Volunteer Program Structure and Operations

Lelo Energies’ Volunteer Program is a four-tier pathway that takes Namibian youth from first-time volunteering to leadership and governance roles in the energy sector by 2029. The structure is simple: clear levels, clear expectations, clear benefits, and clear routes to progress.

Program Structure Overview

The program is built on four tiers, each with distinct roles, minimum duration, and support. Progression between tiers is considered only after at least 4–6 months of consistent participation at the current level.

Tier 1 – SPARK:

Entry-level exposure and basic skills.

Tier 2 – AMPLIFY:

Tier 2 – AMPLIFY: Emerging leaders coordinating tasks and people.

Tier 3 – LEAD:

Specialized champions running themes, regions, and projects.

Tier 4 – STEWARD:

Small cadre providing governance, policy voice, and long-term continuity.

Tier 1 – SPARK

Tier 1 is the low-barrier entry point for youth who are curious about energy and volunteering but may be new to both. It focuses on exposure, confidence-building, and basic soft skills, with minimal time requirements and no financial barriers.

Target group: Youth 16–25, any education level.
Time: 4–8 hours per month, flexible.
Minimum duration before progression: 3 months of consistent engagement.
Roles: Event support, community ambassadors, basic data collection, peer buddies, simple digital tasks.

Benefits:

Orientation to Lelo Energies and the energy sector.
Short skills workshops (communication, teamwork, personal branding, energy basics).
Transport and meals for in-person events.
Certificates and digital badges.
WhatsApp groups and local meetups for peer connection.
Progression: After 3 months of reliable participation, selected volunteers can apply for Tier 2; roughly 30–40% are expected to move up.

Result: Volunteers test interest in the sector, gain basic confidence, and connect to Lelo’s network without financial or time barriers.

Tier 2 – AMPLIFY

Tier 2 is for volunteers who have shown sustained commitment in Tier 1 and are ready to take on responsibility for activities and other people. Benefits expand significantly to support deeper engagement.

Target group: Youth 18–30 with at least 3 months in Tier 1 and proven reliability.
Time: 12–20 hours per month.
Minimum duration before progression: 5 months of active Tier 2 engagement.
Roles: Event coordinators, content creators, peer trainers, school/community liaisons, basic data analysts.

Benefits:

4–6 month leadership development program.
Monthly structured mentorship with staff or industry mentors.
Professional development support (CV, LinkedIn, interview preparation).
Increased visibility in Lelo channels and introductions to sector contacts.
Transport and meals for all program activities.
Progression: After 5 months and completion of leadership training, volunteers can compete for Tier 3 roles; around 30–40% of strong Tier 2 volunteers progress.

Result: Volunteers build practical leadership skills over time and become strong candidates for internships and entry-level roles.

Tier 3 – AMPLIFY

Tier 3 is for volunteers who have demonstrated sustained leadership at Tier 2 and are ready to own themes, regions, or complex program components. This is the first tier with monthly stipends to acknowledge significant contribution and enable deeper commitment.

Target group: Youth 20–35 with at least 5 months in Tier 2 and a strong leadership track record.
Time: 20–30 hours per month.
Minimum duration before progression: 6–8 months at Tier 3.

Roles:

Thematic leads (e.g., Women in Energy, Renewables, Local Content).
Regional coordinators running hubs (Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Lüderitz, Oshakati).
Mentorship program coordinators.
Research and advocacy associates.
Advanced training and peer-learning facilitators.
Benefits:
Monthly stipend (±N$800–N$1,500) to acknowledge contribution and reduce financial barriers.
Annual professional development budget (±N$3,000–N$5,000).
Senior mentorship from Lelo leadership and external experts.
Speaking and media opportunities.
Active support for employment, internships, further study, or entrepreneurship.
Progression: After 6–8 months at this level, or when they move into substantial employment or study, volunteers may join Tier 4 or shift to alumni roles.

Result: Tier 3 volunteers lead substantial initiatives, shape program direction, and build strong cross-sector networks.

Tier 4 – AMPLIFY

Tier 4 is deliberately small and focused on governance and long-term continuity. Entry requires extended demonstrated leadership and clear long-term commitment.

Target group: Age 25+, with at least 6–8 months of Tier 3 leadership and proven long-term commitment.
Size: 8–15 people initially.
Time: 10–15 hours per month, highly flexible.
Minimum duration: 8–12 months of active stewardship.
Roles: Youth and Program Advisory Board, senior mentors, policy advocates, lead trainers and capacity builders.

Benefits:

Annual honoraria (±N$2,000–N$4,000) for governance and strategic contributions.
Advanced training and international exchange opportunities.
Steward peer network gatherings.
Formal public recognition and legacy positioning.

Result: Stewards provide governance, external voice, and institutional memory, anchoring the program as it grows nationally

Strategic Leadership for a Dynamic Future

At Lelo Energies, we believe in a future where innovation, adaptability, and sustainability drive the energy sector forward. Our leadership is built on a foundation of excellence, responsibility, and a forward-thinking approach—ensuring that we remain at the forefront of crew management and energy solutions.