Leading with purpose
Determined to make a difference
Shilongo's extensive career spans industries like construction, finance, manufacturing, retail, SME, MSME, and the public sector.
As a civil engineer with a master’s degree in industrial engineering and over 12 years of experience, Thomas Shilongo is a vibrant and energetic leader determined to make a difference in Namibia’s housing sector. “My young age makes me very active, vibrant and physically fit, allowing me to work under pressure, which is crucial in the current demanding times of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR),” he explained.
His extensive career spans industries like construction, finance, manufacturing, retail, SME, MSME, and the public sector.
After completing his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the Polytechnic of Namibia - now the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) - in 2012, Shilongo launched his career in the construction and consulting engineering sector.
He later took on a managerial role in a manufacturing company before earning his master’s degree in industrial engineering from NUST.
On 1 August 2023, Shilongo was appointed as the executive for infrastructure development at the National Housing Enterprise (NHE), marking the start of his journey in the public sector.
“I am now a year into the role and enjoying the challenge ahead, which is to house the Namibian nation and eliminate the national housing backlog,” he noted.
Infrastructure development
One of the key highlights of his new role has been initiating the architectural students’ competition, which seeks to introduce modern and affordable housing designs that cater to the evolving needs of the Namibian market.
In his role at NHE, Shilongo oversees three divisions, namely: Projects, architectural services and property management.
He ensures that the department meets its objectives and deliverables within budget while providing strategic leadership and mentoring his team.
“My job is to ensure the department is resourced so that everyone can carry out their duties,” he emphasised. His hands-on approach also involves guiding the projects division in planning and contract administration, the architectural services division in housing design, and the property management division in maintaining and valuing properties.
Experience gained
Throughout his career, he has thrived in high-pressure environments. “I am always thrown in the deep end,” he mentioned.
“My transformative leadership style, innovation, and risk-taking have been key in overcoming challenges,” Shilongo added.
Among his notable achievements are receiving the Philanthropy Award – Great 50 Pledge in 2023 and his appointments to various leadership roles, including as the executive for infrastructure development at NHE, board of trustees member at Venture Capital Fund, and being a member of the steering committee for the National Housing Policy.
Inspirations and future aspirations
He draws inspiration from achievers, team successes and sports figures.
“I believe that the dedication of professional sportsmen can drive anyone to achieve beyond imagination,” he explained.
Looking ahead, he plans to obtain a doctor of business administration qualification and eventually take on a CEO role in either the public or private sector.
For young people, he encouraged patience, clear goal-setting and celebrating others’ successes. “You attract what you celebrate,” he noted.