Steenkamp advocates for vulnerable youth

Tough as nails, basic education PS Sanet Steenkamp has a much more laid back side to her than many can imagine.
Gabby Tjiroze
Elizabeth Joseph



Sanet Steenkamp is a fierce and strong woman, who is unashamed of using her position as basic education permanent secretary to strongly advocate for the rights of the vulnerable.

She is also a fierce fighter for youth empowerment.

Steenkamp has made significant contributions in terms of the ­successful implementation of inclusive education and through her active support and counselling, sexual health and HIV/Aids are firmly in the spotlight.

She has raised awareness and engaged with thousands of teachers and learners, while gaining profound insights.

At the same time she has built and maintained on personal and organisational integrity, through inspirational behaviour and the way she lives her life.

Born in Karasburg in southern Namibia, Steenkamp has very strong family ties with her siblings.

She always dreamt of broadening her social and cultural horizons.

She previously held the position of director of education in the Ohangwena Region, where she campaigned for the implementation of decentralised educational functions.

She also spearheaded the region's education strategy.

Steenkamp holds a master of education leadership and management degree from Rhodes University and a professional certificate from the Public School of Leadership at the Stellenbosch University. She is registered with Rhodes University as a PhD candidate.

Starting off her career as an unqualified teacher for two years, she decided not to settle for this.

After a position as a fulltime life skills and language teacher, Steenkamp joined the Oshana Region where she, as a senior school counsellor, practiced her passion.

With a wealth of experience in leadership and management, Steenkamp believes in fostering a vibrant and productive working environment, where all the staff members are valued and are constantly learning, growing and thriving.

She continues to build strong and meaningful networks with donors, development partners and key stakeholders. She serves on various educational boards and advisory committees, while also serving as the chairperson for Rural Health Integrated Network, operational in the Ohangwena Region.

An avid reader and doer, Steenkamp values her solitude, yet would eagerly attend to her lovely garden. Deeply in love and committed to her family, she enjoys the happiness and fulfilment of family life and treasures the time they spend together. Seizing the opportunity when ­presented to travel, Steenkamp embraces diverse cultures and enjoys exploring traditional food.

She loves visiting cathedrals.

Everything she embarks on definitely yields success and this woman of substance is a source of great inspiration.