ONCE A WINNER ALWAYS A WINNER
(Posted 28th April 2017)
While in Cape Town for the Africa Travel Week 2017 – which comprises World Travel Market Africa, IBTM Africa and ILTM Africa – did the exhibition organizers Reed also organize the now annual Sustainable Tourism Awards Ceremony.
This special event honours best environmental practice, proven sustainability, community engagement and not just going green once but staying green long term.
Among those honoured was the Amboseli Serena Lodge which took the Silver position of the ‘Best Partnership for Poverty Reduction’ award from a selection of finalists gathered from around Africa. Speaking before an audience of over 100 tourism professionals, media, ministers and officials, Heidi van der Watt, Managing Director of Better Tourism Africa pinpointed what makes the Award winners the leaders in responsible tourism in Africa: ‘Our winners have a vision that extends beyond the commercial – linking business success with the wellbeing of local communities and the longevity of their environments. They want to make profits with principles, communicate balance sheets alongside beliefs, and won’t undermine passion in the pursuit of professionalism. They are resilient, determined, humanizing advocates for their destinations. They are the future of tourism in Africa‘.
About African Responsible Tourism Awards
The African Responsible Tourism Awards were established in 2014 to celebrate and inspire change in the African tourism industry. The Awards are affiliated to the World Responsible Tourism Awards.
The African Responsible Tourism Awards rest on a simple principle – that all types of tourism, from niche to mainstream, can and should be organised in a way that preserves, respects and benefits destinations and local people.
The African Responsible Tourism Awards form part of the World Responsible Tourism Awards, organised by Responsible Travel. Winners in relevant categories in the continental awards are showcased at WTM London in November each year.
https://bettertourismafrica.org/african-responsible-tourism-awards/
Also check out a previous article on Amboseli Serena’s green credentials and the incredible work they have done over the years in regard of re-afforestation:
https://atcnews.org/2015/10/11/conservation-is-everyones-business-and-if-it-is-not-make-it-yours/
