What inspired you to pursue an online program?
Reputation and reviews. Beyond providing reviews, GoAbroad also allows you to compare organizations with each other in order to get a good comparison with what others offer and where.
These days, in order to be ethical, research is so important to make sure you choose the right organization. GoAbroad really helps with this.
Why did you choose The Expedition Project?
The Expedition Project's ethics and principles were just what I was looking for. For so long now, I have been disillusioned about the volunteer tourism industry, as well as what online courses were of high quality. The Expedition Project stood out and then the personal support put me at ease immediately.
What makes your program unique?
Although I did not travel abroad to participate in The Expedition Project, I did feel like I was traveling through the way their online experiences were designed. Their online courses and virtual volunteering gives anyone from anywhere the opportunity to experience South Africa, its wildlife, and its people.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
From the initial inquiry, to the online experience, and even now I feel a part of the team. They arranged video call meetings to walk me through different aspects of what I could get involved in, they introduced me to fellow participants, and I got the chance to interact online with course instructors via live streams and one-on-one chats.
How did your program help you stay (and feel) safe amidst the ongoing pandemic?
The Expedition Project was a savior during the pandemic because I could travel online during COVID. I got forced to try so many new things and meet so many people, albeit online.
This has now meant I can meet these new connections at any time. The Expedition also contributed to organizations struggling during the pandemic so this made me feel like I was still helpful from abroad, even while I could not do anything in-person.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
The price for what you get is exceptional, so make the most of it. You also have ongoing opportunities and access to resources so it is well worth it.
Also do not hesitate to speak to The Expedition Project if you need to set up a payment plan to help you afford courses and experiences. They have always been very helpful.
Would you recommend The Expedition Project to others? Why?
Yes, absolutely. In my first meeting with The Expedition Project, they told me that a percentage of my payments go directly to conservation projects. Also, part of my online course was focused on pangolins and the money raised from this course goes to pangolin rehabilitation and release.
They are very helpful and friendly. The courses are unlike anything I have come across - very dynamic and progressive. They also include things I was not expecting like Global Goals and interviews and live events and more.
What do you feel is the biggest benefit of online programs?
The biggest benefit of using The Expedition Project online was attention to detail. I have heard they do the same with their in-person programs too.
You can tell they really care and the personal aspect is something I don't think you would get with larger organizations. When you cannot experience a place in person, this is the way to go!
Now that you've finished up your online program, how has it impacted your life?
I did my courses and The Expedition Project experience from home, but I feel a part of the team. It has impacted the way I look at conservation and the world around me too.
I took some Biomimicry courses with them, too, which truly expanded my outlook. I feel very appreciative and knowledgeable now.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means that it is about more than just me. I want my experience to benefit me but I also want my travel to contribute to the local communities and conservation projects.
It should be an exchange, but an exchange that is not just financial. If all travel worked like this then I think we would help and support so much more.
