As women continue to break stereotypes and pave the way for future generations in traditionally male-dominated industries, Dr. Adell Samuelson’s journey to becoming Namibia’s first General Manager with Puma Africa stands as an inspiring testament to women’s capability to lead and excel in the corporate world.
Like many young students, Samuelson was uncertain about what to study after completing Grade 12. However, she knew she wanted to work in a business environment where she could make a meaningful impact. Determined to realize her vision of becoming a businesswoman, she pursued a degree in commerce. A subject in Transport Economics laid the foundation for her career and sparked her interest in industries where logistics, supply chains, and economics played key roles.
Samuelson’s professional journey began in 2001 as a retail manager for BP Namibia Pty Ltd, where she was responsible for overseeing service stations within the retail segment. She described this initial step into the fuel industry as an invaluable experience in operations and management. “This was my first step into the fuel industry, and it gave me invaluable experience in operations and management,” she said. Over the years, she moved through various roles that broadened her expertise. “I took on responsibilities in Aviation, Supply, and Business Support, each adding new layers to my skill set,” she shared.
In 2003, Samuelson ascended to the position of General Manager, a role she describes as both challenging and rewarding. She considers herself fortunate to have worked in an industry that, despite its male-dominated nature, provided her with growth and leadership opportunities. “The diversity of roles I’ve taken on has enabled me to understand the bigger picture and continually evolve in my leadership journey,” she noted.
Succeeding in the energy sector as a woman has come with its fair share of challenges. Samuelson recalled being the only female at a senior managerial level was a challenge she had to navigate to prove herself. “One of the biggest challenges in the fuel industry was that it has been traditionally male-dominated, especially at senior managerial levels,” she said. She added that her journey toward gaining recognition and fair remuneration was more challenging and time-consuming due to the limited number of women in leadership roles.
“At times, I encountered the perception that I was appointed for ‘window dressing’ or to fulfil diversity quotas. I had to break through these stereotypes by working harder to prove my capabilities and demonstrate my expertise in areas that some thought were beyond my knowledge base,” she shared.
Despite these challenges, Samuelson remained steadfast by leading with integrity, delivering results, and proving she was just as capable as anyone else. “I made a point to continuously learn and develop my skills, and in the end, my achievements spoke for themselves,” she said. By leading with confidence and showing that gender is never a limiting factor, she has helped break barriers for women in the energy industry.
Samuelson believes that addressing biases and stereotypes in the energy industry requires resilience and a proactive mind-set. “I’ve always believed that the best way to challenge biases is through action, consistently delivering strong results, demonstrating expertise, and leading by example. I don’t shy away from taking on complex tasks or tough challenges because I trust my abilities and knowledge,” she said. She also fosters an inclusive work environment where open communication is encouraged and individuals are given opportunities to prove themselves, regardless of their gender, background, or experience.
As part of her efforts to support other women, Samuelson actively mentors and guides younger professionals, especially women, to help them navigate similar challenges. “Over time, by demonstrating that diverse leadership is an asset, I’ve seen the industry begin to embrace and appreciate different perspectives,” she said.
Her proudest professional achievement is her appointment as General Manager for Puma Energy Namibia. She became the first Namibian woman to hold such a position within Puma Energy Africa at a time when the company operated in only 11 countries. “One of my proudest achievements was my appointment as General Manager of Puma Energy Namibia, the first woman to hold such a position within Puma Energy Africa. At the time, Puma operated in 11 countries, and this was a significant milestone, not only for me but also for the representation of women in leadership roles within the company and the industry,” she shared. Since then, Puma Energy has expanded to 16 countries.
For Samuelson, witnessing other women being appointed to similar leadership roles remains an incredible milestone. “Being part of that change and helping pave the way for future female leaders in the organization is something I’m deeply proud of,” she said.
Another achievement close to her heart is her appointment as Chairman of the Board of Governance for industry role players in 2023, where she remains the only female on the forum.
Samuelson’s presence in the energy industry has challenged and shifted traditional gender stereotypes. “I hope I’m showing other women and my colleagues that there is no limit to what they can achieve, no matter the industry or field,” she said. She has always strived to lead by example, emphasizing that competence, determination, and leadership—not gender—are the true determinants of success. “Through my journey, I hope to inspire other women to pursue careers in all industries,” she said.
To make the fuel, oil, and gas industry more inclusive for women, Samuelson believes changes are needed in both organizational culture and the opportunities available to women at all levels. One crucial change would be ensuring that women are represented in leadership and decision-making positions, rather than just in supportive or administrative roles. “We need to create clear pathways for women to rise to senior roles and ensure they are given equal opportunities regarding training, mentorship, and career advancement,” she said.
She also emphasizes the need to shift mind-sets and reduce gender bias, which often impedes women’s value and growth potential. Women should be encouraged to enter these traditionally male-dominated fields and should be offered support, mentorship, and access to networking opportunities to help break down barriers.
Samuelson’s message to young women aspiring to the energy industry: “Don’t let anyone or anything define your potential other than your own abilities and determination. The journey may be challenging at times, but your passion, skills, and resilience will be your greatest assets.” She continues to mentor and support other women, reinforcing that the more women step into leadership roles and succeed, the clearer it becomes that gender is no limitation and that diversity in leadership strengthens any organization or industry.