Most days we are up and out with the sunrise, but this morning’s was especially breathtaking along the uMhlanga Promenade. With Whalebone Pier stretching out to our left and the iconic lighthouse to our right, we moved along the boardwalk surrounded by the quiet, vibrant rhythm of a winter Saturday, just north of Durban.

People were fishing, biking, meditating, surfing, walking dogs, riding scooters, and joining small running groups or a larger 5K. What stood out most was the shared simplicity of it all: no one was in service of another. There were no purchases being made. Just people, side by side, embracing the beauty of a new day together.

This trip is the first “Educators of Excellence” expedition in South Africa and today was an impressive feat of strategic maneuvers that would be the envy of the Springbok coaches, as we avoided FlySafair’s pilot strike and an 18 hour bus ride to Cape Town. 

Over the past two weeks, this blog has captured the incredible moments that have shaped us, making us more empathetic, more curious, and better global citizens. Behind it all are Christy and Emma, leading with organization, effort, patience, and kindness.

For us 14 participants, every day has felt seamless, full of adventure and discovery. But what often goes unseen is the immense work happening behind the scenes. Just this afternoon, Emma spent hours on the phone to rebook hotel rooms after our final Delta flight home was also delayed. From adjusting transportation and restaurant plans to managing unexpected changes, they’ve handled every challenge with calm and positivity.

(As we write this, it is past 11 pm and they are waiting on us so they can post this blog, and we still have an 8 am departure tomorrow!)

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” – Seneca, a Roman philosopher.

As we started our day with a sunrise in Durban and ended it with a sunset in Cape Town, we’re filled with gratitude and sadness as we begin the end of our trip. We’re looking forward to tomorrow, where we can discover the natural beauty of the Cape of Good Hope, and of course, see the penguins! 

It’s a privilege to be guided by Christy and Emma on this unforgettable journey.