The purpose of the trip was to learn about business and team leadership, team work and networking as well as International business relations and development, start-ups & multinationals. The purpose of the trip was definitely achieved and I can easily say, I learnt more than I thought I would, both about myself and about others.

I came to the trip expecting to learn about leadership in different areas of the world and learning how to make connections in different areas of life but I came home with so much more than just that. Not only did I come home with so much leadership knowledge, but I also came home with a different perception of my personal leadership and how to improve it as well as making great business connections and some great new life-long friends, all in the space of 5 days.

I went into the trip thinking I was a leader in the few areas, but not long after, realising that I was a leader in more aspects than just those few, I realised that some of the opportunities I have taken advantage of in the past, actually developed my leadership, without even realising that they had. I have learnt that you can change the people, or change the people.

That before you can lead by example, you have to know how to lead yourself. That it’s not the biggest or fastest animal that wins, it’s the one that adapts the quickest and if you believe in your product and you believe that it’s worth it, don’t tap on the door, knock it down and to always be humble. I learnt that I should take every opportunity that comes my way because I never want to look back with regret. Also to conquer fear instead of running from it and to get out of my own way, to get out there and do. I learnt that I should focus more on your improving my strengths instead of trying to boost my weaknesses, that there’s no point in trying to do everything.

Also you should always surround yourself with people who will believe in you, find places you can feed from and find what works for you not what works for someone else.  The biggest thing I took away from the trip was that you have to know how to follow before you can learn how to lead, there are times to follow and there are times to lead, a good leader knows when to do which one.