Gift announcement

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.