Charles joined Warriors Academy in 2016 as our Training Director. He heads up all our training portfolios and in particular our Multi Activity Instructor training program.
Staff Spotlight: Charles Thompson
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What is your favorite travel memory?
Sitting on top of the Central Drakensberg escarpment, enjoying the sun rise over Cathkin Peak and watching a Cape Vulture spring past at eye level. I was on a four day hike with a group of students and took the time to just sit down and enjoy the day rolling out as the sun joined the day. There is no greater humbler feeling than being in the presence of such a beautiful view.
How have you changed since working for your current company?
Warriors Academy has afforded me the opportunity to pursue a life long ambition, which has in turn given me a lot more self confidence as I see my dream attaining reality. I have become far more goal orientated and have a greater sense of self. I am more in tune with where I am at, and am ok with that.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
Warriors Academy had such an impact on her, that it changed her life forever. She came from an impoverished background with very little, if any, support and resources. Whilst on our program, she realized both her potential and how limitless our boundaries are, and is now both a successful athlete and career person.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I would choose the MAI program as this is a unique course in South Africa. The training is intense and provides a very wide foundation for someone who intends to continue in the Adventure Industry. The facilitators are all professionals, sought out for their expertise in their respective fields with a lot of experience.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
Warriors Academy is a "people centered" company whose goal is to grow young people, facilitating their walk to a great sense of self awareness and confidence. I am especially proud of my team at each and every graduation ceremony when we get to realize just how much each student has grown over the time that they are with us.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
A successful company not only produces a good product, but lives by it themselves. Whatever they produce is at the heart of their existence and they invest all their time, effort and resources in continually ensuring that they are the very best at which they do. A forward thinking company is always going to be successful.