By Jeremiah Ndjoze

While similar Namibian youths continue to grapple under the bane of unemployment, with many fingering the government for their misfortune, Victor Ndishishi, a 28 year old man from Windhoek is blazing a trail out of the doldrums of poverty, in pursuit of entrepreneurial excellence. 
Nestled deep in the heart of Katutura’s Wanaheda neighbourhood, his workshop is far more than just another enterprise. It is a catalyst for transformation where metal and wood is morphed into some of the most aesthetically correct creations – by determined, upcoming youths. 
“We do welding and metal fabrication as well as burglar doors and burglar iron for windows. We also create tables, chairs, barbeque smokers and braai stands. In fact, we are versatile and can do any welding related project in a timely and efficient way,” Ndishishi told Confidente this week. 
It goes without saying that Ndishishi’s drive speaks to the importance of vocational training in the country and the positive correlation between TVET and the booming informal business sector.  
“I am a TVET student at Namcol and I have three permanent students in my employ, to help ease the burden of work, while giving them a chance to grow and provide for themselves,” Ndishishi revealed. These employees are Titus Iifo (25) and Abel Nekongo (25).
“I basically give on-the-job training to my employees and they have demonstrated that they take it seriously,” Ndishishi revealed, hinting that with the nurturing of these upcoming talents, the broader community stands to unlock innovation, resulting in reduced unemployment, while building a resilient, inclusive and forward looking economy.
Ndishishi’s story is a sign that, with the right policy framework and ecosystem – targeted training, accessible funding, infrastructure investment, and protection for creatives – the next generation of entrepreneurs will play a pivotal role in shaping Namibia’s future.