It’s been a few months now since Clenda, a former steps student, graduated last year. She’s had quite an eventful time since then and has even been to Germany. We’ve asked her for a quick update!
What did you take away from your trip, where are you now, and what does a typical day look like for you at the moment?
You have been involved with steps for children for many years. Do you remember your first encounter with the project?
You were once a guardian angel child and now you yourself are a source of support for other children. How does it feel to look back on this journey?
Is there an experience or a person from your time as a guardian angel child that has stayed with you to this day?
When you think about your younger self back then, what would you say to her today?
You have completed your bachelor's degree in teaching – congratulations! How did you celebrate this success?
Which moments during your studies do you remember most – perhaps even those when you thought, “Now it's getting really difficult”?
You are currently helping out in the office and with afternoon childcare at steps in Okakarara. What do you enjoy most about that?
You are currently applying for teaching positions at various schools in Namibia. What are your chances of getting a job at the moment?
And although you already have a master's degree in mind, you want to work first. Why is that important to you?
If you think five years ahead, where do you see yourself? Perhaps teaching your own class... or still in the lecture hall?
What does steps for children mean to you today – more of an organization, a network, or almost like family?
If you could give the children and young people of today who are now participating in the Guardian Angel Program some advice, what would it be?
What are your hopes for the future of the project – and perhaps also for yourself in this community?
Is there a moment when you were particularly proud of yourself?
And finally: If you had to sum up your life so far in one sentence, what would it be?
Dear Clenda,
your journey is a reminder of what courage, perseverance and kindness can create in this world. You grew from a Guardian‑Angel child into a young woman who now inspires others with the same hope and strength that once carried you. We are deeply grateful for every step you have taken with us – for your smile, your dedication, your resilience and your belief in education as a path to a better future.
May the road ahead open doors you never imagined, and may you continue to shine as a role model for the next generation. With steps by your side, and with your heart leading the way, you will move mountains.
