Unemployed but Unbroken: The Journey of Angaleni Shilongo
Angaleni Shilongo has lived a life shaped by determination, sacrifice and an unshakable belief that her breakthrough will come. At 42, the married mother of four stands as the only one among eight siblings to reach tertiary education a milestone she achieved through struggle and sheer willpower while growing up in Etope village in Omulonga Constituency, Ohangwena Region.
Talking to The Updated World, she said her dream of working in the media began in childhood, inspired by radio personality MeeLapaka Weyulu. After completing Grade 12, she pursued a Diploma in Media Studies at the College of the Arts in 2006. Temporary jobs followed, but permanent employment remained elusive. Believing a higher qualification would improve her chances, she enrolled at the University of Namibia and graduated in 2018 with an Honours Degree in Media Studies.
It was a proud moment, yet it did not open the doors she had hoped for. Instead, she found herself caught in a painful cycle of job hunting. She travelled for interviews, prepared thoroughly, and often felt confident only to be told later that the position had already been filled. Watching her former classmates secure employment while she remained unemployed took a heavy psychological toll. She describes moments of questioning, moments of prayer, and moments where she wondered why opportunities never came her way.
With no income and a family to support, Shilongo refused to sit still. She began collecting cans on her way to I‑Care Health Training Institute, crushing and selling them to scrap yards for N$300 a bag. It was not easy, but it helped her buy bread for her children and contribute to her transport. She says she wanted to meet her husband halfway, as he is the sole breadwinner and has supported her throughout her journey.
In 2022, she attempted to start a small business through “Order With Me,” investing N$4,500 worth of items. All her goods were confiscated by NAMRA, wiping out her investment and leaving her devastated. The loss was painful, especially because the money came from her husband’s support.
Realizing the media field offered limited opportunities, Shilongo made a bold decision: she changed careers. She enrolled at I‑Care Health Training Institute and recently graduated as an Enrolled Nurse. Today, she applies for jobs in both fields, hoping that one of her qualifications will finally open a door. Her message to the Namibian Government is direct and urgent.
She believes unemployment must be addressed with seriousness, and she calls for a return to strategies used in the 1990s and early 2000s, when graduates were almost guaranteed employment. She appeals to anyone who can assist her, saying she is ready to work either in media or nursing and can perform at 100 percent.
To unemployed graduates, her message is one of hope and perseverance. She encourages them to keep pushing, to work hard and to believe in better days. She holds onto the Oshiwambo proverb “Tetekela shii shiwa shixuuninwe” wait, something good will come.
With two qualifications, unwavering determination and faith, Angaleni Shilongo continues to fight for the future she has long dreamed of.
Those who want to assist her with job or to start her business, can contact her at +264 81 285 2705.
