The Story 

In a country where the remnants of Apartheid still place Black South Africans at the bottom of the economic chain, Patricia, a tour director for EF Tours, uses her education and knowledge of South Africa to give her son an opportunity to break through the socio-political barriers that exist within a deeply divided country. As Patricia gives us an intimate look into her current life and why South Africa has become a beacon of hope, we also learn about her deeply traumatic past. She fled her homeland of Lesotho to escape her kidnapper, who’s also her son’s father, in order to regain freedom. As we watch Patricia balance her career and family, we will also hear her son’s perspective on being a Black South African teenager existing in predominantly white private schools and watching his mother work to provide for his future. We will learn about the benefits and disadvantages of being a minority within a private school education, how he feels about South Africa as a whole, and how he believes his generation can create positive change for his people. After experiencing all the ups and downs with Patrica and her son, the mother and son duo are surprised with a trip of their own - a specially curated EF Tour experience. This would allow Patricia to finally reap the benefits of her labor and tangibly provide her son with an opportunity that most South Africans don’t get to experience for themselves.  Ultimately, this is not just a story of personal ambition, but of generational change, as both Patricia and her son strive to break the cycle of poverty and inequality all through education and travel. Despite the odds stacked against them both, we will see how education, determination, and travel has the power to change lives and ultimately pave the way for a brighter future.

Why is this film important?

As Patricia navigates the responsibilities of her career and motherhood, we delve into the heart of some of the most pressing issues of our time. From the lingering effects of Apartheid to the ongoing struggles for equality and justice for women and Black people around the world, Patricia's story is symbolic of how Black people actively work to dismantle the barriers placed in front of them and build a better tomorrow for themselves and future generations to come. This documentary not only sheds light on the rich history of South Africa as we learn about the country through Patricia’s tours, but it will also prompt crucial conversations about systemic injustice and women’s rights as we witness her everyday struggles. This film will explore themes of hope, resilience, determination, and ultimately showcase how individuals have the power to effect change regardless of their past or any obstacles that they might currently face. As storytellers, it is our goal to not only be able to tell a great story, but to share truths, inspire hope and spark change in the world we live in. I believe this film is important now because Patricia's story is a universal one - it is a story of survival, unconditional love, and strength.  Her drive, her optimism, and her knowledge has the power to reach beyond borders and I truly believe Patrica's story will resonate with audiences around the world.