28/07/2026
Congratulations to Manuela Schaneck for earning the globally recognized Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Manuela holds a Diploma in New Media Design from the College of the Arts. She began her professional career in 2022 at Emergo Communications (Pty) Ltd as a Graphic Designer, a position she currently holds. Manuela's commitment to professional growth inspired her to pursue the CAPM certification. She decided to pursue the certification to enable her to lead projects strategically from initiation through to successful delivery. Reflecting on her decision, she shared, “Working at Emergo Consulting has given me the opportunity to explore different facets of the business through their skills development training program. During a KPI review with my managing directors, I expressed an interest in project management, a shift I approached with some hesitation, given my background in visual design.”
According to Manuela, she quickly fell in love with the intricacy of managing a project. “Earning this certificate is proof that years of skill- and capacity-building are paying off. It's a crucial step in strengthening my hands-on project management experience with formal, globally recognized principles and in building trust with my clients, especially at just 22,” she shared.
After completing the SoAfrSPM online boot camp, Manuela began preparing for the exam, focusing on aligning her knowledge with the Project Management Institute’s (PMI) framework and exam mindset. When she learned about SoAfrSPM’s CAPM certification approach, she joined without hesitation. Describing her preparation, she said, “Two weeks before my exam, SoAfrSPM ran a CAPM certification sprint, which I joined. I had an accountability partner, who was motivating me and encouraging me to work through the practice exam questions SoAfrSPM provided. Throughout it all, I had the support of friends and family, which kept me going." She continued, “This certification required a significant time investment. I woke up between 3:00 AM and 6:00 AM every morning to study.”
For Manuela, time was extremely limited, and maintaining focus despite fatigue was one of the biggest challenges. “Changing my mindset about the exam made all the difference: you don't study solely to pass the exam; you study to become a better project manager. Once I embraced this shift in perspective, the sacrifice of time became easier to bear," she shared.
As one of the few CAPMs in Namibia, Manuela advises others, saying, “This certification can change your life—why not bet on yourself?”
Congratulations once again, Manuela. Your dedication and perseverance are truly inspiring. Well done!
