Sarah in Namibia
Sarah is doing a short-term internship with steps for children in Namibia - but she's now telling you about it herself. You can apply for a place with us not just for a whole voluntary social year, but also for a few months.
Who are you how long have you been at steps and at which location?
My name is Sarah and I have been with steps for children in Okakarara since the beginning of October 2023. I will stay until the end of February and am looking forward to many new experiences and great experiences.
Why did you decide to spend a social year in Namibia?
My studies are already coming to an end, and so I wanted to take the opportunity to do something completely different. I find it exciting to get to know new cultures and can also imagine getting involved in development cooperation later. I heard about steps for children in from acquaintances Namibia and then decided relatively quickly to take another semester off and help with the project in Okakarara.
What books did you use to prepare for your time in Namibia?
When preparing for Namibia, I listened to a wide range of documentaries and podcasts: some covered the history of Namibia from colonization to independence. Others have presented today's structures or tips for tours.
How do you like to spend the evenings after your work at steps?
In the evenings we usually spend our time together and go for a walk in Okakarara, watch films or play cards. We also cook and eat together. Every now and then guests from the guesthouse company, which makes for a pleasant change.
Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?
I particularly like the art classes. Here we can independently think of new craft or painting projects to do with the kids every week. It's nice to see when a child particularly likes one of our ideas and is completely engrossed in their work and then runs back to the class beaming with joy when they're finished.
Here Sarah helps the children in Ongombombonde weave and knot friendship bracelets.
What has been particularly challenging on your trip or during your stay so far?
The first few days were the most challenging for me so far. I had an incredible amount of new impressions and experiences process and learned a lot of new things.
What surprised you most about your stay?
I was particularly surprised by the warm greetings from people, whether in the project, where I was very well received, or while walking through Okakarara.
What are you grateful for?
I am grateful for every happy smile and bright greeting from the kids. This shows me again and again that I am in the right place and what special meaning the project has for so many here in Okakarara.
What do you have to try when you're in Namibia?
With a cold mango oshikandela (a yogurt drink) first Sunset Watch as incredible red colors are conjured up in the sky every evening. Later, lying on the warm stones Tern observe and do the different things Sounds and music in Okakarara listen.
I wish…
... that I can continue to have great experiences and encounters like before during my remaining time in Namibia.
... that steps for children will continue to exist and grow for a long time in order to be able to give many children a chance for a good future.
Dear Sarah, thank you very much for your on-site support at steps for children in Okakarara! We wish you an exciting and exciting time at steps for children and in Namibia.
Would you like to do a short-term traineeship like Sarah?
Here you can find out about the FSJ or other opportunities to get involved with steps for children in Namibia. Or you can simply contact us at info@stepsforchildren.de
Hello to Namibia!
Hello to Namibia! steps volunteers answer questions about their stay and the activities in our facilities in Namibia. Look forward to it! Hello, my name is Anette and I have been at steps for children at the Okakarara location since mid-August. Why did you decide to spend a social year in Namibia? Since I
Participate in Namibia
Would you like to take part in our local projects in Okakarara, Gobabis or Rehoboth and, together with our helpers and employees, give children and young people access to education? Or help with food, initiate games and sports? You don't like to just watch from the outside, but want to actively work