99FM ROYAL HUSTLERS

Josef Sheehama | Sharing knowledge, defying limits

When Josef was 12 years old, his life as he knew it changed in a blink of an eye. One moment he was an ordinary kid from Rehoboth and the next he was in a car accident that left him disabled.

At first, he found it very difficult to accept his new limitations. It took him three years after the accident to start trying again. He began putting effort into his schoolwork, travelling 5 km to and from school, ignoring the cruel names that other learners would give him and instead soaking up the knowledge presented to him each day.

Today Josef holds several prestigious degrees, including a Certified Associate of the Institute of Bankers in South Africa, an LLB and a PhD (graduation reserved). He is currently the credit manager for Bank Windhoek with over 21 years of banking experience. He is an independent economic and business researcher and a regular contributor to local newspapers, discussing the economic situation of the country and offering advice to Namibians.

Growing up in a sea of drugs and bad influences, Josef was guided by the example of his mother. She had a fierce work ethic, selling kapana and doing whatever she could to provide for the family. She would encourage him by saying, “Just have faith!”

As a credit manager, Josef enjoys being exposed to different sectors. “I seriously enjoy my job!” he tells 99FM. “You meet new people. I feel so good when I help people and companies, and then see them giving back to the community.”

Some years ago, a colleague inspired Josef to share his knowledge with the public at large. After posting an article on Facebook, the New Era newspaper contacted him and asked to publish it. Now he does “State of Business” addresses, contributing to the country’s economic knowledge, understanding and skill.

Josef’s advice to fellow leaders: “To have productive employees, coach them, don’t just promise them things you can deliver.” In an homage to his mother, he concludes by saying, “Have faith in your people.”