What inspired you to work for Hopscotch Travel?
I loved that Hopscotch Travel offers opportunities for young South Africans to work and learn abroad. Hopscotch offers opportunities for growth, opportunities to meet new people, learn more about oneself and one's future career path, and offers a path for independence. Working at Hopscotch Travel is fulfilling because I have the opportunity to make young people's dreams come true.
Melissa is in the middle of this picture with the team volunteering for Mandela Day 2023.
Describe a typical day at work.
My typical day involves interviewing young travelers and getting them excited about our au pair and teaching offerings! Then I stay in constant communication with current au pairs who are on their journey to au pair abroad. My main focus of the day is getting families for available au pairs and getting interviews set up between the host families and the au pair.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I would tell my pre-travel self to have an open mind and to understand that a new country has a different culture and an alternative way of doing things, but be open to it. I would also tell myself to try and meet as many new people as possible and put myself in situations that I normally wouldn't be exposed to. For instance, to be more outgoing and adventurous and try new things like trying new foods.
Why should someone choose Hopscotch Travel over competitors?
At Hopscotch Travel we believe in equipping our young travelers with all the knowledge they need to go abroad. We ensure that they are prepared for their adventure abroad.
All au pairs take a first aid course to make sure they are qualified and prepared for emergencies around children. We also offer courses such as TEFL for teachers and au pairs. Au Pairs benefit from taking our TEFL course so that they are equipped to tutor the children in their care.
Melissa is on the far left celebrating with her fantastic team at a work retreat.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our organization's mission is to offer work and travel opportunities to all young people ages 18 - 35 in South Africa. I continue to work towards this goal by offering full support to all au pairs and teachers coming to Hopscotch Travel, making sure to answer their questions, ease their minds about traveling abroad, and help them along the journey
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope they gain a lot of personal growth such as understanding who they are especially when they are not in the comfort of their own home or home country. I hope they gain valuable professional skills such as communication, time management, organization, and empathy. Lastly, I hope they learn about how other cultures do certain things and that they bring those new ways of doing something home.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
They will be able to broaden their perspectives, interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures, gain cultural awareness and sensitivity, personal growth, learn and improve their education, build empathy, expand their social networks, have global work experiences, appreciate home, and create life-long memories and experiences.
Melissa in the front on the right with team grape picking in the vineyards.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Conduct thorough research and planning, including understanding the culture, customs, and laws of your destination, while maintaining flexibility in your itinerary. Also, ensure your travel documents are up to date and create a comprehensive budget accounting for various expenses. Then embrace cultural awareness and adhere to local norms.
Furthermore, prepare for language barriers with basic phrases and translation apps. Also, pack appropriately and secure essential items. Additionally, stay connected with loved ones and remain informed about local developments.
Make sure to approach challenges with adaptability and positivity. Practice responsible tourism by minimizing impact and supporting local communities. Don’t forget to safeguard your belongings and personal security.
Make sure you engage with locals and fellow travelers for insights and companionship. Don’t forget to document your journey through photos, journals, or social media to fully embrace the transformative and enriching potential of travel.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me encompasses a journey that goes beyond mere tourism and leisure. It involves engaging with a destination on a deeper level, fostering personal growth, connection, and positive impact—things like authentic engagement, learning and enrichment, personal growth, and cultural exchange.
