Real Stories (Inspiration)
Carlota David – Howoses
Aug
Position: Technical Assistant to the Managing Director
Qualifications: MBA, BEng (Metallurgical Engineering)
Organization: Navachab Gold Mine, Namibia
“We all have that one skill that we are good at and aware of. Find it and let it be seen, let it be heard, put it out there always!”
Carlota David – Howoses is the Technical Assistant to the Managing Director at Navachab Gold Mine. Her passion for knowledge and personal development has propelled her career in the mining sector. Balancing a demanding profession with her roles as a wife and mother, she exemplifies how women can succeed in both corporate leadership and family life.
1. What is the current scope of your role as Technical Assistant to the Managing Director?
- Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual operational performance reports for the Managing Director and operations committee.
- Compile and coordinate data and reports for operations and board meetings.
- Facilitate business improvement projects; recently finalized a new procedure and policy currently under review.
- Provide technical input as needed by the Managing Director.
- Conduct post-audit evaluations of projects focusing on scope, technical delivery, financials, and schedules.
2. Many professionals earn qualifications but struggle to advance. What strategies have helped you climb the corporate ladder?
Identify your strongest skill and showcase it constantly. Use mentors wisely and build a strong professional network.
3. What motivates your high performance at work?
Two key motivators:
- My family – their support drives me.
- Personal growth – I thrive on learning and improvement.
4. What career pitfalls should ambitious professionals avoid?
I don’t discourage any career path. Passion and enjoyment in one’s profession matter most. I particularly value technical education that combines theory with hands-on skills.
For students unsure about which engineering field to pursue, I recommend exploring Industrial Engineering – a discipline that optimizes systems by eliminating non-value-adding elements, ultimately enhancing productivity and quality.
Dream killers include:
- Procrastination
- Lack of consistency
- Failure to deliver on promises
5. What qualities are common among high achievers?
- Consistency
- Attention to detail
- Commitment to lifelong learning
6. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In a leadership role such as General Manager, Managing Director, or CEO.
7. How do you balance work and family responsibilities as a woman in leadership?
Through routine and planning:
- I structure my workday and week in advance.
- I plan and prep meals ahead of time to free up evenings for quality time with my husband and son.