The Katuka Mentorship Programme marked a meaningful milestone on 19 November, gathering to celebrate the women who completed the 2025 journey and to warmly welcome the new 2026 cohort into the Katuka family.
Founded in 2001, Katuka was born from a simple but powerful belief: that women grow best through genuine connection, guidance, and shared experience. For 24 years, the programme has created a safe and supportive space where women uplift one another, learn together, and step more confidently into their potential. To date, 573 women have been empowered through Katuka, including the 48 women who completed the programme in 2025.
This year, interest in the programme once again reflected its relevance and impact. Katuka received 84 mentee applications and 34 mentor applications. After a thoughtful selection and matching process, 55 mentors and mentees were confirmed for the 2026 cohort.
Reflecting on what truly sets Katuka apart, Founder and Programme Director Deseré Lundon-Muller shared that the programme’s strength lies beyond structure or schedules.
“What makes Katuka special is not the timetable. It is the heart. It is the willingness of experienced women to open their doors to others, and the courage of younger women to stretch themselves, to learn, to ask questions, and to rise.”
Addressing the 2025 mentees, Lundon-Muller spoke from personal experience, having trained them throughout the year.
“I witnessed your progress, your breakthroughs, and those moments when things suddenly made sense. Each of you showed commitment and a deep hunger to grow. You should be very proud of yourselves.”
She also paid tribute to the mentors whose generosity of time and spirit sustains the programme year after year.
“You gave your wisdom, your energy, and your hearts. You don’t just guide; you ignite belief. Thank you for being pillars of Katuka.”
Mentee Maria Ndazapo, Chief Operations Officer at Netvend Metering Solutions, reflected on how a series of thoughtful questions from her mentor led to powerful self-awareness. She shared that when navigating difficult workplace relationships, she realised that “the enemy is sometimes the system, the situation, the emotion, the mindset — not the person.”
Rather than fighting, she learned the importance of finding ways to work together towards shared goals and creating healthier, more productive environments.
Long-time mentor Abena Tambrescu, who has served the programme for seven years, spoke of the fulfilment the role continues to bring her.
“I have never regretted being part of Katuka. It shapes incredible lives, and I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside remarkable mentees over the years. I am deeply honoured to serve.”
She added that watching women confront their fears, grow in confidence, and step into their purpose keeps her motivated.
“Seeing my mentees blossom professionally, personally, and emotionally gives me the courage to keep showing up. Each success story reminds me why this work matters so deeply.”
Bank Windhoek, Katuka’s long-standing sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment to women’s empowerment. Bronwyn Moody, Head of Stakeholder Engagement, CRS and Sponsorships, described Katuka as a “fantastic programme of self-discovery and empowerment guided by experienced mentors.”
She emphasised that the programme aligns with the bank’s belief in trust, growth, and creating meaningful impact among Namibian women in business.
Concluding the ceremony, Lundon-Muller expressed heartfelt gratitude to Katuka’s patron, Honourable Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi, Minister of Agriculture, for her guidance and unwavering support. She also thanked Bank Windhoek, Katuka’s trainers, partners, mentors, and the wider Katuka community for their continued commitment to shaping confident, capable women leaders.
At its core, Katuka remains a journey of connection, courage, and growth — one woman, one conversation, and one year at a time.