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Daniel from South Africa
2009 IAPA Au Pair of the Year Finalist

Daniel, an Au Pair from South Africa was recognized as one of the 6 international finalists for the Au Pair of the Year Award in 2009. Daniel was nominated by his Host Family who said that he "exemplifies the qualities of an excellent Au Pair!" Daniel arrived in the U.S. in March of 2008, and began providing care for two boys, aged 12 and 2. In December 2008, the youngest child was diagnosed with a developmental delay in speech, and Daniel began working with him each day to help develop and improve his language skills. In addition to his duties as an Au Pair, Daniel volunteers at a local community group for at risk youth. "There will never be enough words to describe my time and experience here in the United States! I have to constantly remind myself that this is not a dream, but that I’m actually part of an American family and living in America."

Essay Written by 2009 Au Pair of the Year Finalist, Daniel

"There will never be enough words to describe my time and experience here in the United States! I have to constantly remind myself that this is not a dream, but that I'm actually part of an American family and living in America. Don't get me wrong, it is hard to live so far away from my family and give up the life I've always known. However, through the ongoing support from my family and the loving care from my host family, it has made it so much easier for me to participate in this extraordinary program. I love it so much that I have extended for another year.

Coming to the States has been more than a dream come true. I have learned more this past year than ever before about the American culture, sports, and, of course, American politics. But what I value most about my experience is the relationships I have with Dylan (the boy I take care of), my host family and my friends. My Dad always told me how awesome the American people are and he was right.

Dylan was diagnosed with a developmental delay in speech in November last year and more hard work and dedication was needed to help him. Through that, Dylan has taught me that if I never give up on him, he will never give up on me! I constantly work with Dylan to improve his speech and can see him improving every day. I am so proud of him! Taking care of Dylan and seeing him grow up has taught me so much patience and understanding. I love the Scott family like my own. From day one, they treated me like I was part of the family and will always be thankful for this great opportunity they have given me.

One of my goals in coming to the States was to experience as much as possible. I met some people who run a place called Jesus Field. It’s a youth center where the gospel of Jesus is given to at-risk youth. I volunteer by mentoring and interacting with the kids. At first, I was finding it very hard to relate with them and had no idea where to begin building relationships. Then, I realized the only thing I can give them is my love and support and show them that I care about them. That was definitely the key and today I love spending every minute with them.

I’m also involved with a non-denominational Christian church called Elevation, where I attend house church, Bible studies and Sunday gatherings. I am a volunteer in the nursery and love playing with the kids. Lots of people tell me that I am a kid magnet. The people I have met there are unbelievable. They are the greatest friends I have ever had. They are constantly showing me the American way of life. I try to show them some South African things too like taking them to a professional rugby game in Salt Lake City. I got them hooked on rugby!

Over the past year, I attended classes at the University of Utah which was a lot of fun. I got to know some of the members on the University of Utah rugby team. What an awesome experience!

This has truly been the greatest and most enjoyable experience of my life. I wouldn’t trade this American Dream for anything in the world. This program has taught me so much about myself and I definitely see life from a different perspective. I would recommend is program to any young person, because it has a lot to offer and has positively changed my life.

I am honored to be a finalist for the International Au Pair of the Year. I would like to thank God for giving me this awesome opportunity and for giving me my daily strength. I would also like to thank everyone that made this possible for me. They know who they are and I will never forget you!"


Written by: Daniel, South Africa

Read the Nomination Essay written by Daniel’s Host Family

View More Pictures from Daniel’s surprise party