Reflecting on what the last eight months have meant to me, I am in awe of the people, places and opportunities I have been connected to through this experience. In June of 2024, I made an impromptu decision to apply to the Meddeas program. This was done out of the inner need to impact the lives of others and the desire to go on an international adventure offering a cultural immersion as a South African Language Assistant.
It felt very natural for me to set off to Spain. Its rich history, vibrant heritage and delicious gastronomy, all of which I have admired for some time. At the notice of my embarkation, a friend of mine mentioned that my personality just fits into the archetype of Spain. I chuckled at the accuracy of this comment because, in hindsight, now that its June 2025, my observations of this vibrant country and its people have been nothing short of zestful and potent, mirroring my vivacious nature.
Commentary on Vitoria-Gasteiz
My second home, nestled within the heart of the Basque Country, became the breeding ground for this upgraded version of me. I’ll admit that initially, my placement in Vitoria seemed like a slap in the face, considering my expressed desire to work in a sunny, coastal area in the South of Spain. I, instead, got placed in a rainy, inland city in the North. You can only imagine how perplexed I was at this paradoxical reality.
The fascinating part of my story is that Vitoria-Gasteiz ended up being the space I needed to ground myself, not only as an individual acclimatising to a foreign country with a language barrier, but as a young professional advancing my work portfolio. This quaint, peaceful and well-maintained city allowed me to focus on the objectives that mattered. This being the upliftment of the students (commitment to the program) and my self-development journey. So my first advice to future language assistants would be to go with their placements’ flow, trust the process and take great delight in the unusual, for it tends to birth the most relevant and beneficial results.
Spanish customs from my POV
As a certified Basque resident, I noticed that Spaniards love their dogs, their tobacco and their cliques, often called “kuadrillas”. I adored seeing a range of cute dog breeds whilst taking scenic walks within the local parks. To my shock, street spitting is a real thing. I would say this is not specific to Spain, but evident throughout Europe, so if you’re coming from a place where that’s not common, just prepare yourself not to take it personally when someone randomly spits close to you as they walk along the street pavement. Moreover, the cost of living and food is the best part of Spain, in my trusted opinion.
Future Language Assistants need not worry about their stipend matching their monthly expenses. As someone who chose to live independently, the stipend sustains you adequately. Lastly, Spain is well-maintained as seen through its infrastructure & public areas, which are greatly considered. Spanish people are passionate, and it shows so beautifully through their flamenco culture, art & football. I must admit that I am truly in awe of how the fervour just seeps through their veins, thus, one thing I can take away from this experience is to dream and live more vividly and to pursue my aspirations relentlessly.
Being an example and imprinting (South) Africa
Throughout this impactful experience, I have carried my country with me at every step with great pride. I especially enjoyed sharing my Xhosa culture, heritage and the spirit of Ubuntu (a Nguni philosophical phrase meaning “I am because we are”) with my students and the people of Spain. Through these interactions, I noticed a few assumptions from those around me. The first is that Africans love to dance, which they do, for the most part. I have great memories of teaching my students a few moves and having a good giggle afterwards.
The second assumption is that all South Africans speak Afrikaans, which is false. Most curricula require that you study it as an additional language in school, but English is the medium, and South Africa proudly houses 12 official languages. Lastly, people assume Africans are well-versed with other African countries, whether knowledgeable about their socio-political landscape or general tourist facts. I have to remind people how vast and diverse the continent of Africa is and the cultural depth of each country. So this is inaccurate, but I believe one can educate oneself more on fellow countries, and I desire to continue doing so.
Just go for it
As a South African Language Assistant, I have seen twelve cities in Spain and visited neighbouring countries, making accessibility and movement a privilege I am happy to boast about as a part of this program. I urge hopefuls to speedily apply themselves to this once-in-a-lifetime exploit. This mind-altering experience has increased my faith, expanded my horizons, solidified my passions, thus heightening my self-confidence due to having to exercise extreme independence and decisiveness. I ultimately find great joy in pursuing my desires, and the manifestation of this international internship has inclined me to more global endeavours. I know I am not bound to one country or narrative; this is just the first step in executing my vision of purpose beyond borders.
How language and education have greatly impacted me
Undoubtedly, this path has been the resolution to my desire to help cultivate meaningful skills within the lives of the youth of today, so that they may boldly take on the opportunities of tomorrow. This educational experience has transcended language learning and the corners of a classroom. I have been transported into the realm of nurturing, developing and moulding the behavioural patterns of students and their ability to show up and take up space in society. Language connects us to opportunities, as it is a way in which we communicate our greatness, our capabilities and confidence.
Language fosters meaningful relationships, such as those that I have been privileged to attain throughout this program. I take great pride in my two native languages. However, I have experienced an even greater appreciation for those who pursue a foreign language relentlessly. It’s incredible to witness how some master it so seamlessly at such a young age. With great love and gratitude, I now see that the beauty in being an educator is not in the external impact you may accomplish. Rather, it lies in the internal imprint that the experience leaves you with. Till next time, España!
