Paula immerses herself in life in Okakarara: Her second FSJ at steps for children in Namibia is full of creativity, children's laughter and cultural discoveries - from art lessons and sports with the little ones to heart-warming encounters. She talks authentically about challenges, surprises such as cow price questions and her growing love for this place.
Who are you?
Hey, I'm Paula, 19 years old and I come from the Taunus, near Frankfurt am Main.
I am currently spending my second FSJ abroad with steps for children in Okakarara, a
small village in Namibia. I am a creative, cheerful and rather quiet person who loves to spend time with people.
with children and get to know new cultures.
Why did you decide to do a social year in Namibia?
I had already completed an FSJ at a grammar school in Germany, but afterwards I really wanted to experience another culture - not as a tourist, but right in the middle of it. To experience something completely new. Namibia immediately fascinated me with its nature, animals and history.
How did you prepare for your year?
I have read testimonials from other volunteers and learnt a lot about Namibia's history both privately and in the preparatory seminars. But to be honest: you only understand most of it when you are here through the people, everyday life and all the little moments.
Which tasks do you particularly enjoy?
Definitely art lessons. I simply have the most fun with that. I love being creative with the children and seeing how much fun they have doing it. When they proudly hold up their pictures at the end and laugh, that's the best feeling for me every time 🙂
What has been particularly challenging so far?
It was a big adjustment at the beginning: the weather, the language, the daily routine and the attention you get as a volunteer or „white person“. In such a small village, you simply stand out straight away.
Nevertheless, you quickly get used to it, learn a lot and grow with everything. I now feel really at home here!
A special encounter or story?
There are so many! But I was particularly fascinated by a conversation in which a child asked us quite seriously how many cows we had sold in Germany to pay for our flight ticket to Namibia. People here really think and trade a lot in terms of cattle, cows are very important. I found it sweet, surprising and totally exciting to express a flight price in cows. Moments like this show you how different living environments can be.
What skills have you been able to develop?
Definitely a lot more composure, but also flexibility in everyday life, because no two days are the same here. I can now assess situations much better and react more spontaneously. Above all, working with younger children has shown me how much fun I have and helps me to develop further. That helps me a lot for my future career aspirations.
What would you like to do after the FSJ?
I would like to study to become a primary school teacher, preferably in maths and art. My time here has already taught me so much that will help me later in my studies and career.
What surprised you the most?
How quickly you can feel at home here. The people are incredibly welcoming, you are accepted immediately and you learn a lot about yourself.
I was also surprised by how much of a community there is here: everyone knows everyone else and children simply run back and forth between all the houses and play together.
What should you definitely try when you are in Namibia?
Clearly the sunsets are really beautiful. Also definitely safaris, the animals and nature are so impressive. When it comes to food, definitely try fatcakes, which are XXL quarkinis and super tasty. But I still have to try a lot more Namibian food!
What are you grateful for?
For all the encounters, the openness of the people and the feeling of really being able to do something meaningful here. And of course for the children when they come running up to you in the morning laughing and hugging you, that is simply priceless.
I wish...
...that I can continue to learn and take away so much about life, about other people and about myself. And that even more children can be supported here, with hot meals, education and the chance to realise their dreams 🙂
Dear Paula, thank you very much for putting your heart and soul and creativity into steps for children in Okakarara. We look forward to everything you do and wish you all the best for your time at steps and in Namibia!
Great action by Paula and her fellow volunteers:
Our four volunteers in Okakarara are currently working for the children and young people at steps with a lot of heart and initiative. They not only provide support in everyday life on site, but also have their own Fundraising campaign started - to be able to achieve even more.
