adventure – Educators of Excellence Institutes

“A Hold On Our Heart”

August 6, 2025 - 0 Comments

Some places hold onto a piece of you just a bit longer than planned. Four cancelled flights and three and a half days later than our original departure, today was our final, final, final, final last day in South Africa. It was just as we manifested it to be: we went whale watching!

Marine Big 4 out of 5

With the help of Marine Dynamics, a shark and whale watching tour company based in the Western Cape, we pushed out into the Atlantic’s 9-12 foot waves, just west of the Indian Ocean. Our driver Waldo said, “We weren’t climbing mountains, but it was pretty high!” Despite the rough seas, our vessel Slash Fin provided exceptional viewing! We found 4 of the Marine Big 5: whales, sharks, seals, and penguins. It was too rough to seek dolphins.

Views from our whale watching expedition.

We motored past Danger Point and met up with an albatross, a humpback whale, a Southern right whale, and a mola mola. Then we swung back to Geyser Rock and were stunned by the scent and sight of thousands of Cape fur seals and the many pairs of African penguins that occupy Dyer Island. As we headed back we witnessed a bronze whaler shark visiting tourists submerged in a cage.

Seal colony on Dyer Island (left) and the tail of a humpback whale (right).

While a few of us succumbed to the sea’s fury, most of us giggled for 2.5 hours with our feathered friends a mini flock of brown skua.

Beyond the wildlife we were in awe of the captain as we surfed home, threaded the harbor entrance, and (without hesitation) landed our boat on a trailer that was promptly plucked out of the bay by a John Deere tractor. Then we disembarked for a bowl of butternut squash soup while our mates recovered.

Walker Bay

We then spent our afternoon in Hermanus on the cliff path in the Fernkloof Nature Preserve. Just when we thought we couldn’t take another picture, South Africa stunned us with her beauty. A plethora of rock hyrax scooting across folded basalt, wild cow lillies (aka pigs’ ears), and the massive wave energy rolling through the kelp forest were only a few of the sights that stunned us.

Walking in Hermanus after our morning whale watching.

Cape Town International Airport

It is 10:30pm, we have a gate, boarding passes, and should wake up in Amsterdam. This just might be goodbye to Cape Town, South Africa.

We did leave behind Khadijah’s YETI, Flavia’s Ocracoke School dolphin, the contents of Emily’s stomach, part of Stephanie’s birthday cake, and a BIG piece of our hearts. We take with us memories and a new extended family.

South Africa

“Protea and the Motivation to Stand Tall”

August 5, 2025 - 0 Comments

On our second surprise day in Cape Town we had a “redo” of the initial day we missed because of our first canceled flight from Durban. Does that sentence give you whiplash? That’s where we are!

The first perk of the day was sleeping in and enjoying a leisurely buffet breakfast at the hotel. African sunrises are unparalleled, but it’s been nice to let the sun beat us awake lately. We hopped in the shuttle after the rain stopped and headed to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a destination many of us were sad we previously had to cut from the plans.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens was stunning, with Table Mountain hovering in the distance.

The beauty was beyond our imagination. The biodiversity was incomparable to anything we have at home, notably the fynbos, a unique vegetation found only in the South African Cape. Several of us quickly hauled our backpacks, binoculars, and cameras up the side of Table Mountain to see the national flower of South Africa – the King Protea.

King Protea, a dinner-plate sized flower.

We learned a lot about the protea species while on the Eastern coast, but they weren’t flowering in the dry winter climate. However, the wet season on the Cape has treated us well. The protea sprouts with artichoke-like petals, and opens into a vibrant plate-sized flower. The protea is said to represent transformation, courage, and leadership, qualities we surely have all displayed throughout our (at recent count) 16 days in South Africa. One website said it “can be used to denote the embracement of one’s inner power and motivation to stand tall amidst challenges.” Well, if that doesn’t describe our group, I don’t know what does!

Eating lunch and sharing journal entries at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Another interesting agricultural practice we have learned about is the burning of old crops to make way for new growth. Sides of mountains throughout the country have strict lines of division, one side a golden brown and the other a lush light green. Farmers burn one side to clear old crops and fertilize the land to promote successful growth and development. While I don’t think any of us have felt we needed to burn away part of our old selves, we will certainly be returning to North Carolina ready for new growth.

Landscape management in action – we saw many landscapes where you could visibly tell if it had been burned or grazed recently.

South Africa

“For Good, Not Goodbye”

August 3, 2025 - 0 Comments

This morning at 5:14am I opened my eyes with the realization that today would be our last full day in South Africa. While there was excitement about visiting the Cape of Good Hope and seeing African penguins up close, a wave of emotion hit — the kind that comes when something deeply meaningful is beginning to wind down.

Setting out for a day of Cape Peninsula adventures.

Last night during our group meeting I shared that many of us have experienced our own version of Eat, Pray, Love on this journey. What that means will vary for each of us who’ve shared the past 16 days, but the transformation is something we all feel.

Our group meals have evolved from efficient, polite conversations into something intimate and full of life — shared stories, passed plates, deep laughter, and meaningful connection. We’ve grown from a group of 18 near-strangers into something that feels very much like a family.

Some of us live close enough to already be planning ways to meet up again, to maintain the bonds we’ve formed. We’re also looking ahead to November, when we’ll reunite at the museum and share how we’ve brought this experience home — into our classrooms and school communities.

But this is the tricky part — how do you say goodbye to people who have become a part of your heart, knowing your paths may never cross again? How do you return home with the knowledge that a piece of yourself will forever remain here, in this breathtaking country?

Each night, our reflections have been guided by thoughtful questions meant to help us process this experience. And I think many of us are still trying to fully understand how South Africa — and especially its people — have changed us.

There have been quiet conversations about how we’ll share this journey with our students and loved ones, and deeper talks about the personal growth we’ve experienced. As educators, we’ve dedicated our lives to preparing the next generation to discover who they are and how they can make the world a better place. The connections we’ve made and the perspective we’ve gained will help us do that work with more authenticity and a deeper, global understanding — because once you look beyond the surface, you realize: we are all one family.

Then, just when we were bracing ourselves for goodbyes, life threw us a curveball: our return flight was canceled. We’re still working out the details, but in true South African spirit, we’re choosing to make the most of it. We’re leaning into the extra time we’ve been given here, soaking in every last moment.

Today we made it to the Cape of Good Hope — and it did not disappoint. The hike to the tip felt like stepping into Middle-earth or a forgotten corner of the world. It was breathtaking in every sense, with rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and even close encounters with baboons. We split into two groups — one took the bus to the lighthouse while the rest of us hiked the trail. We all met at the base, faces full of smiles, as we posed proudly beside the Cape of Good Hope sign before continuing on.

We are a sign-loving crew, so couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take a photo with the Cape of Good Hope sign!

Next, we visited Boulders Penguin Sanctuary — a dream come true for many in our group. There, we watched wild African penguins waddling freely along the beach. The comical little creatures delighted everyone. One group member even fulfilled a student’s wish by mimicking a penguin’s waddle, joined by several others — creating a moment of pure joy and laughter.

When you’re visiting African penguins, what choice do you have but to waddle with them?!

As we ride the bus to a late lunch, a familiar lyric echoes in my mind — “because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” It’s from the musical Wicked, and it feels like the perfect reflection of what this experience has meant. Saying goodbye to Noma and Zinhle — the incredible South African educators who joined us on this journey — will be especially hard, knowing our paths may never cross again. But each of us carries something lasting from the time we’ve shared. We are different now. Better. Wiser. And in the truest sense of the phrase — changed for good.

And so, I’ll close with a line from an earlier blog that still holds true:

You don’t just visit South Africa.
You fall into it — heart first.
So deep and so suddenly, you don’t even realize it’s happening…
until you’ve already changed.
Forever — and beautifully.
— unknown

As we took in the breathtaking scenery, we watched seals playing in the turquoise waves below.

South Africa

“Perfecting the Pivot”

August 3, 2025 - 2 Comments

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.

Whalebone Pier (left) and the uMhlanga Lighthouse (right).

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.

A morning on the beach meant spectacular sunrises, time spent with new friends, and many dog sightings.

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.

We are becoming experts at working as a team to move our group’s luggage.

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.

Christy and Emma during group meeting in Cape Town.

(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.

Our view from the plane as we approached Cape Town – we are very excited to explore this area tomorrow!

South Africa

“Slowing Down”

August 1, 2025 - 0 Comments

In education we are pros at being flexible, planning for all situations, and executing the unexpected pivot. And after our whale watching tour was canceled yesterday, and we had to rearrange our flights today, we continued to execute those skills.

The whole crew as we say goodbye to Andrew and David, our beloved guides.

Instead of heading to the airport to fly to Cape Town, we spent another day on the eastern part of South Africa, heading into iSimangaliso Wetland Park for a game drive. The extra day allowed us to slow down, and to practice “zen” birding instead of the “extreme” birding we engaged in with David in Wakkerstroom. In iSimangaliso we watched birds hover in the strong head winds, staying still instead of flying off to a destination. We also finally saw a Martial Eagle, a majestic bird that had been mentioned throughout the trip, but not yet seen. Our morning of zen birding reminded us to slow down and to appreciate the little things in life.

Some of the birds we saw while exploring iSimangaliso Wetland Park included a Martial Eagle (left) and a pair of African Pygmy Geese (right).

While in iSimangaliso we also saw and caught a Giant Dung Beetle that was flying around, and was able to reflect on his purpose. He uses what most discard (feces) and in turn is able to recycle those nutrients and help build and grow its landscape. Such a tiny creature brought us so much joy, as it was one of the animals we’d missed seeing while in Kruger National Park. We’ve seen and appreciated many of the big things, and today we were able to focus on the tiny miracles.

A Giant Dung Beetle. These insects fly so haphazardly that they sometimes literally crash land to the ground – providing great opportunities for closer exploration!

After our game drive we headed south to a suburb of Durban, where we could see the majestic Indian Ocean and experience the hustle and bustle of a city. Here we had time to explore and relax, and continue to get to know each other and South Africa.

In life when you are constantly moving it’s easy to forget that while the big things matter, the little things matter too. In fact, in many cases those little things are the things that TRULY matter.

As our time here is coming close to an end, we are taking in every last moment, both big and small. We are reflecting on what we have experienced and been through, but also on what has changed in us and the difference we can make when we return home. With only a few days left we are treasuring each and every one of these slow, intentional moments.

Slowing down and appreciating the beauty of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

South Africa

“Burnt Toast Theory”

July 31, 2025 - 2 Comments

Burnt toast theory states that minor inconveniences can turn out to be blessings in disguise, and today highlighted this for us.

This morning we started with a much more than minor inconvenience when we arrived to breakfast to find out that it was too windy to go whale watching. This was a bucket list item for almost every one of us, and when it was confirmed that we couldn’t go and that it couldn’t be rescheduled, there were actual tears for some of us. It felt like a major loss.

We pivoted like we have had to do several times on this trip, and went on a bird walk before heading to the beach instead. During our walk I kept waiting for something fun and magical to confirm that missing whales was worth it. And I couldn’t see it. Then we walked down to the beach, put our toes in the sand, collected shells, and tiptoed into the icy Indian Ocean.

How do you explore a new beach and ocean? Synchronized cartwheels in the sand!

Something we’ve noticed about this trip is that we are being required to slow down. Fast food isn’t what we’re used to. Chick-fil-A gets your meal to you with a “my pleasure” in less than 5 minutes. That’s not happening here, as it takes closer to 20. Restaurant service is even longer, and meals come 2-3 at a time. We find ourselves being impatient, trying to speed up processes. Then we talk about it with each other and realize how much we actually ENJOY slowing down. We ask ourselves what it would be like if we stopped rushing when we get home and if we didn’t put so much pressure on ourselves and each other.

Our time is quickly coming to an end and we are all feeling excited to see our families and homes. We are also feeling the pressure of life that awaits us. How can we find the balance of the calm we’ve found here with all that comes with returning home? We’ve watched South African sunrises and sunsets, taken long morning walks with giraffes and coffee, shared dinner with rhinos, and made memories with new friends. We have seen and felt so much here: joy, astonishment, love, fullness, and more that we can’t wait to take back to our families. When we go home we will be spread across the state, hours apart, no longer in dorm style bedrooms, sharing bathrooms and group dinners. We have met people who will now be our best friends, and now we will be apart.

Flavia, Michael, Christine, and Andrew on a windy St. Lucia beach.

Tonight’s sunset happened in the company of a hippo family. I think we can learn something about how to approach going home from them:

“Hippos, despite their size, offer subtle yet powerful lessons on embracing imperfection, finding peace in stillness, and maintaining healthy social bonds”.

Sunset with hippos in iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Three lessons were impressed upon us as we watched these graceful animals:

Embrace the mud and find comfort in imperfection. Hippos spend much of their time in mud, which represents the messy, imperfect parts of life.
Submerge yourself and find peace in stillness. Hippos are comfortable both in and out of the water, symbolizing the importance of finding moments of peace and quiet in our busy lives.
Know your people and make time with them. Celebrate and protect each other.

Our guides and drivers, Andrew and David, are leaving in the morning. Tonight we spent time reflecting on our highlights with each of them. At the end of the night Andrew said, “magic has happened here.” Each day in South Africa has been magic. We have been so blessed. We didn’t get to see whales today on the boat. But, we got to spend precious time slowing down together. Laughing, eating delicious food, and celebrating each other. We have just a few more days left before we get to bring this magic home. We can’t wait to slow down and share the sunrises and sunsets with you.

South Africa

“Meeting the Indian Ocean”

July 30, 2025 - 0 Comments

During the car ride today we were a bit more subdued than usual. The hearty breakfast and the quiet thrill of seeing ostriches, white rhinos, wildebeest, and giraffes had lulled us into a peaceful, drowsy state. As the landscape slowly shifted—from mountainous grasslands to dense forest, and finally to the sandy soil of a coastal town—there was a quiet reverence among us, a growing anticipation.

A morning bush walk before hitting the road for St. Lucia.

We arrived at Ndiza Lodge, our home for the next few days, and excitement buzzed through the group. Some were eager to explore the shops in St. Lucia, while others—my group—felt the pull of the ocean. We quickly split up, each group setting off in pursuit of a different kind of discovery.

The beach group set out with enthusiasm, eager to lay eyes on the Indian Ocean. As we neared the shore the air turned salty and fresh, the sound of crashing waves grew louder, and then suddenly, the ocean revealed itself—raw, powerful, and utterly breathtaking. The waves thundered against an expansive shoreline, while to the right, South Africa’s tallest sand dunes rose like giants. It was unlike anything we had ever seen back home in North Carolina.

A St. Lucia shoreline, featuring the Indian Ocean and sandy shores (left). Noma seeing the Indian Ocean for the first time (right).

We ran down the boardwalk and dipped our toes into the icy surf, laughing at the cold and marveling at the majesty before us. Some of us searched for birds or seashells; others simply wandered the shoreline. We spotted a ghost crab scurrying up the sand, and for a while we were lost in nature’s wonder. But amid the beauty, our joy was tinged with sadness—plastic waste littered the shore. Quietly, a few began picking it up, and we shared our frustration: how can a place so awe-inspiring be treated so carelessly? It was a sobering reminder of man’s impact, and yet the ocean remained—vast, wild, and humbling.

Meanwhile, the intrepid shoppers cautiously trekked into town from the beautiful lodge, casting wary glances for any lurking hippos—a real possibility in St. Lucia. None were spotted, so they continued on, weaving through the streets and exploring local stalls. The town offered a vibrant mix of culture and craftsmanship. There were so many beautifully made goods, and many of us regretted that our suitcases were already bulging with souvenirs. The artisans were talented and proud of their work, happily sharing stories and smiles. Bartering was met with laughter and good-natured exchanges, and the whole experience felt like a joyful dance between traveler and host. It was more than shopping—it was a warm, human connection that left us smiling long after we left the stalls.

In the end, both groups reunited with arms full of treasures and hearts full of gratitude. Whether basking in the raw power of the ocean or chatting with local artists under a warm coastal breeze, we all felt deeply moved. We were grateful—for the beauty, for the connection, and for this incredible experience that reminded us of both nature’s grandeur and our responsibility to protect it.

South Africa

“A Long Walk to Freedom”

July 30, 2025 - 0 Comments

“What counts is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”- Nelson Mandela

Sunrise at Thendele Camp in Royal Natal National Park.

We loaded the vans at 5 am. The stars were still shining bright in the sky and the sun hadn’t yet risen. We stepped back into history and up a steep 1km hike to visit the 800 year old San Rock Art Paintings in the Royal Natal National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The San people were nomadic hunters and gatherers, known for making poisonous arrows. They used bone, blood, and urine to make their paint colors. Their depictions were of animals in the region especially the eland, which had spiritual significance.

Listening to local guide Elijah share the history of the San people and their rock art paintings, which persist on sandstone cliffs after hundreds of years.

“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.” – Nelson Mandela

We have had the privilege of traveling with a South African teacher, Zinhle Shabalala, and former teacher and local leader, Noma Shabalala. Their presence has given us an authentic experience, and inspired us to get out of our own comfort zones.

Noma and Zinhle at the Mandela Capture Site.

We spent the rest of the morning at Sakhile Centre, the local preschool where Zinhle teaches. The children and teachers welcomed us with songs in isiZulu and English and then included us in a traditional Gida dance. We purchased materials and collaborated on gardening and painting, including crafting murals for Zinhle’s classroom. Then we played and played and played with the children who freely shared joy with us through their giggles.

Zinhle with her students and fellow educators (left) and supervising mural progress (right).

The afternoon was a surreal transition to go from imagining the future to visiting the past as we visited the Mandela Capture Site Museum and learned about apartheid. There is nothing as powerful as experiential learning. Before we came on this life altering journey, part of our homework was reading or listening to Nelson Mandela‘s “Long Walk to Freedom.” It is one thing to read about history, it’s quite another to stand where Mandela stood on the site of his capture, which began his 27 years in prison. Through it all, he never lost his vision of unifying South Africa where all people are seen, heard and equally respected.

“There is more work to be done. It is time for new hands to lift the burden. It is in your hands now.” – Nelson Mandela

The culminating sculpture at the Mandela Capture Site.

All photos of children were taken and shared with permission.

South Africa

“Reaching Your Finish Line”

July 28, 2025 - 5 Comments

“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together.” – James Cash Penney

Some of the views within the Drakensberg Mountains.

Today was the most physically challenging day of the trip, and for some, of our lifetimes. While we were excited for the endless panoramic views of the Drakensberg Mountains, many of us felt the weight of the 13km hike ahead. Prepared with bellies full of granadilla yogurt and instant coffee, backpacks of water bottles and binoculars, and feet snuggly tucked into hiking boots, the 18 of us started the trek with our guides, Geoff and Teri.

The first kilometer of the trail was already no joke as a steep decline into the gorge from camp had us thinking, “we have to come back UP this??” After about an hour, our large group began to stretch like a slinky. As an out-and-back trail, you reach a point of no return. Our wide variety of ages, strengths, and athletic abilities started to challenge us. Geoff helped encourage us that even if we’re tired, we could still do more, but we also learned valuable lessons in listening to our bodies.

This trip has been an exceptional moment of pause for so many of us, which is ironic given our sunrise to sunset (and beyond!) daily itineraries. We’ve challenged ourselves since our first orientation in April to unplug and focus inward. We’ve been vulnerable with each other since we met at the airport 8 days ago, and open about what we need in order to experience success each day, whether that’s a nap, an ice cream bar, or someone to process the day with. Today, we saw 18 people with 18 different goals and finish lines. Some people were determined to make it to the gorge 6.5km away. Some knew their body might have some limitations, and were open to asking for breaks or help. Some were fulfilled by finding a perfect rock to relax on and reflect. What transpired was a clear example of teamwork and cheerleading. We helped our walking buddy scale rock “steps,” carried heavy binoculars for each other, and shared snacks. Leaders selflessly walked back and forth delivering lunches and guiding different groups to meet their own finish lines. As the gorge group made their way back along the trail, the three groups slowly regathered and shared their individual experiences of the day. Once we powered up the last steep climb at the end (or beginning) of the trail, we rewarded ourselves with our favorite South African sweets and sodas, yoga, and a pizza dance party.

South Africa

“The People are the Key”

July 27, 2025 - 0 Comments

You would think that a travel day where we drive 180 miles with a midday stop at a mall wouldn’t fuel a good blog… but our experiences today have been so impactful on us all. Our field guide, David, started our morning with a bird tour. It filled us with immense joy seeing him so enthusiastic and giddy as the sun slowly rose over the wetlands and brought the wild to life.

David in his element as he shares the birds of Wakkerstroom, his home town.

Best sightings of the morning were the blue cranes, South Africa’s endangered national bird. But a mob of meerkats who were trying to cross a busy road were the comedy crew. We watched eagerly as they raced towards the road, then abruptly stopped as one of them looked for a clear path across. Then a truck would come and they would scurry back to the mound before running back to the road to try again. Over and over this happened. We laughed so hard, and yet as they finally reached the other side, there was a sigh of relief and a testament to their perseverance.

Views from our morning birding adventures.

Wakkerstroom is David’s home; hearing his stories of buildings, people, and history not only gave us a sense of the local culture but also of the struggles and changes the people here have dealt with. It made us realize that our days at Kruger National Park didn’t fully immerse us in the full South Africa experience. There is poverty that challenges the daily lives of most of the people we saw today. Nelson Mandela said “poverty is not an accident. Like slavery and apartheid, it is man-made and can be removed by the actions of human beings.”

Here the actions are occurring, but they are slow. The hills of shanties overlooking the government housing pulled at our hearts as we saw people hand-carrying water from community sources in order to have water in their homes. Yet we also saw a field of children happily playing football and children dancing in their backyards. The biggest lesson from today and our time in South Africa so far is that life’s joys come mostly from relationships and friendships, not from material things. Meeting Noma and Zinhle, the South African educators who have joined us for this journey, as well as David and Andrew, our South African guides, we have felt the heart of South Africa. Their friendships and sharing of their cultures have connected us. This has been very special for all of us.

We have been commenting that nothing could exceed the incredible experiences we have had so far, yet each day this trip continues to surprise and deliver special life-changing moments. Ending our day was no exception. The Drakensberg Mountains rose before us and then enveloped us as we arrived at Royal Natal National Park. We were in awe of the towering rocks we will explore more thoroughly tomorrow, yet standing outside our lodging and breathing in the crisp mountain air, there is a peace and timelessness here that is unlike anything we have ever experienced. It is a place where you can feel the pulse of the Earth, the rhythm of life that has been playing out for millions of years. What a trip it’s been!