What inspired you to work for Destination TEFL?
Back in 2013 after finishing my TEFL, if I was asked who I'd like to work for, I would've wished Samui TEFL (now known as Destination TEFL) could've hired me. I'll never forget my mentor saying that if she opened a new centre, she would hire me. So when she actually offered me the position in July 2019—there wasn't much thinking for me to do.
I am constantly inspired by the passion with which we are led. I love the fact that everything we do is driven by a purpose. Destination TEFL creates a safe space, not only for the trainees that we teach but for each other as a team. The fact that the job offered me a chance to grow in my teaching career and gave me a new country to explore was the icing on the cake!
What is your favorite part of your job?
One of the things that make my job so enjoyable is working with fresh faces every month. With each course comes new challenges but also new fantastic personalities from across the world and across all ages. We've had trainees as young as 19 years old and as youthful as ever at 55 plus! Each brings with them their unique quirks and dynamic energy that ensures that there is never a dull day at the training centre.
What makes your organization special?
What makes Destination TEFL special is that the team of Directors, no matter where in the world they are, are always just a message or call away. They’re always willing to assist, be it support with academic or personal concerns that I may have. From dealing with students to dealing with content, I've never felt that I've had to worry about something alone. They're always there with suggestions and tips in problem-solving. Creating a safe space is a top priority.
What hopes do you have for the future of Destination TEFL?
I hope that the organisation continues to grow from centre to centre. I hope that within the organisation and the team of franchisees that we continue to collaborate with each other and grow. I would also love to see trainer exchange programmes (pandemic and travel permitting).
What makes your organization easy to market to potential participants?
Transparency, trust and passion—what you see is what you get. Having learnt the DT way, for me, I am teaching exactly the way I was taught...and I've seen it work extremely well.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Travel opens up your own world. With each new journey, you change. Experiencing new cultures in new unfamiliar lands can test your patience, your way of thinking, your limits—and all of that make you a better person.
Being cloistered in your own world means you'll never grow out of your own cocoon. Travel makes you flexible. It makes you think on the spot; you get better at decision making and problem-solving. You get better at dealing with people. If you want to grow, as a person or in your career, you must leave your comfort zone. You must leave your country, even if it is for a year!
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Learning a new language empowers you to communicate with new people. The process can be extremely intimidating and challenging, but that process helps widen your perspective. As a TEFL teacher, learning a new language yourself, gives you additional insights into the trials that your students may face. It makes you a more empathetic teacher.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Don't overthink it. Do your research, but don't second guess yourself. You're probably more capable than you give yourself credit for. What's the worst that could happen? Is it THAT bad? If not, just do it.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Most importantly meaningful travel means RESPECT. Respecting the people, places, cultures that have allowed you into their space. You are being allowed into someone else's space, accept their invitation with grace and humility.
