Jacques Van Heerden (2020) – Addison Reserve Country Club
“I still remember the day I attended the presentation and I thought to myself what are the chances I would be chosen to work in the USA. My life has changed for the better in every single way after working in the USA with everything I have learned and experienced. I have made lifelong friends who I still speak to every day. I learned about different cultures from people all over the world. I want to thank the Workaway team for all the hard work and dedication. It has been a life-changing experience. I appreciate you Workaway!!”
Sarah Du Plessis (2020) – Mirasol Country Club
It was an amazing experience, and I loved every moment of it! I was able to learn so many new things and meet a lot of wonderful people. This was a great step in my life. Thank you for taking such care of us during the COVID pandemic and getting us home safely. Your gracious hospitality shows how much you care about your employees and I am very glad that I could be a part of the experience.
Taylor-Jade Kallis (2020) – St. Andrews Country Club
Once again thank you so much for the opportunity I was given. It was honestly so life changing for me and I learnt so much about myself as well as the Industry. Most importantly, I made lifelong friends, that I will forever cherish. I can’t wait to be able to return again and continue the amazing journey.
Selloane Mlangeni (2020) – Jupiter Hills Country Club
I have been on the Workaway International programme since 2018 and I would like to thank them for giving me the opportunity to work in the United States. I learned a lot about hospitality, especially in country clubs. I got to learn, travel, make money, meet people, make friends, and have fun at the same time. Thank you, to Workaway International, for being with us from the beginning until this very moment. God bless you all. You are doing an amazing job. We notice and appreciate it.
Lyle Jackson (2020) – Hunters Run Country Club
I have just completed my very first season at Hunters Run Country Club. I just want to thank Workaway for allowing me the opportunity to work at a wonderful country club and gain so much more knowledge and experience and be able to learn more about the industry and its traits. It was truly an incredible experience.
“It was truly an incredible experience.”
Kena-Leigh Dunn / Deveney-Jayde Mendes (2020) – Polo Country Club
We want to once again thank you for all of your amazing efforts in getting us home and keeping us safe the entire way. We, together with our families, are very appreciative of everything and your prompt responses throughout the process. We know that it must have been a long and very stressful few weeks for the Workaway International team, but we just wanted to say a big thank you!
Jacinta Da Silva (2020) – Mirasol Country Club
You guys rock! I’d like to thank the entire Workaway team, without you guys this would not have been possible!
“You guys rock!”
Marcus Graham (2020) – BallenIsles Country Club
My time in Florida has been spectacular. I have made so many incredible memories and seen so many things that I would not have seen in South Africa. I work at the BallenIsles Grille and I love my job! We work hard but it is rewarding. The restaurant is beautiful and I love looking off of the terrace and seeing the golf courses and the amazing weather every day.
I have met wonderful like-minded people from all over the world. The sense of teamwork is evident everywhere in the country club and we have an amazing support system should anything go wrong.
We live in a beautiful housing estate called The Sophia at Abacoa and the facilities are outstanding! Florida is the best! The sun is out almost all the time and everyone is always exploring.
I would recommend the Workaway International programme to anyone who wants to see America and better themselves in and out of the workplace.
I am very grateful for the opportunity and I will be applying for the 2020/2021 season!
Mother of Samantha Neary (2020) – Woodfield Country Club
Workaway you have impressed me with your level of support and organisation at such an uncertain time in our world’s history, you’ve walked the extra mile to ensure our children were taken care of and you got them back home safely. For that I am truly grateful.
“You walked the extra mile to ensure our children were taken care of.”
Nyakanyaka Nqozile (2020) – Admirals Cove Country Club
What people don’t know is that Workaway International gives lots of young men and women an opportunity of a lifetime. It gave some of us hope that there is more to life than we thought possible. A stepping stone for a great future, if you take it. Thank you for making some of our dreams come true. You’re always appreciated.
Jacqui-Lee Goodman (2020) – Mariner Sands Country Club
I’ve been on the Workaway International programme for a good couple of years and it’s been an absolutely amazing experience. I can’t wait to go back to Mariner Sands Country Club for my 6th season. To the Workaway International team, you guys are the best! I thank you for walking me through this amazing journey, I really appreciate all that you do!
Tasneem Jacobs (2020) – Polo Country Club
Workaway International has been an experience of a lifetime for me. One that will forever be etched in my soul. After all, some of the best memories, experiences, and life lessons that I am most grateful for were because of the opportunities that Workaway International provided. I want to say thank you to Charlotte and the South African team, and also to Bill and his team for always being there for us. THANK YOU!
Elvis Bennett (2020) – Sailfish Point Country Club
When I applied to go on the programme in 2016, I wasn’t so sure about it. But as time went by, I learned that it is the best thing I could have ever done for my career. Workaway International goes above and beyond, the staff are very friendly and helpful. Charlotte, the General Manager, is so hands-on and dedicated. I thank her for making my journey to the US, memorable and exciting. I like the fact that they always keep us updated, walk us through the process every step of the way, they never get tired. They make it their mission to make sure that we understand and do everything the right way. Such a wonderful programme has indeed done wonders for me. Thank you, Charlotte, and your team. Continue working hard and making a difference in our lives.
Father of Nathan Klue (2020) – Polo Country Club
Well done Workaway you have done what nobody expected. All our loved ones are back at home. We know it was a new experience for all in the world. Hope and pray that this virus will not affect us all. Thank You.
Gavin Weatherby-Boehm (2020) – BallenIsles Country Club
I am so honoured that Workaway International gave me the opportunity. I am having a wonderful time in the USA.
Busiswa Ndlebe (2020) – Boca West Country Club
I’m the happiest person ever since I joined Workaway International. Working at the great Boca West Country Club has been so much fun and I am learning a lot daily with so many positive people around me.
Kirsty De Lange (2020) – Boca West Country Club
This experience has been and will be one that I will never forget.
Simphiwe Nyembe (2020) – Boca West Country Club
So far, the season has been great for me and I have enjoyed the experience thoroughly and have learned so much within a short space of time. I have met loads of amazing people and I work with some of the most awesome staff! I have made many friends who I would love to stay in contact with after the season is over. I think I have never been happier in a job before, and I hope to do this for as long as I can.
“I have never been happier in a job before!”
Mother of Kelly Koopman (2020) – Boca West Country Club
Awesome thanks so much Workaway for arranging that our kids get home to South Africa safely.
Vusi Makani (2020) – Addison Reserve Country Club
The season has been amazing so far. Great experience of American and international cuisine. I am excited to explore the country after the busy season.
Rolando Mentoor (2020) – Polo Country Club
I am very sad that the season is almost over, but I enjoyed every single moment. Working in the banquet department was an honour for me. We handled all the big events. It was not always easy; however, we are an amazing team and all the successful events made all the hard work worth it.
Milani Motlohi (2020) – Mirasol Country Club
The Workaway International programme has been an amazing experience so far. Work has been difficult but also rewarding.
Mother of Francois Du Toit (2020) – St. Andrews Country Club
Thank you for all you are doing. We really take our hats off to you. Workaway has gone beyond their limits and never disappointed.
Sarah Du Plessis (2020) – Mirasol Country Club
It has been a great experience so far. I work at the restaurant called Revive at Mirasol Country Club in the main dining area and beverage cart. My managers are amazing, and I am enjoying every moment on the Workaway International programme.
Surita Smal (2020) – Palm Beach Country Club
It has been a hectic season with so many events, parties, and luncheons, however, we soldier through them all and get the job done! I took some time out of my busy schedule and enjoyed the Florida Keys and Peanut Island, and it was so much fun.
Franco Rossouw (2020) – Boca West Country Club
My time on the Workaway International programme has taught me so many life lessons. I have grown so much at work and in my personal life. I have pushed myself to new levels every day. On my days off, I took some time to explore. Key West is amazing and visiting the theme parks made me feel like a child again. I am enjoying every moment on the Workaway International programme.
“Visiting the theme parks made me feel like a child again!”
Mother of Christian Booysen (2020) – Boca West Country Club
Phenomenal effort! Fantastic organization with superb leaders who get things done!
Sibonisiwe Ntloko (2020) – Eastpointe Country Club
It has been an incredible experience working at Eastpointe Country Club. The management team is so helpful and always willing to offer assistance. We got compliments from management saying that the members love us and that they have seen so much improvement in the service delivery since we arrived. We adapted quickly to their standards and work ethics, so I guess we are doing a good job and we strive to do better every day. I cannot thank Workaway International enough for this amazing opportunity.
Samantha Neary (2020) – Woodfield Country Club
I cannot believe this season is almost over! It has truly been such a life-changing experience. I have met such amazing people and my knowledge about the hospitality industry has grown. It has been such a privilege to have experienced and worked with different types of people. I have learned so much along the way. I am so grateful for this opportunity.
“My knowledge about the hospitality industry has grown.”
Jason Kirk (2020) – Boca West Country Club
Wow, what a season it has been! Thank you to Workaway International for making this life-changing experience possible. Even though I am disappointed that I will not be heading up north, I am excited to return to Boca West. I appreciate your hard work and thank you for making my dreams come true.
Simone Delport (2020) – BallenIsles Country Club
I had such an amazing experience! The BallenIsles Country Club has a fantastic working environment. The management and staff are constantly striving to teach us more and provide training to improve our skills. Florida has been hot, cold, and very rainy all in one day. It has been wonderful to explore and see the amazing things Florida has to offer.
Mother of Tristan Ross (2020) – Boca West Country Club
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars for Workaway International.
Sithandazile Mncube (2020) – Boca West Country Club
This was my first season on the Workaway International programme. I worked as a server at the Boca West Country Club. I gained so much relevant industry experience and made lifelong friends that became my family.
“I gained so much relevant industry experience.”
Nonkululeko Didi (2020) – Boca West Country Club
Thank you to Charlotte and the Workaway International team for bringing us home safely and not forgetting my second home Boca West Country Club. It has been a pleasure working with you all. See you all next season!
Chane Mostert (2020) – Admirals Cove Country Club
I want to say thank you to each and every one at Workaway International for bringing us back home from the USA safely. We know you are doing your best to bring every person back home safely. You all rock!
Khanya Cele (2020) – Boca West Country Club
I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Workaway International and Boca West Country Club as well as everyone involved in ensuring our safe return home. The long hours and hard work put in by you all does not go unnoticed. I am proud to be associated with you.
Khayakazi Kupiso (2018) – Boca Grove Country Club
I’ve been on the Workaway International programme for almost 2 years and it’s been an amazing experience so far. I can’t wait to go back to Boca Grove for my 3rd season. To the Workaway International team, you guys are the best and I thank you for walking me through this amazing journey.
Monica Jansen (2017) – BallenIsles Country Club
The best agency! They gave me an opportunity of a lifetime. It really changed my life. Thank you, Workaway International. Because of you a lot of doors have opened.
Kgakilwe Komane (2017) – BallenIsles Country Club
Best experience ever! Thank you Workaway International for this great opportunity, you have changed my life and others. I will forever be grateful.
Jacinta Da Silva (2015) – Mirasol Country Club
I would love to take this opportunity to thank Workaway for this amazing opportunity! I’m loving my job and my apartment. I’ve made so many friends and family here. It’s just been blessed! Thanks once again for this amazing once in a lifetime opportunity to grow. Love you guys! Keep making people’s dreams come true.
Mother of Melani (2015) and Clarissa Gouws (2014) – Boca West Country Club
This thank you letter is long overdue, and for that I apologise. Both Melani and Clarissa have settled in and are very, very happy to be in sunny Florida! Melani was a bit homesick for the first couple of weeks, but when she got over that she has not looked back once.
We will be forever grateful to you and you absolutely fantastic staff who dealt so efficiently and professionally with all the aspects of this opportunity for our kids. We are especially grateful that you were willing to give Melani a second chance. It has turned out to be the best decision she has ever made. She told me yesterday that she would love to stay on for another six months if any of the other country clubs will have her! Clarissa is also keen on staying on, so whatever the clubs are offering these kids, they are doing it right!
We miss them terribly, but we know that they are fine, that they are taking huge steps to becoming independent young adults and that they are safe, thanks to you, your team and your partners in the USA.
Thank you very very much, from the bottom of my heart! I hope that all of you have a blessed Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.
Samuel Ntuli (2015) – Admirals Cove Country Club
I would to thank everyone who is working at Workaway International. You are so brilliant and dedicated. Keep up the good work, you are Angels of God! Thank you Charlotte for leading Workaway Team! Now I’m going to enrich myself at Admirals Cove and gain more experience in hospitality industry.
Nolwandle Ngwenya (2014) – Gleneagles Country Club
I would just like to thank the Workaway International team for giving me an opportunity to experience working abroad with an awesome country club named Gleneagles in Delray and enjoying USA, Florida. My experience was extraordinary. I managed to work hard and competently from the beginning of the season till the very last day. I have learnt a lot and I certainly have grown as a person. Gaining international experience is a good asset for my resume back here in South Africa. I am glad I took the opportunity and will definitely be part this experience again.
“My experience was extraordinary!”
Miranda Piet (2014) – Mariner Sands Country Club
“I had an amazing time. Thank you so much.”
Natricia Heenen (2012) – Boca West Country Club
I had a really good experience with Workaway. I’d just like to thank everyone that made it possible and gave me an opportunity like this I worked at Boca West country club my time there was phenomenal…. I made lots of overtime I had great managers etc. The friends I met have opened doors for me and the lessons I have learned I will never forget. Experience of a life time! I’ll go on to recommend this to all young people in the future…THE MOST IMPORTANT THING I want to share with you is that I have reached my goal in life I’m 22 years old and with the money I saved in Florida I came back and bought my house. Not cash however I put R100 000 down… I’m now studying at the International Hotel School and I feel a lot more advanced than most students because of what I learned at Boca West country club.
Charlene Persence (2012) – Boca West Country Club
“Whether you go on the program once or twice, it’s the best thing you can do. Put in some hard work, show respect and a ton of great attitude – you’ll be hooked! The friends that are made become family. It’s the best you can do to have your dreams fulfilled. Workaway rocks!”
Sarah Randles (2012) – Boca West Country Club
I’d like to thank Charlotte and the team for everything they’ve done with this programme. I’ve just finished up my last day of work at Boca West Country Club, and what an amazing 6 months it has been. I’m flying back to SA on Wednesday, very excited to see all my friends and family.
To everyone that’s applying to work in Florida you’re going to have the time of your life! It’s hard work, and there are times you will miss home (especially Xmas time) BUT America is amazing! There is so much to do and see. Every day was a new adventure! You make a ton of new friends who become your family, and the working environment I had was amazing. I am so blessed to have been a part of such an awesome programme as Workaway, thank you so much!!
“Every day was a new adventure!”
Sunel Bodenstein (2011) – Mirasol Country Club
Workaway gave me the opportunity to see and experience the US and that’s where I realised what my dream was and now I’m busy recording my upcoming Pop/Rock album! Such an amazing journey!
Dorothy Du Plessis (2011) – Parent of participant at Boca West Country Club
My husband and I are currently in America with Elania! We came to visit her. At the moment we are in a hotel for the night, on our way to Chicago. Just wanted to thank Workaway again for the opportunity that you have given our children. They have experienced so much! Not only have they learnt a lot about themselves but have also experienced and developed in terms of relationships, work ethic etc. THANK YOU!
Busie Isabel Makhanya (2011) – Boca West Country Club
The experience thus far is just amazing! I stay with great people, I work with a wonderful team, the work environment is so great and different…the party was a blast! I had a great time everything was well organized! The transportation is just great… Life here is awesome so far, it has exceeded my expectations! Thank you it’s an experience of a lifetime! It’s awesome!
Chandre Steenkamp (2011) – Boca West Country Club
“I just truly want to thank you for the most amazing experience of my life! You gave me the opportunity to work and travel in the most beautiful state-Florida!!! I had the time of my life!! You also made all my dreams come true! I have very exciting news! During my 6 months at Boca West, I fell in love with a South African who worked in golf- Eduan Van Der Merwe! We got engaged and we are getting married in South Africa next year. Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity!!! You are the most amazing company I have ever worked with!!! Best of luck with all your new applicants!!!”
“I had the time of my life!!
You also made all my dreams come true!”
Michelle Lowe (2011) – Boca West Country Club
“I have been home just over a month now and I just wanted to say a huge thanks for everything you do for everyone, my experience was amazing and if it wasn’t for your help I would never have had it. I made amazing friends and learnt so much.”
Wendy Hutton (2011) – Mirasol Country Club
“I come from a very big and close family and was very nervous about stepping out alone from my comfort zone (and into another country). Workaway was my safety net in South Africa and in the USA. They as well as all the friends I made on the program are now an extension of my own family!”
Russell Van Wyk (2010) – Mariner Sands Country Club
“Just want to extend my gratitude and thanks to you and your team for the hard work you put into getting me to the USA. I really loved where I worked and can’t wait to start at Windsor Country Club next season. Everyone did an amazing job in taking care of us while we are there and I’m recommending Workaway to everyone.”
Illze Lubbe (daughter Liandi) (2010) – Sailfish Point Country Club
“Just want to thank you for the opportunity Workaway gave my daughter Liandi Lubbe to do her practical training in the USA! She came back more mature but is still my sparkling, bubbly little miss sunshine! The way you treat the participants is something to remember.”
Bevan Arendse (2010) – Addison Reserve Country Club
“I want to extend my thanks and appreciation for all your time, effort and care. During my injury you were a great help. Thank you for being there as a mother, friend and as my agency representative”.
Mogamat Abrahams (2010) – Sailfish Point Country Club
“Last two days in Florida and I am sad because I love this place and the people so much. Thank you kindly for this opportunity, it was the best time I ever had in my life.”
Doug Henderson (2009) – Boca Grove Country Club
Doug Henderson here, just saying hi, I went on your program with Workaway in 2009 October and I just got back on the 5 October 2011. I started at Boca Grove (Florida), then the Sagamore (New York), Pelican Bay (Naples), the Sagamore (New York), Keywest (Florida) and then lastly back to the Sagamore.
Americans love South Africans, I have had the time of my life there, and am wanting to go back and work and travel some more.
This message was to thank you for all your help in the initial step of getting me to the States with no problems!!
Astrid Jacobs (2009) – Hunters Run Country Club
“Thanks for all you do, I had a great time!”
Zita Hearne (2009) – Sailfish Point Country Club
“Thank you for everything. I had a sensational season at Sailfish Point, was a perfect fit for me. Doug, Jacob and Adam were great, I learnt a lot from them. I am so excited because I leave for New Jersey on the 12 May going to Baltusrol Golf Club, so keen to see what lies ahead. Hope to come back to Sailfish Point next season; I met so many incredible people, thank you, thank you”.
Inge Zinkfontein (2009) – Palm Beach Country Club
“I would just like to take the opportunity to thank you and your team for giving me the opportunity to go to the USA. It was an unforgettable experience that can never be taken away from me. I really had a wonderful season at Palm Beach Country Club and met a lot of wonderful people which I am so certain will remain lifelong friends. Thank you for all the hard work you and the rest of the Workaway team has done to make all our South Africans experiences in America unforgettable. I will be sure to spread the word to my peers in South Africa about your amazing agency.”
Joseph Noma (2009) – Addison Reserve Country Club
“A warm and wonderful greetings to you all from New York! I do hope that this email finds you well! Well, another fun winter season has come and gone, it’s amazing how time flies when you working hard, hahah, just kidding, the past winter like any other was fun and filled with a lot of new experiences once again. I just want to take a second to thank you all for the wonderful effort each one of you put in making every season an amazing experience for all from immigration paperwork to accommodation arrangements in Florida to the fun field day tours that you organize. My sincere gratitude to those working behind the scenes, ensuring that we get our paychecks on time, helping us with the internet connections and so on. The season almost didn’t end very well for me due to an injury at work, a big thank you for being by my bedside and ensuring that I got all the necessary medical assistance and getting me home when I got discharged from hospital. Thank you for driving me to and from the doctor visits, really appreciate it! Thank you very much for always being polite to us over the phone and giving us the best possible answers every time we inquire about various HR related questions. I was really touched by the quick response and the assistance with my back injuries. Once again, my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you wonderful people.”
Michelle Ganas (2008) – St. Andrews Country Club
“I thank Workaway for helping me build a dream and for as long as I possibly can I will always be part of Workaway International. I always recommend my friends to join in on this family of fun.”
“I always recommend my friends to join in on this family of fun.”
Eduan Van Der Merwe (2008) – Wade Hampton Golf Club
“Away from the big city, away from the lights. In the middle of the mountains lies the jewel of North Carolina. It will take your breath away every time you arrive at Wade Hampton. The members and staff are your family and you never want to leave. The wildlife and nature is like no other you have experienced before. Work hard and be rewarded with a dream come true and an opportunity that you will remember forever!”
Kim Rutgers (2008) – St. Andrews Country Club
“Workaway has given me the platform to fulfill my travelling dreams and enrich my resume with international skills and qualifications! The friendships I have made have been amazing!!! Thanks Workaway!”
“The friendships I have made
have been amazing!!!”
Natasha Venter (2008) – Boca West Country Club
“Being part of the 2008/2009 program of Workaway was truly a life changing experience. Professionally it taught me that if I put my mind to something, I can achieve anything. Coming from an accounting background I thought I would struggle. The program also gave me a lot of confidence professionally. Personally my (now) husband proposed to me at Universal Studios and we got married 11 months later. Thank you for the wonderful program.”
Lee-Roy Staunton and Johan Prins (2008) – Boca Rio Golf Club
“Lee-Roy and myself just want to thank you for this opportunity. So far this has been a great experience. Day by day it keeps getting better. We want to specially thank you and the company for being so well organised in the manner that we had a place to stay “a beautiful apartment,” good pay, fun times and the chance for us to grow as a person.”
Rowan Munro (2008) – Sailfish Point Country Club
“I have only one season’s experience behind me but all the experience and opportunities that I have had are priceless and I would really like to share them with new participants who are looking for the same opportunities that I have had the fortunate pleasure of experiencing. I could see myself representing the awesome Country Club that I work for and sharing their quality of management and work ethic that they promote to new participants.”
Jabulile Mtambo Fazakas (2007) – Hunters Run Country Club
Thank you for my birthday wish. Not only have you made my day, you have also rewritten my entire future. I’ve got a lot to thank you for, never met you in person but you have made a lot of difference in my life, through the Workaway program. The staff at Workaway both in South Africa and in the USA are amazing people. I got to see the world, met and made friends all over, met my husband and we are expecting our first child. Extremely grateful to you all!
Paul Van Staden (2007) – Boca West Country Club
“I would like to thank you and everyone involved in making this experience possible. I had probably the best 6 months of my life. I met some awesome people, made great friends and had a great time working at Boca West Country Club. My managers were better than I could have hoped for and we were assisted any and every time we needed it.”
“I met some awesome people!”
Shaun Gillespie (2005) – Woodfield Country Club
Just came across Workaway’s website today and wanted to thank Workaway for getting me to where I am today. Well it has been 6 years since I last worked for you guys. I worked at Woodfield Country Club back in 2005 and 2006 season and then The Landings Club in Savannah in 2006, where I met my wife. We have been married for 3 years and I have my permanent green card, amazing how time flies and things change. I am the restaurant manager at a private resident club called Grand Lake Lodge and Spa in Savannah.
Just wanted to thank you and say how much I appreciate everything you guys did to help me take the first steps to getting to the States and helping me move in the right direction.
Eion Snell (2005) – Boca West Country Club
“Thanks Workaway for everything, I had the best 3 years in Florida and New York, you guys do a great job.”
Julien Fielden (2004) – Glen Oaks Club
“If it wasn’t for Workaway I don’t know where I would be right now. Going to the States changed my life.”
“Going to the States changed my life.”
Kathleen O’Farrell (2004) – Boca West Country Club
“I would just like to say going to the States was the best thing in my life, it was a great experience.”
“It was a great experience.”
Tyrone Keeves (2001) – Boca West Country Club
I joined Workaway International and Boca West Country Club from 2000 to 2002. One of my best experiences. I got to meet some awesome people along the way.
