
About us l Meet the Team Managing Director ![]() Paul Brinkmann (Managing Director) Long Service Award 2008 (5 years) I try to divide my time between my family, endurance sport, my work and travel. Having left my Law partnership 8 years ago to join Sense of Africa, I have been able to successfully combine the latter two. Working in tourism provides the opportunity to travel, and then to share those experiences with others, both professionally and personally. Marketing Department ![]() Kira Brinkmann (Sales and Marketing Director) Long Service Award 2011 (15 years) Born in Namibia, I began my journey in tourism in 1994 and have been in tourism ever since. I started working at Sense of Africa as a junior tour consultant during Feb. 1996 and I am now not only part of the furniture, but have progressed to Sales and Marketing Director. I love the outdoors and nature is my passion. I believe you need to travel to fully comprehend what a great destination we have and sell. Having spent many years in the travel industry, I have not gained only knowledge but many friends within the industry. ![]() Sylvia Held (Marketing Executive) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) My love for travelling has ultimately steered my career towards the tourism industry. After completing my BA-Degree in Psychology & Communication, I went overseas for a year. On returning home I was fortunate to land a job within marketing at Sense of Africa. Working in an industry that sells dreams, is very rewarding. I look forward to continue growing in an environment that is fresh & always buzzing with new ideas! Living in Namibia is a privilege! You have to experience this beautiful country first hand and allow your soul to be touched, especially when you are in nature, sitting around a camp fire under the stars, surrounded by wide open spaces. ![]() Kym Kibble (Marketing Executive) Travelling... 'it opens the windows of our soul' - that is my philosophy. I am a born South African, now married to a Namibian. I began my career by studying Hotel Management in Cape Town in 1996, and have travelled extensively and lived and worked abroad. Namibia is truly the land of the sunshine; it's an untouched wonder, with all the showpieces being uniquely carved by nature and wildlife to admire in awe. No matter where you are in Namibia the night sky is magical and a pure delight - another wonder of the world! My journey at Sense of Africa continues… each and every day. ![]() Inka von Wenzel (Business Development) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) I was born in Bavaria and have been living in Namibia and working for Sense of Africa since 2003. As travelling is my favourite hobby, it is not surprising that I made my hobby my career! My profession is Hotel Management and I worked in the Hospitality Industry in Switzerland for 9 years. I am now married to a German speaking Namibian and I am a mother of identical twin boys. That means full commitment at work and at home! My favourite place in Namibia is Epupa Falls. Reservations Department ![]() Tanya van As (Reservations Manager) I was born in Roodtepoort, Johannesburg, but moved to Namibia when I was just 4 years old. After my studies in Cape Town (Travel & Tourism), I returned to Namibia and started my career at Oryx Tours… the Sense of Africa of today. After 13 years in the industry, I still love each and every day at Sense of Africa. Every day presents new and exciting challenges! Spending time with my family and friends anywhere in Namibia, where the splendour of the Namibian nature and glorious sunsets can be enjoyed, makes me happy and enriches my life! ![]() Günther von Hundelshausen (Team Leader) I was born in Cape Town, raised in Namibia and studied in Germany, where I lived in Nürnberg for 8 years. Learned to love travelling and tourism in general by backpacking as often and far as possible, with south east Asia attracting me every now and then. Time comes when friends, family and some sort of responsibility catches up and I moved back to Namibia, where I started working as a consultant for Sense of Africa in 2008, dealing mainly with the German speaking market, specializing in group tours. My favourite spot in Namibia is back home on the farm, sitting on the terrace overlooking the open plains with animals roaming about, and enjoying the steady and quite farm life. ![]() Anche Hüsselmann (Team Leader) Long Service Award 2009 (5 years) I am literally part of the furniture, I began with the company in 1997! I love my work with Sense of Africa, every day opens new opportunities and challenges. I currently manage the largest account with Sense of Africa. My other big passion in Namibia, would be the in the raw and real bush, on the family farm surrounded by my favourite people. ![]() Ineke Roeschlau (Team Leader) I obtained a BA degree in Tourism and Psychology from the University of Potschefstroom. After which I worked in numerous lodges in the Northern Province of South Africa and from there I moved to Namibia and Sense of Africa, where I have been working for the past three and a half years. I am the team leader for the English and Italian Department. I enjoy the work at Sense of Africa because it gives me the opportunity to sell our beautiful country to our clients. ![]() Estelle Junius (Team Leader) Long Service Award 2008 (5 years) I was born and raised in beautiful Namibia. I have been in the travel industry for the past 7 years and I still enjoy every moment of this journey I am on. I lived in Germany for 1 year and have travelled extensively through Europe. In my 7 years working in the travel industry, I also had a change to visit New York. My favourite place in Namibia to visit is Swakopmund, where the ocean and the sand dunes come together. I am passionate about my work and my country and enjoy being of service to guests travelling through Namibia. ![]() Bianca Kazombiaze (Tour Consultant) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) I have been working as a tour consultant at Sense of Africa for the past 4 years. I am also in my final year studying for a degree in Travel & Tourism Management. I mainly work with the Dutch market. I have a passion for the tourism industry and I love travelling, networking and socialising with different people from different parts of the world. I consider myself being a friendly and helpful person who will always go the extra mile for my clients. Favourite Place in Namibia: Kaokoland and Caprivi... ![]() Aune T. Amakali (Tour Consultant) Born in the capital city Windhoek and grew up in the southern part of Namibia, I started in the tourism industry right after I matriculated and gained 8 years experience in the industry. I have gained an extensive knowledge and passion for the country. Selling Namibia as a destination mostly and traveling throughout my beautiful country, has become a success in my life and I wish to continue nurturing this affection I have for the industry. I love traveling. Dancing is my second passion. Most favoured and unique place; will always be Skeleton Coast. I believe there is no where in Namibia, you can experience God’s work in anger than the Skeleton Coast, absolutely amazing and no words can describe that part of Namibia. ![]() Elizabeth Perry (Tour Consultant) I was born in Münster, Germany but raised English. In 1994 my parents decided to move to Namibia. They set out on a Trans-Africa trip from Britain to Namibia in an old army ambulance which they fixed up; and I joined them half way in Nairobi. For the last 16 years I have travelled far and wide throughout Namibia and working in the tourism industry, I feel that I have become part of a team who has a vision and a dream for this country. I would have to say that my favourite places in Namibia are the Epupa Falls (Kunene region) and the Caprivi Strip. I enjoy reading and travelling. ![]() Julitha Tjinotjiua (Tour Consultant) Relatively new to the industry and loving every second of it! There is always something new to discover, which makes it so exciting! I love different places and have visited places such as Orlando, Florida and Barcelona and hope to explore more places in the near future! My passion is exploring the beauty of God’s creation and meeting people who can make a difference in one’s life. ![]() Megan Mbulo (Tour Consultant) I grew up in Tsumeb and moved to Windhoek about 9 years ago. I have been in Tourism for 5 years and love working in this industry; getting to know different people and working with different characters. My favourite place in Namibia is the Etosha National Park. Devoting your time to view the diverse animal life is an experience you will never forget and no visit is ever the same! ![]() Lipitwa Nghiwanapo (Tour Consultant) I have been in the Tourism Industry for the past 5 years, Ive studied Hotel Management and graduated in 2006. Ive previously worked at Strand Hotel - Namib Sun as a Front Office Supervisor as well as Islands In Africa Lodges where I worked as Relief Manager for the Lodges. Im in tourism because its a very interesting Industry,forever changing, I love travelling , I love nature. Working in this industry has made me appreciate ourr beautiful country- and understand why miliions of people choose Namibia as their perfect Holiday destination. I love Namibia. ![]() Joyce Kaulinge (Tour Consultant) The journey of life is extremely exciting! By holding steadfastly onto my personal values of trust, honesty and integrity, I am delighted to give the best of my service to this great company “Sense Of Africa” as a Junior Tour Consultant, to uphold its reputable image and vision for the future and beyond. I love the beauty of natural elements and engaging in outdoor activities but most of all being a blessing to people from all walks of life. Namibia is the best place to be! ![]() Sissi Alfeld (Tour Consultant) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) Born in Germany, I began my journey in tourism at a very young age, as my parents owned a small Hotel. I have also travelled the world extensively. I have been working and living in Namibia since 2000. I love the outdoors and my passions are mountain biking and my dogs. ![]() Sonja Bachran (Team Leader) I was born and raised in Swakopmund, Namibia. I have been in the travel industry for 10 years and still loving it. I lived in South Africa for a few years, where I travelled through most of the country. Although I have travelled to Europe twice, I am planning to see much more of the world in the future. At Sense of Africa I deal with the German market, specializing in group tours. My favourite place in Namibia is Swakopmund, because it offers the desert and the coastline! My passion is horse riding, socializing, animals and travelling. ![]() Sunet van Wyk (Tour Consultant) A love of travel and tourism led me to join Sense of Africa in 2008. Ever since then I have learned so much about the country and the industry. I travelled to Germany and France and extensively around Namibia. I am currently attempting to learn the language of love... French. My favourite place in Namibia is our magnificent coastline. I love the startling contrast of Sand and Sea and what they both represent. The tourism industry is a world filled with vibrant faces and places and I see myself discovering every inch of it before my time is done… ![]() Zeenao Ngaujake (Tour Consultant) I was born and grew up in Namibia, Windhoek. I began my journey in tourism in 2003 when I started studying. After completing my studies, I went to the United States (Florida, Orlando) on an exchange programme, where I went to work as a Savanna guide for the Walt Disney Company. I like listening to music, watching TV, doing adventurous activities and travelling. I joined Sense of Africa in August 2007 and at the same time I am doing my B-Tech (degree) in Travel and Tourism Management. There is no specific area that I like in Namibia, as each area is unique. ![]() Ilona Du Toit (Tour Consultant) I have been working as a Tour Consultant, since 2006, and recently joined Sense of Africa. I have always wanted to work in the Tourism Industry. I just love Namibia because it has so many different land contrasts and because I love our country, what best way to promote it and get to know it, then by selling it.... The road between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.... I think it was the most beautiful sight to be able to see the ocean on one side and the desert on the other side...... ![]() Jacqueline Haensel (Junior Tour Consultant) My job is to make your experience in Namibia the best experience ever. Namibia is a beautiful country with something new and exciting around every corner. I have not really found the most amazing place in Namibia, all the places I have visited are unique and amazing in their own special kind of way. I prefer camping trips with family and friends in the north close to Epupa Falls at Swartboois drift, because it is still very primitive and there you feel very close to nature. ![]() Veronika Hannsen (Junior Tour Consultant) I recently joined the Sense of Africa Team and I am loving it. The great thing about the Tourism industry: there is never a dull moment. I love new challenges and to explore new things. I grew up in this business and my passion for travelling and nature is what brought me here. ![]() Uvatera Ndjavera (Junior Tour Consultant) I joined an amazing team at Sense of Africa and it has been an exciting journey and I continue to learn and grow each day. I have visited a few places in Namibia and hope to explore more in the future. My dream is to watch the sunset in the Okavango Delta one day. ![]() Ndinelago Amulungu (Junior Tour Consultant) In pursue for my passion in travelling, I have studied Travel and Tourism Management at the Polytechnic of Namibia and aim to obtain a Master Degree in Travel and Tourism within the next 10 years. I believe hard work and sacrifice pays off in the long run. I love visiting the coastal areas of Namibia especially Swakopmund and Luderitz. Caribbean, Japan and Nigeria are destinations that I would love to visit in the near future. ![]() Foibe Iipumbu (Junior Tour Consultant) Born and raised in Namibia, I studied Tourism at the Polytechnic of Namibia and this inspired me to join the Tourism industry. I love my work especially that it gives me an opportunity to correspond with different people around the world and sometimes meet with them. I love wildlife, and Etosha National Park is the place I most love to visit as it offers such a variety of sightseeing. Accounts Department ![]() Alan Cragg (Financial Director) Long Service Award 2009 (5 years) Born and bred in Namibia, I have always loved the outdoors and nature. After having completed my diploma in Cost and Management, I held various positions in finance and administration and when the opportunity arose to work at Sense of Africa, I could not resist this. More than 6 years later I am still enjoying every minute of it. My hobbies include sport, particular motor sport. I love off- road riding and the challenge of off-road obstacles. Favourite place - any place in the bundu’s watching a beautiful Namibian sunset. ![]() Marina Sherriff (Debtors Clerk) I am a born and bred Namibian who has a passion for my country and the tourism industry. I started in the accounts department of Sense of Africa in May 2008, as a debtor’s clerk and have not regretted one day. At Sense of Africa I can live out my passions; travel, tourism and people! My dream is to share the beauty of our lovely country with every living being and help them experience this land of immense beauty and contrast. I have had the opportunity to travel to a number of places in Namibia, but cannot single out just one place. The whole of Namibia is worth visiting and each place has something different to offer. ![]() Patricia Husselmann (Accounts Assistant) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) I became a member of this exciting team about a year ago and I am currently working in the accounts department. I was born in Namibia. I am a friendly person and always eager to meet new faces and see new places. I did not have the opportunity to travel the world, but by being part of Sense of Africa, my dreams are becoming a reality. Namibia has a variety of fascinating places to visit. Nature at it's best! ![]() Shenine Fisch (Creditors Supervisor) Numbers and Travelling have always been my passion and joining this amazing team in the accounts department about two years ago, has been a dream come true. Swakopmund is one of my favourite places in Namibia. It is a very relaxing, beautiful town with a variety of activities, like fishing, quad biking, marine cruises and much more. ![]() Valencia Fisch (Senior Supervisor Accounts) I have been in the travel industry for just over 3 years now. I recently completed my Bachelor of Commerce degree at University of Namibia. Working for Sense of Africa gave me the opportunity to visit Brazil. I love travelling, mostly in Namibia, but have also travelled in South Africa. When on holiday, I love to go to Swakopmund, one of my favourite places in Namibia. One day I would love to go to Mozambique. ![]() Vivienne van Rooi (Accountant) Long Service Award 2008 (5 years) I have been working in the accounts department at Sense of Africa for more than 7 years and enjoy every moment of it. I love to travel and adore time with my friends and family. The tourism world is great, since you meet new people, see fantastic different places and best of all, you experience a measureless adventure. My favourite place in Namibia is Etosha. ![]() Heiko Schlierkamp (System Administrator) What can I say about a country that is as diverse and spectacular as Namibia? I was born and raised in Namibia, developed an interest in the IT field and educated myself. My biggest hobby is sports, specifically Inline Hockey which is the closest you will get to ice hockey in this desert country. To name my favourite place in Namibia is impossible, as around every corner lays the next adventure and another place you have not yet experienced. The ambience around any campfire in our open spaces is enough to keep me in this country forever. ![]() Wilko Giersch (System Administrator) Born in Windhoek, grew up in Swakop - so I have an appreciation for both climates and I never really know which I prefer. As things are now I can't help but appreciate Windhoek, of course. I've been involved with computers since the age of 12 and quickly progressed from playing games to destroying my home machine. That was an accident and I've learned a lot since then. Since college I've worked in various positions in the IT industry, from basic IT tech (the punching bag) to web developer (code monkey) and now IT Admin (still a punching bag for some reason). Either way, I'm as happy as a baboon sitting on a fence post. Contracting Department ![]() Guido Röschlau (Product Manager) Long Service Award 2011 (5 years) I am a 4th generation (very proud) Namibian and have been actively involved in the tourism industry since 1991. Having completed several diplomas in Tourism, Hospitality and Nature Conservation, the greatest part of my working life, before I joined Sense of Africa in 2006, revolved around wildlife management, lodge management and guiding excursions through Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. My hobbies include travelling, photography, birding, hiking, nature and reading, which also form an important part of my job - no wonder I'm smiling all the time. I also enjoy a good game of squash with friends. ![]() Charlotte Menz (Contracting Executive) Long Service Award 2011 (15 years) I have been 35 years in the Tourism Industry, of which the past 14 years have been with Sense of Africa and I still enjoy the daily challenges so typical of our business greatly. The beautiful rock formations and endless plains of nothingness of the south of Namibia and the Namib Desert, is where I really feel at home. I love the outdoors, camping and reading. Operations Department ![]() Barend Stofberg (Operations Manager) Long Service Award 2008 (15 years) I was born and raised in Namibia. I served an apprenticeship at the South African Railways and qualified in 1980. I joined Oryx Tours/Sense of Africa as a Diesel Mechanic in 1991, and after managing the workshop, I was promoted to Operations Manager in 2006. I love the nature, being outdoors and 4x4 trips. ![]() Christelle Opperman (Operations Assistant) I was born in South Africa, but raised in Namibia. I joined the tourism industry straight after school in 2002 working for a different Tour Operator, before joining Sense of Africa at the beginning of 2010, in the Operations department. I enjoy working with people and the open spaces of our country. ![]() Harald Hoffmann (Auto Electrician) Although I was born in Windhoek, I went to school all over Namibia. After school I went to the army for 2 years. I worked at Diesel Electric where I studied for and qualified as an Auto Electrician. I joined Sense of Africa in 2009 in the workshop as an Electrician / Mechanic. ![]() Irene Meagan van Neel (Receptionist) I enjoy reading, baking and learning new languages. I adore the outdoors, as long as I do not have to encounter any creepy crawlies. I’m a fan of the Namib Desert as one can get lost in the peace and quiet and Swakopmund for obvious reasons - the sea. Local is indeed lekker as I pass time over weekends at the popular Single Quarters(Kapana) or watch soccer matches. Music is a good way of getting away from everyday stress, any type would do as long as it has a message or gets me thinking! Debating an everyday hobby for me as everyday topics get my utmost attention. ![]() Mauritz Bosman (Electrical Mechanic Apprentice) I am a born Namibian. I finished school in 2010 and started with Sense of Africa in December 2010, as an apprentice Auto Electrical Mechanic. My favourite place in Namibia is Henties Bay on our stunning coastline. ![]() Petrus Naeb (Assistant Mechanic) Long Service Award 2010 (10 years) I was born in a village close to Tsumeb. I first worked on a farm for 4 years and then in 1998 started at a different Tour Operators. I have been with Sense of Africa since 2000. I like to travel and to meet new people. ![]() Lamek Uupindi (Assistant Mechanic) Long Service Award 2011 (20 years) I was born in a village in the Omusati Region. I have been working in the tourism industry as an assistant mechanic since 1989. I started working for Oryx Tours in 1990 and have been with Sense of Africa ever since. ![]() Paulus Ileka (Assistant Mechanic) I was born in a village in Ovambo in Northern Namibia. I completed Grade 12 in 2000 and started working at D+S Engineering the following year, where I worked for five years as an assistant mechanic. I’ve been working for Sense of Africa since 2008 as an assistant mechanic. I like travelling and meeting new people. My hobbies are playing soccer and volleyball. ![]() Hanna Isaacs (Tea Lady) Long Service Award 2009 (10 years) For the past 11 years I have been working at Sense of Africa, as tea lady and relief receptionist. I am a friendly, caring person and enjoy travelling. The tourism industry is very exciting and I enjoy meeting new people and seeing many exciting places. |
