As a women in Africa–with limited knowledge and resources to succeed in the travel industry–the stereotype perpetuated on them* (those who identify as women) is that the travel industry is for men – and society’s elites. However, one step at a time, women are transforming the travel industry to build awareness that the industry is for all – and should be for all.
Many African women, who are challenging gender stereotypes, are forging pathways to job creation and economic benefits through small businesses. In the communities, traditional crafts and carvings from Maasai women are creating jobs in Tanzania, while, in Northern Africa’s Morocco, women are obtaining government licenses to work as tour leaders–once unheard of in the country–and in Uganda, the Hotel Owners Association is, for the first time, chaired by a woman.
While these women continue to push boundaries to lead Africa’s tourism into a new era, it’s time to celebrate several incredible female-led organizations changing the shape of the travel industry through prompt sustainable travel and boosting opportunities for women in the local community. Let’s start with:
Global Travel and Tourism Partnership East Africa
An educational alliance and business that provides tourism education to young women in secondary schools to equip them with knowledge and skills to navigate the industry.
The Women Of Dunia Camp
Tanzania is a predominantly male-dominated society and the struggles that women face are a daily occurrence. Dunia Camp is nestled in the heart of Tanzania’s stunning central national park in Serengeti and is a sublime base for a safari vacation with an all-female staff. The camp is not only a shining beacon for the empowerment of women in the industry but helps close the gender inequality gap.
The Chobe Angels
The Chobe angels are a team of 20 female guides who challenged gender norms to become Africa’s first all-female safari guiding team, they protect and conserve the wild for tourists who flock to the famed game park.
Amarachi Ezekwe - Travel With A Pen
Amarachi is one of the many African travel bloggers with an accurate depiction of the ups and downs of traveling in Africa. She has single-handedly inspired a global audience of visitors to Western Africa’s vacation areas with extensive knowledge and awareness.
Backpacking Africa For Beginners - Valerie Bowden
After solo backpacking from Cape Town to Cairo using only public transport, Valerie learned so many travel tips and must-see destinations that she had to share her experiences with the world. Her blog contains invaluable information on safe travel, hidden gems, and proper gears to provide even a novice with the tools to plan the perfect journey.
Now, of course, this listicle is meant to celebrate the accomplishments of women in African – however, more importantly, it’s to encourage the travel industry to lean on these women within your operations, either as inspiration or to better curate Africa trips that support women-run and women-led businesses.
Explore more of Victoria's work on her website, Instagram, or Twitter.
