December: Vernon Wilson – (05 Charlie)

At a time when my life was in turmoil, plagued by drug addiction and constant bad choices, and heading for certain failure, there I was entering the gates of Chrysalis Academy, as a troubled young man not knowing what I was getting myself into.

Who was to know that from the moment I said my goodbye to my mother, that my life was about to change forever. While it was no walk in the park, the words we sang at our graduation ‘’It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it ‘’ could not have been more accurate.

During my 3 months I learned so many things, some of which I still apply in my life today. Parts of the programme like Outward Bound and the 72- hour hike to Cape Point, helped toward improving my mental strength, as much as it did the physical side, instilling a belief in me that I can overcome anything in life. 

Who would have known that the choice I made while at Chrysalis, would shape my future and set me on a successful career path. I was one of only 10 candidates out of 120 who chose to do an introductory course on tourism.  Following my graduation,  I was given a 3 month learnership with Protea Hotels, which I completed successfully. About 5/6 months after I had graduated, I received a call from the Chrysalis Academy, asking if I would be interested in a bursary to do a tour guiding course. I then jumped at the opportunity, completed the course through Boland College and did my in- service training with Sanparks, where I stayed on as a nature guide for a while. That was followed by 1 year working for British Airways before 3 years as a Reservations Consultant for an Overland Tour operator. Thereafter, I joined Flight Centre as a Travel Agent, where I spent 5 successful years, large parts as an assistant manager and a short stint as acting manager. Using all the knowledge I have gained, I took the plunge to start my own travel business which lasted just under 2 years.  While it was not a failure, circumstances required that I go back to seeking employment elsewhere. For the past 4 years now, I have been working for the country’s leading luxury tour operator as a Senior Tour Consultant, where I deal with some of the world’s wealthiest people, arranging their holidays to various parts of Africa.

Going from being a drug addict and living a life riddled with failure and disappointment, to having been a business owner, dealing with celebrities and billionaires and having travelled to some of the most amazing countries in Africa, this would definitely not have been possible had it not been for Chrysalis Academy, that taught me discipline, and gave me the tools to make a success of my life.

For all future candidates, I would like to say that while Chrysalis Academy gives us the tools to succeed, it still comes down to us as individuals to want to change. The hardest part is when you go back home into environments, that will challenge you.  That is when you have to remain mentally strong and not allow anything or anyone to knock your progress or the belief in yourself. We are all capable of so much more than we give ourselves credit for, so believe and you will achieve.  Not only that, but you will also inspire others to do the same.

Thank you Chrysalis for the role you played in my life, I will be eternally grateful!

Having recently contracted the virus, I would urge those who experience any symptoms, to immediately isolate themselves from others, until they are able to get tested. I would like to urge others, especially over the festive season, to remain mindful that there is a pandemic out there.  Everyone should please be cautious.  Wear masks, wash and sanitize hands and social distance where possible.