• Careers

QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine ­geologist drives operational excellence

• 22 Hours Ago

What started as a love for geography in the classroom has evolved into a powerful career in the mining sector.



Ndinelao Nghishitende is a professional geologist whose impact in the field goes beyond rocks and minerals.



She is a leader dedicated to safety, integrity and continuous growth.



Nghishitende’s fascination with Earth sciences began in secondary school, where geography sparked a deeper interest in the natural world.



“I listed all geography-related careers, and geology stood out,” she said.



That decision led her to earn an honours degree in geology from the University of Namibia, setting the stage for a career built on passion and precision.



Nghishitende has worked as a geologist at QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine since 2021.



“My primary focus is on managing ore resources, and my time at QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine has played a key role in shaping me into a versatile professional,” she said.



She began her journey at QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine as a production geologist, building on similar experience gained at Tschudi Copper Mine.



“Initially, I saw myself solely in production geology, but QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine recognised my broader potential and provided growth opportunities. Today, I am ­actively involved in grade control modelling, ore movement coordination and stockpile management,” she said.



“Throughout my career, I have emphasised continuous professional development, networking and staying current with geological practices to enhance my career prospects and contribute meaningfully to the mining industry.”



Leadership drives ­excellence



From logging drill chips as an assistant to leading geological teams, Nghishitende has moved through the ranks in both open-pit and exploration environments. She has held positions as a junior, mid-level and senior geologist, each role strengthening her technical skills and leadership abilities.



Even during industry downturns that resulted in retrenchments, she remained committed to the profession.



“Geology is broad. Even when I was unemployed, I knew I’d return,” she explained.



Her current role focuses on safeguarding ore resources while mentoring teams and driving operational excellence.



Every task, she noted, brings something new to learn, and that’s what keeps her motivated.



At the core of Nghishitende’s professional approach are four key values: integrity, curiosity, collaboration and safety.



“In ore reporting, honesty is everything,” she said. “The success of an entire operation can depend on a single report.”



Equally important to her leadership style is emotional intelligence.



By tailoring communication to each individual and holding daily reflection sessions with herself, she fosters a healthy, responsive team environment. “I’ve learned to be intentional with my words and actions,” she explained. “Self-awareness makes you a better leader.” For her, safety is non-negotiable. “It’s okay to pause work if it’s unsafe. Everyone deserves to go home to their families.”



Working in geology means being constantly on the move, but Nghishitende has found effective ways to manage the pressure. “Time management is key,” she noted.



“I schedule my tasks daily and don’t take work home unless it’s absolutely urgent.”



Running every day has become her form of therapy, helping her recharge and maintain mental and physical health.



She also believes in clear boundaries and prioritising self-care. To those hoping to follow in her footsteps, her advice is: “Be passionate, be curious and never stop learning. Don’t limit yourself; geology is more than rocks. It’s about adapting, growing and creating impact.”