Staff Writer
GEN Namibia Managing Director (MD), Helena Amadhila says nominations for this year’s Namibian Business Hall of Fame (NBHF) induction are currently open, and the public is encouraged to propose deserving candidates.
Amadhila said this year’s induction will take place on November 18, and will also act as a fundraiser for GEN Namibia’s MSMEs support initiatives in Namibia.
“It is that time of year again when Namibian entrepreneurs, both established and developing, are honoured by being inducted into the famous Namibian Business Hall of Fame.
“The induction ceremony is a much-anticipated event that seeks to recognise authentic and proudly Namibian corporate excellence by presenting this coveted award to emerging and successful visionary leaders,” she said.
Co-founded the company in 2004 by Ronel de Beer, then working for Namibia Beverages, now Coca Cola Namibia, Tarah Shaanika, former CEO of Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI), and Johanna Cloete, former Country Director of Junior Achievement Namibia, now Board Chair and former GEN Namibia MD, the NBHF induction honours business accomplishments while inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.
Namibian business titans such as Laureate late Werner List, Laureate late Harold Pupkewitz, Dr. Frans Aupa Indongo, and Dr. Leake Hangala attended the first induction event.
Over the past 19 years, the organisation has established itself as a vital and credible agency in identifying authentic and proud Namibian talent.
By inducting them into the distinguished NBH, their outstanding accomplishments will be immortalised in the annals of Namibian business history.
NBHF promotes innovation, creates an entrepreneurial spirit, and raises the collective aspiration for thinking leadership.
Industry has been extremely supportive of the organisation, including Coca Cola Namibia, First National Bank Namibia Ltd, and Standard Bank Namibia Ltd.
Oracle NetSuite, the Pupkewitz Foundation, the Safari Hotel & Conference Centre, and several individuals have all made significant contributions to the organisation’s vision and mission.
GEN Namibia is an environment and community building community.
The current program, Zizza Makazi (Green Home) Techno Girls, trains women and girls from rural areas to construct and operate solar home systems and biogas digesters.
As the rich legacy of business unfolds, the NBHF will stay at the forefront, commemorating local entrepreneurs and those who continue to influence the future for future generations.
Other linked programs include GEC+2024 and BOOSTUP 2023, which provide pitch and business training before a pitching competition to determine the class of 2023.
Categories of Nomination: Emerging Entrepreneurs, Startups or SMMEs that have addressed societal or community issues the public can readily see the impact. Startups that have helped the community adjust to the digital age or that are an agile agent of change.
Professionals who live as change-makers in their societies whether educational, health-wise, or uplifting communities. Laureates: The industry leaders and entrepreneurs who extensively contributed to the Namibian economy.
Criteria for nomination:
• displayed ingenuity to the broader public;
• made an extensive contribution to the Namibian economy;
• community minded;
• achieved business excellence by establishing businesses where others would waiver;
• upheld the intrinsic values of entrepreneurship, and leadership.
