By Hilja Shikongo

At only 26 years old, Theopoldine Karunga has become a beacon of strength and purpose in the Kunene Region. What began as a season of uncertainty has blossomed into a story of creativity, compassion, and perseverance  one that continues to inspire many young Namibians.

A few years ago, Karunga was pursuing her Bachelor’s Honours Degree in Senior Primary Education at the International University of Management (IUM). But when her grandmother’s health began to decline, life took an unexpected turn.  She made the brave decision to return home to Outjo to care for her grandmother and two young children.

“I had to be there for my family,” she said. “Even though it meant putting my studies on hold, I knew I was needed at home.”
With no steady income, Karunga began searching for ways to support her household. Her first small business was selling vetkoek and mince, waking up before dawn to prepare her goods for sale. Despite the long hours and exhaustion, she refused to give up.

Her determination soon gave rise to something even more meaningful. Drawing from her love for teaching and her passion for children, she started offering early learning support and play-based activities for toddlers in her community.  What began with a few neighbourhood children quickly grew into a safe and joyful learning space  a homegrown initiative that gives little ones a place to learn, play, and grow while their parents work.

“My dream is to one day expand my initiative into a fully registered early childhood centre,” she shared.  “I want to give children in Outjo a strong start in life  and show other young people that even when plans change, you can still create something beautiful with what you have.”

Today, Karunga continues to motivate other young women in her community to embrace self-reliance, creativity, and courage in the face of uncertainty. Her journey is a reminder that true success is not defined by a straight path  but by resilience, love, and the ability to turn challenges into purpose. Through her hands, Outjo’s youngest learners are not just being taught  they are being nurtured with hope.