Meet 2026 Au Pair of the Year Runner-Up Anethea Klein

Anethea and Emeline von der Vecht of HBN

The Au Pair of the Year Award celebrates extraordinary au pairs who embrace cultural exchange and personal growth. While we’ve already introduced you to our winner, Jemimah, we’re excited to spotlight Anethea Klein from Namibia, our Runner-Up, placed by The Dutch Au Pair Agency HBN Au Pair.

Anethea’s journey in the Netherlands was marked by her enthusiasm for new experiences, her strong bond with her host family, and her courage to step beyond her comfort zone.

“You have to put yourself out there,” she reflected. “I’m proud I did.”

Her achievement was announced at the WETM-IAC conference in Sofia, where Emeline van der Vecht of HBN Au Pair accepted the certificate on her behalf. As Anethea prepares to return to Namibia, she received her award and gifts from the agency—a heartfelt recognition of her inspiring au pair experience.

Congratulations, Anethea! Your story beautifully captures the spirit of cultural exchange and personal growth.

You can watch Anethea´s video here on YouTube: