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MEET THE TEAM
The SPCA is made up of a whole team of compassionate people working hard, every day, in different ways to ensure that the SPCA is continued to be guided by its mission and that the animals in our care receive the best care possible.
Silke Van Der Merwe
National Director
Since January 2025, Silke van der Merwe has been the National Director of SPCA, bringing a wealth of experience from the private and non-profit worlds. With a deep passion for animal advocacy, she's on a mission to boost SPCA Namibia’s impact. Silke’s task is all about shaping policies, driving fundraising, launching campaigns, and building strong donor relations. She not only supervises the Windhoek team, but also provides support to the SPCA national branch network.
Bella Le Roux
Feline Care Coordinator
Bella, the Feline Care Coordinator at SPCA, is committed to delivering outstanding for shelter cats. She ensures their well-being, performs assessments, creates enrichment plans. Additionally, Bella supervises intake process for cats, leads adoption efforts, and manages our busy thrift shop.
Joseph K. Naimhwaka
Senior Inspector
Joseph has worked with the SPCA as an Inspector since 2008. He is usually on the road rescuing animals, responding to animal cruelty complaints, and conducting house checks.
Bernard
Inspector
Bernard is an Inspector and has worked with the SPCA for nearly ten years. He is usually on the road rescuing animals, responding to animal cruelty complaints, and conducting house checks.
Helen Galliano
Animal Care Supervisor
Helen has worked for the SPCA in different capacities for over 30 years. She supervises the Animal Caretakers working with the dogs each day and she cares for the pups like they are her own.
Sylvia Breitenstein
Director of Operations
Sylvia has been a part of SPCA for the past 30 years, embodying its heart and soul. Her dedication to SPCA's mission is unwavering, as she oversees all aspects of animal welfare and care. Sylvia’s passion for helping animals shines through in her leadership, ensuring that every creature receives the love, respect and attention they deserve.
Kristien van Zyl
Canine Care Coordinator
As the Canine Care Coordinator at SPCA, Kristien is ensuring top-notch care for shelter dogs. She manages their well-being, conducts assessments, and creates enrichment plans. Kristien also oversees intake procedures, adoption efforts and ensures record-keeping, while supervising the Canine Animal Caretakers to ensure smooth shelter operations.
Leopold Shekupe
Adoption & Community Associate
Leopold welcomes visitors and assists with adoptions at SPCA Wind, providing friendly support to potential adopters. He manages calls, directs pick-ups, and aids coordinators daily operations, ensuring a positive experience while addressing inquiries and concerns to uphold our commitment to animal welfare.
Shaquille Slinger
Veterinary Assistant
Helen has worked for the SPCA in different capacities for over 30 years. She supervises the Animal Caretakers working with the dogs each day and she cares for the pups like they are her own.
Clyde Uandara
Our Animal Care Takers
Our Canine Animal Caretakers are the backbone of daily welfare at SPCA Windhoek. They diligently clean kennels, ensure fresh bedding and a hygienic environment, and provide regular feeding and fresh water for all dogs.
They also walk, exercise, and supervise the dogs to promote physical health and social well-being, monitor behavior, and assist with basic enrichment activities.
Through attentive care and compassion, they help create a safe, nurturing space for every animal in our shelter.
Helena
Thihemo Murerambang
