Molly – 10/10 Solo Travel Experience

When Molly signed up for her first solo travel experience, a volunteering placement in South Africa, she hoped for an experience that would challenge her, help her grow, and allow her to make a meaningful impact. What she didn’t expect was just how deeply the experience with United Through Sport (UTS) would impact her personally or how quickly she would fall in love with Port Elizabeth.

Molly’s Solo Travel Journey in South Africa

“At first it was both exciting and daunting, as it was my first insight to solo travel. I remember feeling nervous when I first arrived, but those feelings quickly faded thanks to the warmth and kindness of the UTS staff, who made me feel instantly welcomed. Looking back, the experience has been truly life-changing.”

At United Through Sport, many volunteers join to experience their first take at solo travel, and our team is committed to supporting them from the moment they arrive. Molly quickly settled in, finding comfort in the welcoming environment and the strong sense of community among volunteers and staff. Solo travel very quickly became more then Molly could have dreamed.

“I chose to volunteer with United Through Sport because I’ve always been passionate about making a positive impact on young people’s lives… The friendships I formed and the lessons I learned will stay with me forever, and I’d do anything to go back.”

Coaching Netball & Supporting Schools

Molly split her placement between netball coaching and school-based teaching support, contributing wherever she was needed most.

“During my time in Port Elizabeth, I mainly coached netball but was always happy to get involved wherever I was needed. I worked with pupils of all different ages across a range of schools. Each morning we started with the Learn to Move programme for the younger students, this focused on developing their gross motor skills and confidence, while making sure we always had fun.”

“A typical day began with an early alarm, breakfast with the other volunteers, and then hopping on the bus to our placement schools. On coaching days, we often visited multiple schools, which made every day different and full of energy…”

The young athletes Molly coached left a mark on her that she’ll never forget.

“The athletes were always so engaged and full of life during our sessions… Watching their faces light up when they mastered a new skill or scored a goal reminded me exactly why I love coaching.”

She brought sports kit from home to donate, something that meant so much for both her and the deserving kids.

“One of the most special moments for me was when I handed over some spare sports kit I’d brought from home… It was a humbling reminder of how powerful sport can be in bringing hope, confidence, and connection.”

She even gifted two of her own team shirts.

“Knowing that a part of my teams back home now lives on in South Africa was incredibly emotional… They gave me gratitude, perspective, and memories that will stay with me forever and I’ll forever be grateful for this.”

A Social Experience That Became a Family

Outside of coaching, Molly found an uplifting, supportive environment among the volunteers, one that made her first solo travel experience even more special.

“Outside of coaching, the social side of the experience was honestly incredible. Everyone got along so well… It felt like such a safe and welcoming environment, where you always knew there was someone to talk to…”

Instantly, she formed friendships that felt like they had been years in the making.

“To say I made lifelong friends in one short trip still amazes me… I connected deeply not just with the other volunteers and coaches, but also with the local staff.”

The social calendar was filled with unforgettable activities: safaris, elephant encounters, group meals, and emotional farewells.

“Every day brought something new and memorable, from the breathtaking elephant sanctuary and safari adventures to the beautiful group meal and farewell evening…”

A Journey of Growth and Confidence

For Molly, the personal transformation was just as significant as the volunteering itself.

“This experience pushed me far outside my comfort zone in ways I never expected… The trip challenged me in so many ways, but every challenge helped me grow.”

Her time in South Africa deepened her understanding of coaching and the power of sport.

“Through coaching, I learned that sport is about so much more than drills or winning games… Seeing their faces light up during sessions showed me the power of sport to build confidence, bring communities together, and create lasting change.”

By the end of the experience, she left with more courage, independence, and clarity than when she arrived.

“If I had to sum up my journey, I’d say it was nothing short of life-changing… It wasn’t just the best experience of my life, it was a chapter that changed who I am forever…”

Molly’s Message to Future Volunteers

“To anyone thinking about volunteering, or nervous to solo travel,  just do it. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back… You’ll come home with memories and friendships that will stay with you forever. The only downside is that I’ll be incredibly jealous that you’re there and I’m not!”

Volunteer Programmes and Internships with United Through Sport South Africa are more than just a placement, they are truly an unforgettable travel experience. For further insight into trips like Jasmine’s, read past volunteer Denise’s Travel Magazine.