WESSA Tourism Green Coast Summary Report 2018-2020

SINOVUYO LUNDA, 22 LUBANZI, ELLIOTDALE

ALFRED MONDE

ANDISWA DEVU, 30 PORT ST JOHNS

GCINISILE CELE, 27 EAST LONDON

SIGOTYANA, 31 PORT ST JOHNS

“TGC has helped me in terms of exposure to the tourism industry, selling the Eastern Cape as a tourism destination.” Andiswa was hosted by the Port St Johns Tourism Information Centre where she developed an interest in marketing her town, province and country to visitors. Andiswa is currently developing a transfers and tours business that will service the area.

“TGC changed my life with the ex- perience and skills development. It has enabled me to pursue my dreams.” Gcinisile was hosted by Areena River- side Resort and Imonti Tours. Imonti Tours supported her to register as a guide and funded her driving lessons. Gcinisile was involved in the develop- ment of new and exciting tours around East London, such as the Buffalo City Walking Tour which targeted day visitors from the cruise liners. Her dream was to become an educator and she now holds a teaching post teaching Tourism to high school learners.

“I have started my business because of TGC and my host. I am registered. I will use the knowledge that I have received in my kayaking business.” Sinovuyo was supported by his host, Wild Lubanzi and the Youth Tourism SA organisation to develop and register his kayaking business. Lubanzi Kayak Adventures takes guests up the Mcwasa River in the Lubanzi region. Sinovuyo is always looking for ways to improve his offering. Sinovuyo is linked with other youth owned kayaking businesses in Mdumbi, Coffee Bay and Port St Johns.

“I have been involved with supporting local schools to become Eco Schools during my time with TGC and decided to continue even after the project. Another great thing that changed my life was the entrepreneurship workshop which inspired me to start my own business.” Alfred was hosted by Amapondo Back- packers in Port St Johns. Alfred was inspired to start PondoAlf, a photo- graphy and printing business, that targets local schools. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted his business, but he is confident it will pick up in 2021. Alfred is looking for support with business training and equipment to grow his business.

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