A socially awkward workaholic
Being in the media gives a certain perception of how people look and see someone but Catherine Shipushu painted another picture and didn’t hold back in stating that she is an introvert and quite a socially awkward individual.
Apart from that, Shipushu is a workaholic because she is always working on one or another project.
The 45-year-old is a branding and strategic communications strategist with close to 20 years of experience across television broadcasting, marketing and public relations.
CURRICULUM VITAE
Shipushu has been on the radar for a while, as she started her career at Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), where she invested 10 years honing her skills as a television producer and director. “I was also in front of the cameras presenting a variety of programmes, ranging from lifestyle to current affairs. In 2007, I left NBC to pursue a career in Public Relations and Communications, which led me to work for some of the biggest organisations in Namibia; namely, Telecom Namibia, MVA Fund and the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA),” she highlighted.
Shipushu is currently the Manager for Marketing and Communications at NQA.
DINE AND RELAXATION
Her kitchen has an assorted and array of food types and to add the cherry on the cake; she does not have an indecisive palate. “I am a lover of good food, so I don’t particularly have a ‘favourite meal’, but lamb chops and potatoes come close. One thing I can’t resist is ‘warm chips’ doused in spices and vinegar,” she drooled – just thinking about it.
Shipushu added: “Although I’m slightly obsessed with food shows, cooking has always been something I did out of necessity. But, with the lockdowns last year, I discovered that cooking is therapeutic for me, so I’m spending a bit more time in the kitchen these days”.
She said Coca-Cola is her all day drink but if only the universe would allow it, Oops, there goes the idea of being a Coca-Cola brand ambassador.
“If it were up to me, I would drink Coke all day every day – but for the sake of my health, I now balance that with Green Tea Ice Tea.”
In a stressful situation, she has mastered the art of not taking things personal and music is her saving grace and favourite way to de-stress. “I also schedule regular spa days to relax – and above all, I pray.”
Whatever you do, if you want to get in her good books, make sure your mode of Operandi does not include dishonesty and mediocrity, as those are her pet peeves.
FAMILY IS EVERYTHING
Shipushu does not have children but her world is filled with love from her family and friends. She has taken the role of being an aunt to her nephews and nieces seriously and she serves it with grace. “I don’t have children of my own but I’m a doting aunt to my nephews and nieces.”
Shipushu is Sunday aka Sunnyboy’s sister.
Sunnyboy is Namibia’s rapper and King of Hikwa, a creative lyricist, who has embraced Namibia’s music scene for over 15 years. “I have always been immensely proud of Sunny. Not only is he talented and hardworking, but he is also kind and a genuinely good human being. I am in awe of Sunny’s talent and his ability to create music masterpieces in a way that seems so effortless,” said the delighted and aweinspired sister.
SELF-CARE
Although she is a workaholic, Shipushu said she never loses herself in the process and that self-care is a priority, especially for a person like her in the corporate world.
“I do appreciate the importance of self-care so in my spare time; I like to catch up on sleep to allow my body to rest. I also enjoy reading and watching my favourite TV series.”
CORPORATE LADY
She said, in the profession, an average day is a myth, she can plan her entire day to a tee and have it completely derailed the moment she sets foot in the office but we wondered how she ended up in the profession.
“What I know for sure is that I didn’t choose this career; it was divine intervention in its purest form. As a little girl, I’ve always been in awe of my mom, who’s a nurse and also the strongest woman I know. Because I wanted to follow in my mother’s footsteps, I’ve always dreamed of becoming a doctor. I never knew that there was a myriad of professions out there that one could choose from – let alone Public Relations and Marketing. I ended up in this space purely because God, Himself, was directing and leading me.”If she was not in corporate, Shipushu hinted at the passion she always had for interior design. “I have always been fascinated by beautiful spaces so I would be an interior designer if I wasn’t in my current position.”
PAPER COLLECTOR
Shipushu has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Regenesys Business School in South Africa, and an Honors Degree in Journalism and Communication Technology from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST).
She also obtained a Diploma in Public Management from Tshwane University of Science and Technology, a Certificate in Brand Management and another Certificate in Digital Marketing – both from the University of Cape Town (UCT). Shipushu also has a Google Certification in Digital Marketing.
CATHERINE SAID IT
“Amid chaos, suffering and uncertainty, there’s always something to be grateful for – focus on that. We experience the grace of God through the deeds of others. So, when you get the opportunity to pay it forward and help someone in need – do it without hesitation.” - psiririka@nepc.com.na