US programme empowers young Namibians

Located in the heart of Windhoek, the Mello Bakery buzzes with activity. The 24-hour operation, where thousands of loaves of bread are produced daily, has recently become the workplace of young Rosamunde (family name not provided), a participant in the &#039;Reach Namibia&#039; project funded by the US government.The 23-year-old lives with her mother and siblings in Ombili, a residential area on the outskirts of Windhoek, where she learned about the initiative from a neighbour.Established in August 2023, Reach Namibia provides comprehensive health and social services for HIV-vulnerable children, adolescents and young adults, aiming to impart life skills and improve access to education, employment and health services.Reach Namibia is funded by the US President&#039;s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by Project HOPE Namibia and Intrahealth Namibia.Practical job experienceRosamunde successfully completed training aimed at enhancing the economic security of young women, where she acquired financial literacy, professionalism, communication skills, leadership qualities and preparation for the job market (including resume writing and interview skills).Vocational training courses such as plumbing, masonry, and baking are also supported. "The 23-year-old opted for the baking course and excelled in her internship at the Mello Bakery," a statement issued by the American embassy, noted.The owners of the bakery, Dylan Maritz and Mike Samson, support the Reach Namibia programme by offering internships and positions to promising graduates. Additionally, they provide programme staff with valuable insights and information to ensure that the training courses align with the actual needs and conditions of the country&#039;s job market.“The characteristics that we look for in an employee are strong work ethics and a go-getter attitude,” Mike and Dylan explained.Rosamunde added: “Baking is hard work, the hours can be long, but it is also very rewarding."Reaching highShe said she was pleased to have secured a job that helps support her relatives at home by covering expenses such as food and hygiene items. She also utilises an entrepreneurship package with a gas stove and baking utensils provided to her by the Reach Namibia project to bake on weekends and sell bread to members of the local community.Rosamunde is one of six Reach Namibia participants at the Mello Bakery. “I am working hard to gain more experience, grow professionally and hopefully hold a managing position one day,” she said.“I will always be grateful to my neighbour who informed me about this USAID programme that kick-started my journey of empowerment.”

US programme empowers young Namibians

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-05-12

Please login to leave a comment

US programme empowers young Namibians

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-05-12

Please login to leave a comment

Subscription Required to Access Content ×

Login

Subscription Required to Access Content