In the United States, a new beer named “Ombili,” inspired by the Oshivambo language, has taken the US market by storm, rapidly gaining popularity and capturing the hearts of local consumers. On March 25, 2021, Ombili IPA made its debut in liquor stores and taverns across Seattle, with distribution expanding to other states soon after.
The name Ombili (pronounced “ohm-bee-lee”) is deeply significant. In the Oshiwambo dialect, spoken in northern Namibia, “Ombili” means peace, harmony, and goodwill. For Grace Robbings, one of Reuben’s Brews’s co-founders and a former Peace Corps teacher volunteer in Namibia, such a word embodies the true spirit of the Namibian communities that she experienced while working as a teacher in northern Namibia in 2001. Drawing on this meaningful connection, the artwork on the beer’s design reflects the vibrant fabrics of Namibia, a dry ”Tropical Savanna”, which also adds visual charm to the beer’s rich story.
Grace’s journey of service in Namibia
Grace Robbings’ story as a volunteer teacher with the Peace Corps in Namibia is a powerful example of dedication, cross-cultural exchange, and service. Grace Robbings, is a passionate and service-driven individual with a strong desire to make a positive impact in society. When she learned about the Peace Corps’ mission to send volunteers to Namibia, she saw an opportunity to contribute to the global community, so she joined the Peace Corps.
When Grace Robbings arrived in Namibia, she was confronted with the harsh realities left by the legacies of apartheid and widespread illiteracy, particularly among rural communities, with schools often operating with just five textbooks for every 25 learners, limited resources like chalkboards and a critical shortage of qualified teachers.
Grace was assigned to the northern regions of Omusati and Oshana, where the educational needs were most urgent. There, she taught English, mathematics, and science to children in local primary schools. Additionally, many of her students were learning English as a second language, as they primarily spoke Oshiwambo. Grace had to adapt quickly, learning basic phrases in Oshiwambo languages to better communicate with her students and their immediate families.
She lived in modest accommodations provided by the local authority and sometimes she relied on local wells or boreholes for water. Electricity was limited, and she often used solar power, and parafin lamps in the evenings to prepare the school lessons. Despite these obstacles, Grace was resilient. Her love for teaching and local communities drove her to find creative solutions.
Cultural exchange
While Grace came to Namibia with the intent to teach, she quickly discovered that her experience was as much about learning as it was about giving. The cultural exchange between her and the Namibians she lived and worked with became a profound aspect of her journey.
She immersed herself in local customs, such as traditional Oshiwambo agricultural practices, spending time hoeing in crop fields. Grace attended cultural events and weddings, and savored local dishes like mahangu porridge, which deepened her appreciation for the vibrant culture around her.
In return, Grace shared her experiences and knowledge with her students and the community. She organized after-school clubs where students could practice their English and explore their creative talents. Additionally, she helped establish a small library at the school, collecting donated books from friends and family back in the U.S. This initiative not only fostered a love for reading but also created a resource base for future learners.
A lasting legacy
Grace’s time in Namibia as a Peace Corps teacher left a lasting imprint on both her and the community she served. After completing her two-year service, she returned home with a deeper appreciation for different cultures, a wealth of teaching experience, and cherished friendships she made with Namibian people.
Grace Robbings regarded her time in Namibia as one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. She frequently reflected on how much she had learned from the warm, peaceful Namibian people and their unique way of life.
The Oshivambo name “Ombili” was chosen for the beer with great intention, as it embodies the spirit of the adventurous journey she left behind. It represents the deep connections she formed and the lessons learned during her time in Namibia, now symbolized through the craft and community spirit of Ombili IPA. – Science Techniz
