Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award

An entrepreneur (or a small group of entrepreneurs) who has shown excellence in entrepreneurship in Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality and/or aviation industry.

1
Calvinos Shuttle Services PTY LTD (South Africa) - LAURIE CO

Reason 1: Pioneering Regional Connectivity and Tourism Growth Through its inbound and outbound transportation and tour packages, Calvino's has expanded access to tourism across Southern Africa. By linking South Africa with Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho, the company is not just moving people it’s building bridges between cultures, economies, and communities. Calvino's looking forward to adding other countries to explore.

Reason 2: Innovation in Rural Mobility Solutions Calvino's Shuttle Services has reimagined transportation in underserved rural areas by offering tailored shuttle and tour packages that meet the unique needs of local communities and other countries. Their model blends affordability, reliability, and cultural relevance—making tourism accessible where it was once out of reach.

Reason 3: Calvino's has scaled its operations through strategic planning, community partnerships and other international collaboration, and digital innovation. Their journey reflects the grit and adaptability that define outstanding entrepreneurs.

Website - Calvinos Shuttle Services

2
Nanaopiri Undutimi Joseph Organization (Nigeria) - Joseph production

Reason 1: To impact in entrepreneurship and business development.

Reason 2: I need this award and empowerment support.

Reason 3: To develop agriculture business in African countries.

Website - Nanaopiri Undutimi Joseph Organization

3
Leadlet Investment Pvt Ltd (Zimbabwe)

Reason 1: She well mannered and dedicated woman when comes into business ,she has the skills,and can work hand in hand with other woman in the same industry.

Reason 2: She has motivated other woman in the same industry and outside the book and she determined to engage more in such skills.

Reason 3: Always smiling,loving her work ,and learn from others in her country as well from other countries and to meet with different people with different working experiences.

4
Fonyung Brandy Naah/ Fl Events and Tours (Cameroon)

Reason 1: Trailblazing Innovation in Cameroon’s Tourism and Event Industry As the founder of FL Events and Tours, I, Fonyung Brandy, have introduced creative and culturally rich tourism experiences that connect visitors with the heart of Cameroon and Cameroonians to the heart of many nations. Introducing and helping in the growth of tourism in a country which had not intercepted this sector because everyone considered it luxury, By merging events, travel, and local culture, I’ve built a unique brand that goes beyond traditional tourism — offering clients authentic, memorable, and impactful experiences that showcase the true essence of people and places.

Reason 2: Commitment to Community Empowerment and Sustainable Tourism At FL Events and Tours, we believe tourism should benefit everyone. That’s why I’ve prioritized working with local guides, artisans, women-led cooperatives, and rural communities — ensuring that tourism drives inclusive growth. Our tours promote sustainability and heritage preservation.

Reason 3: Resilience and Leadership in Building a Growing Tourism Brand Starting and growing a business in a challenging economic environment takes courage and innovation. Through determination and strategic leadership, I’ve turned FL Events and Tours into a respected and growing brand, known for reliability, creativity, and customer satisfaction. I’ve also mentored young people interested in tourism, helping to shape the next generation of industry leaders. And if honored with this award, If honored with this award, I will use the platform to amplify advocacy for sustainable and community-centered tourism. This recognition would not only validate our hard work but also inspire others — especially women and youth — to believe in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives.

Website - Fonyung Brandy Naah/ Fl Events and Tours

5
VistaVoyage Travel Group (Kenya) - Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award

Reason 1: I am proud to nominate my company ,VistaVoyage Travel Group for the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award at the Africa Tourism Leadership Awards 2025. Our story reflects the very essence of entrepreneurship in Africa: resilience, innovation, and an unwavering belief in the power of tourism to transform lives and economies. VistaVoyage Travel Group was founded in April 2020, at the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic—a time when travel was at a complete standstill. While still in college, I took a bold step to establish a business that many would have considered impossible under such circumstances. Instead of retreating, I envisioned a travel company that would adapt, innovate, and build back better. What began as a daring idea has grown into a thriving company, now celebrating five years and five months of consistent growth. Our ability to survive and scale during a crisis is a clear demonstration of entrepreneurial resilience, courage, and determination.

Reason 2: From inception, we have registered year-on-year revenue growth, even during the most difficult times. We are currently targeting a total sales revenue of USD 500,000 by December 2025. Our achievements include: - Recognition by EcoTourism Kenya for sustainable tourism practices. - International recognition in Lux Life Magazine, affirming our place as a luxury and experience-driven African brand. - Expansion of our portfolio under the VistaVoyage Safari Collection, curating both luxury and eco-conscious travel experiences. - Establishing international partnerships, including Safari Specialist collaborations across Europe, enabling us to connect Africa’s destinations with global markets.

Reason 3: VistaVoyage Travel Group is not just about business, it is about impacting the tourism sector and communities: - We champion domestic tourism by promoting Kenya’s lesser-known circuits, helping to spread tourism benefits beyond the traditional hotspots. - We contribute to regional tourism development, working with partners to open up opportunities in East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda) as well as the Southern Africa. We've so far managed to work with partners in South Africa in MICE, managing over 145pax at once for a Pan-African debate which was a great success! We've grown from managing individual clients to Corporates which is a dream come true. - We support sustainable travel, ensuring our itineraries and operations promote conservation, climate action, and responsible tourism. - We actively participate in tourism associations and forums, including the Tour Operators Society of Kenya, where I serve as Western Chapter Chairperson, driving collaboration, training, and capacity building for local operators. Our clients consistently commend us for delivering personalized, professional, and memorable travel experiences. Reviews highlight our attention to detail, seamless travel arrangements, and unique itineraries that balance luxury with authentic African experiences. These endorsements validate the quality and credibility of VistaVoyage as a trusted African brand which this can be verified both on Google reviews as well as Safari bookings.

Website - VistaVoyage Travel Group

6
Baseline Travel Limited (South Africa)

Reason 1: We are Pioneering Niche Market Exploration with Innovative Product Development. We do things differently at Baseline, not just travel as we curate unique experiences.

Reason 2: We embrace an Exemplary Sustainable and Ethical Business Acumen. At Baseline Travel we exhibit strong business acumen by integrating responsible practices directly into our core operations, understanding that such acts are both an ethical imperative and a key market differentiator.

Reason 3: Through our Strategic Leadership and Vision in Brand Building and Market Positioning. Our Outstanding entrepreneurship is as much about perception and growth as it is about operations. Baseline Travel has shown strategic leadership in building a brand that signifies reliability, luxury, and expertise.

Website - Baseline Travel Limited

7
Aviation Week Africa Network (Zambia) - Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award

Reason 1: Pioneering Aviation-Tourism Linkages: Hellen Ngwira Mwamba founded Aviation Week Africa, a first-of-its-kind platform that bridges aviation and tourism by showcasing how air connectivity drives destination growth, market access, and cross-border collaboration across Africa.

Reason 2: Driving Youth and Community Engagement: Through Aviation Week Africa, she has created inclusive spaces that empower youth and local communities to see aviation not just as transport, but as a catalyst for tourism careers, entrepreneurship, and sustainable travel development.

Reason 3: Championing Africa’s Tourism Competitiveness: By convening airlines, airports, tourism boards, and investors under one umbrella, she is positioning Africa as a competitive, well-connected tourism destination, fostering intra-African travel and boosting the continent’s global tourism appeal.

Website - Aviation Week Africa Network

8
Corne Schalkwyk/Eugene Relling for Bushwise (South Africa) - FamilyQuest

Reason 1: Corne Schalkwyk, changed the format of the traditional Safari. His innovative approach to product development, and his immersive format created a new way of experiencing the traditional Safari. He created a range of exclusive use properties to suit this unique new range of experiences. The Bushwise exclusive safaris provides a rare glimpse behind the scenes into the skillsets used by Safari guides and conservationists as part of clients Safaris. Guest learn new skills, while on Safari, and get a hands on experience while they learnt to do track ID, bird call ID and learn about ecology as part of their Safari. This brought Safari guide training into the tourism sector, and linked experiences to actual training to get guest informed and connected to nature in a new and very immersive way Corne received the SA tourism Innovation award when he just launched the concept in 2024, but has since evolved it from the original GVI Expeditions into the Safari Guide realm as set departures with Bushwise.

Reason 2: Trough the establishment of their ranger academy models for partners within the Industry, Bushwise was able to do real transformation within the industry. They now handle a range of community selection drives and guide training to ensure transformation within the Safari guide space. Eugene Relling is at the forefront of this initiative. Through vital partnerships, they have been able to create an incredible impact, and raised funds to train aspiring guides from underprivileged backgrounds, helping them to not just find permanent employment, but to build careers that uplift themselves, their families and the communities. The path of transformation is rarely without its hurdles. Yet, their dedication to forge a brighter future for the next generation of guides is aspiring, they serve local communities with unwavering passion while building a truly amazing company that has grown extensively.

Reason 3: Bushwise more than doubled in size in the last two years, and grew from the initial first campus, into 5 camps in three provinces in South Africa. Becoming Africa's largest guide training company under the leadership and guidance of Eugene Relling as MD and Corne Schalkwyk looking after partnerships, trade and the commercial aspects. They also rolled out a new recruitment division for the industry. This new 360 degree recruitment division, makes Bushwise the only field guide training provider with a built-in 360° recruitment division designed to support both guides and lodges. With their large network of lodge partners across Southern Africa and beyond, they now make it even easier for qualified professionals to find the right job and for lodges to hire top-tier candidates.

Website - Corne Schalkwyk/ Eugene Relling for Bushwise

9
Kaone Ntlhaile (South Africa) - Tholo Tours and Safaris

Reason 1: Nomination Statement – Africa Tourism Leadership Awards 2025 I would like to nominate myself for the 8th Africa Tourism Leadership Awards. Entering a male-dominated industry, I have proven my resilience and determination to succeed as a young black female entrepreneur. Over the years, I have had the privilege of contributing to the tourism sector in impactful ways. I was part of the TBCSA Conference shuttling team for two consecutive years, and my work has been recognized through media platforms such as PowerFM, SABC Africa, and YouFM, where I was featured for my role as a youth in business. My journey reflects hard work, dedication, and a passion for driving transformation within the tourism space. I believe my achievements, resilience, and commitment to excellence make me a deserving candidate for this award.

Website - Kaone Ntlhaile

10
Africa Travel Tours (Zimbabwe) - Marketing Manager

Reason 1: We offer a personal touch in everything we do Our clients are not treated as “just another job” — we take the time to understand their unique needs, preferences, and expectations. This one-on-one attention allows us to deliver tailored solutions that make them feel seen, valued, and understood. That personal connection builds strong loyalty and sets us apart in a market full of generic service providers.

Reason 2: We thrive under pressure and adapt fast Change and challenges are part of running a business — what makes us different is how we respond. I lead with a mindset of flexibility and problem-solving. Whether it's a sudden shift in client needs or operational setbacks, we stay calm, adjust quickly, and find new ways forward. That ability to bounce back and pivot has kept the business strong even in unpredictable times.

Reason 3: We focus on practical results, not just promises What makes my business stand out is our commitment to delivering real outcomes. We listen closely, identify what’s not working for our clients, and design services or solutions that directly address those issues. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches — our work is grounded in solving real-world problems in ways that create lasting value.

Website - Africa Travel Tours

11
Makario safaris (Rwanda)

Reason 1: Younger Company but trading in all East African countries.

Reason 2: Helped and trained young tourism graduates familiarize with practical tourism and set up of their own tour companies.

Website - Makario safaris

12
Habari Services (South Africa) - Millvest

Reason 1: Commitment to youth development.

Reason 2: Outstanding professionalism.

Reason 3: Promoting brand South Africa.

Website - Habari Services

13
Vintage Travel And Tours Pvt Ltd (Zimbabwe)

Reason 1: I have 42 years experience in Travel Tourism Aviation around 10 years.

Reason 2: Chapter Head of Wttc Ties Iadwp Ex chairman of Diplomat Business Network Club.

Reason 3: Recently got franchisee for Virtual online training in International Certification in various programmes one of its kind in Africa for whole of Africa.

Website - Vintage Travel And Tours Pvt Ltd

14
Phillip Shakumu (Namibia) - Namibian Aviation Training Academy

Reason 1: Pioneering Aviation Training Organization with special focus on empowering youth, women in aviation, and previously disadvantaged communities.

Website - Phillip Shakumu

15
Yaboye Home Cooking (Gambia) - Institute of Travel & tourism of The Gambia

Reason 1: She is the face of the Gambia through his contribution in the tourism industry in The Gambia . She is personate in what she does best both as an entrepreneur and as a key player that serves in most of the tourism board of directors.

Reason 2: Her contribution towards the development and promotion of Gambia has taken us to a level that is unpresented.

Reason 3: Her involvement and contribution to the development of Gambian food have won The Gambia many awards especially in the Jollof rice competition in the subregion. She has a unique product that is been emulated by other countries.

Website - Yaboye Home Cooking

16
MGB Hotel@2ten (South Africa) - Nditsheni George (Chairman)

Reason 1: Visionary Leadership & Economic Impact Mr. George Magwabeni transformed his vision of creating a luxury hotel in Thohoyandou, Venda, into reality by establishing MGB Hotel @2Ten, now a landmark hospitality destination in the Vhembe District. With foresight, he recognized the need for a modern, world-class hospitality facility in the region and brought his dream to life by collaborating with his son, an architect, whose expertise helped shape and design the hotel into a symbol of excellence and innovation. Beyond creating a prestigious facility, his entrepreneurship has had a profound economic impact. MGB Hotel has generated employment opportunities for local community members, empowering youth and women through skills development and training. Furthermore, the hotel continues to boost the regional economy by attracting visitors, conferences, weddings, and events to Thohoyandou, stimulating growth for surrounding businesses such as transport, catering, and tourism services.

Reason 2: Mr. George Magwabeni is not only a successful businessman but also a catalyst for regional development and job creation. From the humble beginnings of being raised by a mother who was a potter, he rose to become a beacon of entrepreneurship and a symbol of what is possible through hard work and determination. His story is a testament to resilience, proving that greatness can emerge from modest origins and grow into a legacy that impacts an entire nation. He serves as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs in Limpopo and South Africa at large, showing that global-standard businesses can thrive in rural towns. Through his journey of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to excellence, he inspires young people to dream beyond limitations, embodying the message: Black Child, your dreams are valid and possible.

Reason 3: Mr. George Magwabeni has shown extraordinary resilience by steering MGB Hotel @2Ten through significant economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while ensuring the business remained operational, sustainable, and relevant. His ability to adapt under pressure and sustain growth stands as a testament to his strong leadership and strategic foresight. Alongside this resilience, he has demonstrated remarkable intelligence and innovation. Most notably, he invented and patented the Sumbandila Key System, a pioneering security solution tailored specifically for MGB Hotel, a unique innovation that distinguishes the establishment within the South African hospitality sector. Furthermore, Mr. Magwabeni has proven that intelligence, vision, and collaboration can create a thriving family business model. His story exemplifies how resilience and intelligence, when combined, can produce lasting entrepreneurial impact and inspire future generations.

Website - MGB Hotel@2ten

17
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - CEO - Tourism Beyond Boaders

Reason 1: Founder of Innovative Tourism Ventures I am the founder of Tourism Beyond Borders tours (TB2 Africa) and the innovator of the Ecotourism Digital Passport, initiatives that connect travelers across Africa, promote cultural preservation, and champion sustainable tourism practices. These projects demonstrate my entrepreneurial vision and ability to design scalable solutions for the tourism sector.

Reason 2: Recognized Youth Leader in Tourism Innovation. My work has received continental recognition, including being selected among the Top 5 finalists at the African Youth Tourism Innovation Summit (AYTIS) 2025 and my appointment as a Youth Ambassador under the Africa Tourism Partners Youth Council (ATPSA). These honors highlight my leadership potential and my role as a young entrepreneur driving innovation in African tourism.

Reason 3: Professional Growth & Impact Across Borders. Alongside my current internship at the Ministry of Tourism Zambia, I am pursuing the UN Tourism Online Academy program in Innovation and Digital Transformation, equipping me with advanced skills to grow my ventures. Even without a physical office, I have already secured clients and built networks across borders, proving that my entrepreneurial work is practical, impactful, and ready to scale.

Website - Lillian Chungu Mumbi

18
Mogopodi Adventures (Pty) Ltd (South Africa)

Reason 1: I am honored to submit my application for consideration for the Tourism Leadership Award. With a strong foundation in community-driven tourism development, youth mentorship, and international leadership, I am committed to driving inclusive growth and innovation within South Africa’s tourism sector. As a Director of the Rural and Township Tourism Association (RATA), I have worked to amplify the voices of underserved tourism communities, promote sustainable tourism models, and influence policy to support inclusive economic participation. My leadership role has enabled me to design and advocate for programs that unlock the potential of rural and township-based tourism enterprises, fostering job creation and cultural preservation.

Reason 2: Through my work as a mentor with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), I actively support youth-owned enterprises in the tourism and hospitality space. I am passionate about empowering the next generation of tourism leaders by providing strategic guidance, business development support, and access to opportunities. This work aligns closely with national priorities for youth development and economic transformation in the sector.

Reason 3: As an alumnus of the prestigious Mandela Washington Fellowship, I have had the opportunity to engage with global best practices in leadership, entrepreneurship, and public management. I have used this experience to enrich my contributions to the local tourism sector, bringing fresh insights and a global perspective to local challenges while remaining deeply committed to grassroots impact. I am passionate about using tourism as a tool for development, transformation, and empowerment.

Website - Mogopodi Adventures (Pty) Ltd

19
Mrembo safaris (Tanzania)

Reason 1: Most create business company Most attention to detail company Most company has a best relationship with clients to make africa known everywhere.

Reason 2: Create different innovation to win the market , create more enteprenuers through our business Create groups of women and teach them how to.do business which is envronment friendly for sustainable tourism.

Website - Mrembo safaris

20
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - Director of Tourism (Ministry of Tourism)

Reason 1: Demonstrated youthful, visionary and, passionate innovator and potential entrepreneur - Lillian has already established herself as an emerging entrepreneur through her ventures, including her tour operating company called: Tourism Beyond Borders Africa (TB2Africa) that connects travellers across Africa and her latest initiative called: the Ecotourism Digital Passport. This is an application that promotes sustainable tourism, and rewards eco-friendly behaviour across Africa. These initiatives demonstrate not only her creativity but also her determination to develop innovative solutions that strengthen natural and cultural preservation and sustainable tourism across Africa.

Reason 2: Continental Recognition of Leadership: Her work has earned recognition beyond Zambia. She was ranked among the top 5 finalists at the African Youth Tourism Innovation Summit (AYTIS) 2025and has been appointed as a Youth Ambassador with the Africa Tourism Partners Youth Council (Under ATPSA Umbrella). These milestones demonstrate her leadership qualities and her growing influence in shaping the future of Africa Tourism.

Reason 3: Commitment to Professional Excellence: Alongside her current internship at the Ministry of Tourism in Zambia, Lillian continues to expand her knowledge and skills horizon through international platforms such as the UN Tourism Online Academy in Innovation and Digital Transformation. Her ability to gain continental recognition while pursuing professional growth reflects both her entrepreneurial spirit and her potential to scale up her impact across Africa's tourism sector landscape.

Website - Lillian Chungu Mumbi

21
Grandeur Rental (Botswana)

Reason 1: I am nominating myself for Outstanding Entrepreneur because, as founder of As Grand Rentals, I took a company with no assets or clients and built it into a trusted transport partner for major corporations and tourism operators. Through steady investment in a reliable fleet, strong safety and service standards, and by creating meaningful employment for drivers and support staff, I have grown the business and strengthened the local tourism and business-travel ecosystem. This transformation — from nothing to a thriving, respected company — is why I believe I deserve this recognition.

Website - Grandeur Rental

22
KENDIRITA TOURS AND TRAVEL LIMITED (Kenya)

Reason 1: Customer-Centric Culture with High Satisfaction Rates, we do so by putting customer satisfaction first in all that we do and our business thrives on repeat customers and referrals.

Reason 2: Visionary Leadership and Resilience in a Competitive Industry, despite the many challenges such as the Covid 19, economy fluctuations ,Kendirita has shown a strong leadership and resilience in the industry.

Reason 3: Positive Impact on Community and Industry Growth,Kendirita Tours and Travel doesn’t just benefit travelers but it uplifts the communities we operate in and contributes to the growth of the regional tourism economy.

Website - KENDIRITA TOURS AND TRAVEL LIMITED

23
Flexie Travel (Namibia)

Reason 1: Started in 2022 as a company specializing in creating virtual tours for destination marketing. We on boarded several municipalities, tourism boards and other private companies. Examples include: Bulawayo City Hall (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8N67Mkjengw) and Tshabalala Game Reserve (https://kuula.co/post/n1/collection/7997q). In the same year we won the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Provincial Innovation Challenge. In 2022 we are also top 6 finalist at the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge.

Reason 2: 2023-24: We realised the increasing amount of virtual tours we were creating could be used as virtual trips for the millions of people who cant travel for a number of reasons. We aligned them to the curriculum for educational purposes (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jp8cww0wPpE). To date the has been our largest source of revenue, we partnered with Techcare Group to bring this solution to Namibia, and it has been a huge success, In late 2024 we also partnered with AZ Technologies to pilot with 20 schools in Ethiopia as a market entry strategy into Ethiopia. We have been licenced by the Ministry of primary education in Zimbawe. We invented a virtual reality booth to help distribute destination marketing content. (We copyrighted it with BIPA and filled for IP). The Ministry of Tourism in Lesotho will utilize this for destination marketing purposes, the project is funded by UNDP Lesotho. (https://thababosiuculture.flexie.travel/) (https://thababosiumount.flexie.travel/).

Reason 3: 2025: We introduced VR training simulators to help skill tourism students and workers. (https://vimeo.com/1086054065/d36bb7cd06?share=copy) We are conducting a pilot with TVET colleges. We have a staff compliment of 12 fulltime. To date we have won several awards: BRICS+ Innovation Challenge, Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Program, AU Innovating Education in Africa, YALI BED, Africa Changemakers Initiative, AYITS, POTRAZ.

Website - Flexie Travel

24
Rendzo Network Africa (South Africa)

Reason 1: Since 2012, Rendzo Network Africa, as a black-owned enterprise, has successfully hosted inbound business events. Their long-standing commitment and active participation in the sector have directly contributed to showcasing South Africa's capabilities and boosting its profile as a competitive and compelling destination for international business.

Reason 2: Beyond its destination marketing, Rendzo Network Africa has directly channeled over ZAR 5 million in business to South African SMEs, with a significant focus on tourism enterprises. This strategic approach ensures that the economic benefits of inbound events are widely distributed, fostering growth and sustainability within the local business ecosystem.

Website - Rendzo Network Africa

25
T-Vibes Travel & Tours (Lesotho)

Reason 1: Mr. John Tsatsi is a seasoned entrepreneur in travel serving multiple African countries in business travel including Lesotho, South Africa, Botswana and Eswatini. He organises special group tours across these countries and has established partnerships across the continent and globally.

Reason 2: He organises impactful business events at sector scale, at national scale and at international scale in various countries. He organises structured business meetings for networking and business to business linkages.

Reason 3: He supports Entrepreneurship ecosystem development across various countries in various sectors mainly tourism, technology and agribusiness. This involves capacity building through business training, mentorship and coaching, access to funding support, facilitating market linkages. He directly sported over 50 accommodation facilities operators, 2 leading tour operators, 2 notable parks in Lesotho and multiple others in other sectors and other countries.

Website - T-Vibes Travel & Tours

26
Africa Travel Tours (Zimbabwe) - Managing Director

Reason 1: Empowering the Girl Child for a Better Tomorrow: Beyond business, I believe in purpose-driven entrepreneurship. A core part of our mission is giving back to the community by investing in the future of the girl child. We actively support programs and initiatives that provide mentorship, educational resources, and opportunities for young girls—helping them break cycles of poverty and build confident, empowered futures. This commitment isn’t just charity; it’s our contribution to long-term, sustainable change.

Reason 2: Personalised and Consistent Service: We treat every client as a partner, not just a transaction. Our business thrives on offering personalised solutions tailored to each customer’s needs while maintaining a high standard of consistency in service delivery. It’s this attention to detail, reliability, and relationship-building that earns us long-term trust and referrals.

Reason 3: Resilience and Innovation in Every Season: Entrepreneurship is never a straight path, and what sets us apart is our resilience. We've navigated economic shifts, industry changes, and unforeseen challenges by remaining adaptable and innovative. Whether it’s finding new ways to serve our customers or pivoting to meet market demands, we keep moving forward with creativity and courage.

Website - Africa Travel Tours

27
Direx (United Kingdom)

Reason 1: The nominee over the last 5 years has built multiple innovative solutions for the African tourism and hospitality industry, from Afriktrip, an online marketplace for tourists to find and book over 3000 tours, activities, and things to do in 24 African countries, to building Direx, an all-in-one business management solution for tour operators in Africa.

Reason 2: The nominee over the last 5 years has hoisted the Nigerian and African flag in several entrepreneurship programs and accelerators he has been part of as a result of his innovative solutions, and this includes being a Top 5 finalist in the African Youth in Tourism Innovation Challenge 2023, being the winner for the Middle East and Africa region/global finalist in the Phocuswright/Web in Travel Global pitch competition for travel startups across the world, his company Direx, being named as one of the hottest travel startups in the world for 2024 by Phocuswire. He has also been selected in several startup accelerators, including the Barclays UK Black Founders accelerator, the US-based Envision Accelerator, and Cohort #2 of the AFRISE Challenge 2024 – top 30 startups, powered by Concordia University and Hindsight Ventures.

Reason 3: The nominee has also spoken at numerous traveltech conferences, including Web in Travel Africa 2019, African Youth in Tourism Summit 2023 and 2024, and the Web in Travel Singapore 2023.

Website - Direx

28
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - Jairous Nyirenda (Indo Zambia Bank)

Reason 1: Through the Tourism beyond borders and her innovative Eco tourism Digital passport she is driving africas tphrism i to sustainable future.

Reason 2: Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion is building a lasting legacy for Africas tourism..e.g founding TB2 Africa and representing Zambia ad an ambassador.

Reason 3: She embodies innovation leadership and sustainability. Her projects including beyond Borders, and the Eco tourism digital passport highlight her drive to modernize tourism while reserving culture . She is proof that young entrepreneurs can create solutions with global impact.

29
Ministry Of Health (Zambia) - Jamila Kudra (Pharmacist)

Reason 1: She is driven by passion for tourism innovation, culture, and sustainability.

Reason 2: She is very hardworking and dedicated to making tourism more interesting and exciting.

Reason 3: She determination will help grow tourism far and beyond.

30
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - Nurse

Reason 1: To be norminated in outstanding entrepreneurship award.

Reason 2: She is vigilant and hardworking.

Reason 3: Has a heart for the people and whatever she does.

31
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - Kampamba Mumbi (Indo Zambia Bank)

Reason 1: Trailblazing Innovator – Founded Tourism Beyond Borders and launched the EcoTourism Digital Passport, reshaping African travel with creativity and tech-driven sustainability.

Reason 2: Youth Tourism Champion – As ATPSA Youth Country Ambassador for Zambia, she inspires and empowers young voices to shape the future of tourism across the continent.

Reason 3: Passionate Change-Maker – Promotes eco-tourism and cultural heritage while driving community-centered, sustainable tourism that leaves a lasting impact.

32
Lillian Chungu Mumbi (Zambia) - Front of house (Winnetu Oceanside resort)

Reason 1: She a very strong,smart and hard working individual in promoting tourism.

33
Bright Waiters Hub and Events (Zambia) - Bright Mwansa (Director / CEO)

Reason 1: Proven Track Record of Innovation and Leadership Lillian has consistently demonstrated her ability to innovate within her field. Her forward-thinking approach has led to the successful implementation of new ideas and processes that significantly enhance operational efficiency. This innovative mindset is essential for entrepreneurship, as it drives growth and adaptation in a rapidly changing market.

Reason 2: Commitment to Excellence and Quality Her dedication to quality and excellence is evident in all her work. Lillian meticulously manages her responsibilities, ensuring that every detail is attended to. This commitment not only boosts her credibility but also inspires those around her to strive for high standards, contributing positively to the overall success of her projects and initiatives.

Reason 3: Strong Interpersonal Skills and Team Collaboration Lillian's emotional maturity and exceptional communication skills enable her to navigate social situations effectively, making her an invaluable team player. Her ability to work collaboratively while also thriving independently speaks to her versatility as an entrepreneur. She fosters a positive work environment, encouraging teamwork and collective problem-solving, which is essential for any entrepreneurial venture. These qualities make Lillian Chungu Mumbi a standout candidate for the Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award, as she embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence that the award seeks to recognize.

34
Lillian Chingu Mumbi (Zambia) - ACKLAS NTHANI

Reason 1: Innovative

Reason 2: Team player

Reason 3: Entrepreneur

35
Phestus Mumbi Lillian Mumbi (Zambia)

Reason 1: She's an outstanding entrepreneur.

Reason 2: She's goal oriented and focused.

Reason 3: She things outside the box and not a lazy thinker Extremely intelligent and quick to react.