Be your own inspiration

Rosalia Doeses’ journey is an inspiration for all Namibians
Mariselle Stofberg
Wetumwene Shikage

Rosalia Doeses was born and raised in Windhoek and lived her whole life in the suburbs of Katutura.

"It was not always easy growing up as we faced many challenges, but I did always enjoy school. I started at Wanaheda Primary School, today Martti Ahtisaari Primary School, and then I continued to Ella Du Plessis,” Rosalia said.

After high school, Rosalia did not get the opportunity to continue study further, due to a lack of money.

Instead, Rosalia started working. Her first job in 2008 was as a merchandiser. Later she also worked as a waitress and a cashier.

2014 was a turning point in her life, she explained, when God answered her prayers and Pupkewitz Megabuild appointed her as a cashier. Soon she was promoted to the position of help desk advisor at the Windhoek central branch.

Today, Rosalia is a proud tertiary education student.

"I never had the opportunity to study. Pupkewitz Megabuild granted me the chance to study. Currently, I am doing my second year in office administration. I am so happy that I can study and finally pursue my dreams,” she said.

When she completes her studies, she is keen to continue her career in the human resources department.

She believes that one day she can become a great leader within the company. “Success is moving one step further from where I was yesterday to where I’m planning on going!”

In the end, Rosalia wants to encourage women to believe in themselves and support each other.

"Make something of yourself and prioritise yourself. Focus on you and let no one or anything stop you from achieving your goals,” she said.

Happy

Rosalia has been working for the company for over six years now and says that she sees no end.

"I am honoured to work for such a prestigious company. Pupkewitz Megabuild is one of the largest companies that contribute to the economy of Namibia. It looks after its employees and the community at large. The Pupkewitz Foundation gives back to society every year by doing amazing projects like the feeding scheme," she said.

She added that the company allows its employees to grow within the company and that the benefits offered are very good. One of her favourite benefits is the educational opportunities that she has benefited from, in addition to the ex-gratia payment for employees on maternity leave.

In the case where a female employee’s basic gross salary is more than the maximum amount paid by Social Security Commission, the company will pay the difference to ensure an employee's salary is not impacted.

Daily tasks

Rosalia works closely with customers and employees every day.

Her typical day does not entail anything she cannot handle, but she admits it can be “quite challenging. I prioritise difficult task’s first and the rest follows.”

The strategy of taking on the most difficult tasks first has been key to her success, she explained.

She has also learnt to be flexible and handle even the most challenging situations with care and friendliness.

Rosalia says that she knows how important every customer is to the company and thus tries her very best with each one. She has also mastered good telephone etiquette and a pleasant speaking tone.