Luisa is a short-term volunteer in Okakarara – just like Sarah! Here you can find out in an interview which challenges need to be overcome, how she prepared for the volunteer assignment and the country Namibia, and what she is grateful for.

Who are you and when did you join steps and at which location?

My name is Luisa, I am 18 years old and have been in Okakarara for 3 months since 14 September 2023.

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

I decided to volunteer with steps for children because I have always been enthusiastic about working with children and young people, which is why I have already helped out at primary schools in Germany.

Which books did you use to prepare for your time in Namibia?

Beforehand, I mainly tried to learn about the history of Namibia through books and videos, and I also had the opportunity to make contact with former volunteers in order to get insider information.

What is your favourite way to spend the evenings after your work at steps?

My favourite way to spend the evenings is to play games with the other volunteers or go for a walk together.

Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?

I particularly like working in the after-school programme, especially when you have time to respond to the students individually.

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

The language barrier that I had anticipated turned out to be non-existent because almost everyone here can speak fluent English and you can even communicate with the younger children using your hands and feet.

What are you grateful for?

Above all, I am grateful to have the chance to explore a country in this special way. I love being able to gain completely new experiences and having the opportunity to contribute new ideas to the project (especially in the mornings in the areas of art and sport).

I wish...

What I didn't expect was that the time here would pass so quickly, which is why I now wish I had more than just 3 months in the project.

Dear Luisa, it is wonderful that you like it so much at steps in Okakarara. We sincerely thank you for your commitment and wish you a time in Namibia filled with new experiences and discoveries!

And if you now also feel like doing an FSJ or a voluntary short-term stay at steps in Namibia, you can find out more here: