Serving with passion

Nicky Rooi came to Windhoek with a passion to serve, and he is doing just that.
Tunohole Mungoba
Octavia Tsibes



Born in Karasburg, 32-year-old Nicky Rooi made his way to Windhoek after completing his matric.

He was in search of greener pastures.

At that time, Rooi didn’t know what exactly he wanted to do; all he knew is that he wanted to serve people.

In 2005 he found a job in the hospitality industry and ever since then he has not looked back.

Rooi, who has been employed at Hotel Thule as a waiter for nearly three years, says the industry for him.

He has been in the industry for over 10 years.

He never obtained any formal training for his job.

“My number of years of experience made me in this industry and helped me to elevate myself,” he says.

Rooi says in the hospitality industry you receive on-the-job training that equips you thoroughly.

“Employers in the hospitality industry should make it their goal to train those employees who don’t have a formal education, through short courses. Hotel Thule provides short courses that equip me to do my work better,” he adds.

“The tourism industry is the best industry to work for, because it isn’t affected by any economic instability. Namibia is very fortunate to have a great number of tourists coming in,” he says.

Rooi’s day working starts at 14:00, when he is required to setup and prepare for dinner at his workplace.

“I get excited to work because it allows me to do what makes me happy.”

One of the highlights of his career is customer satisfaction.

“You can love what you do, you can love to serve people, but it is in vain when you don’t see a smile on their faces.”

Rooi loves many things besides being at his workplace.

He enjoys watching drama series and would love to join a drama club to polish his acting skills.