A LOT of young people in Walvis Bay believe that a culture based on volunteerism can help solve youth-related problems and build character.
Some youth groups in the area are making a difference, despite their poor reputation.
Kundja Kavari (a second-year accounting student at University of Namibia) began volunteering when he was in highschool. He says he learned a lot from the experience.
“It is fulfilling and I learn a lot from the individuals where I volunteer. It has helped me and my friends to build our character throughout high school. I learned how to deal with different people, work under difficult circumstances, and manage my limited resources.
“This will be beneficial in my future. Through my volunteer journey, I met people who have helped me add value to my own life. Some have opened doors for me, while others have become mentors. I always remind myself of the saying: ‘I am because you are’,” he says.
Kavari encourages young people to find volunteer work to keep them out of trouble.
“It is fun and gives you a platform to understand yourself and to learn what you are passionate about. Volunteering is a great way to discover new opportunities. Many people think that being idle is a sign of social evils. It is more fulfilling to touch lives before money,” he says.
Anna Ndara is a student in social work at Unam.
She says: “Helping people fills me with so much gratitude that God uses me to help his people. Volunteering is a two-way channel that people do not realize. It is a two-way stream that benefits both you and the people in need. . . I have learned to interact with people from all walks of life. I have met most of my closest friends where I was volunteering.”
Kristine Shetunyenga (first-year accounting student at Nust), believes that young people should learn from an early age how to care for the vulnerable without receiving compensation.
“Put yourself in others’ shoes and ask yourself how it would feel if no one ever came to help you. Whoever you help today will see the good in you and help someone out tomorrow,” she says.
Barbra Kavita is responsible for the Walvis Bay Pap Mansion soup kitchen, which serves around 200 children.
Kavita claims that high school students often visit her house to help with cooking or feeding the children.
“I am really relieved when I see young people walking through that gate. It shows that they are developing a sense for unity. . . they are moving away from the streets to spend time at places where they can become better citizens,” she says.
Source: namibian
