The finalists were chosen from 27 semi-finalist entrepreneurs representing diverse tourism offerings across the country, including guest houses, lodges, tour operators, car rental and shuttle services, taverns and conference centres.
Didi Moyle, COO and acting CEO of SA Tourism said: “We are very proud of these emerging entrepreneurs who are investing their time, passion and absolute dedication to grow the tourism industry. The Ministry and South African Tourism congratulate all finalists. They are the cream of the industry's emerging entrepreneurs.
“The ETEYA finalists are a true reflection of this year's UNWTO ‘Celebrating Diversity through Tourism' theme through their innovative and diverse product offerings. The country's diversity is one of the most significant attractions from a leisure and business tourism perspective. Through ETEYA we extend the wealth of authentically diverse South African tourism experiences.”
ETEYA is a South African Tourism initiative in partnership with South African Breweries.
The finalists have each received R10 000 to help bolster their businesses and will all be flown to Germany in March next year to participate at ITB (International Tourism Bourse), the global travel trade show. Prior to ITB, the finalists will participate in a thorough training programme led by Tourism Enterprise Partnership (TEP) focusing on market access, marketing, and linkages with German Tour Operators.
The 2009/10 ETEYA winner and three runners-up will be announced at an Awards Ceremony at INDABA in May 2010.
