Behardien says, “This feels pretty special. It’s kind of surreal to think that what started out as random ramblings on my fitness journey has grown into something of a brand. To receive recognition as the best blog in SA is just amazing. I owe it to all who have followed my journey and believed in it.”

Entries with the highest number of votes from the public made it through to the finals. These finalists were then presented to a panel who then adjudicated and selected the overall winners.

Behardien adds, “I honestly tried to do things my own way and make sure whatever comes out was authentic and not forced. If I thought a post or picture represented the Leave The Couch brand, I would post it and was fortunate enough that it was shared. I’m also very lucky that I’ve had the support from the team at Lightlyfunky to make sure that my site looks good and works.”

He says that his main aim behind the blog has always been to inspire others through captivating storytelling. “So every year I try and adapt elements of the blog, or on social media channels, to complement how people are consuming information. I use myself as a litmus test. If there are blogs or channels doing something which I believe is cool and grabs my attention, I’ll try and adapt my content in a similar way.”

Behardien states that one example of this is the length of a post. He says, “Over the last couple of years I’ve reduced the length of my posts and increased the quality of my photographs. People enjoy looking at pictures and so do I. In the end, it’s about conveying the message of seeking adventure and to inspire others to leave the couch. We live in an amazing country and the more I can showcase that there are so many adventures on our doorstep, the better.”

2016 was also a big year for Behardien after his short film (together with Ziyaad Solo), Mowbray to Mowbray Ridge, won the Cape Union Mart Adventure Film Challenge and was screened across the country in cinemas.

“I have to thank all my friends and family who were the original readers of my posts and shared and shared and shared, even when the stories were terrible,” Behardien says.

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