Experience a new world

I'm from Pretoria, South Africa. I joined Interac through XploreAsia in March 2023. My first choice was the countryside.

Kamishihoro is a great town for people who want to explore Greater Hokkaido. The Naitai Highland Farm is Japan's biggest public ranch (1700 hectares). Also, check out the Nukabira ski resort, Taushubetsu River Bridge, and Dream Dolce'.

BBQ or ''Yakiniku'' (in Afrikaans we say “braai”) has been one of the best ways for me to meet new people. I play guitar, frequent festivals, and the local judo club in town. It helps to try the usual proactive or “old cliché’’ sort of thing to ward off the evil cloud of despair.

Tokachi has mountain ranges with crystal-clear lakes and hiking trails for climbers. Shikaribetsu (particularly Mt Hakuun) has been one of my favorites in the area.

I began my life in Japan as an ALT in Kamishihoro (Tokachi), Hokkaido, where I lived and worked until March 2025. During that time, I taught over 400 students across elementary school, junior high school, and high school. Challenges included the usual suspects, like language barriers, illness, solitude, procedures, and too many ups and downs to mention.

In March 2025, I moved to Sapporo, where I continue to live today. I have been working as an English teacher at two elementary schools, while also holding two part-time English teaching jobs. These roles have allowed me to broaden my teaching experience and connect with different communities and learners across the city. Around this time, I also got married, which has been one of the most meaningful and grounding experiences of my life in Japan.

At the ripe old age of 35, the “old cliché’’ thing tends to work. I’m far from an old wise owl, but there have been a few helpful habits along the way. Building healthy relationships is a game changer. It's never too late to surround yourself with good folks. Shy away from your comfort zone and embrace challenges. We didn’t evolve to be happy all the time.

Don't underestimate the difference you make in children's lives. Every word or action can cause a ripple effect. This journey was never supposed to be carefree and easy. Cherish small positive experiences.

Depression may hit you like a brick. Try to make someone smile and you might find it’s contagious. It’s humbling to examine your opinions frequently and thoroughly. Time is precious, treat it accordingly.