Menu

Staff Spotlight: Willie van Loggerenberg

Title:
Owner
Program:
Bali - 4-week 140-hour intensive TEFL / TESOL course

Photos

Willie van Loggerenberg Willie van Loggerenberg Willie van Loggerenberg
I have 15 years' experience in the TEFL / TESOL industry, as well as being the program developer and National manager for the teach abroad programs for South Africa’s oldest and largest Work & Travel organization OVC. This allows me to understand the integrate detail of being a partner, as well as the day to day recruiting processes for these candidates. My experience allowed me to deal with a number of international partners in both Southeast Asian and Latin America.

I have accepted the role of Operations Director and Partner of Destination TEFL based on-site in Siem Reap, as well as ensuring the successful launch and day to day operations of the Cambodia training centre. I am passionate about building good relationships with our clients and partners.

What is your favorite travel memory?

My 1st time I got on a flight and left my home country to visit the UK in 2005. It was scary and exciting at the same time. We spent 7 days in London and did a quick hop over to Paris with the EuroStar. All very exciting indeed :)

It did not stop there and has since been to 22 different countries and will continue to travel.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

Being in the Youth Work & Travel industry has been and will continue to be an incredible privilege and honour. I have grown so much, not just personally, but also in my professional life.

Seeing a young traveller embark on an amazing journey is the most exciting part of what we do. Once the travel bug bite, you will be infected forever :)

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

When I started in the Youth Work & Travel industry, I met with a young guy and his mother to discuss a few options with him. He was super shy and did not once answer the questions; in fact, his mother kept answering on behalf of him.

I was very unsure if this is the right thing for him to go and do; however, his mother was adamant and we booked his flights and off he went. Twelve months later, he wandered back into my office and he was a changed person. He became independent, self-assured, and grew into an amazing young person. Independence sat well with him. This is where I knew that what we do, is making a difference in all our students' lives.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

Any program where it will push me out of my comfort zone. Teaching in Southeast Asia is by far the best option with the best return on investment by far. By doing your TEFL qualification onsite in either Siem Reap, Cambodia or Koh Samui, Thailand, you will be set with all the most important information for your incredible adventure.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Between the owners and trainers, we have more than 50 years of combined experience in the industry. We understand all aspects of what needs to happen when it needs to happen and how it needs to happen. We are on the ground in-country and will be able to offer assistance where needed.

Our years' experience will guide you through every step of the way.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Understanding that we are dealing with people and not machines.

Human factor will forever and ever play a role. We handle every student as an individual and with the utmost respect. We care about each and every student that comes through our course, not only whilst they on course, but beyond as well. We keep in contact with all via our Facebook pages and communities.