What inspired you to work for Destination TEFL?
I was the hiring manager for one of the largest language centers in Thailand. As such, I saw the entire spectrum of teachers in Thailand, and realized that far too many were honestly doing more harm than good. Whether it was a lack of passion or inspiration, missing technical skills, imperceptions about Thai learners or culture, or (all too often) a combination of all of those factors. I made up my mind that I would be part of the solution, and train empowered, inspired, and capable teachers to raise the standard for educators in Thailand.
Why do you do what you do?
Our world is in trouble. Climate change, social injustice, pandemics, and the rest are putting unprecedented strain on our civilization, and at the present moment, I don't believe we have what it takes to overcome the impending challenges.
The only way to do so is with a true global community. Leveraging all of the collective cognitive and cultural capital from across our planet in a united effort to create a better world. Travel is an integral part of that process. The only way for us to come together is for individuals to take the difficult step of living abroad, of actually COMING together.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
I lean on my background in education, management, and travel every single day. I take an active role in teacher training and having taught in every kind of classroom, language center, and even in-house for businesses, I know the wide range of challenges teachers can face in different situations.
My international background also gives me empathy and understanding (as well as awareness) when students are facing culture shock. My own experience, and the challenges I've overcome, are precisely why I can help incoming teachers to prepare for and overcome similar challenges!
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Drop your expectations, embrace every opportunity, and don't take life too seriously. I came from a corporate sales background, VERY high intensity. I thought I had to be the best teacher and the most capable traveler in the world, but the pressure I put on myself just made things harder. Relax and let life take its course. You will be presented with incredible opportunities you never could have foreseen, you just need the courage to walk your path.
What makes Destination TEFL special?
We are extremely purpose-driven. Every member of our organization is passionate about education, not just travel. We care about our participants, but also the students who will be in the classrooms we help put them in. We understand the whole picture and care deeply about every life our organization touches, both directly and indirectly.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
I've seen (and been through) TEFL companies that are really just "teacher factories", putting teachers into classrooms without true consideration as to how well they'll be able to actually teach.
Destination TEFL is different. We emphasise the craft of teaching, we equip teachers with the skills to manage their classrooms, to effectively teach students to use English, and to overcome the inevitable challenges they will face. We don't just give our participants what they think they want, we give them what they need.
Are there any developments with your organization that you would like to share with us?
Yes! We have just opened our newest location in Bangkok, Thailand. Bangkok is one of the most exciting cities in the world, with an almost infinite number of things to do and hidden gems around the city. Our team is comprised of locals who know Bangkok like the back of their hand, so not only will our participants get a premium TEFL training, they will also see a side of Bangkok that most tourists never get to. It's going to be a life-changing experience!
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope that not only are they equipped with the technical skills necessary to be a great teacher, but that they go forward with the right mindset. A mindset that embraces challenges and discomfort, and uses them to grow. A mindset that doesn't dwell on mistakes or obstacles, but seeks solutions. A mindset that they can pass on to their students, simply by example, and start making real change in this world.
How do you help support participants?
From the moment they sign up, we are providing constant support, which is one of the best benefits of a smaller organization like us. We provide full visa support and advice, have an in-house travel agent to assist with flights and travel insurance, we pick them up from the airport as soon as they land and help them check in to accommodations.
Throughout the course, we are with them every step of the way and have one-on-one meetings so they have a place to talk. Once they complete the course we offer job placement, and then follow up after they are placed to make sure they are settling in and know we are still there to talk!
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Everyone should learn the language of their host country. First off, it actually makes you a better teacher, as you can understand why your students make the mistakes they do (and empathize with them as a fellow learner). It also opens up your host country. If you can speak even a bit of their language, you will be amazed at the incredible experiences and opportunities that reveal themselves, experiences which never would have happened had you not learned the language.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Do it. Stop thinking about it, stop weighing the pros and the cons, stop asking other people what they think or reading online forums. Make up your mind that you are going to do it (I promise it's the right decision) and DO IT!
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means truly experiencing and learning from the cultures you interact with, and leaving the places you go better than you found them.
