| ATA launched theXchange in response to the exceptional circumstances as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on the hospitality, tourism, and meetings industry. The response by the industry is a testament to why we are confident we will get through this time, and we are actively collaborating with partners on identifying the best ways to connect. While we are unable to interact live, we can take this time to further our education, develop new skills, and connect virtually. theXchange will feature a series of conversations that focus on African travel from various perspectives; information about industry online events; and relevant resources.
‘Trailblazer Talks’ feature in-depth conversations with innovators from the tourism industry and related sectors. Join us 21 July 2020 at 11am EST (3pm GMT), with an in-depth discussion with Bheki Dube, Founder and CEO of Curiocity.
Born and raised in Johannesburg, Bheki Dube – who was named Africa’s Best Tourism Entrepreneur in this year’s Tropics Changemakers Awards – founded innovative tour company Main Street Walks at just 16-years old. Dube opened his first hostel at the age of 21, playing a key role in the regeneration of the city’s renowned Maboneng precinct. The CURIOCITY brand was born and CURIOCITY Joburg quickly became one of the city’s most popular hangouts.
Prior to this, Bheki founded MainStreetWalks a thriving inner-city tourism business that has pioneered alternative, authentic travel experiences in Johannesburg. With his energy that developed as he walked the streets of the inner city, a young Bheki started organizing walking tours for those searching for the same diverse and unique energy he had discovered. A natural progression and a whole lot of hard work lent itself to the start of CURIOCITY. Since 2013 Bheki has grown Curiocity, from 1 hostel boosting only 40beds to 3 successful properties with a portfolio 350 beds across Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.
Bheki has his sight set across the African continent and hopes to lead and change the hospitality and travel industry one Curiocity at a time. |
