Meet Kelly
South African born and Australian raised.
I started my career in law and urban planning, and by the time I was in my early twenties, I was burnt out. I felt such an intense urge to search for my ikigai – my ‘reason for being’ – that I decided to take a break from my studies in Western Australia and move to South Korea.
I now work as a cultural ambassador/language assistant teacher, and in my free time travel and document my experiences along the way.
I also catalogue my adventures on Instagram at @kelly.today.
Frequently Asked Questions
P E R S O N A L
Where are you from?
I was born in South Africa and moved to Australia early on in my childhood. I spent most of my life growing up in sunny Western Australia. Although I find myself constantly travelling, I still call Perth home.
What languages can you speak?
Only English! I love learning new languages though! I’m learning Korean at the moment.
Any favourite hobbies?
Reading, painting and photography! I have a bad habit of buying too many books when I have a huge pile of books sitting at home to be read. I also love painting landscapes with acrylic paints!
T R A V E L
Where have you travelled?
Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines, Paris, London and South Africa.
What is your favourite international travel destination?
At the moment it’s Japan! I visited twice in 2019 in the summer and winter. There’s so much to explore and experience in Japan. I can’t explain the feeling, but it has me going back time and time again.
What is your favourite Australian travel destination?
As a West Australian, I have a soft spot for Exmouth and the Margaret River Region in the South West. It’s a great place with beautiful landscapes, fresh produce, wineries, surf breaks and world-class beaches.
What is on your travel bucket list?
Everywhere! I’ve been dreaming of travelling to Switzerland, Iceland, New Zealand and the USA for a long time now, but that’s only just a few. I would also love to explore more of my own country Australia, particularly Tasmania, the Blue Mountains, North West WA and the list goes on!
T E C H
What camera gear do you use?
I use a combination of camera gear! I use my Samsung S20FE, GoPro HERO5 Black, and my Sony A6400.
How do you edit your photos and videos?
My favourite program to edit photos is using Adobe Lightroom on my MacBook Air and iPad. I use my own presets to edit all my images.
Any recommended apps to edit photos and videos?
VSCO, Afterlight, and Lightroom are easy apps to use.
C A R E E R
What did you study at University?
I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Law and Society / Human Geography and Planning) from the University of Western Australia.
Would you go back and further your education?
Never say never! I did work on completing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning in 2021. However, I decided to defer my studies and work abroad for the time being.
What is your full-time job?
I’m currently a full-time EFL teacher in South Korea. I teach kindergarten and elementary students and love it!
Why did you decide to pursue teaching abroad?
I heard great things about teaching abroad from both friends and family. This got me envious and led me to look into teaching abroad. It’s a great way to get some international work experience, earn some pocket money and travel in your free time.
T E A C H I N G A B R O A D
How did you qualify to teach abroad?
I took an online Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course.
Some countries don’t require a TEFL certificate however I wanted to get the certificate so I could be better prepared when I teach. A TEFL certificate is also a useful ticket to teach basically anywhere abroad.
Which TEFL course did you take?
I took the 11-week online TEFL course with International TEFL Academy. If you’re interested have a look at my referral link to find out more about the course.
Any advice for those thinking of teaching abroad?
I think if you’re interested you should definitely consider it! I would first research and see if teaching is a suitable fit for you first. It’s a huge decision! It’s courageous, scary, and exciting. It means sacrifices, change and uncomfortable situations. But I can assure you, it’s worth it.
Why did you choose South Korea?
After researching and talking with some friends South Korea felt like the best fit for me personally. This included the benefits of the work culture and lifestyle. Have a look here for a full breakdown on why I choose to teach in Korea.
For any general and collaboration enquiries please contact me at kelly.foo888@gmail.com.
Kelly Today 