Leading by example

Mariselle Stofberg A strong leader is able to inspire their colleagues to be the best version of themselves and encourage them to reach their full potential. As the new Oshakati branch manager of Bank Windhoek, Frieda Beukes aspires to instil not only these values in her colleagues, but also respect and humility. “I hope people learn to stay humble at every stage of their success. They should also learn to treat everyone, old and young, as they would expect to be treated. These are my key beliefs in life.”In her new role, Beukes is accountable for the performance and overall running of Bank Windhoek’s Oshakati branch and its sub-branches at Ongwediva, Oshakati North, and Okahao.“She will also provide management and leadership capability to the branch by optimising resources and effectively managing risk to achieve the bank’s objectives,” says Bank Windhoek’s executive officer of retail banking services, Chris Matthee.Beukes’s journey with Bank Windhoek started in 1997 at the Mariental branch as a cheque administration clerk, after completing the bank’s Candidates Bankers Training (CBT) programme. Over the years, she grew her expertise in banking operations as she worked as a teller, later moving to the enquiries desk. In 2004, Beukes was transferred to the Ondangwa branch as a credit clerk. In 2007, Beukes briefly left Bank Windhoek and rejoined in 2008 within the credit department, where she progressed through the ranks to senior credit officer. Having moved between departments, Beukes has proven that being adaptive is an incredibly important characteristic for any employee.“When I move into any new environment, I first observe the culture of doing things and then integrate myself into that specific environment. If I see changes I initiate living the change. I believe that less is more and one does not need to talk too much, just be the change by leading by example.”Beukes has completed several advanced banking-related training and management courses, including the Leadership Development Programme, completed through the University of Pretoria and the Capricorn Group Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP) facilitated by the University of Stellenbosch Business School. She is also currently enrolled for an online master of business administration (MBA) course. “My short-term goal is to be a leader that serves not just with words, but by actions of what is possible. The long-term goal is to make our team within Oshakati branch and sub branches such as Ongwediva, Oshakati North and Okahao known as the best team to be a part of. In the end, they should believe that all things are possible with perseverance and hard work,” Beukes says. “Her progress at Bank Windhoek shows that continued professional development pays off. We wish her all the best as she starts this exciting journey as Bank Windhoek’s new Oshakati branch manager,” concluded Matthee.

Leading by example

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-24

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Leading by example

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-24

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