Education offers hope and transforms lives in Namibia: Reinhold’s story
“Life is never fair. A Namibian child, who is not educated doesn't even know if there is a book on earth.”
A lack of education and exposure to the world would be a barrier for any child. However, education has the power to transform lives, it offers the hope that lights the path to a better future.
In 2010, Reinhold and his siblings found a new home and family at SOS Children’s Villages when their mother could no longer care for them. It was a turning point in their lives.
The love of chess
“I fell in love with chess the first time my brother taught me how to play,” says Reinhold. He explains that the knight, represented by a horse's head, is his favourite chess piece because of its ability to protect other pieces on the board.
If he had to choose a chess piece to represent his SOS mother, she would undoubtedly be the queen, the most powerful piece in the game, and the most powerful and nurturing person in real life.
“Our mother is a hardworking person, a very kind and loving person. She encourages us to study, and I'm studying very hard, which is why I love my mom very much.” He explains that his favourite subject at school is biology, as he loves to learn about nature and the interaction between humans and animals. He aspires to be a zoologist and contribute to the wellbeing of animals, as they, too, need love and care to have a good life.
Expression of gratitude
Growing up at SOS Children’s Villages shaped him into a better person. Reinhold is grateful for the opportunities that have come his way and has made the most of them. If given the chance, he would establish a high-quality school in the village where he was born to provide education and guidance to all the children there, just like he received at SOS Children’s Villages, and inspire them to dream big.
Reinhold is grateful for the path that led him and his siblings to SOS Children’s Villages, their SOS family, and the prospect of bright futures.