Mia is currently working as short-term volunteer at steps for children in Okakarara, Namibia. She actively supports the soup kitchen, afternoon classes, and childcare on site — in the day-to-day life of the education center. In a short interview, you can get to know her and her everyday life at steps:
Please introduce yourself briefly and meaningfully: Who are you?
My name is Mia Seitner, I am 18 years old and come from Hamburg. Last year I completed my Abitur and am currently doing a three-month volunteer placement in Okakarara, Namibia. I am consciously using the time between school and university to gain new experiences and develop personally.
Why did you decide to do a social year/short-term volunteer assignment in Namibia?
After my Abitur, I did not want to start studying right away, but first do something practical and get involved in a meaningful way. It was important to me to work with children, because it is simply wonderful to see how they develop and how much you can laugh and learn together. At the same time, I wanted to really get to know a new country and a different culture — not just as a tourist, but by working on site and becoming part of everyday life. Namibia gives me exactly that opportunity.
How did you prepare for your time in Namibia?
In preparation, I mainly exchanged ideas with other current volunteers. Their personal reports gave me an honest insight into everyday life on site and helped me develop realistic expectations. I also had many conversations with my parents, as they have been to Namibia several times themselves. This allowed them to give me a better understanding of the country and the culture.
Are there any tasks you particularly enjoy?
Actually, there is no specific task I like best, because I find something nice in every activity. It is especially motivating to support the children and see how much joy it gives them when they learn something new or experience success. That is exactly what makes the work so unique and natural.
What has been particularly challenging so far?
Especially at the beginning, it was challenging for me to develop a feel for the cultural understanding. I had to learn that processes here are often less predictable and things do not always work the way they do in Germany. At first, it was not always easy for me to accept these differences, but over time I have learned to become more patient and flexible and not to judge situations too quickly.
Is there a special encounter or story that stays in your memory?
A particularly funny situation arose when we wrote personal profile cards together. I had mentioned in mine that I have two brothers — and the children reacted completely shocked and asked me how it could be that I did not have a single sister. This moment humorously shows how different family structures often are here, as most children have several siblings.
What skills are you developing during your stay?
Above all, my intercultural skills are developing strongly here. I am learning to handle different perspectives more sensitively and to adapt better to other ways of life. In addition, I am taking on responsibility, becoming more patient, and growing through new challenges.
What are your plans after the end of your stay?
In autumn I will begin my studies, probably also abroad, in order to get to know another culture once again and deepen my international perspective further. The experiences from Namibia are already shaping me greatly and will certainly accompany me through my studies and my future path in life.
What has surprised you most so far during your stay?
It is not necessarily something surprising, but it is incredibly wonderful to experience how warmly and openly I was welcomed here, because that is not always something you can take for granted. You can feel a strong sense of community and mutual support – not only among the adults, but also among the children. This positive attitude impresses me very much.
What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?
You should definitely experience the impressive nature – for example, go on a game drive or watch the beautiful sunsets. This vastness and tranquility are something truly special and make Namibia unique.
What are you grateful for?
I am very grateful for the opportunity to have this experience. I am especially grateful for the trust placed in me here and, of course, for the great working atmosphere with the children.
I wish...
I hope that the organization will continue to do such valuable work and give many more children the opportunity to access education, receive warm meals, and learn and grow in a safe environment.
Dear Mia, thank you so much for your commitment at steps in Okakarara! Your work with the children changes lives up close and inspires us all.
Follow Mia's path to Okakarara!
As a short-term volunteer with steps for children, she helps in the learning groups, plays with the children, accompanies projects – and thereby changes lives. Would you like to do that too? Then find out more here and become a volunteer in Namibia! Your commitment brings hope.
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