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BUSineSS

The travel and tourism sector is one of the hardest hit by the global
uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant
lockdowns imposed in many countries. Although the industry, through
the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA), is lobbying

hard for the return of local and international travel (perhaps as early
as September), the outlook remains grim.

A ‘strong collective’ is at the heart of Mzansi Lizy sees the post and has R100 available. For Bosman, Mzansi Tourism Champions is
Tourism Champions. Any individuals in the She messages Tom directly in order to get his a community, a network and a safe space
industry, from agents and operators, to details and buy him some data.” for the industry to come together. “Any
freelance guides and business owners, can collaboration is welcome, and we’re hoping
register on the website and set up a profile. In many ways, it is a simple, straightforward that the website and social media channels
Once they have a profile, they can either ask way for people in the tourism industry to will grow significantly over the next few
for help, or offer assistance. support someone in need. But it is so much weeks. While the need is great, so are the
more. There are ‘Think Tank’ discussions number of people with the skills, energy and
“Through an honest, supportive and on how to improve the industry, and will to help.”
constructive platform, we aim to unify how to innovate for the future, as well as
current efforts,” says Bosman. “We want to collaborative discussions on how to solve The first phase of the project is complete,
bring various parties together to facilitate the pressing industry issues and dilemmas. and Bosman extends a special ‘thank you’
distribution of donations, especially to those to Shanaaz Taliep from SAYTC and Tim
who are struggling to access relief funds and “We really hope that the industry will Louw from Atlantic Point Hostel, who were
schemes.” connect to share their wisdom, lessons and instrumental in getting it off the ground:
experiences over this time,” says Bosman. “It has been a magical combination,” says
The platform is not focused solely on “We’re confident that this platform will offer Bosman. “In the words of Tim Louw, ‘while
financial support. According to Bosman, the support needed – and that people will our borders remain closed, our hearts remain
Mzansi Tourism Champions will act as a pay it forward.” open’.”
marketplace for a number of different
services, from free legal advice to design Mzansi Tourism Champions also allows
and copywriting skills. members (or champions) the opportunity to For more information visit
raise the profile of their own business, service www.tourismchamps.co.za,
“Essentially, the website aims to put two or offering. One can write a blog about one’s call Heinie Bosman on +27 61 107 7625
people together. For example, if Tom needs travel adventures, share photographs and or email: hello@tourismchampions.org.
data for his work, he can post this request. celebrate all that South Africa offers.
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