Before traveling to South Africa, I realized that my understanding of the country was relatively limited. Most of what I knew came from media, news, and academic discussions, which could not fully capture the complexity of the country and its people. While I expected to learn about business in an emerging market, I did not expect the Global Academic Travel Experience (GATE) to South Africa to challenge my assumptions as deeply as it did. Over the course of two weeks, I encountered a country that was far more complex, dynamic, and hopeful than I had imagined.

Business and Social Impact

What impacted me most was realizing that many organizations in South Africa view business not only as a way to generate profit, but also as a tool for expanding access and creating opportunity. Through conversations with business leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and community organizations, I began to understand how closely business and social development are connected in South Africa today.

One of the most memorable visits for me was to Lesaka Technologies. Before the trip, I tended to think about fintech mainly in terms of innovation and convenience. However, at Lesaka, we also discussed financial inclusion as something much deeper: a way to help people participate more fully in the economy. Many South Africans still operate primarily in cash-based systems, which can make it difficult to build credit histories or access financial services. Listening to how digital payment systems can help bridge those gaps changed the way I think about the role technology can play in society.

My visit to the Gordon Institute of Business Science Entrepreneurship Development Academy, I was encouraged by the work being done to support small business owners and entrepreneurs. Through training in accounting, operations, and business management, the academy helps entrepreneurs build more sustainable businesses and create opportunities within their communities. Visiting these organizations helped me realize how entrepreneurship can become a powerful form of empowerment and social impact.

Education and Community Support

The South African organizations focused on education and youth development deeply impressed me. At Lawhill Maritime Centre, we learned how practical training programs and boarding opportunities are helping students gain skills and access careers that may have otherwise felt out of reach. In a country facing significant youth unemployment challenges, it was inspiring to see educators so committed to creating long-term opportunities for young people.

What I remember most from Lawhill, however, was not the presentation itself, but the students we met there. They welcomed us warmly, proudly shared their academic achievements, and asked thoughtful questions about studying and working abroad. Some students asked me about my experience living overseas and whether they might one day have opportunities to work or study in Korea or the United States. I remember trying my best to answer honestly while encouraging them to continue pursuing their goals.

Their curiosity, confidence, and optimism made this one of the most unforgettable moments of the trip for me. Looking at the excitement in their eyes, I felt hopeful about South Africa’s future. More than anything, I realized that the efforts of educators, families, and organizations investing in these students were already visible in the ambition and potential of the young people themselves.

Similarly, Ubuntu Football Academy left a strong impression on me because of its emphasis on leadership, confidence, education, and character development. The organization’s mission extends far beyond sports. They were building a supportive environment where young people could develop the skills and mindset needed to shape their futures.

Understanding South Africa’s History

Of course, throughout the trip, we also saw the realities of inequality that continue to shape South African society. Visiting Soweto and the Apartheid Museum provided important historical context and helped me better understand how the legacy of apartheid still influences access to education, wealth, and opportunity today. At the same time, the resilience and determination of the people and organizations working to create a better future struck me.

Before this experience, I often viewed Africa primarily through the lens of economic development and emerging markets. This GATE trip introduced me to individuals and organizations actively working to expand opportunity, support their communities, and create meaningful change despite significant structural challenges. Beyond the opportunity to experience South Africa for myself, this trip helped me shift to a more human-centered perspective.

I am deeply grateful to all the organizations and individuals who welcomed us, openly shared their experiences, and allowed us to learn from them throughout the program. Their generosity made this experience far more meaningful than a traditional classroom experience. Although the trip lasted only two weeks, it fundamentally expanded the way I think about business, leadership, and social impact, and it left me with a much deeper appreciation for South Africa and the people we met there.