Train influencer tours sugarcane fields via ‘Sugar Express’

Sugar Express train tour

On an unusually cool November day in Clewiston, Fla., a social media influencer and train enthusiast from Gloucester England found himself in what seemed to be a fantasy scenario … on a historic steam engine exploring endless rows of sugarcane. It sounds like the beginning of an adventurous novel. Ryan, our protagonist who lives with the challenges of autism, journeys across the pond to take part in a first-of-its-kind Train Influencer Tour and “finds his true self” along the way.

Well, except that it’s not a novel. Ryan is real, the story is true. This sweet inspirational tale took shape as Ryan was part of a group of 13 “influencers” personally invited by U.S. Sugar to get a close-up, behind-the-scenes look inside the sugar industry. Via the Sugar Express — also known as steam engine No. 148 — these visitors were treated to seeing how sugarcane is grown, its sugar removed from the cane, processed, and sent to stores.

Ryan and the other influencers who journeyed from around the United States gathered in Clewiston, which is known as America’s Sweetest Town. Here and in the surrounding “Glades” communities, privately owned farming company U.S. Sugar plants, harvests, and processes its crop into more than 850,000 tons of refined sugar each year. Statewide, sugarcane farming is a major economic contributor providing more than 19,000 jobs and nearly $4.7 billion in annual economic activity.

For Ryan, who has high-functioning autism, this unique learning opportunity morphed into the experience of a lifetime. Across most social media platforms, he’s known as Ryan Windridge, a video creator who enjoys sharing his food experiences. Ultimately, his love of trains and semi-trucks was the catalyst for Ryan to obtain a golden ticket to a trip beyond his wildest dreams.

The journey for Ryan began with the essential assurance of having a trusted companion, James, join him to navigate the challenges it would pose. This companionship was pivotal, transforming the possibility of the trip from a mere idea into a reality.

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a lifelong condition that affects many people in many ways. Minds develop and process information differently. The challenges often include trouble communicating and understanding what other people think and feel. Social interaction can also be difficult and make everyday tasks more stressful and new experiences unnerving.

Ryan had never been on an airplane, and to make sure he was fully prepared to fly across the Atlantic, he first took a practice flight to Edinburgh, Scotland. This was a leap into the unknown, a test of his resilience and adaptability. Despite the overwhelming newness of airport procedures and the anxiety surrounding the flight, the experience was a significant milestone, boosting his confidence and laying the groundwork for his journey to the U.S. His meticulous preparation for traveling included a thorough packing session, ensuring Ryan was fully equipped for his adventure.

Ryan, with assistance from the U.S. Sugar team, ensured he would have the necessary time and space to acclimate, which was crucial for his well-being as well as his social media content creation. The additional support and warm welcome from the team and fellow influencers helped mitigate what could have been overwhelming aspects of the trip. This allowed Ryan to feel at home and secure more easily in a foreign environment. This nurturing team approach not only eased Ryan’s transition but also enriched his experience, making it a profound and enjoyable exploration of new cultures and opportunities for content creation.

The event itself was a whirlwind of activities, learning, and networking. Highlights included a ride on the Sugar Express transported through the endless fields of sugarcane growing near the Florida Everglades. They visited ‘Sugar Mountain’ and were treated to a Florida rum tasting experience along with hi-tech farm equipment demonstrations. Ryan happily accepted the opportunity to drive his first John Deere tractor. Later that day, the group enjoyed a farm-to-table dinner prepared by fellow influencer Brad Prose, Chiles and Smoke.

Looking back, Ryan says his favorite moments included riding the train and the culinary adventures at a lakeside tiki bar, where he embraced new experiences with enthusiasm.

Networking with fellow influencers and creators Brian Inman and Audra Mulkern was particularly meaningful. This gave Ryan a sense of belonging and mutual understanding within the community. The challenge of adhering to a tight schedule and deliverables, while daunting, ultimately contributed to his personal and professional growth with an evolving sense of confidence and independence.

Ryan believes the entire trip, especially facing and overcoming the challenges of new travel, has been transformative. The Sugar Express experience not only served as a catalyst for profound development, but it also expanded his horizons and solidified his aspirations and capabilities as an influencer.

This seemingly simple train tour through the fields of sugarcane and beyond helped propel this unique young man to tackle his fears, build his confidence and embrace his role as a full-time influencer. Ryan says he has a newfound purpose in life, putting him on track to become an influencer with a message that can go the distance.

And Ryan reminds friends and followers that you don’t have to be an influencer to get a ride on the Sugar Express. Raisin’ Cane Tours are available to the public at different times throughout the year.

Bio: Ryan Windridge, a devoted train enthusiast from Gloucester, England, captivates audiences across social media with his heartfelt rail videos. His lifelong passion for trains exudes quintessentially British charm, engaging a global audience with joy and curiosity.