Prioritising customer service for 23 years

Magdalena Tjerivanga has worked at the British High Commission in Namibia for the past 23 years.

"I've always wanted to work in hospitality, and I've been fortunate to work in my current position for what I consider to be the most rewarding and evolving time of my life", she said.

Tjerivanga, who values family, enjoys being in the company of others, particularly her family.

She hails from Aminus in Omaheke. She has eight siblings, one of whom is her twin sister. Tjerivanga has two sons and three daughters, as well as grandchildren. "I enjoy spending time with my children, cooking for them, and going to church with them."



Service values

At the high commission, she has provided housekeeping services to the official residence, its public spaces, and VIP guest accommodations.

She has also assisted with food and beverage services, working directly with the residence manager and chef.

She has actively engaged in the planning and hosting of various high-profile events and is rather proud of her abilities to manage and coordinate the waiting staff, ensuring that they all work together to deliver unforgettable occasions.

Serving has its ups and downs, but Tjerivanga said she enjoys working with her colleagues from the commission's many sections.

She said she is grateful for the opportunities to meet individuals from all walks of life and cater to their diverse experiences and expectations, which has made her a more adaptable and inclusive individual.

Tjerivanga praised her colleagues for being helpful and friendly.

"I enjoy going to work and look forward to each day because the folks I work with are supportive and honest."

She also praised the organisation's commitment to staff development.

"Our culture values learning and development. It is encouraged through mandated training programmes as well as elective options to develop your abilities. Growth is not restricted to one's sector of employment, and depending on one's hobbies, there are opportunities to master completely new talents".



Workplace demands

Tjerivanga highlighted how she tackles the daily demands of her work.

"One tough aspect of my employment is the high quality of cleanliness and hygiene that is always expected around the residence. When it comes to meeting the expectations of guests, sanitation and hygiene are of the utmost significance when working in hospitality," she said.

However, she has a sound strategy in place: "I overcame it by making a daily roster that allows me to split the various jobs and activities essential for me to maintain things clean and sanitary. I also make every effort to stay current on new technology and cleaning processes that are available on the market. I consider myself fortunate to have a job amid these difficult times."

Tjerivanga expressed genuine gratitude to all of the high commissioners with whom she has had the pleasure of working. who, according to her, have taught her a lot of things that she will remember as she continues on her journey. "When I retire, I hope to leave a legacy of perseverance and hard work".