In the sixth episode of our online discussion series, focused on the challenges and changes facing the local tourism industry, we put Soweto in the spotlight.
As we look ahead to the new tourism landscape post-Covid we invited local tourism entrepreneurs, cultural leaders and social activists from Soweto to discuss what they think the future holds for the next stage of Soweto’s tourism story.
Hosted by Johannesburg In Your Pocket Editor Laurice Taitz-Buntman, our panelists for this discussion were:
– Sisa Ntshona, CEO of SA Tourism
– Lebo Malepa, founder of Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers
– Raymond Rampolokeng, AKA McBirdie, Soweto’s birding guide and founder of Africa Bird Tours
– Nomsa Mazwai (aka Nomisupasta), social activist, founder of #FunkItImWalking and Soweto Theatre GM
– Mmasechaba Nonyane, co-founder of Native Rebels
Watch the full panel discussion online here
Some key topics covered in this panel discussion
- How can Soweto better diversify its attractions?
- What role can conservation play in the future of Soweto’s tourism?
- What is the impact of a lack of basic services on developing viable tourism routes?
- How can the average visitor experience of Soweto be shifted to a longer stay?
- What are the challenges hindering the growth of entrepreneurship in Soweto?
- How can Soweto’s youth be supported in joining the tourism industry?
- How can Soweto ensure that its attractions retain their authenticity?
- What are Soweto’s new tourism assets?
- How do we honour Soweto’s history while promoting its contemporary culture?