An interview with a successful SU bursar—Tessa

Place of birth, education

From humble beginnings, born and raised in Elim, a village in Omusati region. Just like an ordinary village girl, I grew up collecting fire wood, feeding chicken and pounding Omahangu. I started my childhood education at Elim Junior Primary, where I attended grade one before my parents sent me to a boarding school - St. Michaels’s RC Primary school in Outjo, where I completed my primary education. Thereafter I went to St Joseph’s RC High School (Dobra) outside Windhoek. I obtained National Diploma in Geomatics from Polytechnic of Namibia. Currently I’m in my final year pursuing bachelor’s degree in Land Surveying at Cape Peninsula University of Technology as an SU bursar.

What do you like about SU?

I love The fact that SU is committed to empowering women in mining.  I wouldn’t have made it this far if it wasn’t for my Company.

Share to us your thoughts about SU bursary scheme?

The bursary scheme is quite nice because it provides financial assistance for those who want to pursue their studies but come from a previously disadvantaged background.  I also love the fact that it offers work integration learning which is beneficial for those without any work experience.

Any changes you would suggest?

Probably just to check up on their students between semesters to see how they’re coping. Just for motivation. School can get rough.

What would you like to see happening at SU?

This is a tough one. Every time I come back to SU from school, something changed for the better. And I am happy with the changes and improvements that have been happening with the company regarding production and the safety of the employees. The implementation of the “continuous improvement” scheme has been one of the good moves as it gives an opportunity for employee to share their ideas, so I guess I still have a chance to answer this as long as I am within the SU.

Would you encourage more women to seek employment opportunities in Mining?

I will definitely encourage women to seek employment in mining because it is a good challenging space especially for those who love challenges and for those who are passionate about practical and hands on work.

What has your time at SU taught you?

Professionalism. SU enhanced my surveying skills and intensified my interpersonal relationship of working with people from different cultures.

What’s next after completing your studies?

Invest back the knowledge and skills I gained from my studies and continue to grow within SU.