From mop to manager: Maria’s remarkable Pupkewitz journey
When you meet Maria Mudjanima, you are immediately struck by her calm confidence, radiant smile and the warmth she brings to every conversation. Behind that grace lies a remarkable story of hard work, humility and dedication.Maria’s journey with the Pupkewitz Group began more than two decades ago, and like many great success stories, it started with humble beginnings. In 2002, she joined the company as a casual worker - a cleaner. At the time, she had no idea that this opportunity would grow into a lifelong career marked by learning, progress and achievement.
Her exceptional work ethic and commitment quickly caught the attention of her supervisors, and in 2003, she was offered a permanent position. For Maria, this was more than just a job; it was the beginning of something transformative.
“I took pride in my work and gave my best every single day,” she recalls. “I wanted to make a difference, even in the smallest ways.”
Transition
It wasn’t long before her enthusiasm and natural ability to connect with people opened new doors. Maria transitioned from cleaning to a customer-facing role as a counter salesperson and cashier at the cellphone shop in Ausspannplatz. This was a major promotion, and she embraced the challenge wholeheartedly.
In 2006, the cellphone shop relocated to the Megabuild building, and Maria continued to grow professionally. She fondly remembers those early days and the people who made them special, especially Mr Harold, whose dedication left a lasting impression on her.
“Mr Harold worked tirelessly, even on weekends,” she shares with a smile. “Sometimes he would accidentally set off the alarm or forget to turn off his car. He never failed to greet us and always treated us with warmth and respect. He believed in building relationships, and that taught me a lot about leadership and humanity.”
Lessons learned
Those lessons would stay with Maria throughout her career.
In 2014, Maria’s career took another leap forward when she was promoted to admin and switchboard operator. That same year, when the cellphone division closed, she transferred to Megatech, one of the Pupkewitz Group’s subsidiaries. It was a new environment, but Maria approached it with her trademark positivity and determination.
“Change can be daunting,” she reflects, “but I’ve learned that every transition brings new opportunities to grow.”
Over the years, Maria continued to rise through the ranks at Megatech, taking on more responsibilities and broadening her skills. Today, she proudly serves as the finance and office administrator, overseeing administrative and financial functions for Megatech branches across Namibia.
Inspiring
Her journey from cleaner to national administrator is nothing short of inspiring; a testament to what can be achieved through hard work, loyalty, and perseverance.
“I’m grateful to the Pupkewitz Group for believing in me,” she says. “This company gives its people room to grow, and I am living proof that with the right attitude, anything is possible.”
For Maria, success isn’t just about career progression. It’s about the relationships built along the way and the joy of contributing to something greater.
“Every role I’ve had has taught me something valuable,” she says. “When I look back, I don’t just see my growth, but the growth of a company that values its people and helps them become the best version of themselves.”