Vernon James Stringer, his story

The Inspiring Story of Vernon James Stringer
Sometimes the universe brings people together in unexpected ways. That’s how we found ourselves at Slowtown Coffee in Windhoek, Namibia, the go-to spot for great coffee. The tables were all taken except for one, where a man with dwarfism, standing 1.25 meters tall, sat alone. We asked if we could join him. “Of course,” he said with a smile. What started as polite small talk about where we were from soon turned into a conversation that deeply moved us.

The man was Vernon James Stringer, 59 years old, born and raised in Windhoek. His life story was so inspiring that we decided to share it with you.

A Childhood of Resilience

Vernon was born 59 years ago in Windhoek, at that time South-West Afrika. At birth, everything seemed normal, his mother recalled, though he did have hydrocephalus (water on the brain). A German doctor successfully treated this condition using specialized instruments from Germany, allowing Vernon the chance to have a normal childhood. However, he was diagnosed with dwarfism—specifically achondroplasia, the most accurate term for this condition. He is the only one in his family with this condition, and his parents raised him just like any other child.

At the age of six, every child in Namibia starts primary school, and Vernon was no exception. However, due to his small stature, no one believed he was already six years old. A school inspector had to intervene to allow him to attend. He became a curiosity at school but learned early on not to let others’ opinions hold him back.

One of Vernon’s sisters lived with her partner at their parents’ home in Cape Town, South Africa. At the age of 12, Vernon decided to join her there and continue his education in Cape Town. He lived with his older sister, but after a year, she decided to return to Namibia. Vernon, however, stayed behind with her in-laws to complete his schooling.

Choosing an Independent Namibia

In 1987, at 21, Vernon returned to Namibia, which at the time was still under South African rule. By then, he was old enough for military service. His parents were apprehensive, fearing he wouldn’t pass basic training. They enlisted a doctor to issue a medical exemption, but Vernon had other plans. True to his determined nature, he answered his draft call and spoke directly with the examining physician.

The doctor recognized Vernon’s eagerness but acknowledged that basic training was unrealistic for him. Instead, the doctor arranged a position for Vernon in the medical division. Vernon received a custom-tailored uniform and completed his service on the medical team, which was conveniently located within walking distance of his home.

After his military service, Vernon sought a new challenge. With his sister’s encouragement, he discovered a passion for craftsmanship. He began studying to become a watchmaker but eventually found his true calling as a goldsmith. He completed his goldsmith training. During his apprenticeship he applied to be a flight attendant with an airline. He excelled in the written exams, but his height became an obstacle during the personal interview. Understanding the physical demands of the job, Vernon wasn’t disappointed. The airline admired his perseverance and offered him an office role instead, but Vernon declined, choosing a different path.

And in 1990, when Namibia gained independence from South Africa, he had to decide between the two nations. With South Africa still under apartheid until 1994, Vernon chose Namibia and started his career as a goldsmith. Today, he is a highly respected goldsmith at Canto Jewellers in Windhoek.

A Life of Meaning

Beyond his work, Vernon is active in his community. He is involved with a local football club and has even traveled through Europe, including a visit to Drachten in the Netherlands. He dreams of one day attending the international meeting of Little People of America (LPA). Until then, he continues to advocate for people with dwarfism in Namibia and South Africa.

What makes Vernon remarkable is his outlook on life. He has never felt discriminated against and believes understanding starts with education. “When a child looks at someone with a disability, parents often say, ‘Don’t stare.’ Instead, explain why someone is different. That’s how you create understanding,” he says.

His story is a source of inspiration. Vernon James Stringer shows us that a limitation doesn’t have to limit you—it can be a unique part of who you are.

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