Bertha Ijambo’s journey is a powerful testament to what vision, education, and perseverance can achieve. A proud Mastercard Foundation Scholar (cohort of 2015) and a graduate of the University of Pretoria with a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Bertha embodies the spirit of transformational leadership and resilience that the Scholars Program seeks to nurture.

Reflecting on her time at UP, Bertha speaks with deep gratitude for the dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment the Scholars Program provided a space where she not only excelled academically but also grew into a purpose-driven leader. "The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offered me resources, mentorship, leadership training, and a supportive community," she says. "It lifted the financial burdens, allowing me to fully focus on my studies and leadership growth."

Inspired by the ethos of giving back, Bertha founded the Pashukeni Charity Foundation, bringing joy and hope to elderly citizens in Grootfontein, Namibia through annual Christmas initiatives, a tangible reflection of servant leadership in action.

Recognizing the devastating effects of drought and food insecurity in Namibia, Bertha took another bold step. In 2021, she launched FANO Gardens, a visionary agricultural project supported by the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund (SEF) Pilot Project. With an initial capital injection of N$115 000, Bertha and her team transformed barren land into a hub of hope, producing nutrient-rich horticultural crops, creating employment, and empowering rural communities.

Through FANO Gardens, Bertha learned firsthand that success in agriculture requires agility, resilience, and a deep commitment to community-driven solutions. Her first harvest, despite challenges, generated revenue and fed local communities, affirming her belief that "sustainable business growth starts small and grows with purpose."

Driven by a personal need for effective, affordable skincare, Bertha’s entrepreneurial journey took a beautiful new direction. Frustrated by the high cost of skincare products, she turned her kitchen into a mini laboratory, experimenting with natural ingredients like turmeric, carrots, and potatoes. This personal curiosity blossomed into a professional pursuit when she completed a Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation.

In January 2025, Bertha officially launched “Pashukeni” Glossy Natural Skincare, inspired by the Biblical verse 1 Peter 3:4 and anchored in the mission of promoting "Unfading Beauty" through natural, accessible skincare products. From facial gels enriched with hyaluronic acid to body spritzes infused with moringa and borage oils, her product line is steadily growing, with plans to expand into facial cleansers and a full online platform.

What sets Pashukeni apart is not just the quality of the products but the heart behind them. "Our mission is to make effective natural skincare affordable for everyone," Bertha says. "True growth lies not just in numbers but in the lives we touch."

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the SEF initiative were not just support structures for Bertha, they were catalysts that propelled her dreams into real-world impact. "The Scholars Program instilled in me the spirit of servant leadership. It’s about serving others through what you create," she reflects.

Today, Bertha continues to build towards "The Africa We Want", an Africa where young women lead businesses, create opportunities, and sow hope wherever they go.