Star teacher of the week

Hobbies: Art, hiking, camping

Loves: Languages, badminton (any sport, really).

Teaching at the DHPS: Very lucky to work with the people I work with, great access to experience and resources, working on two different school-leaving certificates.

Important: That each person gets a fair chance at life and education, that everyone feels valued and respected, that I may never be the instrument of pain in another human being.

1. Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I actually wanted to study law or profiling. However, I went to Europe after finishing grade 12 at Delta Secondary School (then DOSW). Upon my return, I had to find something to do and applied to be a teacher’s assistant at All Nations Christian School. By the end of the following year (2001) I was in charge of a grade six and seven class. That was the feather that tipped the scale and I realised that I was born to lead children (and later young adults) to a love of learning. And, without detracting from other professions, the two times I took time away from teaching, I missed the meaning that it gave to my life.

2. What were your aspirations at a younger age?

As long as I can remember I have been fascinated by trains and, for the longest time, I wanted to become a train driver. My fascination with trains has by no means lessened over time, and I still love watching trains as they go by.

3. What motivates you to get up every morning to go to work?

My students. And the knowledge that I only have a limited amount of time with each class so I need to grasp every gift of time I have been given with them. You might be the only smile or kindness your student receives that day, and for some it can make all the difference, not only in their studies, but in life. Mostly, I am astounded at the privilege I have to play a small part in the formation of tomorrow’s youth. It is a blessing I do not take for granted.

4. What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learnt from one of your learners?

I don’t always know better - even when it comes to subject matter. We can never fathom the lengths that some learners have to go to to receive an education. These amazing souls have taught me that perseverance, dedication and a positive attitude can make any dreams come true.

5. How long have you been a teacher?

Not counting the two years I spent as a teacher’s assistant, I am going on 18 years next March.

6. What is your favourite book and favourite place to visit in Namibia?

Favourite book is ‘Pride & Prejudice’ by Jane Austen. I love teaching literature and as a result, there are many books among those that I have read numerous times and consider close to my heart.

As a born and bred southern Namibian, the South has always been captivating and holds a special enchantment for me - from windy Lüderitz, to the red dunes of the Kalahari, to home, Helmeringhausen. However, at Spitzkoppe I feel freedom as I have never done before. I love going there! And Damaraland! There’s nothing better than gathering with friends around a campfire under the endless, starry Namibian sky and nothing but nature for miles.

7. Tell us about your journey.

My journey started out at All Nations Christian School as a teacher’s assistant. There I acquired many valuable lessons that I still use today. At the beginning of 2013 I had the great privilege of working for Agriforum (not to be confused with the South African AfriForum), a Namibian agricultural magazine, as a journalist. My editor, Marietjie van Staden, opened up a world of language to me in the year that I was with them.

But the call of education was too strong and I moved to Welwitschia Integrated School (Rosewood) where I learned all about hinderances to learning such as dyslexia. And, in 2017, I started at the DHPS.