Making a difference one person at a time

Nomad Wellness Homestead
The 13th Institute of People Management (IPM) award ceremony that took place in Swakopmund last month under the theme Unleash, Inspire, Connect acknowledged many persons and businesses that have shaped the industry in which they operate.
The company that received the award for employing disabled workers from underprivileged backgrounds, is Nomad Wellness Homestead.
Upon receiving this recognition, founder Mariane Akwenye thanked the organisers for this acknowledgement. “When you support Nomad Wellness Homestead it’s not just about looking after your wellbeing, it goes further because half of what you pay for your treatment goes back into our institute where we train groups of visually impaired or young ladies from disadvantaged communities, as some have no means of paying tuition fees.”
Nomad has always been intentional about its purpose and aligns all its services to interconnect and live out these values. It is a socially conscious wellness group, with its ethos rooted in the desire to empower undervalued women with skills while creating employment opportunities within the wellness and beauty industry. At the heart of the business, is the institute where they nurture these young women and transform them into highly skilled practitioners.
One differently-abled staff member is Sara Mathias, who applauded Nomad for giving a chance to those who have not been given an opportunity before due to their inabilities. “I joined Nomad and went through the training which was tough, but I am glad I completed my studies. Now I am employed as a wellness practitioner and my life has completely transformed. I’ve struggled to get direction in my life. Employment was not even an option. But through this programme, I am an active member of our society. I am grateful that I have a reason to wake up every day, allow my other abilities to serve my passion and be useful in society,” she said.
The unique alchemy of Nomad Wellness Homestead is the blend of their authentic African essence, a wholesome caring spirit through their practitioners, and a soulful, contemporary aesthetic connecting with those seeking an enriching and transformative wellness experience.
Akwenye urges other institutions to be cognizant of those who come from challenged backgrounds and try to incorporate them within their organisations to make a meaningful impact that still resonates with their core business ethos.
In the past month, Akwenye has also been nominated for the prestigious Spa Leader of the Year. In the meantime, Nomad, steered by Akwenye, continues to be a pioneer with its unique service offering that creates wellbeing for many and hope for others.
The Institute of People Management celebrates chief executives and managing directors for their support of Human Resources and for acting as leaders and successfully implementing HR strategy. It was founded by Tim Ekandjo.