Madita in Namibia
Would you like to do a voluntary social year in Namibia with steps for children like Madita? Then you can get a great impression of her work in Namibia here Okakarara. Let yourself be inspired and find out about other job opportunities at steps in Namibia - it doesn't always have to be a whole year...
Who are you and when did you join
which location at steps?
I am Madita Hünermund, 20 years old and I am currently working as a volunteer at steps for children in Okakarara, Namibia. I have been here with my fellow volunteer Anette since mid-August and support my colleagues wherever I can. I will be staying here until the end of July 2024 and am really looking forward to many more indescribably beautiful moments like the ones I have already experienced.
Why did you decide to do a social year in Namibia?
I came up with the idea, because my grandad worked as a vet in Namibia for a while and told many fascinating stories in my childhood. I became curious and started looking for projects and then
very quickly to the website of Volunta gGmbh and got a little insight into the fantastic projects and then applied straight away. That's how I ended up at the partner organisation.
Which books did you use to prepare for your time in Namibia?
With a few travel guides and a book about the history of Africa.
What is your favourite way to spend the evenings after your work at steps?
My favourite way to spend the evenings is with the fellow volunteers and friends I've met here so far. I also sing in the Okakarara Youth Choir on Fridays and Saturdays.
Are there any tasks that you particularly like at steps?
My favourite things are the sports lessons with the kids and working in the steps garden.
In general, however, I think that all the tasks are super varied and enjoyable. The
Children are open and happy to see us and that's a super great feeling.
Madita has already made many animal friends.
What has been particularly challenging on your trip or during your stay so far?
been?
Arriving was particularly challenging at first. Settling in and getting used to the surroundings. Village life is somewhat different to that in Germany, but there is something harmonious and calming about it.
What surprised you the most during your stay?
I found it surprising how much attention you get as a „Tjirumbu“ (white person). You are constantly greeted in Okakarara and you often hear people calling you by the word Tjirumbu. I didn't expect it to be like that in Okakarara,
especially because so many volunteers have been here before us. But it's nice to be welcomed and greeted here.
What are you grateful for?
I don't even know where to begin to list all the things I'm grateful for. I've already made so many great memories and met incredible people. For the time in which I have already changed myself with the change in my environment
I am incredibly grateful and glad that I applied for this FSJ, because I have already learnt a lot. For example, that a washing machine and running water and electricity are a huge privilege. Of course he knew
I had already realised this before, but seeing with my own eyes how some of the people here live without these „basics“ is even more impressive than any story could be. What is much more impressive, however, is how happy they are and that we can afford a
should take a leaf out of their minimalist book. For example, when it comes to saving water.
What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?
Definitely the local dishes, of course, and you should have a lot of interaction with the Namibians. For my part, I would definitely recommend joining some kind of association or community to get to know people there and see how they interact.
deal with each other. I find that the best way to learn about a culture is to work with time with the residents.
I wish...
...have as good or even better a time than I've already had and lots of great jam jar moments.
Dear Madita, it's great that you're here! We are delighted about your support in Okakarara and wish you an exciting time in Namibia. Thank you very much for your commitment!
Are you interested in volunteering in Namibia with steps for children? Here you can find out what opportunities we offer.
