Tell us about yourself and what made you choose your program at UniAthena.
My name is Tuhafeni Kristofina Litengula, and I am currently pursuing further studies to realize my aspiration of becoming a lecturer at local institutions in Namibia. I hold a Bachelor’s degree from Stadio Higher Institution in South Africa and a National Trade Certificate in Fitter Machinery from the Namibia Institute of Mining and Technology, which also included certificates N1-N3 in the field. Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience working for Meatco, first as a Fitter Artisan and later transitioning into a Quality Assurance Officer role. It is through my diverse experiences in both technical and administrative roles that I have developed a passion for Education and decided to pursue this path.
How do you think it will help you in your future career?
I decided to enroll in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UniAthena because of its flexible, online format, which suits my current professional and personal circumstances. Given that I aspire to become a lecturer, I wanted to pursue a program that could align with my professional experience while equipping me with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach future generations of students. UniAthena’s MBA program offers me the opportunity to study at my own pace while maintaining a balance with my work and personal commitments. The program's comprehensive curriculum is an ideal fit to sharpen my leadership, organizational, and business management skills, which will directly contribute to my future academic career.
What are you most excited to learn or explore next in your studies?
I decided to enroll in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UniAthena because of its flexible, online format, which suits my current professional and personal circumstances. Given that I aspire to become a lecturer, I wanted to pursue a program that could align with my professional experience while equipping me with the knowledge and skills to effectively teach future generations of students. UniAthena’s MBA program offers me the opportunity to study at my own pace while maintaining a balance with my work and personal commitments. The program's comprehensive curriculum is an ideal fit to sharpen my leadership, organizational, and business management skills, which will directly contribute to my future academic career.
What are you most excited to learn or explore next in your studies?
In my studies, I am particularly excited to explore the areas of strategic management, leadership, and business analytics. These subjects are essential to becoming a well-rounded educator, capable of translating complex business theories into practical applications for students. As I progress in my studies, I look forward to gaining deeper insights into how businesses operate on a global scale, how leaders make decisions, and how to foster innovative thinking in both business settings and educational environments. This knowledge will not only help me in my own professional life but will also serve as the foundation of my future teaching career.
Could you outline your career goals you have in mind for after completing your current academic journey?
Upon completing my MBA at UniAthena, I plan to continue pursuing my goal of becoming a lecturer at a local institution in Namibia. I believe that the combination of practical experience, coupled with an advanced degree in business administration, will allow me to make a meaningful contribution to the academic community. My ultimate goal is to teach students the importance of business ethics, leadership, and management, empowering them to pursue successful careers in the global marketplace. Additionally, I aim to inspire students to appreciate the value of lifelong learning, a concept I hold dear.
How are you managing your studies along with the work in your personal life?
Balancing my studies with my career as a Quality Assurance Officer at Meatco and my personal life has been challenging but manageable. Time management has been key to staying on top of my responsibilities. I create a structured weekly schedule that includes specific time slots for studying, work, and personal activities. This approach allows me to remain focused and ensures that I can dedicate time to my academic pursuits while still excelling in my professional role and spending quality time with my family.
Share a specific example of a challenging goal you set for yourself and successfully accomplished. What did you learn from this experience?
A specific goal I set for myself was transitioning to a Quality Assurance Officer at Meatco. The shift required me to learn new skills, such as attention to detail, understanding quality standards, and navigating complex compliance processes. I successfully accomplished this by taking initiative to learn from my colleagues and dedicating extra time to understanding the company’s quality control systems. This experience taught me the value of adaptability and persistence when faced with challenges. It also reinforced the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.
From your experiences so far, what personal qualities do you think are important for achieving success?
From my experiences so far, I believe the most important qualities for achieving success are perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to self-development. It is essential to stay focused on your goals, even when the road gets tough.
Tell us about a time when you stepped outside your comfort zone to take on a leadership role. What was the outcome?
One particular instance where I stepped outside my comfort zone was when I took on a leadership role as a mentor to new Quality Assurance officers at Meatco. Although I had no prior leadership experience, I recognized the opportunity to contribute to the success of the team. I took the initiative to guide my colleagues, sharing my knowledge and helping them integrate into the company’s quality assurance processes. This experience not only enhanced my leadership skills but also provided me with a sense of fulfillment in helping others succeed.
If you could recommend one book that you believe everyone should read, what would it be and why?
If I could recommend one book for everyone to read, it would be "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey. This book is a timeless guide to personal and professional development, offering practical advice on how to prioritize tasks, work with others, and stay focused on what truly matters. It has been invaluable in my own journey, helping me build a strong foundation for both my career and academic goals.
What is your dream job and what motivates you about it?
My dream job is to become a Lecturer at a reputable institution, where I can teach and inspire future generations of students. I am motivated by the desire to contribute to the educational landscape in Namibia, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the business world. I believe that education is a powerful tool for change and progress, and I am eager to play my part in shaping the minds of tomorrow’s leaders.
What advice would you offer to professionals who are just starting their careers based on your own experiences?
I would advise them to embrace challenges, stay curious, and never stop learning. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the beginning, but with dedication and an open mind, success will follow. Be proactive in seeking opportunities for growth, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your career is a journey, and every experience is an opportunity to learn and improve.