Hilma Weber’s remarkable journey from a successful career in tourism to becoming a passionate advocate for early childhood development (ECD) and a children’s book author is a story of purpose, empathy, and a deep desire for change. Born and raised in a small village in northern Namibia, Hilma grew up without access to many basic resources, including books. Despite these challenges, her early life experiences would eventually lay the foundation for her transition from the tourism industry to the world of literature, where she now focuses on empowering disadvantaged children across her homeland.
After years of dedication in the tourism sector, where she rose to the position of senior human resource executive, Hilma made a life-changing decision. Following the birth of her son, she chose to leave her corporate career behind. "I always wanted to be a full-time mother," she reflected, acknowledging the pivotal nature of that moment. However, her departure from the business world was not simply an end but the beginning of a new and fulfilling chapter.
During a visit to an informal settlement in Namibia with the Development Workshop Namibia, an organisation dedicated to sanitation and community development, Hilma had an eye-opening experience. She was struck by the vast disparity between the early learning opportunities available to her own child and those accessible to children living in these settlements. This experience ignited a deep passion within her to address the inequalities many children face, particularly regarding education. As she reflected on her own childhood, she said, “The stories of these children resonated with mine.”
Motivated by this encounter, Hilma began her journey into ECD. What started with her collecting children’s books and organising reading sessions soon blossomed into something far greater. She founded the "Play for All" program, an initiative dedicated to providing educational resources, teacher training, and children's books to underserved communities. Partnering with organisations like UNICEF, Hilma mobilised donors and resources to bring her vision to life, ensuring that children in informal settlements received the educational support they needed.
At the core of Hilma’s mission is a profound belief in the power of education to break the cycle of poverty and inequality. “Inequality starts the day children are born,” she emphasised, pointing out that children in informal settlements are just as intelligent and capable as their more privileged counterparts, yet they lack the resources to fully realise their potential. This understanding fueled her desire to write children’s books that reflect African realities, giving young readers a sense of pride in their heritage and culture.
Among her notable works is the Children’s Picture Atlas of Namibia, which helps young Namibian readers connect with their country’s geography. Hilma believes that exposing children to literature that celebrates their own cultures is essential in countering the dominance of Western content. Her books, rich in African history and stories, serve as a bridge between past and future generations.
Hilma Weber’s inspiring shift from tourism to children’s literature reinforces her strong commitment to creating a more equitable future for African children. Through her writing and advocacy, she continues to make a significant impact, ensuring that every child, no matter their background, can thrive and succeed.
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