About the Course
Independent journalists, camera operators, and social media influencers travel the globe to catch a story. More often than not, they are ill-prepared for the endeavor they are on. It always starts with preparation. They haven’t thought through contingencies concerning safety, health, physical readiness, equipment, or legal aspects.
How to Prepare
The world is a wonderful place worth exploring. But it also means we go to places that are completely different from the societies we experience back home. There might be no phone connection, and local flora and fauna can present challenges we haven’t even thought of. Researching local safety issues goes beyond checking Foreign Affairs online. But what does that mean in real life, while you are trying to get your story?
Let’s make one thing clear: we want you to go out there and bring back original stories. However, make sure it is safe and that you are well-prepared. Rick Jens has gone on solo expeditions for his new book, worked in a war zone for a documentary, and conducted cultural research in remote areas. With that experience, you can rest assured you will be well-prepared. This is not a HEAT training — it’s a course in how to prepare and mitigate dangers on your next big trip.
Course Contents
Physical training in the mountains of Sicily
How to research a new country
What gear to bring
Safety aspects to consider
Health considerations
Medical skills
Escape and evasion techniques
You will learn techniques and skills from Rick’s career in the military, his experience planning expeditions, and his work as an independent filmmaker and journalist abroad.
The Training
Every day we train our bodies to become physically stronger. We add exercises for mental training, teaching you how to stay calm in stressful situations. We will take an extended look at what equipment to bring and what is a waste of space. You will learn how to use online tools for research and how to conduct proper research for your next endeavor.
Legal aspects and documentation will be important topics, as well as medical skills that could save your life.
Prices and Location
This one-week course takes place in Sicily, located between all the hotspots Sicily has to offer: Cefalù, Taormina, and Etna. Students will be advised on Airbnb options in the area. Transport during the course will be organized by us. Lunch is included, as is the use of camera equipment, pen, and paper.
Group maximum: 5 students
Price: €1,250 per person, including VAT
Your Instructor
Rick Jens
Rick is a storyteller who truly goes off the beaten path. While capturing unique stories in remote areas, he draws on his extensive experience to carefully plan and execute solo journeys, where precision and foresight leave little room for error.