Discovering yourself whilst volunteering in the South African bush: An interview with Alumnus Will Corrigan.

From the familiar grounds of Bede's School to the rugged landscapes of the South African bush, alumnus Will Corrigan embarked on a transformative journey with Raleigh International, immersing himself in vital sustainability efforts focused on the challenging task of eradicating invasive species. This experience saw Will actively contributing to the preservation of the local ecosystem, a far cry from the classroom, as he tackled environmental issues head-on in a unique and demanding way.

Will found his Raleigh International experience to be absolutely amazing. He described it as a truly significant event in his life. When Will initially considered his gap year, he knew he wanted it to be special, not just a period of inactivity and volunteering seemed like a popular and meaningful option. In September, after exploring various volunteering programs and already knowing he wanted to travel, Will saw Raleigh International as a perfect combination, offering a specific volunteering program in South Africa designed for young people on their gap year.

Will acknowledged the reassuring aspect of having a recommendation from a family connection with firsthand experience with Raleigh, which instilled confidence in the program's legitimacy. Alongside his mother describing it as an "amazing program”, the wheels were set in motion.

After looking into Raleigh International, Will decided to sign up. He inquired about the different programs they offered, noting their work in rural communities and conservation. As part of a seven-week program (as opposed to a ten-week option), he was allocated to one of two sections. Those on the longer program who had started 3 weeks prior had the opportunity to undertake two projects and a trek at the end, which everyone participated in. Will's main project focused on environmental conservation, working closely with the Cape Vulture Conservancy.

During his time there, Will was involved in removing invasive species and expanding his understanding of the environment. He found it very educational, learning about the local wildlife, environmental science, and sustainability, gaining insights into how to better care for the land and adopt more sustainable practices to protect the planet.

Will felt his prior knowledge on these topics was a mix of some initial understanding and the new information provided by Raleigh. He appreciated that Raleigh gave an overview of the project types without revealing too many specifics, allowing for firsthand learning and discovery; noting the impact of learning while actively seeing the results of their work.

Will gave an insight into the early morning "sweeps" where they would clear invasive plants that were negatively affecting the local wildlife. He described learning the names of different plants and encountering various insects and animals, constantly gaining new knowledge he wouldn't have otherwise acquired. Having explained that they were based in a conservation area near Kruger National Park, outside a small town called Hoedspruit. For his environment project, Will and his group were essentially in a remote location within the Cape Vulture Conservancy. They had to set up everything themselves upon arrival, including tents, supplies, and food. Will described this as quite challenging in many ways, admitting to initial exhaustion. However, he found that the more he learned, challenged him and the more exciting the experience became. 

When asked about the biggest challenge he faced, Will pointed to the 19-day trek he undertook afterwards. He recalled the apprehension from another group who had completed it earlier, describing it as very tough. The long distances, sometimes between five and twelve kilometers a day through the mountains while carrying around 20 kilograms in a backpack, were particularly challenging for Will, who doesn't consider himself particularly strong. Furthermore, the deliberately harsh living conditions added to the difficulty, which Will understood was intended to demonstrate the ability to survive without modern conveniences, agreeing that the program pushed his limits and built resilience.

Will elaborated on the tough conditions during the trek, including carrying all their own food for the 19 days and the absence of toilets. They also had early starts at 4:00 AM, were responsible for their own catering and first aid; fostering a strong sense of independence. Will felt this independence was especially pronounced during the trek due to the more remote and open terrain compared to the project site, which felt closer to civilization and their home base. 

Having not known anyone prior to the trip. He was amazed to see how quickly people formed close bonds. Will had joined the program later for the seven-weeks and was struck by how many strong friendships had already developed. This gave Will confidence and hope, which proved true as he made some amazing friends himself. Friendships which supported all in the significant learning curve they faced, pushing him far outside his comfort zone throughout the entire expedition. However, towards the end, Will found himself really enjoying it. It was only on the flight back, which most people took together, there was a sense of sadness and bittersweetness at parting ways with the people he had spent nearly two months with, knowing they wouldn't be in such close proximity again despite plans to stay in touch.

Reflecting on his past self from five years prior, Will stated that he would never have imagined being able to board a plane alone and travel to an unfamiliar country without knowing anyone. He finds it "mind-blowing" that he did something so challenging in a completely different country. Acknowledging a sense of pride in having pushed himself to do something he would never have previously considered. He believes these kinds of experiences are what life is about and why gap years can be so special and impactful, leaving lasting memories, lessons, and friendships.

Will confirmed he learned many new skills. Citing improvements in skills like problem-solving and leadership, which he would highlight to a future employer. He also gained practical skills such as cooking and manual clothes washing. Finding the experience of interacting with different people and putting himself out there invaluable; leading to gained significant knowledge about wildlife through hands-on experience.

Learning a great deal about invasive species and their impact during his first project as well as the knowledge gained about natural plant remedies from a conservationist named Eugene, who showed them his garden filled with various remedies, including aloe vera and many other plants. Will noted that learning about nature and the different impacts of these plants on the ecosystem and their interconnectedness was a highlight for many, including himself. 

Will believes the experience has informed his next steps by enhancing his skills. He already had a strong interest in travel photography before volunteering with Raleigh bringing his camera on the entire trip, documenting his experiences, further developing his portfolio of his photos from South Africa. He feels the trip gave him a "travel bug," a taste for what he can achieve with his camera in unfamiliar environments, and a glimpse into his future aspirations; the experience cementing his career goals. Furthermore, it highlighted the value of meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, and learning about different countries, something he definitely wants to pursue more in the future.

When asked for advice for those in their final years, Will strongly recommended taking a gap year. For him, it was a chance for self-discovery and to clarify his goals. While Will had an initial interest in cinematography and filmmaking his gap year led him to "fall in love" with photography. He rediscovered Photoshop and spent his time editing photos and shooting with his drone. Will believes a gap year provides the opportunity to solidify one's passions, or even to discover them if one is unsure.

Will emphasized that even doing something like his Raleigh International experience can act as a catalyst for self-discovery. It's not just about traveling abroad but also about personal growth through meeting new people and challenging oneself. Valuing the quiet moments of reflection during the trip, which helped him consider his life direction and future.

In those moments of reflection, Will's biggest realisation was his own resilience. Discovering this helped him to push through tough times and he sees this as a metaphor for life; where perseverance is key to overcoming challenges and emerging stronger and more confident.

Will outlined his next steps, which include doing photography and film work for a friend. He is also seeking more permanent opportunities while continuing to build his portfolio, learn about photography, and explore internships, all in pursuit of his dreams. 

We cannot wait to see where those dreams take you!