Students from Franschhoek Hospitality Academy (FHA), a primary beneficiary of the Val de Vie Foundation, recently embarked on a memorable hiking adventure through the surrounding mountains. The hike provided a welcome break from their studies while offering an enriching opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s rich natural heritage.

This connection to nature not only heightened the students’ awareness of their surroundings but also linked them back to the tourism industry in which they are training. By experiencing the mountains as tourists would, the students gained valuable insights into how Franschhoek’s natural offerings enhance its tourism appeal. Tourists often seek more than just food and wine, with an exploratory spirit, many visitors are drawn to experiencing South Africa’s true beauty and find their way to hiking trails. Through the experience of this adventure, the students are poised to become ambassadors of Franschhoek, guiding visitors towards sustainable tourism experiences that showcase the full spectrum of what the region has to offer.

The hike concluded with breathtaking views of the valley below, leaving the students with a renewed sense of wonder for the landscape they call home and a deeper understanding of their role in promoting Franschhoek’s rich tourism offerings.

FHA invests in the youth of Franschhoek and creates sustainable opportunities for personal and professional development. Franschhoek Hospitality Academy has received many testimonials, and its programmes have seen beneficiaries awarded scholarships to further their studies and work abroad. In a small town filled with both opportunity and inequality, the Val de Vie Foundation proudly supports FHA in their continued work to transform the lives of many discouraged and hopeless youth, equipping them with the skills for a brighter future.