Jasper in South Africa

Participant

Jasper

Programme

Internship

Country

🇿🇦 South Africa

Duration

5 weeks

Short bio

My name is Jasper Zwijnenberg, I’m 20 years old and I did the CIOS sports course. Driven by my passion for exercise and health, I currently work as a personal trainer. I love helping people achieve their physical goals and feel fitter and stronger. Sport and coaching aren’t just my job, they’re also my biggest hobbies. Whether it’s strength training, conditioning or team sports, I love being active with it. I also get a lot of satisfaction from guiding and motivating others, both at work and in my free time. My goal is to inspire people to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.

How satisfied were you with the support from Holland?

I was very happy with the support back in Holland. I was well prepared for what to expect from the culture and the teaching, and whenever I had questions I got a quick answer from Holland.

My story

“This internship has made me stronger not only as a coach, but also as a person. It was a unique experience to be able to teach, learn and inspire others in such a different environment”

Jasper · internship in South Africa

During my course at CIOS I got the chance to do an internship in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, an experience I will never forget. During my internship I gave sports lessons at various schools, mainly in the townships. I taught boxing, football, basketball and rugby there. Every day I stood in front of groups of enthusiastic children who, despite often limited resources, had enormous energy and enjoyment for sport.

Working in the townships was incredibly impressive. Life there is completely different from what I’m used to back home in Holland. You notice it in everything: the conditions, the way people interact and the language. Even so, I quickly felt at home there, precisely because the people are so open, friendly and grateful. The children often don’t have much, but they stay enthusiastic.

My internship was amazing. They make sure you’re well prepared and give you close support during your stay. Beforehand you get clear information about the culture, safety and your work. Once there, you’re well looked after and supported. Because of this I felt at ease from the start and could focus completely on my development as a sports coach.

This internship has made me stronger not only as a coach, but also as a person. It was a unique experience to be able to teach, learn and inspire others in such a different environment. South Africa has made a lasting impression on me and I’m grateful that I got to be part of it.