On Friday morning (South Africa time), we checked out of Aquila and made our way to Blaauwklippen Winery for one last group meal. Surrounded by stunning scenery, savoring delicious food, and sharing laughter with a group that has truly become an OT family—there was no better way to wrap up this unforgettable journey. It was the perfect moment of calm and connection before boarding our 16-hour flight home!

We landed back in Birmingham around 9 a.m. on Saturday, gaining back 8 hours along the way. Please bear with us as we try to remember what day it is in the coming week!

The vision for UAB OT study abroad reaches far beyond the faces in these photos. It’s part of a dream that began in 2019—a vision to expand global learning opportunities for OT students. As this trip comes to a close, we are deeply grateful to everyone at UAB who made it possible. Special thanks to Dean Butler for championing this journey and encouraging both our students and faculty. Special thank you to Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Dickson-Clayton for the countless hours spent on paperwork, planning, and logistics. And a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Tucker, who helped shape the original vision for this program.

We’d love to leave you with some final reflections from our students on what this experience has meant to them:

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Macy Montgomery: “A trip of a lifetime does not even begin to sum up my experience in South Africa. The connections that we made not only with each other, but the people in South Africa are truly special. I cannot thank UAB OT enough for creating this opportunity for me to learn and grow in my future as an OT.”

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Bethany Graham: “I am so grateful that UAB OT gave me the opportunity to do this! It wouldn’t have been possible without my classmates and professors. Our professors made this a stress free, enjoyable trip. It’s sad to leave! I would encourage anyone who likes traveling, adventures, and new experiences to go on this trip. OT can be anywhere and this trip has increased my confidence in that fact. I will remember things from this trip for the rest of my life and look forward to traveling more places in the future! I am filled with so much joy and gratitude and will forever be thankful for it.”

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Anna Kate Adkins: “This trip has truly been an unbelievable experience! The beauty of South Africa was seen everywhere we went in the landscape, the conversations, and the people. Every person and organization we met welcomed us with incredible generosity and taught me so much about what it means to be in community with one another, and how occupational therapy can fit into that space. This experience has expanded my knowledge of what OT is and what it can be, and it is something I will remember forever. I am so thankful for UAB OT for this opportunity and the amazing group of friends and faculty that made this trip unforgettable!”

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Laura Beth Connell: “I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to travel to South Africa and see this breathtaking country!  All that I learned, everything I saw and experienced, and the connections we formed along the way will all impact me in my future career and relationships. Thank you, UAB OT, for providing this unique and enlightening opportunity to expand my worldview and discover what OT means to me! I have made memories that will last a lifetime!”

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Mattie White: “This trip and this group of people have truly been the best! I’m grateful for UAB OT wanting to partner with others and allowing students to go and experience what OT looks like in other parts of the world. I’m also grateful for the professors and my classmates that were all so passionate about this experience so that it could happen!”

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Emily Gray: “Thank you so much, UAB OT, for providing me with the opportunity to experience the beauty of South Africa! The people we met and the things we learned from experiences visiting places like Athlone School for the Blind, Cipla, and GAPA have expanded my view of what is possible in occupational therapy.”

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Madeline Fleming: “Thank you, UAB OT, for this beautiful and transformative experience! I will be forever grateful for this time spent with my fellow friends and faculty. South Africa is a place that I will never forget because of the beauty in not only the landscape, but the people and their culture and their welcoming generosity.”

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Bentley Winsett: “Thank you, UAB OT, for making this trip possible! We had the opportunity to see and experience so many things that I never thought were possible. I am so grateful for all of the people that we met throughout the trip that made South Africa a place that I will remember forever. The people there are so kind and welcoming, and I hope to have those qualities when I am interacting with my future patients. This trip allowed me to see occupational therapy in a new way—one that can change the world.”

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Lauren Cole: “Thank you so much to UAB OT for allowing me to experience this trip of a lifetime. This trip truly opened my eyes to the opportunity OT has to offer and I am so excited to take what I have learned into my Level IIB fieldwork. I am truly thankful for my family for always supporting me, encouraging me, and loving me. I would not be where I am without them.”

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Allie Claire Meeks: “Thank you so much, UAB OT, for providing me with this opportunity to experience the beauty of South Africa. This trip has further broadened my view of the profession of occupational therapy and the many ways we can work to empower society on individual, group, and community level. I will always hold with me the impact CIPLA, Athlone, and GAPA have made in the many lives of those living in South Africa. This trip is one I will look back on often, and I am grateful for this experience.” Education of the mind is fleeting, but education of the heart is here to stay. – A grandmother at GAPA

Today we said goodbye to the breathtaking view of Table Mountain from the Waterfront.

But as always, South Africa didn’t disappoint for long! We took a scenic 2-hour drive through the Winelands, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and sprawling vineyards.

Our destination was Aquila Private Game Reserve. After enjoying a welcome toast and delicious buffet lunch, we headed out on our very first safari—and we could barely contain our excitement! We spotted zebra, a male lion, elephants, springbok, hippos, water buffalo, giraffes, and baboons. Surprisingly, the baboons had us more on edge than the lion—those little guys are mischievous!

Tomorrow, we’re heading out on two more safaris, and many of our students plan to unwind at the beautiful on-site spa. Since spa time doesn’t lend itself to many photos (and we know each zebra has unique stripes, but we won’t make you catalog them all!), we might not have a full blog update tomorrow.

Depending on the airport Wi-Fi on Friday, this could be our last post before we return home. But don’t worry—whether mid-flight or once we’re back on U.S. soil, we’ll be sure to share a final post with highlights and reflections from this unforgettable experience!

Today, we had the honor of spending time with the incredible community at Grandmothers Against Poverty and Aids (GAPA), located in the township of Khayelitsha. GAPA is a grassroots organization formed by grandmothers who were left to care for their grandchildren after losing their own children to AIDS-related illnesses—before the availability of antiretroviral treatment. Today, GAPA includes over 600 seniors, including grandfathers, who come together in self-help groups to promote healthy living, community support, and economic sustainability. They also operate an aftercare program that provides daily meals and support for over 100 children. Learn more about GAPA here: https://gapa.org.za/

As we drove into Khayelitsha this morning, we were struck by the vast sea of mostly tin structures stretching out in every direction. We learned that the township was established during Apartheid as a result of the Group Areas Act —and while Apartheid may no longer be the law of the land, its legacy still deeply affects the community. Today, the oppression once enforced by policy continues through poverty.

Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the Grannies with singing and dancing. They invited us to join their Tuesday health club, starting with group exercises outdoors. Many of the Grannies were better at touching their toes than some of us! Afterwards, we gathered inside for connection time, where we deepened our understanding of GAPA’s mission and the people who bring it to life. We danced, sang, shared stories, and ate together. Their hospitality moved us deeply. As one of them said, “We break bread—what little we have, let us break it together.”

Vhuhwavho, the occupational therapist at GAPA, spoke with us about the importance of listening to community leaders. She encouraged us to “learn to unlearn” and demonstrated the power of community-led occupational healing. The Grannies openly shared the joys and struggles they experience in their families and neighborhoods, and how GAPA brings light and support into their lives.

The Grannies also create beautiful, handcrafted items—clothing, jewelry, stuffed animals, and other crafts—that they sell to help sustain their programs. For many children, the meals they receive at GAPA may be the only food they get that day. The revenue from craft sales helps provide food for both the children and the Grannies’ families. After-school care is offered for just $1 a month—made possible by the income from these handmade goods.

In the afternoon, around 100 children arrive at GAPA for after-school care while their parents work. Today, our students supported the GAPA staff in caring for the children. Though we won’t be sharing photos of the children’s faces online for privacy reasons, we can say with certainty that their energy and joy left a lasting impression on all of us.

We were also joined today by world-renowned occupational therapist Dr. Frank Kronenberg, who spent the day with us and later led our students in thoughtful reflection on the experience.

Words can’t fully capture what today meant. Our minds and hearts were expanded in ways that are hard to describe. Every moment of shared occupations like dance, song, meals, play, and movement was a lesson in the power of community. In these profound moments, connection and wisdom flowed from the Grannies to us. What we can say is this: we grew in our understanding of the power of shared occupation and the healing that is possible when a community lives by the mantra of GAPA that, “Together, we are stronger.”  

Occupational therapy practice centers communities and individuals as the experts of their own lived experiences. At UAB, our OT program is deeply committed to community-engaged service learning that is led by the priorities and voices of the communities themselves.

What does this look like in our study abroad program? It means our faculty prioritize long-term relationship-building with occupational therapy practitioners and community leaders who are deeply involved in local initiatives. In South Africa, our community partners guide us in how we can be most helpful—identifying meaningful, sustainable ways we can support their ongoing work.

Today, our service-learning activity took place at Athlone School for the Blind. Occupational Therapist Vania Benjamin shared that functional vision screenings, with recommendations to enhance participation for learners with both visual impairments and intellectual disabilities, would be of particular value. In response, our students conducted screenings and presented their findings and recommendations to school leadership, hostel caregivers, and teaching staff.

In addition, the Athlone team generously offered presentations and a tour to deepen our students’ understanding of the school’s work, as well as the broader roles of professionals supporting individuals with vision impairment and/or intellectual disability across the district.

We were honored to spend the day with the exceptional educators, staff, and healthcare professionals at Athlone School for the Blind. We extend our sincere thanks to Vania Benjamin for her warm welcome and for organizing such a meaningful experience for our students.

Today, we took a ferry to Robben Island, a place deeply tied to South Africa’s history and struggle for freedom. Our visit began with a bus tour of the island, including the building where Robert Sobukwe was imprisoned for six years following the passage of the “Sobukwe Clause.” We also visited the limestone quarry where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners endured grueling labor. 

In the quarry, our guide pointed out a small cave that carried extraordinary historical significance. Often referred to as the “first democratic parliament,” this cave served as a rare refuge where prisoners could speak freely. This is because the cave was used as a restroom and therefore the smell kept the guards away.  We learned today that some of the ideas exchanged in that cave influenced the creation of South Africa’s Constitution, adopted in 1996.

We then toured the main prison where political prisoners who opposed the apartheid regime were held. This part of the visit was particularly moving because our guide, Derick Basson, shared his personal story as a former political prisoner on Robben Island. Derick was only 18 when he was brought to Robben Island.  He recounted the harsh realities of prison life. His stories left us devastated as well as inspired. He plans to write a book about his experiences, so be on the lookout for future author Derick Basson. 

Derick led us through the prison yard where Mandela secretly hid parts of his autobiography, The Long Walk to Freedom. He showed us Mandela’s cell in Building B. At the end of the tour, we walked the same path that prisoners took when they were finally freed. This pathway holds profound symbolic significance as it’s the same road Nelson Mandela walked on February 11, 1990, when he gained his freedom—a moment that shaped history. Walking that path today, 35 years later, was deeply humbling.

It’s impossible to capture the full range of emotions and reflections that a visit to Robben Island evokes. Each person’s experience is uniquely shaped by their own story and perspective. Rather than asking our students to respond in a specific way, we created space for them to share their feelings openly. At the end of the day, they each offered a single word that encapsulated their emotions, which we captured in a word cloud in the image below. The picture in the image was taken as we looked back at the prison from the walkway exit.

This evening, we gathered for a workshop-style meeting to finalize plans for tomorrow’s service-learning day at Athlone. We’re looking forward to sharing more about that experience in tomorrow’s post.

Today we experienced nature, art, and the power of occupation. 

TABLE MOUNTAIN

We felt like we were on top of the world—literally—after riding a rotating gondola 3,563 feet up to the summit of Table Mountain. The gondola slowly spins as you and 65 of your newest best friends stand shoulder-to-shoulder, soaring skyward. Let’s just say… not everyone in our group found the experience as magical as they’d hoped. But once we stepped onto solid ground and were greeted with a view that defies description, it was totally worth it.

True to its name, Table Mountain has a flat top, which makes it perfect for hiking. We walked along trails that offer panoramic views that looked like something out of a dream. After our hike, we took a moment to quietly soak it all in before heading back down to earth—both literally and emotionally.

And yes, we will be showing everyone our pictures from the top and saying, “The pictures just don’t do it justice!” We’re sorry. But also… they really don’t.

As one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Table Mountain more than lived up to the hype. It was truly wonderful!

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District Six Museum

Next, we visited the District Six Museum—a powerful and emotional stop on our journey. District Six was once a thriving neighborhood in Cape Town until it was declared a “whites only” area on February 11, 1966, under the Group Areas Act, a policy that required people to live in designated areas based on racial classification. This led to the forced removal of around 60,000 residents, tearing families and communities apart.

Today, the museum stands as both a tribute to what was lost and a celebration of the resilience, culture, and spirit that lives on. One of the themes that struck us during our visit was how essential occupation—the meaningful activities people engage in every day—is to the life, strength, and recovery of a community.

Occupation helps communities thrive

Our guide, Kevin, walked us through a recreated home from the old District Six. He shared that while many families didn’t have much in terms of material wealth, they had the freedom to live fully—cooking, cleaning, raising families, running businesses, and contributing to a lively neighborhood. That freedom to participate in daily life gave people dignity and purpose.

Occupation fosters resilience

One exhibit honored the musicians and dancers of District Six, especially the Langarm Pioneers—local legends who kept spirits alive through music and dance. Kevin told us that during these difficult times, what kept people going was gathering to play music. This spoke to us about the power of dance, art, and music—the occupations of the soul which help us thrive in difficult times. 

Occupation supports healing

We also learned about the Memory Clay Workshops, a long-running initiative started in 1999 as part of a community healing process. These workshops were created in partnership with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and facilitated by the Interfaith Center for Ubuntu. Participants came together to share stories of loss, forced removals, and resilience, then shaped those experiences into clay objects—each one a symbol of memory, grief, or hope.

A sign in the exhibit read: “The healing process was one of remembering: of exploring those memories in a group and of the sharing of the pain and perceptions of the narrators. The process culminated in the making of clay objects that interpreted some aspect of experience related to this history, expressed feelings, or aimed to create little symbols of meaning. After one of the workshops a participant said, “We can speak even through clay.”   

“We can speak even through clay”

– Memory clay workshop participant

 

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BO-KAAP DISTRICT

We finished our day in the Bo-Kaap district, an area of Cape Town where colorful houses line the neighborhood streets. This thriving neighborhood is filled with art museums and artisans sharing their crafts.  

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Sunset View

Some of our students enjoyed another highlight today as they rode the Ferris wheel at sunset. OT school is intense, but occupational balance matters—and a sunset Ferris wheel ride is a perfect example of that!

Each day on this journey continues to offer new opportunities for learning, connection, and meaningful experiences.

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Today, we were honored to be invited by David Grier of Cipla to witness firsthand the impactful work they are doing in South African communities. Read more about David Grier here: https://davidgrier.co.za/

Our day began in Mfuleni Township, where—despite the week being a national holiday—community members generously opened their doors and shared their time with us. The hospitality was humbling. We toured local clinics and pharmacies embedded in the township and heard from the dedicated professionals working there, including a nurse practitioner, a pharmacy owner, and an optometrist. Each shared their role in improving healthcare access and quality for the local population, illustrating how their work is woven into the fabric of the community.

We loved this quote in the optometrist’s office which says, “The eye is the lamp of the body. So if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light”. If you look closely you can see our vision expert faculty, Dr. Barstow and Dr. Vice, taking this picture!

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From there, we traveled to the rural family farm where David grew up—now home to a Cipla-supported clinic and community resource center. This was in the region of Stellenbosch. To our delight, we discovered the farm is also a vineyard, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Behind the orchard rows, a vibrant clinic offers dental and nursing care, a community room for educational programming, and a safe space for children to play. Programs like sex education and parenting classes are also held here, reinforcing a holistic approach to health and well-being.

After touring the clinic, we were treated to a walk through the winery Villiera, where we learned about the wine-making process. One wine, named dakwijn—meaning “roof rain”—is made from grapes dried on the rooftop and holds a special place in the heart of the vineyard’s story. Impressively, the winery operates primarily on solar energy, reflecting Villiera’s commitment not only to people but also to the environment. 

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Just when we thought the day couldn’t hold more, David surprised us with a final stop: a game reserve. Surrounded by freely roaming springbok, giraffes, and zebras, we walked together, took in the landscape, and allowed ourselves a moment to reflect. The beauty of the land, the generosity of the people, and the intentionality of the work we witnessed moved many of us to tears.

While walking the game reserve, a student found a cervical vertebrae. So of course, an impromptu anatomy lesson was taught by Dr. Vice. The students may have thought they didn’t have Dr. Vice’s class today but you can’t escape science!

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On the ride back, we debriefed as a group—processing what we had seen and discussing how these experiences connect to the field of occupational therapy. The students offered thoughtful reflections on how OT could complement and expand the community health work being done in Mfuleni and Stellenbosch. One takeaway we hope will resonate with them long after this trip: challenges become opportunities when met with creativity, collaboration, science, and a deep investment in community.

Today, we shared a wonderful day together enjoying the beauty of the land of South Africa. 

Our day began with a scenic drive along the Atlantic Seaboard and onto Chapman’s Peak. 

We then explored the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where we stood along the most Southwestern point of the continent of Africa. 

At Cape Point, we rode a funicular then climbed 122 steps to a lighthouse with perhaps the most beautiful view we’ve ever seen!  

We ended our day at Boulder’s Beach to see the African penguin colony there. This was a highlight for many of us today!

Kevin is the kind of tour guide who makes you wonder how you ever traveled without him. Long lines? No problem. Need the best spot for dinner? He’s already made the recommendation. Deep questions about history or something silly you just thought of? He’s got thoughtful answers and a good laugh ready. Kevin doesn’t just show you the sights; he connects you to the soul of the place. We’re lucky to have had him leading the way.

South Africa’s weather really kept us on our toes today. Every time we boarded the bus, the rain came down like clockwork. But as soon as we stepped off, the skies would clear up just in time for us to explore. By the time we reached Boulder Beach, we got a rainbow as a parting gift, right over the penguins. We were basically on a magical weather tour, with a side of penguins. 

Animals everywhere! While the grand finale of our trip will be a safari in search of the “Big 5” (Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard, and Buffalo), today brought its own wildlife encounters. Highlights included some incredible creatures—and one whale-shaped rock that we’re absolutely counting as half-credit. 😅

Some of our students are proving to be quite the photographers! That’s perfect timing, as many of them will soon embark on their own capstone adventures using photovoice. Until then, enjoy these snapshots of our students blending the art of photography with the thrill of exploration!

Our adventure continued with another wonderful day!

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Exploring the V&A Waterfront

We started out our day with a tour of the V&A Waterfront, which is nestled along the oldest working harbor in the Southern Hemisphere. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful morning to explore!

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Visiting Cipla

We were incredibly honored to be welcomed back to Cipla. We left our visit inspired by the vision of medicine and healthcare access and community practice that truly cares for life. During our visit with the team at Cipla, we were invited into a deeper conversation about what it really means to walk alongside communities. 

They reminded us that partnership isn’t a buzzword, it’s a commitment. It starts with listening—truly listening—and recognizing that communities are the experts on their own needs. It means staying humble enough to keep learning, and brave enough to change course when we get it wrong.

One statement that will stay with us was: “Communities are littered with broken promises and photo opportunities. If you put your hand out, be prepared to hold the hand on the other side.” It was a clear challenge—not to show up for the optics, but to stay for the relationship.

This visit was a reminder that impact doesn’t come from a single moment. It comes from showing up, over and over again, with a willingness to listen, to learn, and to stay.

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GOLD Restaurant

We concluded our evening with a fun group dinner at GOLD restaurant. GOLD restaurant is an immersive African experience that provides a “14 dish food safari with unique live entertainment, storytelling, singing, and dancing.” We loved this evening, which celebrated African culture curated by the Pan African Team at GOLD! We may or may not be taking home any prizes for drumming skills but we had a wonderful time! 

Our group arrived safely in Cape Town and kicked off our adventure with a beautiful dinner at our hotel along the V&A Waterfront.  We are now on to some much needed rest before truly beginning our adventures tomorrow! 

And.. Our first Malva pudding of the trip!

Malva pudding is a classic South African dessert, a rich, moist sponge made with apricot jam, soaked in a buttery cream sauce, and served warm with custard or ice cream. Here’s one recipe to try.