A volunteering program in Namibia offered a powerful experience of purpose-driven action through the chance to step out of the office and into communities where human potential is abundant, but opportunities are scarce.
Purpose-driven engagement and creating long-term impact is embedded in LGT's thinking and actions. For many job applicants, the bank's dedication to sustainability, impact philanthropy, and supporting personal growth is a key reason for choosing LGT.
The opportunity to volunteer with B360 education partnerships in Namibia allowed us to translate these values into action. It was a way not only to give back, but to actively support individuals on their journey toward meaningful economic participation and self-empowerment. In other words: to walk the talk.
Partnering with B360 and Bank Windhoek, we had the privilege of co-facilitating two Career Starter Weeks in September 2024. Namibia faces significant socioeconomic challenges, with youth unemployment estimated at over 40 %, and access to quality education and career opportunities varying greatly depending on region, background, and social circumstances.
The Career Starter Weeks are designed to help talented but unemployed graduates gain the tools and confidence they need to either find employment or start a small business despite the systemic barriers. Each week brought together around 25 graduates - selected for their potential and motivation - into a setting of learning, empowerment, self-discovery, and growth.
Over the course of each week, we explored a wide range of topics, from personal branding, effective communication, and teamwork, to interview skills, business modelling, and entrepreneurial thinking.
One of our first activities involved a seemingly simple challenge: everyone had to build a duck from six identical Lego pieces. While light-hearted on the surface, the fact that no two ducks came out the same served as a powerful metaphor for the week ahead, highlighting individuality, creativity, and the idea that there is no single 'correct' career path. We continued to celebrate this diversity of approach throughout the program.
What started as a room of often shy, cautious, and quiet individuals quickly transformed into a vibrant group of aspiring professionals - challenging one another, presenting ideas, and offering honest and constructive peer feedback.
Many described the experience as a turning point that gave them new confidence to pursue opportunities in a highly competitive job market. The energy, drive, and positive mindset of the graduates was infectious - and deeply inspiring.
Even more encouraging is the impact we've seen since: a number of participants have found employment or successfully started micro-businesses, and many remain engaged with the program through ongoing one-to-one mentoring provided by experienced B360 mentors. Staying in touch with them has been a privilege - and a reminder that real change often begins with small but carefully targeted steps.
Beyond the classroom, we also spent time with the African Pathfinder Leaders Initiative (APLI), a youth-led organisation empowering unemployed Namibians through mentoring and leadership development. Our sessions focused on helping students to set strategic and resilient goals, embrace a growth mindset, and learn from failure. It was yet another example of how volunteer-led, locally rooted efforts can spark real change.
Of course, Namibia's beauty left a lasting impression as well. We used our time in between the courses to explore the country's remarkable landscapes and wildlife. Whether being enthralled by the sight of rhinos, leopards, or giraffes, or learning from local conservationists about the tension between ecological preservation and economic realities, we were reminded how deeply connected environmental and social sustainability truly are.
More than anything, this experience reaffirmed a simple truth: real impact starts with involvement. By stepping outside our comfort zones, we didn't just share knowledge; we gained perspective, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose. It's a journey we're deeply grateful for, and one that further deepens our commitment to LGT's mission of creating value that goes beyond finance.
At LGT, thinking, acting and investing sustainably are part of our identity. We partner with B360 education partnerships, a non-profit organisation that promotes exchanges between organisations and professionals in Europe, and young adults in Namibia, Zambia and South Africa. B360's vision is to equip young people with the knowledge and skills they need to actively contribute to economic and social progress in their home countries. LGT employees coach and mentor Namibian students through B360 education partnerships, both online as well as in person in Windhoek, Namibia. LGT also offers students from Namibia University of Science and Technology internships in Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
