The Year of Training students and staff from Koinonia Training Centre in Limpopo Province have arrived in Great Brak for the first two weeks of their year-long programme, which focuses on character and leadership development. The first years, who range in age between 18 and 38 and come from as far afield as Belgium, endured tough physical, mental and spiritual 'exercises' during their first week, whereas their second week focuses on teamwork.
For example, during this time students will learn more than 100 Bible scriptures, read a book, complete various physical exercises, will be divided into teams who have to stay together at all times and will be given a series of activities to complete, all with the aim of encouraging communication and working together as a team.
Their first year is a strategic gap year programme aimed at getting individuals 'fit' for the rest of their course. Until their graduation in December this year, the students will not only study towards their theology degree (SA Theological Seminary), compile and present a professional fashion show and children's activity club, but they will also go on various rural and urban missions and undertake a variety of community projects.
Koinonia Training Centre's head (and ex-George Herald journalist), LeeAnne Pratt, was keen to bring the students, which included students and staff from the Saturation: School of Missions course, to the Garden Route for a second year in a row.
"Last year we all had a fantastic time in George and many of our students could not get over how beautiful the area is. They loved the natural beauty and friendly locals. A favourite memory for many of them was their team challenge in the Garden Route Mall where they had to do a variety of amusing activities - the other shoppers and shopkeepers were really helpful."
Visit www.koinoniatc.co.za or the Koinonia Training Centre Facebook page for more information and photos.
At the end of 'hell week', the Year of Training students received their formal uniforms that they now wear with pride, knowing the tough challenges they went through to earn them.
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