Go out there and take a leap - you never know what lies ahead – Shaun Liebenberg

To quote H. Jackson Brown Jr, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do”.

 

This was and will continue to be the motto that I carry with me. It is for this reason I greatly appreciate the opportunities provided by Workaway International as well as Boca West Country Club.

From getting on the first flight to the US, I had no idea how my life would suddenly change.

After a very fun and informative orientation provided by our employer we were ready to get to work. My employment was at our prestigious MyPi Restaurant at Boca West Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida.

 

Here, I was at the perfect place to sharpen my knowledge of what great service, attention to detail and member service was all about.

One of the biggest blessings was without a doubt the amount of new friendships that turned into family that was formed during my time abroad. From staying with housemates, to getting to know each of your colleagues and management team. I was undeniably surrounded with a great support system.

 

As if all these benefits weren’t enough, Boca West Country Club spoils the staff with a trip to Universal Studios. I mean, come on?

I will always be the biggest advocate for the Workaway program. Not only has it changed the way I view the world, but you’ll hear the exact same thing from every person that is, and has been on the program.

 

Due to COVID-19, my time was cut short, however I am excited to get back to the US to continue making memories. To conclude, nothing great ever comes from staying in your comfort zone. So go out there, take a leap - you never know what lies ahead…

Short lived but great experience that is to be continued…

By Gina Kekana

Honestly if someone told me that I would be working in America, I would have thought that they were joking. I am not from an ambitious family in that we weren’t the kind of family that explored relocation in another country let alone on another continent. I heard about the program and honestly, I was blown away and knew that I needed to apply no matter what.

The first time I applied I made it till the country club interviews but unfortunately for me there weren’t any more positions available. I did not give up and I applied the following year and I made it all the way through. It's honestly a feeling I cannot describe when you get your flight pack and reality kicks in.

Landing in Florida and getting slapped by the heat and humidity was so unexpected but enjoyable. Finally shopping at a Walmart was even better! Meeting new housemates was something different. We all needed to try and be open so that we could get to know each other and we did.

Arriving at Boca West County Club was my highlight as I could not believe that I would be the one working in such a beautiful place every day. Blessed was Gina for making it this far and being here, EARNING DOLLARS!!!!!!!!!!

There was so much to do in Florida, there are amazing beaches, restaurants, bars, museums, adventure sports and many amazing people to meet from all over America. Unfortunately my time was cut short due to the pandemic but I’m excited for what the next season holds. I will be sure to do more and explore more as I was also looking forward to going up north to New York for the summer program.

This would have never been possible if Workaway International South Africa did not believe in me. I can be a lot to handle but when I put my mind to something, I fully commit to it and that is why I never gave up till I made it in. Thank you to Charlotte and the team for believing in me.

Hopefully this season turns out to be yet another fantastic season, all the best to the applicants and remember, it's all about you 😊

My Workaway International Experience

By Claire Sewell

Where even do I begin! From take-off in South Africa to landing in Florida for the first time, I had no idea how much my life was about to change!

I remember landing at the airport and being so nervous about meeting everyone, getting everything done at the apartment and heading off to start work in a completely new environment. I got to the apartment complex and everyone was so friendly, it felt like I had known all these brand new people for years! Having started work, I remember sitting in training thinking to myself "what was I so nervous about?”. It was genuinely one of the easiest life transitions I have ever experienced! 

Through Workaway International's program, not only was I able to grow in the service industry but also make memories that will last a lifetime. I have had the most amazing experiences and made friends for life. 

I have had the opportunity in my 3 seasons that I worked in the USA of traveling and exploring and meeting the most incredible people! From the most beautiful sunsets in Southampton and New York to traveling through many states, experiencing so many different cultures and cuisines and working for some of the most prestigious country clubs. 

It didn't matter which club I worked at, every manager, every housing manager, and every colleague was so helpful and everywhere felt like home. Workaway was continuously sending emails to check in on us and how we were doing at our new clubs.

I can't help but try and send every person I possibly can, in Workaway International's direction. It is an opportunity of a lifetime and I'm so excited to go back and make even more memories!