The ATTA® Purpose & People Award recognises an organisation that demonstrates exceptional leadership in heritage-focused African tourism, and creates a corporate culture of community, empowerment and inclusivity within their internal teams.
Green Safaris is a pioneering safari company operating luxury lodges in Zambia and Malawi, committed to redefining African tourism through heritage preservation, community empowerment, and environmental stewardship. Led by CEO Vincent Kouwenhoven, Green Safaris integrates eco-friendly technologies such as solar power and electric safari vehicles with deep-rooted cultural respect and community engagement.
Green Safaris is a leader in positive development in the African context leading strongly in conservation, that not only focuses on wildlife and land restoration but social development. Through the Green Safaris Foundation, the company contributes to a series of initiatives that support cultural preservation, economic opportunities, skills development, and environmental conservation. Therefore, showing how tourism is not extractive, but a means to build communities that are empowered and self-sustainable.
African Scenic Safaris, founded in 2009, is a 100% Tanzanian-owned Destination Management Company and one of the first in mainland Tanzania to receive Travelife Certification, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable practices throughout all aspects of operations, including office management, product development, and collaborations.
Beyond tourism, African Scenic Safaris invests in conservation, community development, and education to create lasting value for people, wildlife, and the environment. They are commited to fair employment, gender equality, and minimising environmental impacts complements the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
African Scenic Safaris demonstrates strong commitment towards all pillars of sustainability - from employing local guides to share their own heritage with visitors, empowering the communities through education, skills development and healthcare, as well as a number of environmental initiatives such as reforestation and zero-carbon activities such as walking tours. Coupled with their various certification which further holds them accountable, they demonstrate leadership in sustainability in the African context.
The award-winning Cottar’s 1920s Camp is in the 7608-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy bordering the famous Maasai Mara in Kenya and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Cottar’s Safaris is owned and managed by Africa’s oldest established safari family, embodying a return to the original spirit of safari – offering timeless luxury, authenticity, and unparalleled quality.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents, in the style of the bygone era, while supplying the amenities required by modern world travellers. Guests will find an abundance of wildlife, bespoke safari experiences, meaningful guest activities, and the highest standards of professional guiding in Africa. The Cottar family has been providing safaris for over 100 years, with a strong focus on balancing between conservation, prosperous commerce, community and culture.
Nineteen Twenties Safari Camps demonstrated their commitment to local cultural preservation by creating a wide number of immersive and interaction cultural experiences, even when tied to wildlife or adventure. Their efforts in sustainable tourism are also demonstrated in leading and supporting various initiatives that drive conservation and empowerment, skills development and healthcare for locals and their staff.
Sirikoi Lodge is an award-winning, family-owned luxury Eco lodge located in the heart of the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Meru, Kenya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by 68,000 acres of protected wilderness, Sirikoi offers an exceptional safari experience that seamlessly blends eco-luxury, conservation, and cultural integrity.
Built on a foundation of environmental stewardship and cultural respect, Sirikoi minimises its footprint while maximising positive impact. Guests are immersed in responsible tourism that supports regenerative practices, community development, and the long-term preservation of natural and cultural heritage.
Sirikoi Lodge demonstrates dedication to being more than just an accommodation experience that focusses primarily on guests. They show outstanding commitment towards their 4C’s mission: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce. Special care is taken towards initiatives that showcase environmental sustainability, immersive local heritage, all whilst also providing opportunities and empowering locals.
The ATTA® Earthkeepers Award recognises an organisation that offers ethical wildlife experiences (wild or captive), respects animal welfare, educates tourists, and where applicable, has demonstrated a significant contribution to natural habitat conservation and the reduction of human wildlife conflict.
Great Plains is a conservation tourism organisation, led by world-renowned conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert. Great Plains connects a model of low-impact tourism with high impact initiatives to conserve and expand natural habitats over currently 1.1 million acres of wilderness areas. With a strong focus on local community partnership, Great Plains uses the vehicle of tourism to support education, empowerment and biodiversity conservation in the region for long-term ecosystem protection.
Great Plains operates 13 safari camps in critical ecosystems such as the Okavango Delta, the Lower Zambezi, the Masai Mara and the Tsavo-Amboseli ecosystem, where wildlife corridors and human-wildlife coexistence are essential to the future of our wild spaces. The Great Plains Wildlife Rangers (including 21 women and 16 men) are the backbone of positive change in their regions. It is encouraging to see that they have female rangers and women who implement solar PV. Great Plains release quarterly impact reports to share the impact of their work.
Buffalo Safari Lodge is a premier eco-luxury destination strategically located near Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Known for its seamless integration with nature, the lodge offers a tranquil escape for travellers seeking authentic African experiences while prioritising sustainability and environmental stewardship. Their operations are anchored in the principles of responsible tourism, with a strong commitment to conservation, cultural preservation, and community engagement. From sourcing seasonal and indigenous ingredients for farm-to-table dining experiences to implementing robust waste minimisation strategies, the lodge exemplifies eco-conscious hospitality.
Buffalo Safari Lodges illustrated how they work with the local community to help conserve the natural wildlife and surrounding environment. Through pro-active engagement with guests, they provide educational information, and they also support research initiatives. The lodge is situated inside a private game reserve and have implemented ecofriendly principles and practices.
Chem Chem Association (CCA) is a registered non-profit organisation based within the Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in northern Tanzania. Uniquely positioned to protect the Kwakuchinja Wildlife Corridor — a vital migratory route connecting Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks — CCA is committed to restoring and securing this ancient pathway while uplifting the communities that border it. Over the past 15 years, CCA has transformed a once-depleted landscape into a thriving ecosystem through an integrated conservation model that combines anti-poaching efforts, habitat restoration, and data-driven wildlife protection with economic empowerment, education, and advocacy.
Chem Chem Association is committed to restoring and securing this ancient pathway while uplifting the communities that border it. With their focus on community ownership and long-term sustainability, CCA’s work has created jobs, educated youth, reduced human-wildlife conflict, and helped influence national conservation policy.
The ATTA® Eco-Innovation Award recognises an organisation committed to protecting the planet and mitigating climate change through integrating eco-friendly practices and technologies, like renewable energy sources, and transparently monitors their efforts.
Tamàna Company creates unique and personalised travel experiences across Madagascar. Rooted in sustainable tourism, they deeply respect the island’s nature and communities, working to protect resources, support education, and drive positive change. Through strong partnerships, Tamàna Company minimises tourism’s impact with responsible management, transparency, and ethical practices. As a certified Travelife Partner, they meet global sustainability standards, continuously innovating, reducing their carbon footprint, uplifting communities, and safeguarding Madagascar’s biodiversity.
The fact that Tamàna Company are measuring their impact and using reporting through recognised criteria already gives 3rd party credibility to their practices. There are visible efforts on sustainable inclusive destination management. They are doing a great job cutting emissions and getting guests involved with aspects like tree planting and reducing plastic. Well done to Tamàna Company for being such a strong and inspiring example of what sustainable tourism can look like in Madagascar! Their focus on genuine partnerships, empowering local communities, and creating thoughtful eco-tourism experiences shows a clear commitment to both people and planet.
Lake Natron Camp, part of Leonotis Adventures Ltd, is a 10-tent eco-camp in one of the most remote and inhospitable areas of Tanzania. Run by a team of local Maasai (including 21 women) this is a unique ecological camp, set in one of the most visually dramatic locations in the world. Profit from the camp goes to the local village, Ngare Sero. Uncompromisingly eco-friendly, Lake Natron Camp is proudly certified by Travel Life and Responsible Tourism Tanzania, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Lake Natron Camp strives to be part of positive change and incentivise communities to participate in restoring habitats.
Lake Natron Camp’s commitment to sustainability can be tapped on through the community gardening to feed the schools. Certainly, a best practice to be emulated when it comes to community sustainable development. Their 3-month clearance plan stands out and would be interesting to see how they concluded on the 3 months.
Sun City Resort stands as one of South Africa’s most iconic destinations, offering a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and world-class entertainment. Established in 1979, Sun City has evolved into a premier lifestyle resort that attracts visitors from across the globe. Nestled in the North West Province, adjacent to the Pilanesberg National Park, the resort is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings, exceptional hospitality, and an endless array of experiences for every type of traveller. As a leader in African hospitality, Sun City Resort is committed to excellence, sustainability, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Sun International is invested in many best practices and have shown consistency over the years. Some great savings on the energy and water front, which clearly helps both the resort and the local community. Love how they’re supporting jobs and local businesses, as that kind of impact matters. There’s a bit of room to get guests more involved with carbon offsets, and to shout louder about public reporting. Overall, they’re on a good path, balancing comfort with care.
The ATTA® Zero Waste Trailblazer Award celebrates organisations that prioritise seasonal, local and indigenous produce, working with ethical suppliers, minimising food waste, and educating guests and other stakeholders.
Blue Safari Seychelles, offer remote island journeys that conserve ocean wilderness. Located in the Seychelles’ most remote coral atolls, their barefoot lodges and catamarans create lone but luxurious outposts on wild ocean frontiers.
On Alphonse Island their 4-hectare regenerative farm, managed by 10 dedicated staff, drives sustainable food systems through innovative practices in production, waste management, and circular economy principles.
Blue Safaris Seychelles has a truly impressive project that acknowledges context, uses excellent technology and maximises guest engagement and advocacy. Bravo! Their transparency and accountability are truly commendable.
Asilia Africa, a certified B Corp, is a leading safari operator committed to using travel as a force for good. Their 17 camps and lodges offer a gateway to the heart of some of East Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas, offering safari experiences which are rooted in a deep respect for nature. The name “Asilia” means “genuine” in Swahili, reflecting the company’s mission to provide authentic, nature-based journeys for travellers. They recently launched a vertical hydroponic farm at Encounter Mara camp in the Naboisho Conservancy to overhaul how food is sourced, served, and sustained in one of Kenya’s most remote wildlife conservancies.
This is a fantastic example of applying clever technology to achieve an impressive outcome. It meets so many different sustainability challenges. I admire the commitment to going all in, with a solid service provider, and a large setup that meets a significant percentage of produce requirements.
El Karama Lodge is an intimate, family-owned, award-winning safari lodge and adventure experience located on a 15,000 acre private wildlife conservancy in the foothills of Mount Kenya. El Karama Lodge is unique, authentic and focussed on immersive wildlife and sustainable, conservation safari experiences. El Karama Lodge has a beautiful organic garden on site, an airy barn style Bush Kitchen to visit, caters to all dietary needs, and even has their very own cook book.
Wonderful attention to detail - and it is clear the 'waste nothing' principal is deeply entrenched. This property sounds authentically sustainable. Well done to the team for its clear a lot of hard work is being done.
The ATTA® Community Upliftment Award recognises an organisation that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering a collaborative and caring culture within local communities, actively involving them in meaningful conservation and community actions, providing growth opportunities and improved wellbeing.
Collection in the Wild is a family-owned portfolio of safari homes and conservation projects across Kenya. It includes House in the Wild, their original boutique lodge on the Mara River; Wild Hill, a private hilltop retreat; five distinct Wild Villas in the Naretoi sanctuary; and the Mara Training Centre, a space for learning and collaboration around conservation and community. The purpose of Collection in the Wild is: to restore biodiversity, improve livelihoods, and create extraordinary guest experiences. Every property in the Collection is thoughtfully designed and run by teams who care deeply about the land, the people, and the wildlife. Through their work with Enonkishu Conservancy and Futures in the Wild, every guest plays a part in protecting ecosystems, supporting local families, and contributing to long-term change
The Collection in the Wild showcases an incredible model of community ownership, which includes traditional pastoral practices. The systemic nature of this project is the truly impressive part. It's an entire ecosystem regenerated and providing livelihoods.
Gamewatchers Safaris is a leading sustainable safari company based in Kenya, with over 35 years of experience offering authentic safari experiences in East Africa. As pioneers in responsible tourism, they work hand-in-hand with local communities and conservancies to preserve Africa’s unique ecosystems while providing guests with intimate wildlife encounters. The income paid directly to the thousands of landowners every month has had a significant impact on health and wellbeing. Tourism revenue from Porini Camps directly funds conservation efforts, anti-poaching patrols, and community development projects.
Significant financial contributions are being made to the local communities, by Gamewatchers Safaris & Porini Camps and a broad range of impactful initiatives is evident.
Mara North Conservancy (MNC) is a pioneering community-private partnership in wildlife conservation, located in the northern section of Kenya’s renowned Greater Maasai Mara ecosystem. Covering approximately 29,786 hectares, MNC operates under a low-volume, high-value ecotourism model that balances biodiversity protection with sustainable livelihoods. Established in 2009, MNC presently leases land from over 806 Maasai landowners in the former Koiyaki and Lemek group ranches. The conservancy’s governance structure ensures equal representation of landowners and tourism partners on its board, fostering transparency and joint decision-making. At the heart of MNC’s model is a dual land use approach that integrates pastoralism and wildlife tourism, providing both ecological and economic benefits.
Mara North Conservancy has an impressive conservancy model with multiple and innovative programmes such as predation indemnity. Pastoralism is integrated with wildlife tourism, respecting traditional practices.
The ATTA® Marine Impact Award shines a spotlight on those organisations, products or services that are making a tangible difference to the protection of the marine and coastal environment of Africa’s Coastline whilst supporting long-term community benefits.
Marine Dynamics is an award winning marine eco-tourism company in Gansbaai, South Africa, that has made a substantial impact in marine science and conservation over the past 25 years. The Marine Dynamics ecosystem has various entities that includes shark cage diving, whale watching, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust with a dedicated seabird sanctuary – the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary (APSS), marine pollution projects, community education, a volunteer programme – the Marine Dynamics Academy, and a tourism hub at The Great White House. Using the daily observational platform of whale watching and shark cage diving with a team of marine biologists, over thirty scientific papers have contributed to knowledge on species and influenced conservation policy in South Africa.
Marine Dynamics embodies a holistic approach that weaves together tourism, community upliftment, and marine conservation, rooted in research, education, and environmental stewardship. Their work contributes meaningfully to both the protection of marine ecosystems and the local economy of Gansbaai. Well done!
Local Ocean Conservation is a not-for-profit initiative that was set up to promote the conservation and protection of special marine areas and endangered species, especially sea turtles, whilst encouraging the sustainable use and community-based management of marine resources. From humble beginnings in 1997 when a group of concerned Watamu residents decided to act against increasing human related threats to the marine environment, eventually launching ‘Watamu Turtle Watch’, Local Ocean Conservation has gone on to be the most credible and effective turtle conservation organisation in Kenya and leads the way in locally managed marine conservation.
There is a clear and thoughtful intention to engage deeply with the local fishing community through the marine programmes. This approach contributes meaningfully to building local stewardship, especially by blending traditional knowledge with conservation science, a valuable and respectful integration. The 2024 published scientific paper reflecting on two decades of community-based conservation is truly commendable and a testament to the team’s long-standing commitment and impact.
Seas4Life in Kenya, crafts transformative marine adventures across East Africa and beyond. They focus on ocean safaris, and immersive itineraries that celebrate the extraordinary biodiversity of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) coastlines, while fostering deeper connections between travellers, nature, experts and local communities. Seas4Life is committed to protecting the ecosystems they explore, working closely with partners engaged in marine research, wildlife protection, marine protected areas, fisheries management and environmental education. From coral reefs and mangrove forests to marine megafauna, journeys are rooted in a respect for the ocean’s vital role in both biodiversity and livelihoods.
Community engagement, education, and awareness efforts are strong and truly commendable. The marine education programmes, youth outreach, and awareness activities combined with impactful fundraising partnerships have clearly played a central role in driving the success of this important work. The commitment to education and collaboration shines through. Well done!
The ATTA® Collaborative Impact Award recognises collaboration and creativity of organisations that have aligned missions and share resources to have a holistic and meaningful impact for travel in Africa.
EyeOpenerWorks is a social enterprise dedicated to inclusive and sustainable development through skills training, community engagement, and systems change. Among others, they support innovative public-private partnerships in the tourism sector in Uganda by focusing on quality tourism and hospitality skills training; tourism product development and the strengthening of (emerging) tourism companies. Through these efforts EyeOpenerWorks contributes to meaningful employment, enhanced tourist experiences, and a more resilient tourism industry. As the lead training and development partner in the Adventure Tourism Uganda project (2020–2023), EyeOpenerWorks coordinated an impact cluster of 7 Ugandan and Dutch tourism businesses. These partners – each with their own thematic and geographic focus – shared a joint interest in contributing to professionalizing and diversifying the tourism sector in Uganda.
Each of the 7 implementing partners of the Adventure Tourism Uganda project focused on a specific niche in which they were most experienced, while supporting other partners in activity execution.
– Red Dirt Uganda/Transatlas Bike: Cycling tourism and trail development,
– Kara-Tunga Arts & Tours: Cultural and community-based tourism,
– Matoke Tours: Tour guide training,
– Home of Friends: Running tourism,
– UG-Motorbike: Motorcycling tourism,
– Bergwandelen.com: Hiking tourism and
– EyeOpenerWorks: Advanced In-Service training, M&E and project coordination.
Activities were carried out in close collaboration with relevant Ugandan stakeholders in tourism and hospitality, including the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), ensuring alignment with national tourism strategies. This helped strengthen institutional recognition and sector-wide support.
Inspiring and refreshing. Well done to the team—this is a remarkable organisation that is actively contributing to a tourism sector that uplifts rather than exploits. A powerful example of values-driven impact. There is clear evidence of effective use of partnerships, which is especially commendable given the intentional focus on a specific niche aligned with the team’s strengths. Notably, there is a strong emphasis on supporting women and youth groups that continue to face disproportionate barriers to entering and thriving in the tourism sector.
African Bush Camps (ABC) is a luxury safari company offering authentic safari experiences across Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. Founded in 2006 by professional Zimbabwean guide Beks Ndlovu, ABC is rooted in local knowledge, community, and conservation. With a commitment to showcasing Africa through the eyes of those who call it home, they offer immersive, sustainable journeys into the heart of the continent. The camps are built in harmony with the land, and the team comprises local guides and staff who are custodians of the surrounding wilderness and culture. Professional guides undergo annual, intensive training that sets the industry standard.
The African Bush Camps Foundation drives their social and environmental impact, working with local communities to educate, empower, and conserve. With every guest booking and donation directly supporting these efforts. From responsible tourism practices to hands-on community development, ABC exists to share and conserve Africa, together.
Truly commendable and inspiring work. The addition of the "How We Fund Our Work" document was helpful in understanding the financial model and transparency behind the initiative. The efforts highlighted are inspiring and contribute meaningfully to poverty alleviation, community development, and creating long-term positive change in reducing inequality.
Lets Go Travel Uniglobe is a leading travel management company based at The Hub, Karen, Nairobi, Kenya. With over 45 years of expertise, they specialise in seamless, sustainable, and personalised travel experiences across Kenya and East Africa. Part of Uniglobe Travel franchise (independently owned), Lets Go Travel Uniglobe is accredited by the International Air Transport Association, proud members of the Kenya Association of Travel Agents, the Kenya Association of Tour Operators, and a founding member of Ecotourism Kenya.
Lets Go Travel Uniglobe’s collaborative community impact work is part of a long-term, values-driven commitment, the success of which is driven by the active involvement of a diverse network of partners, demonstrating the power of collaboration as championed by SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Key partners such as Global Connections, Druppels voor Kenia, Amadeus Kenya, American Women’s Association, East Africa Women’s League, Diamond Trust Bank Kenya, Kenya Airways, and many other dedicated individuals — collectively known as Friends of the Program — play vital roles in amplifying impact.
Interactive elements that encourage audience participation, open dialogue, and collaboration around responsible travel appeared to be limited or were not clearly evidenced. Strengthening this aspect with more examples of community engagement, especially amplifying the voices and perspectives of local communities, would add valuable depth and further align the work with the core principles of sustainable tourism. That said, the initiative as a whole is genuinely inspiring and commendable. The team’s dedication shines through, and their efforts are making a meaningful contribution.
The ATTA® Traveller Education and Awareness Award recognises an organisation that educates travellers on how to be better visitors in order to make a more positive impact on tourism in Africa.
Pangolin.Africa is a registered non-profit organisation based in South Africa that is dedicated to the survival of the most highly trafficked wildlife species on earth – the pangolin. It works with a three-pronged approach of publicity, participation and protection to create awareness, drive behavioural change and build capacity among those engaging with Africa’s wildlife as conservationists, safari operators and tourists. Pangolin.Africa’s flagship Pangolin Guardians programme is a first of its kind initiative that supports education and awareness around the African pangolin. A free, online course available in 12 languages, it empowers those living and working in regions where pangolins are found in the wild with knowledge on how to treat, track and take care of the animal. It is also a powerful tool for citizens who are passionate about protecting pangolins and safeguarding the future of Africa’s vulnerable wildlife.
The incredible educational work of Pangolin Africa has the potential to save this much misunderstood species with its far-reaching educational tools and pangolin guardians active all over the world - tackling the local communities and the traveller simultaneously.
Desert & Delta Safaris, has been creating unforgettable safari experiences in Botswana for over four decades, bringing to life their core mission: Empowering Botswana Through Tourism. Desert & Delta Safaris connects exceptional travel experiences for guests with holistic empowerment that considers entire ecosystems—from local employment to sustainability that encompasses nature, wildlife, communities, and culture; history, the present and the future.
Epic Experiences is a specialised portfolio of seven transformative itineraries by Desert & Delta Safaris, designed to educate, inspire, and connect travellers with a deeper, more responsible understanding of Botswana. These immersive journeys go beyond traditional wildlife safaris, allowing guests to engage with the people, places, and conservation challenges that shape the country.
Epic Experiences totally talks to the traveller of the future and taps into micro trends that truly benefit the communities in Botswana - creativity of the products and B2B and B2C storytelling is very powerful. They have created wonderful bespoke and truly inspiring and unique ways to experience Botswana.
Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary is a non-profit ethical sanctuary located near Stanford, South Africa, dedicated to the rescue and lifelong care of captive big cats. Founded on the principles of responsible tourism, animal welfare, and education, the sanctuary is home to over 20 rescued lions, leopards, tigers and caracals. At Panthera Africa, no breeding, trading, or physical interaction with the animals is permitted — setting them apart as a leader in promoting ethical wildlife experiences.
Panthera Africa is leading the way globally in educating the world about big cats through both local education programmes and a powerful ambassador network who share the story internationally.
The ATTA® Media Voice for Action Award recognises the importance of creativity, accurate storytelling, ethical focus, and audience impact to amplify the message of responsible tourism in Africa.
The East Africa Travel Podcast by Diary of a Muzungu is an upbeat, personal exploration of sustainable tourism in Uganda and wider East Africa. Hosted by Charlotte Beauvoisin, a conservation communicator, award-winning travel blogger and trainer, the podcast captures unscripted moments and conversations with tourism changemakers. Each episode blends storytelling with the natural soundtrack of East Africa—the dawn chorus, the honking of hippos, and chimpanzees calling from deep inside the forest—while highlighting responsible travel.
Charlotte Beauvoisin deserves global fame for her beautiful podcast series that both inspire, inform and entertain while at the same time giving all the interviewees a voice
Bella writes about Hiking Kenya’s Beautiful Loita Hills On A Walking Safari with Walking Wild as a prime example of how tourism can be reimagined to prioritise community benefit and environmental stewardship. By choosing to walk rather than drive, travellers minimise their ecological footprint and engage more deeply with the landscape. The initiative supports local employment, preserves cultural traditions, and promotes conservation. It’s a model that aligns with sustainable development goals and offers a blueprint for responsible tourism practices.
Bella captures the beauty of slow walking and opens the eyes of her audience to untold travel stories for female travellers.
Lisa’s long read, Inside the new breed of safari camps taking conservation seriously, for Condé Nast Traveller, showcases three luxury lodges whose owners are a key part of the conservation of huge tracts of land – and whose lodges will hopefully bring tourists and philanthropists to experience the need for tourism-led conservation, both for the communities and the creatures in the area.
A beautifully written narrative that shows how luxury travel in Africa with the right owners really is making an impact on communities and wildlife.
The ATTA® Emerging Changemaker Award recognises an organisation (NGO, organisation, or business) that is at the beginning of the journey and committed to having a positive impact on people and/or planet through an inspiring project or collective actions.
Lowapi drone light shows offer breathtaking story living experiences that bring ancient, myth and legend stories at cultural heritage sites to “life” using 500–1,000 miniature drones, choreographing in synch to transform these sites into open-air theatres, where the night sky becomes a canvas for cultural expression. Amplifying culture and heritage sites into experiential, “story-living” destinations, and seamlessly blending the authenticity of the narrative with the science of technology – this approach to destination marketing allows Lowapi to bridge the more technical side of the experience with the rich tapestry of mythology and folklores that define these destination sites, allowing visitors to step into the story itself, seeing it unravel before their eyes, feeling its emotional pulse, and connecting with the destination on a deeper level.
This innovation has potential to bring to life untold stories of the African continent and showcase the rich culture in the continent. It is a beautiful creation that needs to be scaled in all African countries, to try and preserve and conserve cultural tourism.
EyeOpenerWorks is a social enterprise dedicated to inclusive and sustainable development through skills training, community engagement, and systems change. In Uganda, EyeOpenerWorks leads the implementation of the Ukarimu Programme – a collaborative initiative with public and private sector partners to empower vulnerable youth and women with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive in the tourism sector.
Ukarimu is Africa’s first open-source, contextualised tourism and hospitality training curriculum, built on active learning methodologies that prioritise practical, hands-on experience. The curriculum promotes job readiness and career advancement for underserved communities while supporting the development of responsible tourism practices.
One of the challenges that African Tourism faces is skills development which would then lead to decent work opportunities. The programme plays a pivotal role in social cohesion, empowerment and development and contributes significantly to service excellence in the sector. Working with more grassroot organisations will further benefit communities.
The Zambezi Queen Collection by Mantis offers an all-inclusive river safari experience on the Chobe River, where Namibia meets Botswana. Comprising the elegant Zambezi Queen, three intimate Chobe Princess houseboats, and the land-based Ichingo Chobe River Lodge, guests can enjoy exceptional game viewing, birding, fishing, and cultural excursions in one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions. But this journey goes beyond the riverbanks. Guided by the MANTIS ethos, “Man And Nature Together Is Sustainable,” our purpose is clear: to protect, preserve, and uplift. We engage with local communities to identify real needs and co-create meaningful, long-term projects that drive positive change.
The project is well thought out, considering the environment sustainability and scalability, and certainly a best practice in Africa.
