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.
