By Thembeka Gcilisha
The hospitality industry in Namibia is often described as the heart of the tourism sector, but for me, as a Hospitality and Events Management student at IUM, it already feels like something more personal. It is not just an industry I’m studying, but one I can see myself growing in. Whether it’s a lodge in the desert, a hotel in Windhoek, or a well-coordinated event, hospitality is one of the main ways Namibia presents itself to the world, and that responsibility makes the industry path exciting and important.
One of the biggest reasons I chose this field is because of how diverse it is. You are not stuck in one role for life. You can move between departments like food and beverages, front office, events, or even management as you gain experience. I like that it’s an industry where your personality, your attitude, and how you treat people really matter. It makes it feel more human compared to careers that are only focused on theory or routine work.
Another thing I have come to appreciate is the exposure hospitality gives you. You get to interact with people from different cultures, backgrounds, and personalities almost every day. It teaches you patience, communication, and how to stay professional even in stressful situations. I have also realised how important teamwork is, a guest’s experience depends on everyone doing their part, not just one person.
From my experience so far at IUM, I have really enjoyed how practical the course is. We don’t just sit and learn theory. We actually practice what the industry is like. For example, during one of our food and beverage practicals, we had to cook, serve, and set tables professionally and be assessed accordingly. We also go to the simulation room to practice housekeeping and act out real-life scenarios. That experience showed me how much attention to detail matters and how small things can affect a guest’s overall stay. It also made me realise that this career requires patience and consistency, not just passion.
Looking at job opportunities, Namibia’s tourism and hospitality sector still has a lot of potential. Hotels, lodges, restaurants, conference venues, and event companies all need trained staff. What I also like is that you do not have to rely only on employment. You can create your own opportunities through businesses like catering, décor, event planning, or even opening a small guesthouse. That independence is something that really attracts me to this field.
In addition to this, I believe the hospitality industry plays a very important role in Namibia’s overall economy and national identity. Tourism brings in international visitors, creates foreign income, and supports many other sectors such as transport, agriculture, arts, and retail. When guests stay at a lodge, eat at a restaurant, or attend an event, they are not only supporting that one business, but a whole network of suppliers and workers behind the scenes. This means that strengthening hospitality does not only benefit individuals in the industry, but contributes to the country’s development as a whole.
Hospitality also has the power to preserve and promote Namibian culture. Through food, music, décor, storytelling, and customer experiences, we are able to share our heritage with visitors in a meaningful way. This is especially important in a country as culturally rich and diverse as Namibia. As young professionals entering the industry, we have the opportunity to be proud ambassadors of our country and ensure that visitors leave with a positive and memorable impression.
Another important aspect is sustainability. As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the hospitality industry must also adapt. Lodges, hotels, and event planners are increasingly expected to reduce waste, save water and energy, and operate in a way that respects the natural environment. In Namibia, where our landscapes and wildlife are a major attraction, sustainable practices are not just a trend but a responsibility. I believe that as students and future leaders in hospitality, we should be trained not only in service delivery, but also in responsible and sustainable business practices that protect our country for future generations.
Technology is also changing the way hospitality operates. Online bookings, digital marketing, social media reviews, and management systems are now part of everyday operations. This means that students in this field need to be adaptable and willing to learn continuously. While technology can be a challenge in some workplaces, it also creates opportunities for innovation, better customer service, and business growth. For example, a small guesthouse can now market itself globally through online platforms, something that was not as accessible in the past.
At the same time, it is important to be honest about the challenges. The working hours can be long, especially on weekends and public holidays. Entry-level pay is not always high, and sometimes there is not clear career growth in certain workplaces. People working in hospitality may be looked down upon in society, especially those in housekeeping. New technology adoption may also be a challenge. In Namibia, I also think there is still a gap between what students are taught and what some workplaces expect in reality.
However, these things can be improved. Employers need to invest more in staff development, fair pay, and proper career structures. Universities are preparing students well, but stronger partnerships with industry could improve internships and job opportunities after graduation. Government support for tourism and small hospitality businesses would help create more jobs and strengthen the industry.
For young people who may be considering their career options, I would encourage them to look at hospitality with an open mind. It is a field that rewards hard work, creativity, and people skills. It is not always easy, but it can be very fulfilling. You have the chance to grow professionally, meet people from all over the world, and even travel or work internationally if you choose to. Most importantly, you are part of creating experiences that people remember for a lifetime.
From a personal point of view, studying hospitality and events management has already helped me grow not only academically, but also as a person. I have become more confident, more organised, and more aware of how to work with different types of people. These are skills that are valuable not only in this industry, but in life in general. That is why I believe more recognition should be given to hospitality as a serious and respectable career choice.
Overall, I believe the hospitality industry in Namibia has strong potential and deserves to be taken seriously as a professional career path. While it comes with challenges, it is an industry that builds people, connects cultures, and contributes meaningfully to the country’s economy. For me, it is not just a course I am studying, but a future I am proud to be part of.
- Thembeka Gcilisha is a 2nd year hospitality and events management student
