Setting the scene at DBN
Helen Amupolo’s journey began under the guidance of her parents and grandmother. As the eldest of six siblings, Amupolo’s ambition and commitment were clear from the start, propelling her from St. Georges Diocesan School to St. Paul’s College and onwards to degrees in economics, an MBA in finance, and a master’s in development finance. Today, Amupolo stands as a cornerstone of the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), shaping Namibia’s economic landscape with over 16 years of experience and a vision for sustainable growth.
Challenges that shaped a leader
Navigating her path in finance came with hurdles, from industry stereotypes to the challenges of balancing her role as a mother of two with her career ambitions.
Facing these obstacles has strengthened her resolve:
“I may still sometimes be the only woman in the boardroom, but that drives my commitment to bring Namibia's future into focus – one project at a time," she says.
Helen’s journey of growth
Joining DBN at just 25, Hellen reflects on her evolution within the bank: "DBN has been more than just a career; it's been a place of transformation, where I’ve grown from a young, curious professional to a seasoned executive.”
Her career highlights include a significant milestone at 27, when she was trusted to lead DBN’s first branch in Ongwediva. This experience not only honed her leadership skills but also built a team that felt like family.
As DBN’s chief investment officer, Amupolo’s mission is clear: to drive growth in sectors that fuel Namibia's prosperity. From pioneering northern regional lending projects to championing Namibia’s first wind and solar energy initiatives, she has been instrumental in positioning DBN as a transformative force.
“Impact isn’t about massive outcomes alone; it’s about the meaningful relationships and insights we offer each client, big or small, that create a ripple effect across communities,” she explains.
The vision for tomorrow
Looking to the future, Amupolo is energised by Namibia’s emerging sectors and excited for DBN’s role in driving sustainable development. Her vision for the 2024-2029 ISBP includes fostering a DBN that deeply understands and supports its communities, bringing first-move financing to new sectors and sustainable funding to priority areas.
“We’re here to be a relevant, serious partner, shaping not just projects, but the very narrative of growth for Namibia,” says Amupolo.
She adds: “I have an incredible team that I am leading to ensure that DBN is seen as a relevant and serious business partner that understands its people, the needs of its people.”
Challenges that shaped a leader
Navigating her path in finance came with hurdles, from industry stereotypes to the challenges of balancing her role as a mother of two with her career ambitions.
Facing these obstacles has strengthened her resolve:
“I may still sometimes be the only woman in the boardroom, but that drives my commitment to bring Namibia's future into focus – one project at a time," she says.
Helen’s journey of growth
Joining DBN at just 25, Hellen reflects on her evolution within the bank: "DBN has been more than just a career; it's been a place of transformation, where I’ve grown from a young, curious professional to a seasoned executive.”
Her career highlights include a significant milestone at 27, when she was trusted to lead DBN’s first branch in Ongwediva. This experience not only honed her leadership skills but also built a team that felt like family.
As DBN’s chief investment officer, Amupolo’s mission is clear: to drive growth in sectors that fuel Namibia's prosperity. From pioneering northern regional lending projects to championing Namibia’s first wind and solar energy initiatives, she has been instrumental in positioning DBN as a transformative force.
“Impact isn’t about massive outcomes alone; it’s about the meaningful relationships and insights we offer each client, big or small, that create a ripple effect across communities,” she explains.
The vision for tomorrow
Looking to the future, Amupolo is energised by Namibia’s emerging sectors and excited for DBN’s role in driving sustainable development. Her vision for the 2024-2029 ISBP includes fostering a DBN that deeply understands and supports its communities, bringing first-move financing to new sectors and sustainable funding to priority areas.
“We’re here to be a relevant, serious partner, shaping not just projects, but the very narrative of growth for Namibia,” says Amupolo.
She adds: “I have an incredible team that I am leading to ensure that DBN is seen as a relevant and serious business partner that understands its people, the needs of its people.”
