Zozibini Tunzi champions authentic African representation at Airbnb Africa Travel Summit

Former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi gave the keynote address at the Airbnb Africa Travel Summit in Johannesburg focusing on diversity and inclusion in representing Africa to the world.

“I believe that I am a true reflection of Africa. I believe that every African is a true reflection of Africa. I’m telling you this because I’m an African and I stand tall and I’m very proud about it, but also I believe that Africa should also represent itself the way I’ve represented myself,” said Zozibini.

Looking regal draped in Xhosa traditional garb the former Miss SA spoke with much authority. Zozibini introduced herself by her clan names, explaining that her umbilical cord was buried in the yard of her home in the Eastern Cape.

“They did this as a way to introduce you to your ancestors and to tell you that this is where you come from, so that they can guide and protect you. But most importantly, to tell you that of every place in the world, this is where you belong, this is where you come from.”   

On Wednesday more than 200 policymakers, tourism experts, innovators and changemakers from across the continent gathered at Johannesburg’s Victoria Yards  to explore, innovate and collaborate on building an inclusive and sustainable tourism industry across Africa.

After the Panel discussions that touched on topics such as “The future of travel in Africa”, “Using public-private partnerships to create inclusive economic opportunities”, and “Public-private partnerships to bridge the digital divide”, among others, Zozibini gave a keynote address.

“Africa should always show up knowing who it is, to the core. Because when you know who you are, you are unshaken, you are unmoved. You have the ability to take the power back and you voice back and when you have your voice back, you can tell the world who the hell you are and that’s what Africa needs,” said the 30-year-old.

 “So many stories have been told about us, so many incorrect stories have been told about us.”

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The Africa Pledge

Airbnb announced the Africa Pledge, a commitment of $500,000 (about R9.4 million) to support inclusive and sustainable growth across the continent.

The pledge follows the launch of the Economic Impact Report that showed Airbnb contributed more than R23.5 billion to the South African economy in 2022.

Over the next two years, the pledge will help governments and tourism organisations across Africa to identify and unlock new tourism opportunities; support hosts and guests, and their communities; empower the next generation of tourism entrepreneurs; and support investment in the tourism ecosystem.

“This pledge is an important demonstration of Airbnb’s continued commitment for a truly sustainable, diverse and inclusive tourism industry – a travel economy for all,” said Regional Lead Middle East Africa at Airbnb Velma Corcoran.

“We believe in the power of public and private sector partnerships to support this important work, and we look forward to working together with governments, non-profits and tourism organisations across Africa to make travel and hosting more accessible, safe, diverse, and affordable for everyone.”

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