Today we are wishing Fazlin Samaai congratulations on one year of working at Earthstompers!
Fazlin joined the Tourism Boot Camp program in July 2018 which was conducted by Pieter Geldenhuys and the team from PG Tops & Luxury Safaris.
The aim of the program is to give inexperienced, unemployed individuals the necessary job training and a foot-in-the-door to work in the tourism industry. It is a 6 week program, with 4 weeks of classroom training at PG Tops, and 2 weeks of internship placement in an outside company. The program is free, and we invite others who may be interested to apply for future rounds of Boot Camp.
Fazlin sharing her experience of Tourism Boot Camp:
“In week 1 we were taught about tours, logistics, consulting and key selling points. Week 2 was based on activities, presentation and customisation. Week 3 encapsulated technical, itineraries, Excel and email conduct with clients. Lastly, week 4 took us on educational/site visits and meeting industry partners.
After your 4 weeks of training you are placed with one of the hand-picked companies, for a 2 week internship. Employment is not guaranteed, but this gives you a chance to show your true potential to a possible employer.
After my 4 weeks of training I was placed for my 2 week internship at Earthstompers Adventures. I was nervous at first, as the boot camp course was the only training that I ever received in the field of tourism. I soon realised, however, that I had nothing to worry about because as soon as I joined the team I found comfort in knowing that the team was always willing to help and answer any questions that I had. This made it very easy to fit in with the team and office dynamic. After I finished my 2 week internship I was offered a permanent position, with a 3 month probation period and have now been at the company for a whole year! I did not only join a team of people, it feels more like a family and I am proud to say that I’m an Earthstomper!”
Thanks Fazlin! We are proud that you are a part of our team! Now, let’s get to know you. Who is Fazlin Samaai?
Where were you born?
Born and raised in Johannesburg
When did you move to Cape Town?
I moved to Cape Town in 2004
Have you ever travelled abroad?
Yes. I started working in Food & Beverage and travelled to Palm Beach Gardens in 2008 for experience and because I wanted to see another part of the world. I also went to California in 2010 where I did an internship at a ski resort for one year.
What were 3 highlights from your Garden Route tour with Earthstompers?
- Definitely the bungee jump as this was my first time, I was so terrified but once I did the jump it felt amazing.
- Travelling to a different place every day and getting to see something new and experience a town’s beauty.
- Meeting the guests that went on the tour because we all started out as strangers and at the end of the week it feels like you have been friends for years.
Looking ahead, what do you hope to achieve?
Continue working in the tourism industry and building myself up and also do some more travelling locally and internationally.
Famous last words – what do you have to say to others who would like to work in tourism?
I would like to iterate that it is never too late to make a change in your career and that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it and keep a positive attitude.
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