https://www.facebook.com/110696285435980/

WOPISA, P. O BOX 23941, Windhoek (2026)

21/03/2026

WOPISA NAMIBIA's INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE (36 YEARS OF FREEDOM)

As Namibia proudly commemorates 36 years of independence, Women of Positive Influence in Southern Africa (WOPISA) pays tribute to the unwavering strength, courage, and resilience of women who played a pivotal role in the liberation struggle of our nation.

The story of Namibia’s independence cannot be told without honoring the fearless women who stood at the forefront as freedom fighters, mobilizers, nurturers, and silent strategists. These women defied oppression, challenged injustice, and sacrificed greatly to ensure that future generations would live in a free and independent Namibia.

Today, we celebrate not only their historical contributions but also the remarkable strides women continue to make in shaping Namibia’s socio-economic development. From governance and leadership to healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, and community development, women are central to the nation’s progress.

WOPISA proudly recognizes Women pioneers, trailblazing leaders and national figures who embody excellence, resilience, and transformative leadership:

1. Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the first minister of Gender and now the first female president of Namibia.

2. Dr. Albertina Amathila, the first Namibian Female Doctor, First Female Cabinet Minister and the first female deputy prime minister of the Republic of Namibia.
3. Dr. Saara Kuugongelwa Amadhila, the first Female Director General of the National Planning Commission, first Female Finance Minister, and First female prime minister.
4. Hon Lucia witbooi, current vice president of the Republic of Namibia.
5. Madam Monica Geingos, 3rd First Lady of the Republic of Namibia and the Founder of One Economy Foundation.

Other women worth acknowledging are:
1. Loide Kasingo, the first Female speaker of the national assembly.
2. Dr. Helena Ndume, Namibian world- renowned eye specialist.
3. Madam Esi Malaika Schimming-chase, the first Female permanent Supreme Court Judge.
4. Dr Martha Mwandinomho Kristian Nelumbu, the first Female Chief of Oukwanyama Traditional Authorities.
5. Maria Mwengere, the first Female chief of Shambyu Traditional Authority.
6. Madam Michelle McLean, first and only Miss Namibia to Win Miss Universe title.
7. Beatrice J. Gawande, the first female ombudsman and a former UN Special Envoy on Africa.
8. Menesia Muinjo, first female Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC)' Director General.
9. Madam Rosa Kakurukaze Mungunda, the first female Namibia anti-colonial activist.
10. Madam Ellen Musialela, the former member of parliament and one of the first women’s empowerment activist.

These women, among many others, represent the spirit of determination and the transformative power of women in leadership and development.

In line with global frameworks such as gender equality and the empowerment of women, Namibia continues to make commendable progress. Women are increasingly occupying decision-making spaces, contributing to economic growth, influencing policy, and driving sustainable development. However, the journey is ongoing. True empowerment requires continuous investment in education, economic opportunities, leadership development, and the protection of women’s rights.

At WOPISA, we remain committed to our mission: to develop confident, proactive, and impactful women who are equipped to lead, influence, and transform societies. We believe that empowering women is not only a matter of justice it is a strategic necessity for national and continental development.

Our motto remains clear and powerful:
“To empower women is to empower nations.”

As we celebrate this important milestone, let us continue to uplift, support, and invest in women because when women rise, Namibia rises.

Happy 36th Independence Day, Namibia! 🇳🇦

Hilma Tuyenikelago Shikodhi-Uudhigu
WOPISA Founder and Director
School Principal at Ombili Foundation
AU African Agenda Goodwill Ambassador
UN Global Woman of Distinction 2025
Leaders Without Borders Global Leadership Excellence in Women Empowerment 2025

18/03/2026

Happy Birthday, WOPISA! 🥳

Today, we proudly celebrate an extraordinary woman of impact Madam Masego Serameng, WOPISA Deputy Director and Country Coordinator for Botswana 🇧🇼.

Masego is a true pillar of strength and leadership within the WOPISA family. Her dedication and commitment ensured that Botswana was well represented at the historic 1st WOPISA Summit in 2024 held in Rundu, Namibia 🇳🇦 a moment that marked the beginning of a powerful movement.

Her influence continues to grow across Africa, as she actively plays multiple roles in advancing women’s empowerment and community development. One of her most remarkable recent achievements was successfully hosting the 2nd WOPISA Summit in 2025 in Gaborone, Botswana 🇧🇼 a testament to her vision, leadership, and excellence.

Madam Masego Serameng is a dynamic leader, humanitarian, and transformational coach committed to advancing women’s empowerment across Southern Africa. She serves as the Coordinator of Women of Positive Influence in Southern Africa (WOPISA) for Botswana and is also the organisation’s Deputy Director. Highly regarded in her home country, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating WOPISA’s participation in impactful initiatives both within Botswana and across borders.

A strong advocate for women’s economic empowerment, Ms Serameng is also an influential voice who continually mobilizes and inspires women to take part in the WOPISA Summit and Awards. In December 2024, she was honoured with a medal as one of the distinguished speakers at the official launch of WOPISA in Namibia.

Ms Serameng completed a year-long programme as an Ambassador for the Wireless Female Network, through which she spearheaded her first campaign in Lobatse, Botswana. During this initiative, she donated sanitary pads and hygiene products and educated Junior Secondary School students on menstrual health advancing her mission to combat period poverty in communities across the globe.

Her leadership footprint stretches beyond Botswana. She has been featured twice as a guest speaker at the Community Leadership and Conference Awards hosted by Marang Career Information Center in Kuruman, South Africa. A passionate advocate against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), she has used these platforms to ignite meaningful conversation and inspire collective action. In October this year, she returned to the conference as a speaker, delivering an impactful address on the theme “Fathers Matter.”

In May 2025, Ms Serameng received the Platinum Award for Corporate Social Responsibility at the Global Business Award Network in Harare recognition of her outstanding community impact.

Her rich professional profile includes membership in the Woman to Woman Magazine Golf Club, the eTalk Show in Kenya, and Woman Alive Soul Healing International. A woman of many talents, she was also a guest speaker at the A Woman’s Worth brunch in Mochudi earlier this year, held in celebration of Women’s Month.

A dedicated public servant, Ms Serameng is a Human Resources practitioner within the government sector in Botswana. She continues to champion social impact, women’s empowerment, and community development with unwavering passion and influence.

Happy birthday Masego. You are such an inspiration to women in Africa. Ke a leboga. 🇧🇼🥳🩷🥂

16/03/2026

🌟 My WOPISA Queens! 🌟

Never stop investing in yourself. The world is changing fast — and so are the opportunities! 💫

Stay current, stay curious, and stay committed to your growth. Whether it's learning a new skill, reading something inspiring, or connecting with empowering women — every step forward keeps you relevant, resilient, and ready to rise! 🚀

Let’s keep showing up as the powerful, purpose-driven women we were born to be. 💪🏽✨

Happy Women Month from Coach Selma Indongo - Ashipembe 🎉

13/03/2026

Today we celebrate our very own leader, Madam Saara Ingas Ntinda, the dedicated School Principal of Heroes Private School in Ondangwa, Namibia 🇳🇦.

From leading and monitoring daily school activities, to guiding staff and learners, and reporting to the School Board of Directors and the Regional Director, Madam Ingas carries out her responsibilities with passion, love, and resilience. She has truly stood the test of time, especially during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, and emerged even stronger. 🥳

You are stronger than you know our leader, and we are incredibly proud to have you as one of the founding members of WOPISA. You remain a true inspiration to Namibia and the entire Southern African region. 🇳🇦

08/03/2026

With UN Women – I just got recognised as one of their top fans! 🎉 Happy International Women’s Day to all Women of Positive Influence in the world 🎉

08/03/2026

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Theme: Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls

International Women’s Day is a globally recognized moment to celebrate the achievements of women and to renew our collective commitment to advancing gender equality. The day was officially recognized by the United Nations in 1975 during the International Women’s Year, and since then it has been marked annually with global themes highlighting critical issues such as gender equality, women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and the elimination of gender-based violence.

Each year, the United Nations convenes the global community at its headquarters in New York through the Commission on the Status of Women, the world’s largest gathering dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment. In 2026, the world marks the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) (CSW70), reaffirming global commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of women and girls everywhere.

For me personally, International Women’s Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It celebrates the resilience, achievements, and leadership of women who continue to shape families, communities, and nations. At the same time, it reminds us of the responsibility we carry as women to empower others and to influence policies and systems that ensure gender inclusion and justice.

For Namibia as a nation, this day should serve as a powerful reminder that women’s empowerment is not merely a women’s issue it is a national and global development agenda.

Namibia has made commendable progress in advancing gender equality. According to the 2025 Global Gender Gap Report as reported by Dr Emma Kantema, Namibia's Minister of Gender and Child Welfare during the national celebration of IWD held at Gobabis, Namibia has closed approximately 81.1% of its gender gap, ranking 8th in the world and 1st in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects the country’s commitment to inclusive leadership and progressive policies.

Namibia is also among the few countries in Africa with strong female representation at the highest level of leadership, including a woman President, Deputy President, and Speaker of the National Assembly. In further alignment with the International Women’s Day theme of Rights. Justice. Action for All Women and Girls, Namibia recently appointed its first woman Supreme Court Judge, Lady Justice Esi Malaika Schimming-chase, marking another historic milestone in advancing women’s leadership in the justice system.

On a personal level, 2026 International Women’s Day resonates deeply with me. During my college years in the early 2000s, I proudly played for the Rundu College Women’s Soccer Team during the TISAN games for tertiary institutions in Namibia and Southern Africa. Witnessing our national team, the Namibia women's national football team, win the COSAFA Women's Championship during the women’s month of March after two decades of participation is a powerful testament that Namibia is steadily embracing gender equality, including in spaces historically dominated by men. It is also encouraging to see the growing support from Namibian men in championing women’s empowerment. Indeed, I am a proud Namibian.

With progressive policies in place, Namibia continues to stand as a champion for gender equality, thanks to the dedicated advocacy of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare, Namibia and the tireless efforts of women’s organizations locally and globally.

Having served as a school principal for over a decade, I personally experienced the challenges women often face in leadership. This inspired my Master’s research in Educational Leadership titled “Challenges Experienced by Women Principals,” published in 2022. The study identified several barriers that women leaders frequently encounter across sectors, including:
- Gender discrimination
- Gender stereotypes and perceptions
- Inttrinsic barriers such as low self-esteem, lack of confidence, limited aspirations, and fear of failure or success
- Extrinsic barriers such as cultural expectations, institutional structures, and systemic practices that limit access to leadership opportunities

However, through my work as the Founder and Director of Women of Positive Influence in Southern Africa (WOPISA) and lead mentor to more than 500 women across our platforms over the past five years, I have observed that while some traditional barriers are gradually diminishing, new challenges are emerging.

Today, many women struggle not necessarily with discrimination, but with lack of mentorship, limited exposure, balancing multiple roles, and navigating new leadership responsibilities. These challenges often slow women’s progress. This is precisely why intentional platforms such as WOPISA exist to equip, mentor, and connect women across Namibia and the African continent.

Experience has also taught me that self-limiting beliefs remain one of the greatest barriers preventing women from stepping into positions of influence. Many women underestimate their potential and feel they are not yet ready or good enough to lead.

To shift this mindset, we must:
• Empower women from the grassroots level, including our young girls
• Create safe spaces where women can grow, learn, and support each other
• Encourage women to dream big and lead while learning

We cannot overemphasize the importance of mentorship and networking in accelerating women’s growth. Mentorship provides guidance, wisdom, and support, while networking opens doors to opportunities, partnerships, and collaboration.

At the same time, we must acknowledge that gender equality cannot be achieved without the active involvement of men. Men play a critical role as partners, supporters, mentors, allies, and advocates. Empowering women is not about competing with men, it is about working together to build strong families, resilient communities, and prosperous nations.

My message to young girls and aspiring women leaders is simple: Believe in yourself. Believe in your vision. Never underestimate the power of purpose, mentorship, and networking.

As I always remind my mentees:
“Your purpose will not stop pursuing you until you are pursued to pursue it.”

Step out of the box. Pursue your purpose relentlessly. Walk in it boldly and unapologetically.

Happy International Women’s Day to all Women of Positive Influence across Africa and beyond.

Hilma Tuyenikelago Shikodhi-Uudhigu
Founder and Director
Women of Positive Influence in Southern Africa (WOPISA)
Africa Agenda 2063 Goodwill Ambassador
UN Global Woman of Distinction 2025
Leaders Without Borders Global Excellence Award Winner 2025

31/01/2026

From the horse's mouth, UN Secretary-General, António Guterres

31/01/2026

🛎️ Checking in on our New Year's resolutions.

Are you with us in the fight for ?

31/01/2026

🚨 70% of women in the public sphere have experienced online violence, and 41% report offline harm linked to it.

Sarah Hendriks, Director of UN Women's Policy, Programme and Intergovernmental Support Division, highlights new evidence from "Tipping Point," a UN Women report developed under the EU-funded ACT programme, showing how online abuse escalates into real-world harm.

🔗 Learn more: http://unwo.men/atV050Y55Qr

31/01/2026

Born , Oprah Winfrey has spent decades opening doors, shifting narratives, and amplifying women’s voices.

Thank you, Oprah, for your leadership and your lasting impact on the fight for equality .

Join us to wish Oprah Winfrey Happy Birthday! 🎉

15/12/2025

WOPISA SUMMIT SPEAKERS

Powerful Speakers Speaking at the 2025 WOPISA Summit held at Ave Maria Hotel & Conferencing in Gaborone, Botswana 🇧🇼 under the Theme "From Vision to Actions- Leading for Sustainable Development"

They were:
Guest Speaker: Madam Alice Nomakhwezi Douglas the Founder of Khwezi Children Organization and a professional Psychosocial Counselor and Transformational coach. 🇧🇼

Madam Masego Serameng, the Deputy Director of WOPISA and Botswana Country Coordinator. 🇧🇼

Speaker: Madam Hilma Shikodhi-Uudhigu, the Founder and Director of WOPISA 🇳🇦

Speaker: Madam Nyathi representing Madam Brenda Chibvongodze Mudzimu, Zimbabwe WOPISA Country Coordinator 🇿🇼

WOPISA

21/03/2026

18/03/2026

16/03/2026

13/03/2026

08/03/2026

08/03/2026

31/01/2026

31/01/2026

31/01/2026

31/01/2026

15/12/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category