Finding my Place in Namibia

Location:
Windhoek Namibia
Latitude/Longitude:
-22.560880700000, 17.065754900000
Journal Entry:

How do you make friends? Are they your neighbors, classmates, or members of the the same club as you? Some people make friends very easily, while for others (like me) it can take a while. When you are in another culture where neighborhoods, schools and clubs are different it can be very challenging to integrate or become a part of the community. I have tried to overcome my difficulties when it comes to making new friends in three ways.

Firstly, one of my main ways of getting to know a community is through volunteering. Volunteering has always been an important part of my life, and working with organizations serving their communities has helped me meet people who also care about others. Volunteering has been important to me here in Namibia because I do not have a workplace with people I see every day. Now that the holidays are over, I am going to start helping at a school near my apartment for children with disabilities once a week. I am also hoping to find some more health organizations to support. By showing up to an organization once a week, I am able to see people on a regular basis, which helps me build friendships. 

Secondly, I always try to learn how to greet someone in the local languages.

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