What is your favorite travel memory?
One of my best travel memories is riding an elephant on the Garden Route. A very unique experience! Although the up and down movement of the elephant makes you feel like you could tip off at any moment, it's so enjoyable. The Garden Route truly is a unique getaway as it boasts lush greenery and valleys.
Which destination is most underrated? Conversely, which is most overrated?
In my opinion I would say Canada is most underrated. They have beautiful lakes and mountains very friendly people. The Rockies is in Vancouver which is great for skiing. Canada is like a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
Most overrated would have to be Paris. The people in my opinion based on my travelling experience are not friendly at all. If you are unable to speak French they wont attempt speaking English. Paris is extremely pricey.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
There are many factors to consider for a company being successful but in my opinion it's the staff members behind the scenes who are huge contributing factors in making a company successful. Good leadership spills over on staff members who in turn are motivated to work hard, have the same goals and good customer relations. Excellent service delivery all plays a role in making a company successful.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I started out as an intern at the company. I shied away from challenges and found liaising with international students quite daunting. This was about 5 years ago. Today, I have grown into a strong and confident person who finds challenges stimulating. The skills I have developed over the years whilst at the company have allowed me to liaise with International Agents and students with confidence on a daily basis.
What unique qualities does your company possess?
Our company is an not-for-profit organization which offers affordable prices to young travelers while also providing them with a wholesome package such as being placed with a host family whilst immersing in the local community. They get to experience the culture first hand.
Describe a time when you felt especially proud to be part of your current team.
The company hosted a General Assembly which is a conference hosting about 50 International Agents. The conference was for a whole week and we had to organize the event from start to finish. As a team we all had to work together, dedicate ourselves and initiate ideas to make this conference a success.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
We had a volunteer on the program who left and returned to South Africa. She worked at the company for a while and enjoyed her time in South Africa thoroughly. Later she moved to South Africa permanently, established her own company, found love and started a family of her own. That in my opinion is the best story I've heard from a return student.