Ohlthaver & List Group (O&L) has officially welcomed 13 talented individuals into its 2025 Emerging Talent programme, reinforcing the Group's commitment to developing Namibia's future workforce and addressing critical youth unemployment challenges.
The diverse cohort of recent graduates has been strategically placed across various O&L Operating Companies (OpCos) in specialised roles spanning business development, culinary arts, engineering, human resources, finance and procurement - areas where Namibia faces skills shortages. This year's intake demonstrates the breadth of opportunities available within the O&L portfolio and the Group's dedication to nurturing talent across multiple industries.
"Youth unemployment in Namibia remains a significant challenge, with rates considerably higher than the overall unemployment figures," said Terence Makari, Chief Human Capital Officer at O&L. "We recognise that young, educated Namibians face a critical mismatch between their skills and labour market demands. The most difficult period for any graduate is securing that first opportunity – no matter how qualified they are, everyone seeks job experience, yet few companies are prepared to offer that crucial first step into the working world."
Makari emphasised O&L's role in breaking this cycle: "As Namibia's largest private employer, we understand our responsibility to provide meaningful opportunities for young professionals. Through our Emerging Talent programme, we’re offering jobs and creating pathways for future leaders while addressing the skills shortage in our economy."
"Addressing youth unemployment requires investment in education, skills development and entrepreneurship, as well as collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society," Makari concluded. "Through initiatives like our Emerging Talent programme, we're demonstrating how the private sector can play a meaningful role in developing the next generation of leaders and contributing to Namibia's economic growth."
