Confessions of a Knowmad — A testimonial by Kelly Fung of Tribe 13
I was asked to write a bit about my time at Knowmads. ‘My time at Knowmads’, that sounds like I’ve spent time on the inside and finally got out, but I can assure you it wasn’t like a jail at all. Knowmads is not your typical school. ;)
It’s been one month since my time at Knowmads ended and I can honestly say that I’m happy I joined Knowmads. Do I now know EXACTLY what I want to do with the rest of my life? No, I don’t. I do however, have a clearer view of who I am as a person and the unique talents I have that I would like to share with the world. Knowmads provided lots of workshops, projects and a safe space where I could experiment and try out new things. If you have an idea, they will support you as best as they can to try it out and by doing, taking a risk and failing (or flying!) you learn faster than by just reading a few textbooks. I, for example, now know how to facilitate groups, how to host workshops and how to make a few mean raw food dishes.
The workshops about entrepreneurship and self development were very interesting and helpful but I think I learned most from my tribe members and look back at those 6 months with fond memories; all the fun and precious moments we’ve shared with each other and having a ‘home’ where you are valued for being you and where your voice matters. Where YOU matter. This is something you don’t find often, not in regular schools or work places and that’s a shame.
It wasn’t always rainbows and butterflies, a few workshops for example didn’t really resonate with me but did resonate with other tribe members and sometimes it was challenging being in a group and disagreeing about certain topics. But that’s life. My biggest learning is probably when we were doing a group project and I wanted to step out. When I walked to my bike I decided to go back in and talk to my tribe members about how I felt and what I needed. And another time I expressed how someones behavior was effecting me. The inner and outer conflicts and communicating about them were very challenging but also very rewarding in the end. It brought us closer.
What I would love to see more of at Knowmads is paid group projects and a kick in the butt at times. I had a lot of time and possibilities to work on my project but didn’t do it and I think I would have when there was someone being a bit strict at times.
Everyone’s journey is different and that’s also what I love about Knowmads. It’s not a one size that fits all. Every time a new tribe comes they get to design the curriculum themselves. You don’t NEED Knowmads, but this place is like a pressure cooker where you learn a lot in a short amount of time. I would recommend Knowmads to people who feel called to this place. I believe that everything happens for a reason and it’s no coincidence that you’re reading my story right now.
So, do you find yourself curious if Knowmads is something for you and you feel in your gut that you want to know more about this place? Then don’t hesitate to swing by to take a look and meet some students or contact the staff.
Written by: Kelly Fung, Tribe 13
