"We All Pushed Each Other to Keep Going": Anthony, Sienna, and Sanelisiwe’s Global Exchange Experience

Jan 11, 2024

For Anthony, Sanelisiwe, and Sienna from PeacePlayers South Africa, the Global Exchange was more than just an opportunity to meet young people from around the world—it was a journey of personal growth, cultural learning, and unforgettable experiences. Hosting participants from the U.S. and Northern Ireland in South Africa pushed them to step into leadership roles, embrace new challenges, and see both their own country and the world from a new perspective.

At first, Sanelisiwe was nervous about meeting so many new people. “I used to be scared to start conversations,” she admitted. “But I realized everyone felt a little out of their comfort zone, and that made it easier. By the end, I was the one bringing people together.” She also discovered a new sense of confidence, stepping up in ways she never had before. “I thought I would just be one of the participants, but I ended up leading in moments I never expected.”

For Anthony, the Exchange reinforced the power of teamwork and pushing past limits. “The obstacle course was intense,” he said. “I jumped into the mud because my team was cheering me on. We all pushed each other to keep going, and that energy made it one of the best moments of the trip.” The exchange also brought plenty of fun challenges—like kayaking, which quickly turned into a memorable adventure. “We started out trying to race, but by the end, we were just trying not to flip our boats over!”

Beyond the physical challenges, the cultural exchange was eye-opening for all three. One of Sanelisiwe’s favorite moments was when each group shared their home country’s traditions. “We taught each other our slang, talked about food, and laughed at how different we all were,” she said. “But at the same time, it showed me that, no matter where we come from, we all connect in the same ways.”

Anthony, who had visited the Nelson Mandela Museum before, was struck by the way his international peers reacted to South Africa’s history. “They were shocked by apartheid and what people went through,” he said. “It made me realize how important it is to keep telling these stories, even when we think we already know them.” Sienna had a similar realization when they visited a rural school and repainted a basketball court. “The kids were so excited, even though it was such a small thing,” she said. “It reminded me to appreciate what we have and not take things for granted.”

By the end of the exchange, they had all grown in ways they hadn’t expected. Sanelisiwe left feeling more self-assured and ready to take on leadership roles. Anthony gained a deeper appreciation for history and connection. And Sienna walked away knowing that the friendships she built would last far beyond the trip. “We didn’t just share an experience,” she said. “We became family.”