Acrobatics to IT: Deividas’ 200-kilometer hike and leap into the unknown

Every backstage hero faces moments where they must push beyond their limits to discover new strengths. 

For Deividas Toleikis, a passion for sports kicked off an exciting journey. From starting the Broliai Akrobatai YouTube channel, where he picked up skills in discipline, creativity, and teamwork, to making a big career shift to IT during the pandemic, Deividas’s drive never stopped. This highest standards mindset also led him to complete an extremely challenging 200-kilometer hike in just 61 hours. 

Curious how Deividas’ experiences came together? Read on to see how his drive for sports shaped his life and IT career skills.

Into uncharted territory

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Deividas faced his first backstage hero-defining moment. After selling the small business he had built with a friend, he had to reinvent himself professionally. 

Although some might view this as a setback, he saw it as a chance to learn and be curious by trying something new. Deividas took a bold leap, learning new skills to make his switch to IT. He took courses at the Kaunas Coding School and received additional training at another IT company.

He admitted that this career switch came with a lot of challenges. It demanded immense focus, hard work, and courage to step out of his comfort zone. 

Thankfully, the months of dedication delivered results. He went on to join Hostinger as a Quality Assurance Engineer, ensuring that all of Hostinger’s products meet the highest standards.

But why Hostinger? He heard that Hostinger is a global leader in the IT industry, perfect for curious people looking to grow their careers.

“When I joined, I was pleasantly surprised by the job itself, the benefits, learning opportunities, and commitment to principles,” Deividas shares. “If you have an idea that leads to client success and personal growth, you can pursue it here. Essentially, you need to take ownership of what you want to achieve and organize it. Hostinger becomes your partner in success.”

A 200-kilometer journey to self-discovery

Fresh off a career change, Deividas decided to embark on another challenge: a 200-kilometer hike. 

“It was my hardest challenge yet,” he recalls of the time his physical and mental endurance was tested.  “With three friends, we hiked for 61 hours straight, battling extreme heat during the hottest days of summer. Temperatures soared into around 30°C, making the hike incredibly tough from the start.”

“To be honest, I had doubted myself at times,” he admits. Yet, he found strength in the small moments, such as a surprise massage from a friend along the way. “He came to the forest, bringing music and a massage table. We had already covered half the route at the time, but it felt like a new birth!” 

Crossing the 200th kilometer felt more than just a physical accomplishment. For Deividas, it was never just about the hike. It was all about cultivating a mindset that he carries with him to this day: a belief in his ability to overcome any obstacle.

Resilience redefined 

But how did he build the character to hike 200 kilometers or learn the skills to switch careers? It wasn’t overnight – his lifelong passion for sports played a big role.

From tackling fitness challenges with his father in his backyard to creating acrobatic videos with friends for their YouTube channel Broliai Akrobatai, sports have been a constant for Deividas. 

In addition to helping him stay physically fit, sports taught him the importance of bias toward action, owning his progress, and focusing on his goals – all important skills for his overall growth. 

Deividas’ love for sports shines through in his work, boosting his creativity and productivity as a QA Engineer. It also strengthens his connection with others at Hostinger.

During breaks, Deividas and his colleagues bond over their love for cycling, running, and hiking. “Sports have brought me to where I am now. I’ve met many interesting people, even here at Hostinger,” he says.

Freedom to energize the routine

Hostinger’s freedom and responsibility principle allows Deividas to manage his work schedule around his fitness routine. This perfect balance keeps him energized and effective both at work and in his personal life.

“Consistency is my magic potion,” he shares. “Even on tough mornings, I know a run will energize and refresh me. It’s a win-win: I get a workout and a sense of accomplishment.”

Now, Deividas dreams of hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain or exploring Lithuania on foot or by bike. Whatever the challenge, he is ready to take it on with the same focus and highest standards that has led him so far. 

For those considering a new adventure, Deividas has a simple message. “Take the leap. You have nothing to lose, and you’ll gain a valuable experience.”