Profile information
Travel information
I am currently
Travelling
My next destination:
Thailand - from Jun 2025 until Jul 2025 View allDescription
My name is Shawn!
In May of 2022, I graduated with my MS degree in Global Tourism & Sustainable Economic Development. After years of studying hospitality and tourism, I decided to leave my home, career and hobbies to backpack through Central America. During this time, I was exposed to adventure tourism while connecting these experiences to what I learned in school. How can nature benefit from tourism? This is my ongoing investigation.
Leaving Central America, I came directly to New Mexico to enroll in the New Mexico River Adventures guide school to become a River Rafting Guide. There, I was able to operate under the pillars of sustainability– economic viability, environmental protection and social equity. This position took extreme emotional stability, assertiveness and self-confidence. Together with my guests, we discovered that outdoor adventure is one of the greatest paths to knowledge and happiness.
Following my intuition to come to Hong Kong, I’ve been able to study, research and explore the harmony between human and nature. From my perspective, this elemental and social balance starts with education and cultural conservation. Hong Kong has maintained an identity that is so deeply rooted in nature. As a member of the Friends of Community Parks Hiking Club, I recognize the efforts to restore, conserve and sustainably manage biodiversity.
Working with young students as an English teacher in Hong Kong over the last year, has brought forth renewed insight. To see their unfiltered view of the world, their uninhibited joy, has reminded me of the power that lies within faith and trust. It has allowed me to find my childlike self and open my heart to this playful spirit. Children teach us, as much as we teach them.
The most fulfilling part of this adventure has been getting to know myself at a deeper level, connecting with nature and allowing the language of the universe to guide me. I am creating my own personal legend, getting comfortable with being uncomfortable and taking healthy risks.
At this stage in my life, I am still in the pursuit of knowledge. Feeling full of positivity and optimism, I want to lead by example and become a positive influence to those I encounter.Interests
Outdoor activitiesNaturePetsSelf developmentSustainabilityWater sportsPlant careMusicMovies & TVLanguagesLGBTQHistoryHikingGardeningFitnessFarmingCultureCyclingDIY & craftsDancingDrawing & paintingEvents & socialCooking & foodCarpentryCampingBooksBeachArt & designAnimalsAdventure sportsLanguages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: IntermediateMore details about my language interests
This workawayer has indicated that they would be interested in sharing their language(s) or learning a new language. You can contact them directly to discuss this.Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn
I'm interested in:
Life at a Farmstay
Eco Projects
Animal Care
Charity Work
House sitting
Some knowledge of:
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Babysitting and creative play
Helping around the house
Able to teach about:
Languages
Art Projects
Teaching
Hospitality/Tourism
More details about your skills
MS Global Tourism & Sustainable Economic Development
BS Hotel & Lodging Management - Adventure, Sport & Nature Tourism
TEFL Certification for Teaching English AbroadAge
33
Some more information
Smoker
Driver's licence
Allergies
Special dietary requirements
Photos
Friends
Feedback
I knew there would be some level of exploration, but was pleasantly surprised by the continuous expeditions.
It was a privilege to be part of a dynamic, adventurous and professional team. Everyday, I had the opportunity to learn about the local culture and lives of the kind people… read more