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Meet the Team
Our team is driven by a shared passion for people, travel, and adventure in incredible locations worldwide.
What sets us apart is our vibrant, supportive culture, fostered by knowledgeable and caring staff who go above and beyond. From start to finish, we’re dedicated to making your journey fulfilling, joyful, and unforgettable.
The Leap stands as an independent, family-owned pioneer in experiential gap year travel. Since our inception in 2002, we've proudly guided thousands of Leapers on transformative overseas volunteering projects across Africa, Asia, and South America, earning accolades along the way.
Milly Whitehead
Milly is the heart and soul of The Leap, shaping every adventure with her passion for transformative travel. As co-founder and all-round driver of the business, she’s the creative force behind our unique experiences, curating gap year programmes, tailor-made adventures, and midlife journeys that challenge, inspire, and leave a lasting impact.
Kerry Coleman
Kerry is the creative powerhouse behind The Leap, making sure our brand stays bold, inspiring, and unmistakably us. As our marketing creative and brand champion, she’s the mastermind behind everything you see—from eye-catching campaigns to the storytelling that brings our adventures to life.
Zoë Howie
Zoë is the glue that keeps everything running smoothly at The Leap. As our Sales & Operations Manager, she wears many hats - but her absolute favourite? Guiding each Leaper to their perfect adventure and making sure they’re fully prepped before takeoff.
Tanya Lawson
Having worked with us in the past covering for our team when overseas, Tans is now back in the fold joining us part-time. Working alongside Zoë to keep admin in tip -top shape across Gap, U18 and Tailored enabling our Leapers set off on their ventures seamlessly, she is a vital cog in our all-female machine and it's a joy to welcome her back.
Kirsten Richards
Kirsten is our behind-the-scenes content queen and part-time social media intern, bringing The Leap to life one video at a time. A total whizz at editing, she somehow manages to turn raw footage into scroll-stopping magic (we’re still trying to work out how she does it).
Having first joined us as a Leaper herself, Kirsten knows exactly what makes a Leap experience so special, and after falling in love with it, she stuck around as a team leader in Costa Rica. Safe to say, she gets it.
Chris Patterson
Founder of Jakera - our partner in Costa Rica who specializes in connecting us to impactful projects and adventures.
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Brendan & Josi Topp
Brendan and his family will be looking after all our teams in Colombia and will show you life beyond the tourist trail.
Marta Nali
Coordinator of Experiential Learning, Marta works closely with Samantha to bring the Leap's transformative programmes to life, connecting global participants with Peru's rich cultural landscapes.
Joseph Muturi
Joseph leads all our teams in Kenya, ensuring an authentic experience through his deep community ties and local knowledge.
Des & Tilda Bowden
Des and Tilda are the dynamic duo that founded Oceans Alive and created the marine conservation zone which needs your help.
Kirsten
Originally from the UK/South Africa Kirsten is one of our wonderful leaders. She lives and breathes all things Costa Rica.
Zoe Poullain Patterson
Born and bred in Ireland Zoe now lives full time in Costa Rica and is our head guide. As Chris' niece she is part of the Jakera family from inside out.
Peter Jones
Founder of See Asia Differently, which champions inspiring social enterprises throughout Asia which they weave into all our Leap experiences.
Ra
Ra is our fun-loving, joyful guide who brings Cambodia to life through his warmth, enthusiasm, and extensive local knowledge. As an integral part of the See Asia Differently family, Ra delights in sharing not only the rich history and hidden gems of his homeland but also its vibrant culture and inspiring stories.
Samantha Hickman
Samantha bridges cultures and creates transformative, personalized programmes, connecting Peru with global partners. She designs and manages immersive experiences, facilitates, and ensures meaningful engagement with local communities.
Chris and Janine Angel
Highly experienced safari guides with over 30 years dedicated to creating unforgettable wildlife adventures across Africa. As integral partners of The Leap, Chris leads thrilling safaris through Tsavo, guiding Leap guests on unique journeys that combine wildlife exploration, bush cycling, and conservation insights.
Charlie and Richard Pembroke
This dynamic couple are the visionaries behind the stunning Tekanda Lodge and the inspiring Gamata Athak Women’s Empowerment Centre, creating opportunities for lasting impact in the community.
