Passport to Growth: Embracing the Study Abroad Journey

Jakori Johnson, a rising senior at Delta State University, jumped at the opportunity to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa when the opportunity came up from LeadAbroad’s partnership with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, where study abroad opportunities like this don’t come around often — Jakori was determined to make the most of the experience. From day one, he embraced every moment he could to make it count.

Jakori was a student on our LEAD Cape Town program, and he arrived with one thing in mind: growth. On the topic, he stated, "I didn't just want to go abroad, I wanted to grow abroad." He wanted to make the most of this unique experience and make his family, fraternity, and community proud. During his eye-opening time abroad, his favorite moments were the cultural excursions and the powerful insights they offered. These experiences deepened his understanding of resilience and leadership while helping him connect with the local history and people in meaningful ways.

While many might view vulnerability as a weakness, one of the biggest impacts on Jakori while being abroad was the realization that vulnerability can open doors for solidifying confidence, making connections, and creating lifelong memories. This cleared a path for him to make an impact on those around him - which does not require perfection, just the ability to show up and put heart into it.

While exploring Cape Town, Jakori learned to listen: to people's stories, their culture, and their struggles. Additionally, he experienced the powerful realization that his story could also inspire people. When surrounded by excited children at Bokmakierie's elementary school, he said he finally understood his privilege and vowed to not take things for granted. With effort, he hopes to bring this new understanding of people home with him.

While being at home can box you in with expectations and roles of what you should be doing or who you should be becoming, being abroad can allow for the space needed to see yourself beyond those limitations. While this space opens you up for empowerment, there is something emotional about letting yourself loose. Jakori said, "I could see my own strength more clearly as I started to move with intention and presence."

After experiencing everything Cape Town had to offer, Jakori is finds himself taking more risks without overthinking, being open with others about his story, and intentionally serving others wherever he is. Jakori wants other students to take the leap of faith. He believes that everything you are looking for —the growth, confidence, and clarity — is all sitting just outside your comfort zone.

Are you willing to take your first step into a life altering experience? Join the 2026 Interest List to learn all of the many trips that can provide you with personal growth!

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