About UNAM
Foundation
About UNAM
Foundation
Seamlessly visualize quality intellectual capital without superior collaboration and idea-sharing base portals.
Vision
To be a Centre of Excellence in Fundraising, Investment Management and Stewardship
Who we are
The University of Namibia Foundation was established in 1992 with the mandate to encourage private donations in support of the University of Namibia towards fulfilling the University’s mission of contributing to the achievement of national and international development goals through the pursuit of translational research, quality training and innovation.
Since 2019, the UNAM Foundation has been registered as an independent, charitable Trust operating in the public education sector and governed by an independent set of Board of Trustees. It is responsible for promoting and managing private gifts made to further the University of Namibia’s mission, as well as to foster relationships and partnerships in the promotion of higher education. Although the Foundation is a separate entity from the University, it exists solely to partner with the University and to serve in our donors’ best interest.
Higher education institutions play a fundamental role in promoting sustainable societal transformations through the creation and dissemination of knowledge, innovation, education, and community outreach. The UNAM Foundation’s fundraising activities supplement the resources needed to drive these targeted outcomes.
Based on objectives set out in its 2022 – 2026 Strategic Plan, the UNAM Foundation works as a catalyst for targeting sustainable impacts through higher education by responsibly connecting prospective and current donors to strategic projects and investment opportunities at the University of Namibia towards realising shared value.
We are committed to the highest standards of service and ethical conduct in stewarding donor gifts for the benefit of the University. Donors entrust the Foundation with fiduciary oversight of their charitable gifts, and, in turn, we hold the details of that giving and other related information in confidence.
Professionalism, Responsiveness
Accountability & Transparency
Personal Engagement, Diversity, Equity, Enduring Relationships
Why support the UNAM Foundation
- Donations are tax-deductible and with the UNAM Foundation being a public charitable educational Trust, we may issue tax rebate certificates for donations made to the University through the Foundation in terms of the provisions of section 17 of the Income Tax Act, 1981, (Act 24 of 1981)
- We are independent from University, governed by an independent set of Trustees specialised in prudent funds management and providing fiduciary oversight
- Our strategies and operations are based on good corporate governance practices, professionalism, and best practice with responsible stewardship at the core
- We understand the critical role of donations in responsible corporate citizenship. We therefore aim to connect donors to opportunities that support development, as well as contribute toward driving sustainable corporate stewardship
- We maintain a bird’s eye view over the University’s priorities and offer a wide range of quality and impactful projects to donate towards such as increasing access and success of students, ensuring impactful research, growing entrepreneurs, empowering faculties, innovation, sport, and culture, etc.
- We offer flexible, personalised and smooth donor experiences making donating targeted, easy, cost-effective, and based on donor needs and values
- We offer networking opportunities for donors with other donors for greater efficiencies and impact in the higher education sector
Foreword by the Chancellor and Patron
As the Chancellor of the University of Namibia and the Patron of the UNAM Foundation, I am deeply honoured to be part of these institutions that stand at the forefront of educational excellence and socio-economic development in our beloved country, Namibia.
The University of Namibia has long been a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and transformation. The UNAM Foundation, in its steadfast dedication, plays a pivotal role in advancing this mission by bridging the gap between the university’s academic pursuits and the broader community. This Corporate Profile reveals the Foundation’s structure, vision, mission, and strategic initiatives that collectively contribute to the empowerment of our nation’s future leaders.
The Foundation’s vision and mission reflect a profound commitment to fostering educational opportunities and addressing socio-economic challenges faced by students and communities. By introducing the distinguished Board of Trustees and the dedicated UNAM Foundation staff, this profile showcases the diverse expertise and shared passion that drives the Foundation’s efforts. It is deeply encouraging to see the strategic framework for 2022–2026 which outlines a clear and ambitious roadmap, ensuring that the Foundation remains aligned with its core objectives and the evolving needs of UNAM and our society at large.
The symbiotic relationship between UNAM and funding partners through the UNAM Foundation is paramount. This partnership is the cornerstone of the Foundation’s success, enabling it to prioritise improved access to higher education and enhanced student success. Through bursary programs and strategic development projects, the Foundation’s outputs not only alleviate financial burdens, but also nurture the academic and personal growth of our students.
The testimonies of students who have benefited from the support facilitated by the Foundation are a testament to the transformative impact of our collective efforts. These stories of resilience and achievement inspire us to continue our pursuit of educational equity and excellence.
As the UNAM Foundation’s appeal for partnership is presented, I extend a heartfelt invitation to all stakeholders to join us in this noble endeavour. By supporting the UNAM Foundation, you are investing in the future of Namibia, raising a generation of informed, skilled, and compassionate leaders.
As I conclude, I wish to commend UNAM Foundation for its unwavering dedication and thank UNAM for providing the necessary support and enabling environment for the Foundation to deliver on its mandate. Together, let us forge ahead with determination and in unity, ensuring that the UNAM and all other institutions of higher learning remain catalysts for positive change and pillars of progress in our nation.
With sincere gratitude and optimism,
DR. NANGOLO MBUMBA
Chancellor of the University of Namibia
Patron of the University of Namibia Foundation
"Dedicated to service excellence"
Ensuring the prudent stewardship of donor gifts is a tremendous responsibility that every Trustee and staff member take very seriously. We therefore factor accountability into every major decision the Foundation and its Board make.
Meet our Board of Trustees
Established in 2019 as a charitable Trust Fund under the authority of the Master of the High Court of Namibia within the Ministry of Justice, the UNAM Foundation plays a pivotal role in securing and managing philanthropic funding in alignment with the University of Namibia’s institutional mission. Governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees, the Foundation provides avenues for friends, alumni, and supporters to contribute to the University’s advancement.
The Board consists of seven trustees who are selected for their professional expertise and steadfast dedication to sound governance principles outlined in the Corporate Governance Code for Namibia (2014).
The Board’s powers, responsibilities, and functions are clearly delineated in the Foundation’s Deed of Trust, underscoring its commitment to transparent and accountable governance as it provides effective and ethical oversight over the management of the Foundation, including overseeing the internal control systems towards ensuring the accuracy of accounting records and the integrity of the data used to prepare financial statements.
Our annual financial statements are based on appropriate accounting policies set out by the Board and consistently applied throughout the Foundation. Financial reporting adheres to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), reflecting the Board’s commitment to financial transparency and accountability. The Board also ensures the accuracy and completeness of financial information to support sound management decision making.
The Board consists of seven trustees who are selected for their professional expertise and steadfast dedication to sound governance principles outlined in the Corporate Governance Code for Namibia (2014).
The Board’s powers, responsibilities, and functions are clearly delineated in the Foundation’s Deed of Trust, underscoring its commitment to transparent and accountable governance as it provides effective and ethical oversight over the management of the Foundation, including overseeing the internal control systems towards ensuring the accuracy of accounting records and the integrity of the data used to prepare financial statements.
Our annual financial statements are based on appropriate accounting policies set out by the Board and consistently applied throughout the Foundation. Financial reporting adheres to the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), reflecting the Board’s commitment to financial transparency and accountability. The Board also ensures the accuracy and completeness of financial information to support sound management decision making.
ChairpersonMs. Dantagos Jimmy-Melani
1 October 2022 to 30 September 2027
TrusteeMr. Nelson Simasiku
1 October 2022 to 30 September 2027
TrusteeMs. Ainna Kaundu
1 April 2022 - 31 March 2027
TrusteeMs. Petronella Karuaihe-Martin
1 April 2022 - 31 March 2027
TrusteeMr. Nicky Mutenda
1 October 2022 - 30 September 2027
TrusteeDr. Simeon Amunkete
1 October 2022 - 30 September 2027
Meet the Team
Meet friendly faces and dedicated experts working to connect donors to opportunities that support development, as well as contribute toward driving sustainable corporate stewardship. Stop by our office on campus or send us a quick email to say hello!
Executive DirectorBernadette Bock
Head: Development & Stakeholder RelationsVacant
Coordinator: Fundraising & Project ManagementNanguloshi Kamutushi
Coordinator: Fundraising & Corporate CommunicationToday Amoomo
Office & Data AdministratorCathrin Fisch
The Foundation’s Responsibilities
- Forging mutual beneficial relationships with a variety of stakeholders on behalf of the University,
- Developing and running various fundraising projects on behalf of the University,
- Receipting and acknowledging donor gifts,
- Directing gifts to separately identifiable funds based on donor intent,
- Handling donor information with respect and confidentiality to the extent provided by law,
- Providing regular project reports to donors,
- Responding to donor questions promptly and truthfully,
- Ensuring spending is consistent with the terms of the donor’s designation,
- Acting as custodian for endowed gifts,
- Organising opportunities for donors to connect with the University community.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO YOU
On an annual basis, an independent external auditor audits the Foundation’s accounts, and provides a review of internal controls and an opinion on whether the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Foundation in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Our audited financial statements are available online.
Our Board of Trustees reports directly to the University Council through the submission of bi-annual activity reports and our audited financial statements. Our Board and leadership maintain an open line of communication with the University Council and Executive Management to ensure that our decisions are made solely to promote the best interests of the donors, the University, and the Foundation. Strategic and operational arrangements which structure the partnership between the Foundation and University are formalised in a Memorandum of Agreement.
We provide regular financial and project implementation updates to all donors unless individual donors have specifically declined to receive these. If preferred, we also provide direct engagement opportunities to donors with the University community, including students, faculties, and campus leadership.
We adhere to strict donor and information confidentiality requirements and preferences.
We adhere to strict donor and information confidentiality requirements and preferences.
We regulate the use of gifts through numerous internal and external controls. Each request from the University to spend donor funds must be approved by the accountable project leader and accounting officer and is individually reviewed by the Foundation to ensure the requested use is consistent with the donor purpose of the funds. Additionally, we provide regular financial statements documenting spending activity for each gift fund to the accountable University project leader.
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Ms. Bernadette Bock
Executive Director
With over 27 years’ experience in strategic planning; project design and management In the humanitarian, mining, sustainable natural resources management and small and medium enterprise development sectors, of which 22 of those were in middle-and senior management positions, Ms. Bock has proven to be the ideal candidate to lead the Foundation in its transformation journey since she joined as Executive Director in early 2021.
Her diverse experience spans across international development agencies, local non-governmental organisations and the private sector. She has vast experience in grant fund management; organizational development and management; risk, compliance and social impact management as well as stakeholder engagement, all rooted in good corporate governance.
Her personal and professional dedication in making a positive impact in the development of our society resonates with the Foundation’s mission to make a sustainable contribution towards the development of higher education, making her a critical resource as we position ourselves towards our future.
Mr. Eric Libongani
Head: Development & Stakeholder Relations
Mr. Eric Libongani serves as the Head of Development & Stakeholder Relations at the University of Namibia Foundation, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to his role. Mr Libongani is responsible of providing strategic and operational leadership for the design and implementation of the key aspects of the Foundation’s strategic plan including all stages of the Foundation’s fundraising function. He is also responsible for the establishment and enhancement of the Foundation’s brand, corporate communication, and stakeholder functions. His enthusiasm for fostering positive stakeholder relationships and effective communication is a cornerstone of his contributions to the team.
Key strengths that Mr. Libongani brings to the UNAM Foundation include strategic thinking, leadership, and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in fundraising initiatives. Outside of work, Mr. Libongani enjoys exploring diverse interests and hobbies. Whether he is engaged in community initiatives, sports, or other activities, his multifaceted personality adds a unique dimension to the team dynamics.
Looking ahead, Mr. Libongani envisions his role evolving to meet the ever-changing landscape of development and stakeholder relations. As the University of Namibia Foundation continues to grow and expand its impact, he is committed to adapting and innovating to ensure the Foundation’s sustained success.
A guiding motto that inspires Mr. Libongani both personally and professionally is, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” This philosophy encapsulates his resilience and determination, motivating him to navigate challenges and drive positive change in his role at the UNAM Foundation.
Mrs. Nanguloshi Kamutushi
Coordinator: Fundraising & Project Management
Mrs. Nanguloshi Kamutushi, a seasoned professional, serves as the Fundraising Coordinator at the UNAM Foundation for the past 5 months. With a decade-long commitment to the Namibian Literacy Trust, she brings a solid background in adult education and project management. Her role involves overseeing fundraising activities and managing implemented projects, contributing to positive changes in students’ lives.
Passionate about making a difference, Mrs. Kamutushi excels in a holistic approach to fundraising, emphasizing relationship building, effective communication, and innovation. Beyond work, she enjoys nature, sports, and leads a recycling project, transforming old tires into creative furniture. Looking ahead, she envisions evolving her role by cultivating a culture of philanthropy and embracing technology, driven by a commitment to continuous improvement.
Her guiding motto, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,” reflects her dedication to positive transformation and a better future for the community and causes she supports.
Mr. Today Amoomo
Coordinator: Fundraising & Corporate Communication
Mr. Today Amoomo is a dynamic marketing and communications professional with over 9 years proven experience of which 5 years were in middle and senior positions. His expertise revolve around stakeholder engagement, fundraising, marketing strategy development, branding, governance, Information communications, and program management.
In the current position as the Fundraising and Corporate Communications Coordinator for the University of Namibia’s Foundation since July 2023, Amoomo excels in implementing strategic fundraising, communications, and stakeholder engagement plans. This role involves managing internal and external communications, cultivating positive relationships with stakeholders, executing fundraising campaigns, and securing financial support for UNAMs crucial programs.
Demonstrating unwavering commitment to our mission, Today’s passion for positively impacting Namibia’s higher education system is inspired by the words of Jean Shafiroff, who aptly stated, “Philanthropy is the investment of your passion, not just the donation of your money.” This sentiment is the driving force behind Today’s fulfilment in working at the UNAM Foundation. His dedication traces back to a commendable five-year tenure at SOS Children’s Villages, where he played a pivotal role in creating loving homes for Namibian children and those in other African nations.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Today extends his commitment to community service, embodying the spirit of giving back. Outside the realm of philanthropy, he wears the hat of a dedicated small business owner, managing both a car part shop and a restaurant. Today’s multifaceted involvement reflects a holistic approach to making a positive impact, both professionally and personally, in the various communities he serves.
Ms. Raquel Booysen
Office & Data Administrator
Ms. Raquel Booysen is an integral member of the UNAM Foundation team, currently serving as the Office & Data Administrator. She has been with us for a total of 1 year and 7 months, initially as the Office Administrator and for the past 3 months in her current role. Her professional background includes co-owning and managing the back office of two companies, highlighting her strong administrative skills. Furthermore, she brings a wealth of experience in communication and marketing, encompassing content creation and graphic design.
Raquel’s dedication to our mission is evident in her passion for positively impacting students’ lives, making this her favourite aspect of working at the UNAM Foundation. Her role is characterised by an array of strengths, including organisational and communication skills, computer proficiency, a commitment to customer service, adaptability, teamwork, leadership, attention to detail, and resourcefulness. Beyond her professional life, Raquel runs a successful marketing agency with her best friend, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and creativity.
Outside of her work commitments, Raquel’s deep-rooted love for fashion shines through. She spends her free time researching and staying updated on the latest fashion trends and collections. When contemplating her future role at the UNAM Foundation, Raquel remains open to the possibilities that lie ahead, demonstrating her flexibility and dedication to our organisation. In both her personal and professional life, she draws inspiration from the words of Bill Cunningham: “Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life.” This motto underscores her unwavering commitment to her work and her passion for fashion, making her an invaluable asset to the UNAM Foundation
Mr. Nelson Zambwe Simasiku
Mr. Simasiku is currently the Portfolio Manager at Pyne Capital, after concluding a five-year period at Nedbank Namibia as the Head of SME Banking. He has extensive experience in the analysis of financial and economic data as well as investment proposals. Furthermore, his skills in risk management, financial services regulation, project management and financial modelling have and will continue to prove of immense value to the UNAM Foundation.
Mr. Nicky Katapa Mutenda
Committees & Position: Chairperson of Audit & Risk Committee, Member of Fundraising & Investment Committee
Background & Experience: Senior Manager: Treasury at Development Bank of Namibia where he oversees the management of a N$ 1.2 billion investment portfolio.
Expertise & Skills: Financial Markets, Investments, Capital Management, Funding, Portfolio Management, Financial Risk
Achievements & Contributions: Winner Asset and Liability Management (ALM) Simulation Competition issued by FirstRand in 2016, Excellence Award issued by Barclays Global Values Recognition Programme in 2014.
Accreditations or Certificates: Registered Charted Accountant with he South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), the institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia (ICAN), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) London and the ACI Financial Markets Association (ACI FMA) Paris, France.
Write up: Mr. Nicky Katapa Mutenda serves as a Trustee Member on the Board of Trustees at the UNAM Foundation. With a role as Chairperson of the Audit & Risk Committee and as a Member of the Fundraising & Investment Committee, he brings substantial expertise in Financial Markets, Investments, Capital Management, Funding, Portfolio Management, and Financial Risk.
Currently holding the position of Senior Manager: Treasury at Development Bank of Namibia, Mr. Mutenda oversees a substantial N$ 1.2 billion investment portfolio, demonstrating adeptness in managing financial resources at a strategic level.
His outstanding achievements include winning the Asset and Liability Management (ALM) Simulation Competition issued by FirstRand in 2016 and receiving the Excellence Award from Barclays Global Values Recognition Programme in 2014.
Mr. Mutenda holds esteemed accreditations as a Registered Chartered Accountant with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia (ICAN), and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) London. Additionally, he is a member of the ACI Financial Markets Association (ACI FMA) in Paris, France, underlining his commitment to professional excellence and global financial standards.
Ms. Petronella Amalia Karuaihe-Martin
Committees & Position: Member of Audit & Risk Committee
Background & Experience: Managing Director of the Namibia National Reinsurance Corporation Ltd with 28 years of working experience at various institutions in the financial sector.
Expertise & Skills: Insurance, Reinsurance, Taxation, Internal Audit, Accounting, Finance & Business Strategy, Project Management, Valuations, Advisory Consulting, Risk, Corporate Governance
Achievements & Contributions: Country Winner (Namibia) & Regional Winner (SADC) of Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government Awards in 2017, Country Winner & Regional Winner of CEO of Titans and Global Awards in 2017.
Write up : Ms. Petronella Amalia Karuaihe-Martin is a Trustee Member on the Board of Trustees at the UNAM Foundation, also serving as a Member of the Audit & Risk Committee. With 28 years of invaluable experience in the financial sector, she currently holds the esteemed position of Managing Director at the Namibia National Reinsurance Corporation Ltd.
Her extensive expertise spans across various domains including Insurance, Reinsurance, Taxation, Internal Audit, Accounting, Finance & Business Strategy, Project Management, Valuations, Advisory Consulting, Risk, and Corporate Governance.
Ms. Karuaihe-Martin’s remarkable achievements include earning the titles of Country Winner (Namibia) & Regional Winner (SADC) at the Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government Awards in 2017. Additionally, she received accolades as the Country Winner & Regional Winner of the CEO of Titans and Global Awards in the same year, showcasing her exemplary leadership and influence in the industry.
Ms. Ainna Vilengi Kaundu
Committees & Position: Member of Audit & Risk Committee
Background & Experience: Executive: Intellectual Property Registration Services at the Business and Intellectual Property Authority. She is an admitted Legal Practitioner.
Expertise & Skills: Compliance, Policy, Risk Management and Corporate Governance Management, Strategic Planning and Management
Ms. Ainna Vilengi Kaundu serves as a Trustee Member on the Board of Trustees at the UNAM Foundation and contributes actively as a Member of the Audit & Risk Committee. Currently holding the position of Executive: Intellectual Property Registration Services at the Business and Intellectual Property Authority, she is also an admitted Legal Practitioner.
Ms. Kaundu brings a wealth of expertise in Compliance, Policy, Risk Management, Corporate Governance, and Strategic Planning and Management. Her professional acumen and legal background contribute significantly to the effective governance and strategic direction of the foundation.
Dr. Simeon Amunkete
Committees & Position: Chairperson of the Executive Committee
Background & Experience: Registered Psychologist, Human resources management for 23 years, corporate governance
Expertise & Skills: Industrial Psychology, Board Experience, Human Resource Management, Strategic Vision, corporate governance, Remuneration, HR Consulting.
Current Role & Responsibilities: Senior Manager: Human resources
Accreditations or Certificates: Bachelor of Arts (B.A) honors in Psychology, Master of Arts – Industrial Psychology, Masters of commerce in PM, PhD industrial and Organizational Psychology
Dr. Simeon Amunkete, is a dedicated trustee on the UNAM Foundation Board, whose journey is marked by a profound commitment to philanthropy and community development. Inspired by the impactful work of a foundation in his current professional milieu, Dr. Amunkete’s passion for serving others and contributing to noble causes has led him to join the UNAM Foundation.
With a background as a trained and registered Industrial Psychologist, coupled with extensive experience in Human Resource Management and directorial roles in public enterprises, Dr. Amunkete brings a wealth of expertise to the Board. His unique perspective as an independent director aligns seamlessly with the Foundation’s goals, allowing him to contribute significantly to human resource-related issues and corporate governance matters.
Assigned as the Chairperson of the Executive Committee, a key subcommittee of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Amunkete is poised to play a pivotal role in steering the Foundation towards its objectives. Emphasizing the challenges of sustaining the Foundation’s mission and ensuring clarity of purpose among stakeholders, he envisions a positive impact through ethical governance, increased donor engagement, and support for university programs and students in need. Dr. Amunkete’s personal commitment to higher education and philanthropy reflects a genuine desire to create opportunities for educational advancement, making him an invaluable asset to the UNAM Foundation.
Ms. Dantagos Jimmy-Melani
Committees & Position: Member of EXCO and Fundraising & Investment Committee
Background & Experience: Managing Director & Founder of Ndapunikwa Investments Management, working as a Corporate Governance Consultant & Financial Market Consultant.
Expertise & Skills: Portfolio Management, Risk Management, Business Strategy, Investment Management, Financial Analysis, Business Development Achievements & Contributions: Best Movie Southern Africa: Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2022 for the film “Bokwagter” which she is the producer of, Best Narrative Film Award 2019 for production of Hairareb Feature Film, Country Winner: Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government 2019, Accreditations or Certificates: Registered Person with the South African Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM), certified Registered Securities Trader for the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).
Write up: Ms. Dantagos Naomi Jimmy-Melani serves as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees at the UNAM Foundation, bringing extensive expertise in Corporate Governance and Financial Market Consultancy. As the Managing Director and Founder of Ndapunikwa Investments Management, her leadership encompasses roles as a Corporate Governance Consultant & Financial Market Consultant.
Her specialized skills span Portfolio Management, Risk Management, Business Strategy, Investment Management, Financial Analysis, and Business Development. Notable accolades include the prestigious Best Movie Southern Africa Award (Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2022) for her production “Bokwagter” and the Best Narrative Film Award in 2019 for “Hairareb Feature Film.” Additionally, she was recognized as the Country Winner at Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government 2019.
Ms. Jimmy-Melani holds accreditations as a Registered Person with the South African Institute of Financial Markets (SAIFM) and is a certified Registered Securities Trader for the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), showcasing her commitment to professional excellence and the financial market.