Alumni Spotlight: James Baring

Why did you choose this program?

Incredible people, places and activities were experienced, a life-changing journey of self-discovery, but I chose it for the culture disparity I would get to see and all the incredible landscapes with wonderful places we’d get to explore.

Nothing I’ve seen quite since has matched the sheer beauty I experienced in South Africa.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

Self-care, physically and mentally, corporate and media understanding as well as self-presentation and personal brand advertising. You're basically put in a well-catered, well-cared situation with lots of room for personal decision making and independence to shine through. And don’t be afraid to learn from mistakes.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

That you get out more than you put in, invest in the program, invest in yourself, and see what you thought was possible shatter in-front of you.

There is so much in this world we miss out on experiencing form just selling ourselves short. So be bold, take the next step, even if it frightens you. That’s where you grow.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

Morning exercise - purpose-built activity - qualitative debrief, new learning and fun, rest and chill amongst friends and family. Rinse repeat, as well as many trips all across the country and the continent to do incredible things from sky diving to scuba diving.

Don't be scared to make the decision that might change your future.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

Fear of Height.

I was helped to develop a belief and understanding in one's self, control of your surroundings, and the confidence to go in headfirst. This has helped innumerably in making me more assertive and able to deal with high tension, stressful situations. This is what we learn and this is the Warriors way.

Is there any other advice for prospective travelers?

Choose to do this program for all the cool things you think you’ll enjoy, come back after it, all holding a new wiser more mature perspective with all those fun moments as little gems In between.

You’ll never know what you're missing until you try it. It’s the most practical, enjoyable and powerful thing I’ve ever done, and I’ve now climbed a half marathon up the tallest peak in Limpopo.