exposure in the corporate world but with the assistance and support from his colleagues, he is mastering all challenges. “We have a strong, diverse team that is always willing to assist and grow those around them,” he said. Neville is the ‘star’ in the latest advert of Namibia Dairies’ “The Nammilk Way” campaign, which was launched in the third quarter of 2014 when fellow Namibia Dairies’ colleague, Katrina Links featured in the first advert. Hembapu’s smile says it all: “I did not have to act at all. I love my job and I love our cows. Milk production in general is a challenge; you have sensitive cows that require careful handling and treatment. On the other hand, you have a dynamic team with differing views. However, I have to admit that aligning myself and those around me with the O&L values, we have become a family and we speak the same language which eliminates some of the unnecessary challenges.” He was initially tasked with assisting in finding the right candidate for the Nammilk Way advert, but after being interviewed by the director, he was told he has landed the job. “Shooting the adverts was tiring but also immensely gratifying. It was a great experience, an eye-opener, and one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I met and worked with a team of dedicated and fun-loving individuals. I got special treatment and felt like I was Denzel Washington. At one point, I thought I should perhaps reconsider my agriculture career and pursue one in acting. So, it was really a great experience,” reminisced Hembapu. Hembapu went on to say the most important part about the advert is the fact he realized he can be an ambassador for Namibia Dairies, setting an example and inspiring the nation to support local goodness. “Many people are interested in our products, and everyone is expecting me to tell them more about our brands because the willingness to support local products is there. So, I consider myself more of a role model and an ambassador than a celebrity. My personal commitment is to contribute to ensuring sustainability of milk production in Namibia through serving in every way possible. After all, as a young Namibian, it is my responsibility to assist our government with job creations through innovative ideas. Having been part of the advert - it does not hurt that ladies recognise me more,” he concluded sheepishly. 2015-04-22Staff Report 2
