steps for children

Spontaneously to Namibia?

Marie Schnaidt — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:05:13 +0000

Do you want to go to Namibia spontaneously for 3 - 6 months?

Then it could be your adventure!

You support our education centres in Okakarara or Gobabis, gain an authentic insight into working with children and young people, and collect valuable intercultural experiences.

We currently have new places available in our volunteer programme!

If you want to get involved socially, gain new perspectives, and become part of a sustainable education and nutrition programme, then seize your chance now and become part of steps for children.

📅 Flexible start from June 2026

📩 Contact us easily for an initial chat: info@stepsforchildren.de

You can find a few testimonials here:

Felizia in Namibia says hello!

Paula in Namibia

More information about our volunteer programmes
you can find it here:

Nutrition campaign – an update

Marie Schnaidt — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:40:29 +0000

Our nutrition initiative is in full swing! Since the beginning of 2025, we have already been working to improve nutrition at our locations. And that’s not all: through new and expanded soup kitchens, even more children from the surrounding informal settlements are to benefit.

Here you can get an insight into what we are currently working on:

Freshly baked

In Okakarara it now regularly smells of freshly baked bread – thanks to genuine professional equipment. Alongside a high-performance bread oven, a dough mixer and a bread slicing machine are now also available.

These appliances not only make the daily work enormously easier, but also enable a consistently high quality of our breads.

Passing on knowledge – expansion to other locations

As part of our nutrition campaign, the cook Shania Isaaks from the steps educational centre Otto Xamseb in Rehoboth has taken a special step: For three days she was in Okakarara, to bake bread together with our experienced baker Tate Tjirare and to learn the professional handling of dough, dough mixer and bread oven.

This practical training is an important building block for improving the provision of our children. Shania is now bringing valuable knowledge back to Rehoboth – and we want it to keep growing there.

We are currently looking for additional cooks for our soup kitchen in Rehoboth so that Shania can pass on her new skills and build a strong local team. At Otto Xamseb in Rehoboth, the new baking equipment – from the mixer to the oven to the slicer – is eagerly awaiting its first use.

Harvest time in Namibia

In our agricultural project in Namibia, the harvest time has begun – and the variety is impressive. Juicy peppers, fresh lemons, aromatic onions, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes and many other vegetables are currently filling the baskets.

This harvest is not only a sign of fruitful work, but also an important contribution to supplying the children and families on site. Every plant shows how valuable sustainable agriculture is for the community and how much commitment goes into this project.

New homes for staff in Ongombombonde – a home right in the heart of the agricultural project

The small houses for the staff of the agricultural project in Ongombombonde have been completed. What began as a vision is now reality – and the joy on site is enormous.

The photos document the steady progress of the build: from the first spade in the ground, through the laying of the foundation stone, the shell construction as far as the plastered house. Step by step, a place has emerged that is more than just accommodation. It is a sign of appreciation for the people who work every day to ensure that the agricultural project grows, flourishes and strengthens the community.

For the staff, the new home on the garden site means a great deal in terms of quality of life, while at the same time a vibrant centre is being created around the project. The new houses create security, stability and a real feeling of arriving.

Compost toilets in the vegetable garden – small, but effective

In our vegetable garden, we rely on sustainable solutions. Two compost toilets, which manage completely without water and turn organic material into valuable compost.

In Ongombombonde, we live in the desert – water is a scarce resource and conventional WCs use huge amounts of it. By using compost toilets, we save precious water, which we can instead use to irrigate our plants.

They save resources, protect the environment and support soil fertility in the long term – another step towards a truly sustainable garden project.

Practical insights for young people – visit from Waterberg Junior Secondary School & support from DAPP students

Over the past few weeks, we have once again had some special visitors: pupils from Waterberg Junior Secondary School, directly across the road, completed a one-week work placement with us – for the third time already. For the young people, it is a valuable opportunity to gain insights into our daily life, our projects and the work in the garden.

In addition, we were supported over the past few months by two committed agriculture students. They came to us via Development Aid from People to People (DAPP Namibia) and helped hands-on in the vegetable garden.

This is already the second time that we have been able to welcome interns through DAPP, and we hope for further cooperation in the future.

Encounters and collaborations like these are for us more than just support in everyday life. They create exchange, promote knowledge and give young people the opportunity to gain practical experience – a win for both sides.

Healthy teeth from the very beginning

In many regions of Namibia, access to dental care is severely restricted – all the more important is early prevention. That is why daily toothbrushing is part of everyday life in all our educational centres. This is complemented by our regular mobile dental check-ups directly on site.

Since 2024, the mobile dentist Dr. Maria Mai has been visiting our educational centres on a voluntary basis with portable equipment. This means children can not only be examined, but also treated directly if needed. In other cases, a referral to a dental clinic is issued.

Alongside education, we focus on prevention and care – for children who are healthy in the long term.

Every donation helps us to sustainably improve the children’s nutrition situation.

Donate now to support the nutrition campaign – your contribution counts!

Two friends, one shared goal: becoming nurses

Marie Schnaidt — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:41:08 +0000

Our Year 1 Nursing Students Shilipa Christiaan and Uaanao Humbu impressively show just how much courage, perseverance and hope there is in the children and young people who grow up with steps for children. Both began their educational journey in our steps preschools, were admitted to the Schutzengel programme in first grade - and today stand on the threshold of a profession that will change their lives and those of many others.

Shilipa Christiaan – from preschool child to aspiring nurse

Shilipa is 21 years old, lives in Okakarara and is the eldest of eight siblings. steps has accompanied her since 2011 - back then still in preschool with educator Melba.

Her path was not always easy: she repeated Grade 5, completed Grade 11 in 2023, but had to improve her points and took a course to improve her points at NAMCOL. With support from steps in three subjects, she fought her way through - Mathematics remained her favourite subject.

Today she is studying in Year 1 Nursing at Welwitchia Health Training Centre, Kombat Campus. She has already successfully completed the one-year preparatory course „Foundation of Health Science“. She is currently gaining her first practical experience at the hospital in Okakarara.

“I was inspired by my sponsors because they believed in me even when I failed… They motivated me a lot.”

Her career wish was clear from an early age: nurse. One day, Shilipa wants to be a registered nurse, helping children who cannot afford school.

Uaanao Humbu – once a Schutzengel child, now a steps student

Uaanao is 20 years old and lives with her grandmother and four siblings in Okakarara. She has been part of steps since 2013 - starting in preschool with educator Lena. Uaanao also had to overcome setbacks and repeated Grade 10 before completing Grade 11 in 2024. Mathematics was also her favourite subject, and like many children from Okakarara, she lived in the hostel from secondary school onwards.

Today Uaanao is also studying in Year 1 Nursing at Welwitchia Health Training Centre in Kombat. She has successfully completed the preparatory course and is currently gaining practical experience at the hospital in Okakarara.

She used to want to become a teacher, but her points were not enough for that. So she decided to study Nursing and found her path in it. In her free time, she likes to spend time with netball and music.

“My dream is to become a registered nurse… so I start helping or supporting others the way steps supported me.”

One year skipped

Normally, the preparatory course for the Bachelor’s degree takes two years, but due to the particularly good performance both Shilipa and Uaanao were exempted from the second year and were allowed to move on to the Bachelor’s course after just one year!

Shilipa and Uaanao stand for many young people who, through steps for children, receive opportunities that would otherwise have been denied to them. It shows how valuable long-term support is and how strong children can become when someone believes in them.

Education changes lives!

Both young women carry their dreams with impressive determination — and we are proud to be able to accompany them on this journey.

If you would also like to support the educational journey

of our guardian angel children and steps students:

New address from 1.4.2026

Marie Schnaidt — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:06:00 +0000

The Foundation steps for children has moved its head office to Hamburg. With the new location, we are creating better working conditions for our team, more space for exchange, and a modern environment in which we can further develop our foundation's work.

Our projects in Namibia will of course continue as usual. The move affects only our Hamburg office, from which we coordinate the organizational, strategic, and administrative work for the foundation. The phone number has not changed; you can reach us as usual at + 49 (0) 40 389 027 88

Our new address is:

steps for children foundation

c/o Regus Altona

Ottenser Main Street 2-6

22765 Hamburg

Visitor entrance:

Hahnenkamp 1

We look forward to continuing to work with commitment for the future of children and young people in Namibia from our new location – together with our supporters, partners, and friends of the foundation.

When machines reach their limits

Marie Schnaidt — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:33:04 +0000

The next step for our sewing workshop

Two of our sewing machines have reached the end of their service life after many years of continuous use. Now we need replacements so that our workshop can continue to enable families to have a sustainable livelihood as an income-generating step.

A workshop that creates opportunities

Our sewing workshop has been an important part of our work since 2006. Here, products are made that enable families to earn their own income and open up new long-term opportunities for them.

The three sewing machines we have worked with over the past 10 years were originally donated household machines. What began as valuable start-up support became a true continuous operation: used daily, for many years.

Now the sewing machines have reached their limits

Recently, we took all three machines to Windhoek for maintenance. The sobering feedback: two of the machines have reached the end of their service life. A repair is no longer worthwhile. The machines made it possible for us to set up the workshop. But after many years of intensive use, the time has now come to take the next step.

What we need now

In addition to our modern embroidery machine, we now also need powerful sewing machines that can withstand daily workshop operations.

To further develop our sewing workshop and secure stable incomes, we want to acquire two robust, durable machines designed for long-term use.

Planned purchase of:

2 robust, industrial-grade sewing machines
Cost per machine: 10,400 NAD (approx. €550)
Total cost: approx. €1,100

How you can help

With your donation, you are not only helping us with a purchase —
you are helping us take this income-generating step to the next level and make it sustainable in the long term.

Social Holiday in Gobabis

Marie Schnaidt — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 09:23:37 +0000

How an inquiry became a creative project

A few weeks ago, we received a special message:

Linda Verweyen, 28 years old from Dortmund, planned a three-week stay in Namibia and was looking for a way to make a meaningful contribution despite the short time frame. Through our offerings, she came across the Social leave – and got in touch with a wonderful idea.

Since Linda is a professional filmmaker, studied art education, and regularly gives workshops for children and young people, she offered to contribute her skills on site. Although a traditional assignment was not possible due to the short duration of her stay, together with center coordinator Jackie Sanjath and volunteer Antonia a creative solution was found:

A film workshop for the children in Gobabis.

Linda brought her camera, developed a small workshop concept, and worked with the children on their own little film ideas. This also produced material about the workshop itself – as an insight into the creative work on site with the children.

Dear Linda – thank you very much for your initiative, your creativity, and your commitment to our children in Gobabis. We were delighted to meet you!

A look behind the scenes:

Frank in Namibia

Marie Schnaidt — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:45:57 +0000

Who exactly is the person who does jumping jacks with the children in the morning, explains maths at lunchtime and talks about Viking chess in the afternoon with shining eyes? In this short interview, Frank introduces himself – a short-term volunteer who travelled to Namibia with plenty of heart, humour and curiosity.

Who are you?

My name is Frank Osburg. I am 57 years old, married, and have two adult daughters. For 20 years, I taught mathematics and religion at Niels-Stensen-Gymnasium in Harburg. I was also middle school coordinator and, in recent years, deputy principal. Unfortunately, our school had to close in July 2025 with the last graduating class. In my free time, I spend a lot of time in the forest with our Labradoodle Smilla, and I also enjoy reading, cooking, and baking.

Why did you decide to do a short-term traineeship in Namibia?

A colleague told me about steps for children because she had visited Okakarara during her vacation. Everything I heard and could see in pictures made me curious. In addition, I had saved up a sabbatical year for the 2025/26 school year and thus had the opportunity to go abroad for a longer period of time.

With which books, documentaries, films, or other contributions did you prepare for your time in Namibia?

I had intensive contact with people who had already been to Namibia several times. I also watched many documentaries and films about the country, its culture, and its people. In particular, the film „The Settlers“ left me with impressive, but also very mixed feelings. This is because Okakarara is in Herero territory and therefore also carries a sad history.

Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?

Physical education at 8 a.m., when the temperatures are still pleasant, shows the children’s enthusiasm. It is fascinating to see how the small children eagerly join in on the exercises being demonstrated, such as circling their arms forward and backward, hopping on one leg, squats, or jumping jacks. There were also great moments in art class, when everyone worked on the tasks with great concentration.
Unfortunately, I have not yet been able to help very much in the afternoon with homework supervision and math tutoring, because the school year has only just started and the students have not yet settled into a regular rhythm. With those I have already been able to support, it has been a lot of fun for me, especially when you can see that the tasks were solved correctly.

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

Unlike in Germany, where one is used to everyday things „working,“ in Namibia you can be sure that things often turn out differently than you expect. So in all the steps houses we often struggle with missing water or power cuts. But in the end, there is usually a solution. One particular challenge for me remains the language. I have to keep being creative…

What has shaped your stay particularly?

Because my stay is so short, that is somewhat difficult to say. In any case, it is the smiling faces of the children, whether in the morning in kindergarten and preschool or in the afternoon in care during a game of Viking chess. But of course, the first encounters with giraffes, monkeys, and other wild animals are also part of it.

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

I really can’t say, as I came with as few preconceived notions about the people and the country as possible. One positive thing, in any case, has been the openness I have experienced so far.

As a large white person, I naturally stand out automatically. But it was no problem to sing, clap, or dance in a circle with the children. On both sides, we showed no inhibitions. Helping with mathematical problems is also getting better and better over time.

What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?

I think it will be a visit to Etosha National Park. I hope to see many interesting animals in the wild. And without even trying: the spectacle in the sky every evening at dusk is breathtaking and also free of charge.

What are you grateful for?

I am grateful that I was welcomed so warmly.

I wish...

For the rest of my time, I hope that I can play a lot with the children and teach them something (even if constantly lifting them up or carrying them around is not exactly easy on the back), and that we stay healthy in our volunteer community.

Dear Frank, thank you very much for your commitment here in Okakarara! Your stay is a valuable gain for the steps team and the children. We wish you much joy on the rest of your journey.

Clenda – how are you?

Marie Schnaidt — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 13:40:51 +0000

It’s been a few months now since Clenda, a former steps student, graduated last year. She’s had quite to eventful time since then and has even been to Germany. We’ve asked ago 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.

Mia in Namibia

Marie Schnaidt — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:44:05 +0000

Mia is currently working as short-term volunteer at steps for children in Okakarara, Namibia. She actively supports the soup kitchen, afternoon classes, and childcare on site — in the day-to-day life of the education center. In a short interview, you can get to know her and her everyday life at steps:

Please introduce yourself briefly and meaningfully: Who are you?

My name is Mia Seitner, I am 18 years old and come from Hamburg. Last year I completed my Abitur and am currently doing a three-month volunteer placement in Okakarara, Namibia. I am consciously using the time between school and university to gain new experiences and develop personally.

Why did you decide to do a social year/short-term volunteer assignment in Namibia?

After my Abitur, I did not want to start studying right away, but first do something practical and get involved in a meaningful way. It was important to me to work with children, because it is simply wonderful to see how they develop and how much you can laugh and learn together. At the same time, I wanted to really get to know a new country and a different culture — not just as a tourist, but by working on site and becoming part of everyday life. Namibia gives me exactly that opportunity.

How did you prepare for your time in Namibia?

In preparation, I mainly exchanged ideas with other current volunteers. Their personal reports gave me an honest insight into everyday life on site and helped me develop realistic expectations. I also had many conversations with my parents, as they have been to Namibia several times themselves. This allowed them to give me a better understanding of the country and the culture.

Are there any tasks you particularly enjoy?

Actually, there is no specific task I like best, because I find something nice in every activity. It is especially motivating to support the children and see how much joy it gives them when they learn something new or experience success. That is exactly what makes the work so unique and natural.

What has been particularly challenging so far?

Especially at the beginning, it was challenging for me to develop a feel for the cultural understanding. I had to learn that processes here are often less predictable and things do not always work the way they do in Germany. At first, it was not always easy for me to accept these differences, but over time I have learned to become more patient and flexible and not to judge situations too quickly.

Is there a special encounter or story that stays in your memory?

A particularly funny situation arose when we wrote personal profile cards together. I had mentioned in mine that I have two brothers — and the children reacted completely shocked and asked me how it could be that I did not have a single sister. This moment humorously shows how different family structures often are here, as most children have several siblings.

What skills are you developing during your stay?

Above all, my intercultural skills are developing strongly here. I am learning to handle different perspectives more sensitively and to adapt better to other ways of life. In addition, I am taking on responsibility, becoming more patient, and growing through new challenges.

What are your plans after the end of your stay?

In autumn I will begin my studies, probably also abroad, in order to get to know another culture once again and deepen my international perspective further. The experiences from Namibia are already shaping me greatly and will certainly accompany me through my studies and my future path in life.

What has surprised you most so far during your stay?

It is not necessarily something surprising, but it is incredibly wonderful to experience how warmly and openly I was welcomed here, because that is not always something you can take for granted. You can feel a strong sense of community and mutual support – not only among the adults, but also among the children. This positive attitude impresses me very much.

What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?

You should definitely experience the impressive nature – for example, go on a game drive or watch the beautiful sunsets. This vastness and tranquility are something truly special and make Namibia unique.

What are you grateful for?

I am very grateful for the opportunity to have this experience. I am especially grateful for the trust placed in me here and, of course, for the great working atmosphere with the children.

I wish...

I hope that the organization will continue to do such valuable work and give many more children the opportunity to access education, receive warm meals, and learn and grow in a safe environment.

Dear Mia, thank you so much for your commitment at steps in Okakarara! Your work with the children changes lives up close and inspires us all.

Follow Mia's path to Okakarara!

As a short-term volunteer with steps for children, she helps in the learning groups, plays with the children, accompanies projects – and thereby changes lives. Would you like to do that too? Then find out more here and become a volunteer in Namibia! Your commitment brings hope.
Learn more & apply

Isabell in Namibia

Marie Schnaidt — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:25:20 +0000

Between red earth, endless sky, and joyful children’s laughter: Isabell has been living and working for a few months as a volunteer with steps for children in Okakarara, Namibia. She talks about her everyday life at our education center, the challenges, touching moments, and the children who have now grown very dear to her. A personal insight into a life far away from home — and into the impact that local commitment can truly have.

Who are you?

Hey! I’m Isabell, 19 years old, and I finished my A-levels this year. Right now I’m here as a 25/26 volunteer in the Steps project in Okakarara! I love working with the kids, being creative, and constantly trying out new ideas (half of them end in chaos, but somehow it always works out in the end). Besides that, I love everything related to fitness and nutrition… although I never say no to good food. With me, you can definitely always laugh and have fun!

Why did you decide to do a social year in Namibia?

I actually chose the project more than the country at first. I was really convinced by the reports from a friend who was able to visit the steps project on site and was welcomed so warmly. And even now I still love this project and wouldn’t choose differently! But Namibia also impressed me a lot with its beautiful nature and the great people we’ve had the chance to meet.

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

To prepare for this year, there were several seminars where we learned a lot about colonial history, but also dealt with topics such as privilege and cultural differences. I also talked a lot with people who had already been to Namibia and got many useful tips.

Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?

I love art class! Since I’m creative myself, it’s even better that we’re given so much freedom here when it comes to art lessons. We can decide for ourselves what we want to make/draw with the children, and it’s a wonderful feeling to see the children’s faces light up when they look at their artwork. We really have a lot of artists here!

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

The language barrier can sometimes be a challenge, especially with the younger children in the morning, particularly when you need to explain something in more detail. But
everything works out! We quickly learned the most important words in Otjiherero, and with hands and feet you can manage anything with children—you just have to be creative! 😉

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

There are far too many to choose just one! So many unexpected but absolutely funny things happen here. From a primary school beauty contest, to a 21st birthday at Waterberg, to a sunset we enjoyed on our neighbors’ roof, we really experienced it all. As soon as you leave the house here, you meet new people, and you never know what stories you’ll come home with—but that’s exactly why I love village life here!

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

I’ve definitely learned to be much more relaxed — Namibia kind of forces you to be, especially considering that time passes completely differently for people here; 9 o’clock can quickly turn into 12. I’ve also definitely gotten better at finding spontaneous solutions, especially when 20 children suddenly want something from me at the same time. And honestly: my ability to improvise has reached a whole new level here.

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

After this year, I would like to study psychology so that I can later work as a therapist or in research. What my job before this year, but also the work here, has shown me is that I want to work with people 100% and have a flexible and varied everyday work life.

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

Definitely how much energy the kids have! It’s incredibly fascinating that whatever they do, they’re motivated — whether it’s worksheets, sports, or art, the children are 100% into everything. That also makes it a lot of fun to prepare the lessons.

What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?

Definitely: standing in the full wind at the back of a pickup at least once while the sun sets, trying Vetkoeks, and, classic as it is, you simply have to see the wildlife here!

What are you grateful for?

For all the little moments that surprise me here every day — the funniest questions from the children, a little dance break between math problems, and the fact that no day here is like the other. And rain, of course! It’s so lovely when it cools down a bit and everyone’s mood suddenly gets 10 times better. Playing catch with the children in the rain is definitely one of my favorite moments here. I’ve rarely laughed so much!

I wish...

That after this year, I’ll remember all the little moments that made me laugh. I hope I’ll continue to learn so much about the people, the country, and myself. And I hope that by the end of this year I can say: I took everything with me that this year gave me. And of course that many people support our Christmas donation campaign for the children!!!! Thank you! <3

Dear Isabell, thank you so much for contributing to steps for children in Namibia with such dedication and heart. We are delighted by your commitment — we wish you lots of fun and joy to continue!

Have you already heard about the volunteers’ campaign?

With a lot of heart and initiative, our four volunteers are currently committed to supporting children and young people at steps in Okakarara. They not only help in everyday life on site, but also have their own Fundraising campaign started - to be able to achieve even more.