Rose-Mary Haufiku
To avoid being disappointed in life, one should always have a backup plan and if that fails, move on to plan C until you reach plan Z, but never give up.
Tuwilika-Nasimanekwe Shitenda is one such never-giver-upper.
She studied electronics engineering at NUST but due to a lack of career opportunities in Namibia, she ended up as part of the unemployed youth.
Shitenda (29) found a way to make a living through her crocheting business, and explained that it is not simply a side business for her; right now, it is her main source of income.
“I crochet anything for all age groups and genders. I’ve so far crocheted jerseys, blankets, baby shoes, bikinis, dresses, tops, baptism sets and bathroom sets (toilet pot cover, mats etc.),” she told Youth Corner.
Shitenda began crocheting in April 2016 to keep herself occupied because her modules were only offered part-time. Her aptitude to be creative and innovative also aided in the development of her business.
“I possess innovation and creativity as my natural characters, and I believe in DIY (do it yourself),” she said.
Besides crocheting as a hobby and now her full-time job, Shitenda enjoys writing and is enthusiastic about designing things.
“I love trying out new things.”
In the future, she hopes to save up and rent a proper workshop, since she currently runs her business from home.
“In the workshop, I can try other techniques like knitting and macrame art, which includes making rugs and wall hangings. I’m thinking of starting Tuwi’s Crochets academy, where I will be teaching people how to crochet so they can start their businesses,” she enthused.
Shitenda serves as a reminder to the youth that nothing should ever stop anyone from coming up with innovative ideas and starting a business, whether or not they already have a job. Having a side gig may not even cost you anything. So, get up and put your ideas into practice.