Crafting the Future: Hands That Build

(By Kimberley-Rose Madzima)

At the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre (WVTC), young people are shaping Namibia’s future with their hands and skills.

For Rita Iyaloo Leonard, a Joinery and Cabinet Making student, learning carpentry is more than just a trade. It’s a way to create, contribute and show how Namibia’s youth are actively building the country’s future.

As Namibia celebrates 36 years of independence, Leonard says the milestone reminds her of the opportunities available to young people today.

“For me, it is a reminder of how far Namibia has come since independence. As a young vocational student, I feel grateful for the opportunities we have today to study and gain practical skills. It motivates me to work hard and use my skills to help develop our country and support my community.”

Her passion for carpentry started with a love for working with her hands and creating things. Through her training, Leonard has gained both technical and personal skills including measuring and cutting wood accurately, using carpentry tools safely, designing and assembling furniture, as well as teamwork and problem-solving.

Although carpentry is often seen as a male-dominated field, Leonard says determination and skill matter more than gender.

“Being in this trade has helped me grow in confidence and prove that women can also succeed in technical fields,” she says.

She believes vocational skills play an important role in Namibia’s development.

“Carpenters help build homes, schools, furniture and many other things that people need every day. By training more young people in these skills, Namibia can create jobs, support small businesses and grow the economy.”

Looking ahead, Leonard hopes to become a professional carpenter and eventually start her own carpentry business, while inspiring other young women to pursue vocational careers.

‘’My message is to believe in yourself and follow your passion. Skilled trades offer great

opportunities. Women should not feel limited by stereotypes. With hard work and dedication, they can succeed in fields like carpentry, welding or construction’’ she says,  proving that the hands shaping wood today may also be helping build the Namibia of tomorrow.

 Rita Iyaloo Leonard is a Joinery and Cabinet Making student at Windhoek Vocational Training Centre. You can find her on instagram @iyaloo_200