SAB invests R1.9m in tourism entrepreneurs

South African Tourism (SAT) on Thursday announced that SAB will be injecting R1.9 million into training and building capacity for emerging tourism entrepreneurs through the awards.

“ETEYA is an essential part of ensuring that the smaller, black-owned tourism businesses are adequately equipped to gain entry into the tourism industry,” said SAB Enterprise Development Manager, Chris Meyiwa.

Tourism is regarded as one of South Africa's fastest growing economic drivers and a sector of the economy which sees significant employment uptake.

Meyiwa said awards such as ETEYA and the 2010 FIFA World Cup will further create sustainable growth opportunities in tourism and grassroots hospitality.

“Our main objective is the empowerment of black-owned business with the view of elevating them from the second [informal] economy to the mainstream economy,” said Meyiwa.

SAT Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Roshene Singh told reporters at the launch of ETEYA on Thursday that the competition was designed primarily to encourage and sustain Black Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) within the tourism industry.

“It is open to black entrepreneurs operating for less than five years with a staff of less than 50 people and an annual turnover not exceeding R5 million,” said Singh, adding that the awards were held for the first time in 2001.

Winners of the ETEYA competition will be announced at the annual Tourism Indaba 2009 and first place wins R100,000, second place R75,000, third place R50,000 and fourth R25,000.

“Nine finalists will automatically be part of a 12-month mentorship programme facilitated by the Tourism Enterprise Partnership [TEC].

“The opening date for entries for the 2009 ETEYA competition is 26 September and those wishing to enter can do so online or by SMS,” said the CMO.

Lebo's Backpackers in Soweto, the business which was placed second in last years ETEYA competition, hosted media at the backpackers in one of South Africa's most bustling and world-renowned townships.

Media were treated to a bicycle tour of the surrounding area in Soweto during which they had the opportunity to indulge in some of local delicacies including traditional beer, better known as Mqombothi, and a maize-based beer called Mageu.

For the more adventurous, a sliver of cow-head was on offer.

Lebo's Backpackers in Soweto has grown substantially since winning first runner-up in the ETEYA competition and was at the time of the ETEYA launch host to a touring group of Australians who said they want to experience the true vibe of the South African township.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews