Madita in Namibia
Would you also like to do a Voluntary Social Year in Namibia with steps for children, like Madita? Then here you can get a great impression of her placement in Okakarara. Let yourself be inspired and find out about further placement opportunities with steps in Namibia – it doesn't always have to be a whole year…
Who are you and since when have you been at
which location with 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 grandpa worked as a vet in Namibia for a while and told me lots of fascinating stories during my childhood. That made me curious, so I started looking for projects and then
very quickly came across the website of Volunta gGmbh, where I got a little insight into the amazing projects. I then applied straight away. This is how I came to be with 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?
I like spending my evenings most with the other volunteers and acquaintances I have 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?
I like the sports lessons with the kids and working in the steps garden best.
Generally, though, I find that all the tasks are wonderfully varied and enjoyable. The
children are open and happy to see us, and that is a really great feeling.
Madita has already made many animal friends.
What has been particularly challenging on your journey or during your stay so far
?
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 was surprised by how much attention you get as a “Tjirumbu” (white person). In Okakarara, people are constantly greeting you, and you often hear people calling out to you using the word Tjirumbu. I would not have expected it to be like that in Okakarara,
especially because so many volunteers have already been here before us. But it is lovely to be welcomed and greeted here.
What are you grateful for?
I don't even know where to begin listing everything I am grateful for. I have already collected so many wonderful memories and met incredible people. I am incredibly grateful for and happy about how I have already changed myself through the changes in my surroundings
and that I applied for this FSJ, because I have already learned so much. For example, that owning a washing machine and having running water and electricity are enormous privileges. Of course, I already knew
that before, but seeing with my own eyes how some of the people here live without these “basics” is much more impactful than any story could ever be. Even more impressive, however, is how happy they are and that we should learn from their minimalism. 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 interact a lot with Namibians. Personally, I would definitely recommend joining a club or a community so that you can meet people there and see how they
interact with one another. I think the best way to learn about a culture is by spending time with the people who live there.
I wish...
…an equally wonderful or even more wonderful time than I have had so far, and many lovely moments to treasure.
Dear Madita, we are so happy that you are here! We are delighted to have your support in Okakarara and wish you an exciting time ahead in Namibia. We sincerely thank you for your commitment!
Are you interested in volunteering in Namibia with steps for children? Here you can find out what options we offer.
