Linda Uutoni

MOTOREX AG

Bachelor in Chemistry
Namibia University of Science and Technology

September 01 – November 30, 2025

At work

During my internship in Switzerland, I had the privilege of working as a trainee in the Research and Development Department at Motorex AG, where I focused on the preparation and analytical testing of water-miscible metalworking fluids. Working under the guidance of my supervisor, Dr. Awais Naeem, was one of the most transformative aspects of my experience. His confidence, depth of knowledge, and dedication not only shaped my work in the laboratory but also broadened my perspective on the industrial world. I am deeply grateful for his mentorship, which has left a lasting influence on my professional outlook.

I was equally fortunate to be supported by my line manager, Dr. Parvin Zare, whose attentive mentorship and genuine care ensured that I felt welcomed, comfortable, and encouraged every day. Beyond my immediate team, engaging with committed staff across various departments taught me the true meaning of passion, collaboration, and purpose-driven work.

My time at Motorex AG has been a profound success, one that strengthened my patience, refined my analytical mindset, and deepened my appreciation for continuous improvement. Most importantly, it has shaped me into a more confident future chemist, equipped with a strong scientific foundation and a clear vision for my career in industrial chemistry.

My Swiss Host Family

I struggle to find words that truly capture how exceptional my host family, Marianne and Fritz Menzi, has been. If I were to choose a host family again, I would choose them without hesitation, again and again. Their warmth, kindness, and unwavering support transformed my stay in Switzerland into something deeply meaningful. They welcomed me not just as a host daughter, but with the comfort, affection, and attentiveness of true family. I will forever cherish our conversations during our many travels, the joy of discovering new places together, the laughter we shared over delicious home-cooked meals, and our unforgettable Rummikub games after dinner. Their presence made every day feel like home, and their support touched me in ways I will always hold close to my heart.

I would also feel guilty if I did not express my sincere gratitude to the Liechti family, who supported me with such kindness and warm hospitality, especially during the period when Marianne and Fritz were on holiday. And to my biggest fans, our wonderful neighbours Lya and Laurin, thank you for the joyful moments we shared. My Swiss Host Family(s) made my entire Swiss experience truly memorable, enriching, and profoundly rewarding, and for all of this, I remain endlessly grateful.

Highlights in Switzerland

It is difficult to single out specific highlights from my time in Switzerland, as the entire experience has been extraordinary in its own way. However, a few moments stand out vividly in my memory. One of the most cherished was attending the Basel Autumn Fair with my fellow interns, a night filled with laughter, excitement, and genuine connection that I will hold onto for years to come. I was equally captivated by the Parliament “Voyage” light show, a breathtaking display that made me appreciate the beauty and creativity of Swiss culture. Above all, the mentorship I received from my supervisor and the unconditional support from my host family remain deeply meaningful to me and will always occupy a special place in my heart.

Adjustments (Challenges) in Switzerland

Regarding challenges, I hesitate to use the word “challenge,” because coming from a developing Namibia to a highly developed Switzerland, I expected that certain differences would naturally call for some adjustments. Among the few adjustments I had to make, managing my hair after removing my extensions became my biggest daily struggle, especially since hair styling is not exactly my strength. Additionally, the language barrier, particularly in stores, presented occasional difficulties, though entirely understandable given that English is not the official language. Thankfully, technology, especially Google Translate, helped bridge those gaps smoothly. Overall, these small adjustments were simply part of the growth that came with embracing a new environment.

Future plans

I am highly optimistic about the future, and I plan to further my studies in Material Science and Industrial Chemistry, building on the strong technical foundation gained at Motorex AG. This experience has inspired me to pursue scientific innovation that addresses industrial and environmental challenges, particularly in developing nations. I aspire to become a dedicated industrial chemist contributing to sustainable manufacturing, advanced materials development, and innovative solutions across sectors such as oil and gas, materials processing, or cosmetics formulation. Ultimately, my goal is to combine scientific excellence with creativity and resilience to shape industries that are globally competitive, environmentally responsible, and deeply impactful.

Personal message

My heart is deeply grateful. I extend my sincere appreciation to my family and friends back home, your unwavering support has shaped the person I am today. I am equally grateful to NUST for believing in my potential, and to B360 education partnerships, Motorex AG, and my extraordinary host family for making this journey profoundly rewarding.

To anyone beginning this path, I encourage you to be disciplined, committed, and intentional in your hard work. Believe in yourself, remain open-minded, and express gratitude for every opportunity that comes your way. You do not need to be perfect or seek everyone’s approval, stay true to who you are, align your actions with your values, and trust that what is meant for you will always find you. Build a strong foundation on your name, stay focused, and remember that you are the most valuable player in your own life.