OL Legends launched, honouring over a century of employees
The Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group has launched the OL Legends Alumni Programme, an initiative to honour former employees who helped shape the company's success and keep them connected to its future.
The programme was introduced on 5 June 2026 in Windhoek, bringing together former and current members of the group.
Speaking at the launch, O&L Chief Experience Officer Franziska Rüeck said the programme reflected the group's commitment to preserving its heritage and recognising the long-term impact of its people.
She said many founding members of the programme had embodied the principles of the O&L Persona before the concept was formally defined, helping establish the culture and values that continue to guide the organisation.
Executive chairman Sven Thieme said generations of employees had played a central role in building the group over the past 106 years. “For more than 106 years, generations of people have given a part of their lives to the O&L Group. I see people. I see relationships. I see stories. I see sacrifices. And I see lessons passed from one generation to the next,” he said.
Rooted in people
Thieme said the company's success had always been rooted in its people and that the programme was created to recognise those who helped build the organisation and shape its identity.
“You helped build our businesses. You helped shape our persona, and you remain part of our future. Welcome home,” he said.
Former O&L Human Capital Director Berthold Mukuahima said the initiative showed that employees' contributions were valued long after their careers with the company had ended. “Relationships do not end when employment does,” he said, describing the programme as a way to maintain connections with former colleagues and recognise their lasting impact.
Former Group Chief Operating Officer Günther Hanke said experience remained one of the most valuable assets an organisation could have. He said the programme created a bridge between the generation that laid the foundation for O&L's success and those now leading the company forward.
Mentorship was identified as one of the programme's main opportunities, with alumni encouraged to share their knowledge and experience with younger employees.
Representing the next generation of leaders, Ellen Geingos, O&L Centre's 2025 Overall Persona Champion, thanked the inaugural OL Legends members for the legacy they had left behind.
She said culture was built through everyday interactions and people rather than boardroom decisions, adding that younger employees had inherited something meaningful from those who came before them.
The programme is expected to provide a platform for continued engagement, mentorship and collaboration across the O&L Group.
