Émilie in Namibia

Émilie has been selected for her FSJ with the weltwärts programme from Volunta gGmbH came to Okakarara - to steps for children. In a short article, she tells us what it's like here and what experiences she has already had. 

Introduce yourself briefly.

Hello, I'm Émilie and I've been in Okakarara since mid-August. I'm looking forward to working at steps for a year.

Tell me... why did you decide to do a voluntary year of social service in Namibia?

I always knew that I wanted to do voluntary service further afield. Then I applied to Volunta and I liked the job description of steps in Namibia the best.

What books, documentaries, films or other contributions did you use to prepare for your time in Namibia?

I have read the books „Africa is not a country“ and „Namibia-Namibia“ by Renate Knöppel and highly recommend them. The first book is about colonial history and I think it's super important to have dealt with the past when you live in a country for a year.

Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?

I love going into the garden and I particularly enjoy the art lessons. Making elephants and butterflies out of old toilet rolls with the children and seeing how proud they are of their results is always great.

What has been particularly challenging on your trip or during your stay so far?

In the beginning, I found it very difficult to communicate with the younger children (kindergarten and pre-primary), as they don't speak much English. But now, after two months and lots of Otjiherero learning, things are going much better.

Is there a special encounter or story that has stayed with you?

I have already met many special people with special stories. All of them would be worth telling. What has stayed with me is that as difficult as life is here sometimes, I find the positivity and optimism of the people very impressive. A teacher once told us that there are many opportunities in life, you choose one and make the best of it and be happy with it.

What skills or knowledge have you already been able to develop or improve during your stay?

I don't know much yet, but I can express myself a bit in the Otjiherero language and have learnt that living in a shared flat can be a lot of fun.

I already knew that I grew up privileged, but here it is more and more evident every day how grateful you should be for electricity, running water, good food and hygiene.

What are your plans after the end of your FSJ in Namibia?

I don't yet have any firm plans after my FSJ, but I hope to leave the year with an idea.

What has surprised you the most during your stay so far?

The first time I walked through Okakarara and we were really greeted by everyone, I have to say I was slightly overwhelmed. But now it's become normal. Okakarara is like an extended family - everyone says hello to everyone else, otherwise it would be unimaginable for me now.

What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?

You definitely have to have eaten at least one or more (!) fat cakes at a street stall.

What are you grateful for?

I am infinitely grateful to be able to have this experience. Every working day is different and every day brings new unforgettable moments. I love working with the children, even if there are stressful moments, the time when I collect jam jar moments clearly outweighs them.

I wish...

...that I gain as many wonderful experiences as I already have and that time does not pass too quickly.

Dear Émilie, we are grateful for your help in Okakarara. We are delighted that you are supporting the children and young people and giving them valuable input. We wish you a continued and exciting time in Namibia!