Students from our London campus are reflecting on their recent once-in-a-lifetime trip to Langa in South Africa.
Back in March, the 14 students embarked on the long journey to Bridges for Music Academy, joining their music team for two weeks to participate in workshops exploring indigenous instruments and DJing, as well as guest lectures and panel discussions.
The Bridges For Music Academy is a creative learning space in Langa on the edge of Cape Town, offering unemployed youth from under-resourced communities an inspiring and safe environment with access to world-class technology, mentorship and education designed to help them thrive in the world. The South Africa project is a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience, broaden our students’ horizons and give back to the creative community.
Alongside the packed schedule of workshops and activities, our students also visited South Africa’s famous Table Mountain and explored more of Langa around the academy.
We spoke to Lewis, a Level 3 Music Production student, to find out how it all went.
“Going on the South Africa trip was a life-changing experience for me. Initially, I was really hesitant and anxious to go, but I challenged myself, and I’m incredibly grateful I had the opportunity. I feel as if I’ve achieved a lot from the trip, such as making new friendships and learning about South African culture. You can learn bits online, but being there in person teaches you so much more. The differences in culture between the UK and South Africa are obvious from the moment you set foot in the country – everyone is so friendly and wants to learn about you as a person.
My most memorable moments from the trip would be the “Great Morning Routines”, where we meditated and discussed how we were feeling each day. I also enjoyed the walking tour around Langa, which really proved how much the community is valued and that everyone knows each other. Neighbours would be looking after other people’s children, and were eager to talk to us to find out where we’re from.”
The trip wasn’t just transformative for our students, but it also had a profound, inspiring impact on our accompanying staff, as you’ll see from the following quote from Mary-Jane, our Senior ALS Tutor.
“Our time with Bridges for Music Academy anchored our days in meditation, creativity, and shared experiences with local students, who quickly became family. At Monwabisi Recreation Centre and Meals on Wheels, we volunteered with joy and purpose, serving children, cleaning spaces, and giving back to a community that gave us so much more in return.
Excursions to Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Cape Point, Boulders Beach, and Simon’s Town gave us breathtaking views and moments of awe. But it was the people – their openness, their stories, their vulnerability – that left the most lasting impact. The love, lessons, and community we found in South Africa will forever shape who we are and how we walk through the world.”
Sometimes, you have to step outside of your comfort zone and explore the unknown to unlock the next phase of your life. The team did just that and returned from South Africa equipped with unique knowledge, experiences and skills that they can take forward into their future, as well as memories, connections and moments that will stay with them for life. We’re incredibly proud of all of them for making the most of this grand adventure.
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