From Onakali to glory: Immanuel Natanael’s triumph
Valombola trainee wins President’s Award.
At just 21 years old, Immanuel Natanael from Valombola VTC is proving that success is built from the ground up - one skill, one dream and one brick at a time.
Natanael’s journey began with a love for creating and building things with his hands. That natural curiosity turned into purpose when he enrolled at Valombola VTC to pursue a career in Bricklaying and Plastering. What started as a simple interest grew into a passion that now defines his path, turning raw materials into structures and ideas into opportunity.
For Natanael, bricklaying is not just a trade, but a form of creativity and problem-solving. “When I build, I see possibilities taking shape,” he says. “It’s not just about walls; it’s about building futures and empowering communities.”
His late father remains his greatest source of inspiration, instilling in him the belief that skills are a gateway to independence and progress.
Encouraged by his instructors and mentors, Natanael took part in the WorldSkills competition, where his dedication and discipline earned him the prestigious President’s Award. “When I enrolled in the competition, I gave my very best in training, as did all the other talented competitors, so winning the President’s Award was an incredible surprise. Now I am focused on honing my skills as I prepare to represent Namibia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.”
Natanael believes that skills are key to addressing youth unemployment. By mastering trades like bricklaying, young people can create their own opportunities, drive innovation and contribute to sustainable development.
“I want to be part of the solution to the high unemployment in our country,” he says. “Through skills, we can build our communities, strengthen our country and shape Africa’s future.”
With the support of his family, trainers, and the TVET community, Natanael continues to build not only his own future but also that of a stronger, more skilled Namibia.
Natanael’s journey began with a love for creating and building things with his hands. That natural curiosity turned into purpose when he enrolled at Valombola VTC to pursue a career in Bricklaying and Plastering. What started as a simple interest grew into a passion that now defines his path, turning raw materials into structures and ideas into opportunity.
For Natanael, bricklaying is not just a trade, but a form of creativity and problem-solving. “When I build, I see possibilities taking shape,” he says. “It’s not just about walls; it’s about building futures and empowering communities.”
His late father remains his greatest source of inspiration, instilling in him the belief that skills are a gateway to independence and progress.
Encouraged by his instructors and mentors, Natanael took part in the WorldSkills competition, where his dedication and discipline earned him the prestigious President’s Award. “When I enrolled in the competition, I gave my very best in training, as did all the other talented competitors, so winning the President’s Award was an incredible surprise. Now I am focused on honing my skills as I prepare to represent Namibia at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.”
Natanael believes that skills are key to addressing youth unemployment. By mastering trades like bricklaying, young people can create their own opportunities, drive innovation and contribute to sustainable development.
“I want to be part of the solution to the high unemployment in our country,” he says. “Through skills, we can build our communities, strengthen our country and shape Africa’s future.”
With the support of his family, trainers, and the TVET community, Natanael continues to build not only his own future but also that of a stronger, more skilled Namibia.
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