Leaders of the Pack

With temperatures soaring over 110 degrees Fahrenheit, we said bslama (goodbye) to our new friends at the Amazigh Center in Imintanoute and set off into the hazy distance for our next adventure. Our stomachs were still full of the handmade bread we had just learned to knead and bake in a traditional Moroccan wood fire oven. After driving for more than an hour through the mostly empty landscape, we arrived at our next adventure, which had been a surprise to all of the students before that day -- 4x4 quad biking through the desert!

We all warily climbed on to our bikes. For most, this was the first time driving such a vehicle, and the students had no idea what was ahead of them for the next few hours! After a briefing and safety instructions, the bikes were quickly started, and we hit the throttle to start off down the path! Each student displayed immense leadership skills, looking out for one another and advising others when a tricky curve or bump was ahead. Everyone made it at the speed they felt comfortable with to a small mountaintop rest area where we enjoyed a hot cup of tea under a traditional desert tent to shield us from the scorching head and wind blowing through the barren landscape. 

The students debriefed each other during the break to explain what was easy and hard for them during the first half. They rearranged themselves for the ride back with the assistance of our guides to make sure that everyone felt safe and comfortable for the return. All of the students completed the journey successfully and looked out for their colleagues. It was evident that this group of leaders could take on any challenging environment!