Following the Call of Table Mountain

For as long as I’ve been on this Earth, I’ve had a passion for being alive. For years, I couldn’t name it—I was simply the odd one out in my hometown, a roaming visionary trapped in a cage. Then one night, I dreamed of a mountain calling my name, singing to my soul. It wasn’t long before I realized that the mountain was Table Mountain, and that I was meant to come to Cape Town.

This place holds so much magic for anyone willing to listen—willing to receive it. And once I arrived, it felt like the pieces of my life finally started falling into place. All I needed was to take that first step, that leap off a mountain, and trust that I could fly.

When I decided to come here, I was also searching for my purpose and direction in life. Getting work experience felt like the most logical next move. So I placed my trust in the unknown, and in return, God aligned me with the best opportunities I could have asked for: the right internship, the right roommates, the right friends. Everything unfolded perfectly.

Interning in Cape Town is an experience you will never forget. I worked at one of South Africa’s most well-known art galleries, and during my three months here, I could not wait to wake up each morning and head to work. I loved my life here, and I loved what I was doing. If you commit fully to your placement, you’ll have an exceptional experience. The amount of growth I gained simply from showing up and doing the work was exponential.

During my time in Cape Town, I discovered how brave and courageous I truly am. I realized I am a never-ending roamer—and made peace with that. I accepted that even if I don’t fit the molds or expectations set by society, that doesn’t make me any less worthy of joy. If you’re reading this, chances are you see a part of yourself in these words. Our paths may differ from what society calls “normal,” but that’s because you and I are extraordinary.

There is nothing wrong with shining your light, however it appears. By following my dream—literally—and coming to Cape Town, I learned just how strong, independent, and resourceful I can be. I survived all the challenges of living alone in another country, and I returned ten times stronger.

If this message resonates, maybe it’s a sign that you, too, are meant to come here. Maybe it’s your time to evolve—and if so, that is perfect. My advice? Expect the unexpected. Let go of who you were so you can become who you are meant to be. Close your eyes and feel. Make it your mission to meet at least one new person every day. And when you look in the mirror each morning, be proud of the person you see.

You’ve read this far—why stop now? Maybe it’s time to surprise everyone, come to the tip of Africa, and collect some unforgettable stories of your own.