By: Benjamin Kent
Sawubona Readers!
Just another update from here in Swaziland. Work has been pretty hectic as of late, preparing for the Swaziland National Team to depart for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games in less than 2 weeks! The preparation has involved me continuing the work of Nick by preparing a referral handbook for Athletes, but also now producing new documents: Release Letters and Contracts. The release letters are for Athletes to give to their employers for the leave of absence to attend the games in Australia. The contracts are for Athletes and Officials to sign, understanding what their participation means to Swaziland and that their representation requires a standard of professionalism and respect.
As exciting as the work life has been as of late, I have to say my adventures outside of work are either equal to, or greater than what I’ve had in the SOCGA office. This past weekend my coworker Nhlnhla and I set off on an hour and a half drive to Hlane Royal National Park. Hlane is home to the magnificent animals known as the “Big Five”. Those animals being the Elephant, Giraffe, Leopard, Buffalo, and Lion. Nhlanhla and I went on what is called a “Game Drive” or more commonly known as a Safari! This safari was two and a half hours long and had us grazing over the African savannah seeing so many amazing wild animals up close! Here are some photos I managed to capture on this bumpy ride:
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This was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had! I had only ever been on two other safaris before, one being African Lion Safari in Hamilton, Ontario, and the other being Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida. Needless to say, the beauty of seeing these animals in their natural habitat will make the other safaris much harder to enjoy! What an experience! I feel very lucky to have had this unbelievable opportunity.
As for the upcoming weeks here in Swaziland, you will have to stay tuned to learn more about the exciting adventures and work projects I have coming up!
Sala Kahle for now!