Warriors Academy Gap Year Program in South Africa

Our daughter Katie (19), enrolled at warriors in 2020 after having completed matric in 2019. She had suffered from severe Tourette's Syndrome during her school days, and although her tics had all but disappeared due to a revolutionary Deep Brain Stimulation surgical operation, she was still very anxious, depressed and "lost" - in no way able to function in society. Her first two Quests (each seven weeks) were difficult. Katie struggled to get with the programme and pushed back against the discipline and authority of the Warriors leadership. They nevertheless persevered and were adamant that Katie would turn the corner. By the beginning of the third quest things had reached the point where we, as parents, could not understand why Warriors were willing to accept her back - why would they make this their problem? The answer was simple: That is what they do. They do not give up on people and they saw the person that she was, despite her challenges. Well, I think it meant the world to Katie that they would not give up on her like so many others had. During the next two Quests we saw an almost miraculous transformation. Katie embraced the programme, enjoyed every minute of it and emerged a strong, confident and positive young lady. The progress that she made in emotional maturity and self-belief was outstanding. She had formed a sincere bond with her fellow Warriors and the leadership group that was clearly the result of working together as a group that genuinely cared about each other. When we attended the graduation ceremonies, the Warriors team took Jenna, Katie's twin sister under their wing and made her feel part of the Warriors family. So for us, as a family, Warriors was an amazing, life altering experience. The programme itself exceeded all expectation. In the most difficult circumstances, with one of the worlds strictest Covid lockdowns, the Warriors team worked relentlessly to ensure that the show went on, and, against all odds, they somehow managed to complete all 4 Quests, with only the scuba-diving (which would have required international travel) having to be left out. We often remarked that while the rest of the world was holed up at home, Katie was living the dream: hiking, cycling, horse-riding, bungie jumping, white water rafting, cliff jumping, skydiving and more... But the programme also included self- awareness and growth workshops, cultural activities and community service. On the whole it is a well balanced and very carefully planned programme, designed to give youngsters the tools that they need to hold their own as confident, well functioning young adults anywhere in the world. The leadership team cannot be commended highly enough for their genuine dedication and passion.

Our daughter graduated from high school last year and was not ready for college. She lacked motivation, maturity and independence and we were afraid that if we sent her to college she would drop out and feel like a failure.
Instead, we looked for a gap year program that would help her to bridge that gap, that would restore her confidence in herself and help her grow into the wonderfully brave and strong student that she is. She had the most amazing experience at Warriors. She learnt to face her fears and challenge herself to do things that she had never tried before. Warriors is so much more than an adventure holiday for students. They teach them so many life skills and build their self esteem. The counselors were such great role models and mentors and helped each warrior in setting life goals. They helped them find purpose and problem solve. Our daughter returned home like a different person. She has successfully transitioned into college and is more motivated and eager to do her best than ever before. I can only say, "Thank you Warriors!" This was the best decision we ever made.

Our son was not sure which direction to take after highschool. He had already tried several options, but nothing stuck and he started to do all sort of crazy things with friends. He agreed somthing needed to change. After 2 quests (during corona....) he came home, a somewhat different person. He now is in a much better shape, both physically and psychologically. He enjoyed the activities and the daily workouts (seriousely!!!) Now he started school again and he still works out several times a week. The only regret he has is that he did not follow the full gap year program....

My son went to Warriors and within 4 months he had gained so much confidence in himself. He started to properly understand his own potential which was amazing to see. He is such a naturally talented individual but The Traditional schooling system did not build any level of confidence in him. The programme is well rounded with physical, spiritual, and mental challenges. The people who run the programme have a passion for what they do and for helping people reach their true potential. Thank you to all the staff and owners of Warriors Acadamy!

My son just completed school and this course filled those precious gaps in his armour and knowledge, to unlock the joy and opportunity in his adult life, which is something to be treasured
The diversity of the course about nature and human habit is immense
The mantra of healthy positve living is commendable
The life lessons of how to recover from a setback on all spheres of life and to excel
Not to be a victim but to be in charge of your own destiny
To have a humble confidence that comes from deep inside, knowing the gifts that were bestowed upon you

I spent a total of 21 weeks with the warriors family and there is no way I can describe my experience a few simple words!
All advice I can give anyone considering coming to warriors is one simple sentence... Don’t hold back for a single second! Take every challenge by the horns and don’t let go.
This program is jam packed with all the things you thought you would never do! From sky diving to hiking in the Kruger National park and so much more!
I promise anyone who decides to join this program that you will not regret it!

Warriors Academy has taught me more in 1 year them I have known throughout my whole school syllabus. They push you to self master yourself to become a higher version of yourself that you never knew existed. Every quest that goes by you notice huge changes in your self growth and determination. I'm making sure that all 3 of my brothers join Warriors once they are done with school. Some of the stuff that we learn at Warriors, people go there whole lives without knowing or experiencing. Warriors has brought me to my full potential and I wish that for anyone who gets the opportunity to find out about this place.

They are just amazing ! Helping you get that physical exercise and emotional support . Warriors academy is for adventurous and outgoing people . I’ve only spent one week here and enjoying it so much ! I started studying but then it wasn’t for me . I started to think do i want to keep studying something thats not for me or work on myself ? And decided to take a gap year . I heard of warriors from a good friend and decided to give it a go . A gap year is not bad it helps you actually a lot ! I would definitely recommend warriors .