O&L Group honours first-ever Persona Champions
The O&L Group has celebrated its first-ever O&L Persona Champion of 2029 awards, recognising employees who embody the company’s core traits of being Authentic, Caring and Passionate.The ceremony took place on 8 August at Midgard Otjihavera near Windhoek, marking the next chapter in O&L’s employee recognition journey.
The awards replace the long-running Value Star programme, introducing a new system launched earlier this year by executive chairman Sven Thieme.
“This is a milestone for us as a group,” chief experience officer Franziska Rüeck said. “It’s our first ceremony under the new recognition programme, which celebrates employees who truly live our Persona; how we lead, how we show up, and how we bounce back from challenges.”
Thieme added that the initiative reflects O&L’s commitment to rewarding those who consistently go above and beyond: “To our Persona Champions, thank you for bringing the O&L Persona to life through your uniqueness. Your presence here tonight means you have made a real impact, and I’m honoured to celebrate you.”
The awards underline the business case for recognition. Studies show that lack of recognition is the top reason employees leave their jobs, while companies with structured recognition programmes see turnover drop by 31% and are far more likely to achieve stronger business results. Global names like Disney, Apple and Southwest Airlines have long embraced such initiatives, balancing motivation with authenticity.
O&L’s approach is peer-driven, allowing staff from any of its operating companies to nominate colleagues, fostering a culture of mutual respect and appreciation.
Winners received trophies, personalised gifts, and pins marking their achievement, while overall champions will enjoy an exclusive trip to a destination yet to be revealed. In a first for the group, they will also get to ‘give back’ by leading a legacy project aligned with O&L’s Vision 2029, benefiting either the community or the business.