Jennifer Haluodi, who is a quality assurance analyst at MultiChoice Namibia, has
been selected to represent Namibia at the Diplomatic Simulation event that will take
place on 28 April to 1 May 2023 in Thailand, along with hundreds of other young
leaders from around Africa.
Born and raised in Walvis Bay, the Business Administration masters graduate and
first-year law student, said that although she had interests in business and
communication, her passion was gaining experience in the diplomatic practice space.
“I think the available opportunities to pursue this field is limited, but there are
there. Growing up, I’ve always wanted to solve real life problems. I saw the
Diplomatic Simulation as a great chance to further my career as it is a
collaborative learning experience where I can step into the role of real-life
diplomat,” said Haluodi.
According to its website, the Diplomatic Simulation is part of Best Diplomats, which
“initiated its momentum with recognition of the salience of Youth Leadership and
aims to provide prospects to harness and advance opportunities for the Leaders of
tomorrow.”
Although her current role is in a corporate space, she said being at MultiChoice
Namibia has helped her with the skill of keeping attention to detail which is needed
for diplomacy. “You will also need to have the ability to work well with other
people and be flexible and open to change. Additionally, being very understanding
and basically read the room helps.”
The Thailand excursion is approaching soon, and Haluodi expressed her excitement to
promote diplomacy for development. “We must create new and powerful changes in our
mindsets and performance in a creative and focal manner,” she said.
For others who would like to explore a career in diplomacy, Haluodi encouraged them
to invest in themselves and aim big. “Don’t wait for somebody to do it for you. Find
out about new technologies. Find out about new opportunities that interest you.
Know that you can make a career change anytime. Connect, network, and build
relationships. Be a part of a journey that builds relationships.”
At the moment, Haluodi is adamant that she will receive enough funds for her flight
in time for the Simulation event, but while she collects as much as she can, she has
big dreams for her future. “I am currently reading Leader Shift by John Maxwell. In
this book, John narrates that: ‘The key to embracing a growth mind-set is to have a
teachable spirit.’ That means not just saying you want to learn but taking practical
steps to do so.”