Class of 2022 graduates

US embassy empowers Namibian women
The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs class of 2022 graduated on 22 November in Lüderitz, while, at the same time, the 2023 edition of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs Dream Builder programme was launched.
Monique Adams
Fifty women from Lüderitz, Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Eenhana and Ondangwa have graduated from a five-month business training course.
The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) is a US government-funded educational programme designed to provide women entrepreneurs with the skills, resources and networks needed to start and scale a successful business.
One of the graduates at the ceremony, Johanna Skeyer, the owner of Didi’s Fashion Salon, described her journey of being a female entrepreneur.
She underlined that it is not a walk in the park although it also brings her joy.
"My journey in beauty cosmetology has been very rewarding but at the same time challenging, especially during the Covid-19 outbreak.
"After today, I am looking forward to implementing the skills I have learned during this course, and I am very excited to see my business become bigger and better," Skeyer said.
The road ahead
The US Embassy's public relations officer, Tiffany Miller, said that it was important for the embassy to collaborate and empower people, especially women in business.
"It was a great honour to stand in front of you all and congratulate each and every one of you for completing this course and graduating today.
"The US Embassy understands the importance of collaborating with Namibia and is excited to venture into new innovative projects together," Miller said.
Suzan Ndjaleka, regional councillor for the !Nami#N?s constituency, said that in every business it is important to provide customers with an out-of-this-world experience, including good customer service and quality products, in order to build a loyal customer base.
"With the skills you have learned during the five-month course, you will definitely see a positive change within your business. One word you should take away today is ‘consistency’ – being consistent will help you accomplish and succeed in your goals within your business," Ndjaleka said.