YNG Forum in the Wild
SOUTH AFRICA
Tourvest Integrated Tourism Group
Tourvest is southern Africa’s leading integrated tourism group, operating businesses which range from travel management companies, hotels, lodges and restaurants to craft, curio and jewellery shops, and foreign exchange bureaux, under some 60 sector-leading brands, employing more than 5 000 people.
The group was created in 1997 through the incorporation of a number of long-established tourism companies. That same year, Tourvest listed on the Johannesburg Securities Exchange. In August 2008, it was acquired by a black economic empowerment consortium (IDC, Old Mutual and Guma) and delisted.
Tourvest’s steady growth as a leading integrated tourism group has been driven by a commitment to exceptional quality, service and value; its people-centred business philosophy; the development of mutually rewarding partnerships; constant innovation; and world-class technology. Tourvest is based in South Africa and is a global business, with operations in southern, East and West Africa, India, the United Kingdom, Spain and the Caribbean, as well as having principals, associates, and clients throughout the world.
Tourvest is an entrepreneurial business and each division is run as an autonomous business unit with separate boards supported in its efforts by head office.
Tourvest Global Footprint
Tourvest Destination Management
Tourvest Destination Management, with its purpose of “One team creating memorable experiences through travel”, is based in South Africa, but is a global business with offices, representatives and GSAs in 46 source markets. We serve the business-to-business environment of tour operators, travel agents, corporate companies and sporting bodies.
Partnering with Tourvest Destination Management offers authentic and memorable experiences for inbound leisure travellers to Africa. First-hand knowledge and experience of our destinations means that dedicated travel specialists are qualified to design tailor-made itineraries around the needs of the client.
Through our inbound leisure brands, we specialise in the following African destinations: Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, Madagascar, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zanzibar, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
In addition to its destination management business, it also houses sports travel companies which provide tailor-made group travel packages, school sports tours, holistic skiing experiences and cultural travel programmes to various markets both locally and internationally. With a global footprint, this unit’s primary competencies are accommodation, transport, logistics, staffing, event and venue management, as well as consulting.
Why Tourvest Destination Management?
1. Part of an Integrated Tourism Group
Tourvest is a highly diversified, large, stable entity with a material presense throughout Africa and selective investments globally.
Our customers benefit from this diverse infrastructure through:
- Better supply chain opportunities
- Deep 360° understanding of the overall tourism ecosystem
- Material Influence in all areas of operations
2. Global Footprint
Our extensive network of offices spans key cities and exotic destinations across Africa and Europe, ensuring seamless service delivery. From our headquarters in Johannesburg, South Africa, to Cape Town, White River, and Windhoek, we cater to clients’ needs efficiently. Further afield, our offices in Maun, Nairobi, Mombasa, and Zanzibar provide access to East Africa’s diverse landscapes. Additionally, we have a presence in Entebbe, Antananarivo, and representation in Italy. With destinations including Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, and Tanzania, among others, we facilitate unforgettable experiences. Our reach also extends to island paradises like Madagascar, Mozambique, and Zanzibar.
3. Our People
Our people are the soul of our business, and make all the difference!
Our people do what it takes to find solutions.
The loyalty and longevity of our people deliver stability in relationships.
4. Innovation
Cutting edge event technology solution has re-imagined the way both businesses and attendees connect between multiple venues and locations around the world.
Continuous monitoring of global trends and trend setting developments within our destination (Business Development Department).
5. Ownership of product
We have developed highly researched and curated product selections to deliver expectable third-party services. We learned that being able to guarantee quality is often only possible through full ownership, as it allows for better control.
| Our owned product includes: | And through Tourvest: |
| Scheduled Guided Tours | Hotels |
| Foreign Language Guides | Lodges |
| Transfers and Charters | Camps |
| Concierge Services | Activities |
| Overland Adventure Tours |
6. Mitigation of Business Risks
Being part of the Tourvest Integrated Tourism Group, Tourvest Destination Management has a comprehensive general liability cover.
Comprehensive and consistent health, hygiene and safety protocols have been adopted in all areas of operation.
7. Commitment
- To fulfill your expectations by close and in depth consultation with you.
- Make available our expertise, industry recognition and strong-founded relationships.
- To enhance your ideas with our creative, innovative and realistic approach.
- To create strong, professional relationships between our key staff and the hosts working on the project.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Tourvest is unique because we are the only organisation with a presence in every facet of the travel and tourism value chain. Due to this, the company is well-placed to assist the tourism sector in addressing issues related to conserving of our natural environment and heritage and the rising challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
Tourvest’s continued success is not just a factor of our operational or financial performance, it is a demonstration of our commitment to a positive and mutually-beneficial relationship with every stakeholder who is affected by our business and the well-being of the communities and the natural environment.
To this effect, one of Tourvest’s key strategic imperatives is to positively impact the long- term sustainability of our natural environment and society, particularly the communities in which we operate and the tourism attractions on which much of our business is based. We are responsible and accountable for our role in these communities and countries; economically, socially and environmentally. Our accountability is lived through the DNA of our core business values and through our company culture. Tourvest aims to positively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals, as outlined by the United Nations agenda 2030.
Green Seat – Travel With A Purpose: In line with the company values, the Green Seat concept was developed to allow our customers to contribute to our people, planet and wildlife.
PEOPLE
We value the essence of humanity in everything we do and aim to improve people’s lives.
PLANET
We are committed to treading lightly on this earth in our everyday actions.
WILDLIFE
What would we be as an industry without our precious natural resources, including our wildlife?
Our Green Seat Beneficiaries
- African Home Creative
- Tumshangilieni Mtoto Children’s Home and School
- Shelter Botswana
- Bishop Kameeta Kindergarten
- Trees for Tourism
- Wild Entrust Africa
- The Endangered Wildlife Trust
- Wild Entrust Africa
- Travel For Impact
- Tourism Supporting Conservation
- Otjimboyo Conservancy
Company Organogram
Special Projects Team
Project Lead
Alisha Kirk
I left the Stockbroking and financial world to start my travel career as a National Tourist Guide in 2009 – specialist in high-end corporate incentive groups and government officials from around the world.
I joined Tourvest Destination Management as Head Guide in 2012 to later develop the TDM Guide Academy. My passion and drive for all things challenging has awarded me the head of special projects since 2014, such as Global Staffing Manager at the FIFA 2014 World Cup in Brazil and YPO family events for the last 8 years.
Tourism fuels my being. I could not deliver and realise any dream without the support, freedom and network provided by Tourvest. There is no I in the Tourvest Family.
2nd in Charge
Felicity Vieira
My name is Felicity Vieira, otherwise known as Felix. I am the Chief Marketing and Procurement Officer of Tourvest Destination Management, where I have worked for 26 years.
I have been in the industry for 34 years and have had various sales, marketing, and business development roles with companies like Springbok Atlas, Casa do Sol and ThornyBush prior to working for TDM. Head-hunted by Martin Wiest; I was involved in the Sales and Marketing and overall business development of Welcome Tourism brand before being made a director and eventually a chief of TDM.
I have an incredible passion for the industry and the country in which I live. My idea of escapism is spending quality time with my husband and two children in the bush. I love being a mom and a work / life balance is very important to me. My other pastimes include delicious food (especially of the Italian and Asian variety) excellent wine, and spending time in my garden.
“If you can dream it, you can make it happen” – Walt Disney
Finance
Michelle Nunes
My name is Michelle. I have been with Tourvest Destination Management for 15 years and have had the privilege of working across various departments within the group. My experience covers operations, procurement, business development, project management, strategic planning, risk management, and the delivery and management of world-class events.
My experience over the past 15 years has specifically been around major sports events in various countries such as Angola, Brazil, Russia, London, Japan, and South Africa, where I held the position of Country Director and worked with many global sponsors, media, sports federations, VIPs and a number of sports marketing and event organizers from across the globe.
My passion for Africa has brought me back to my roots (Africa) where I now fulfil a role of business analyst within Tourvest Destination Management, and always welcome the opportunity to assist on any special project. Being at Tourvest over the years I have learnt that you never stand alone, it takes a village, and we are one.
Transport
Mark Thomson
My name is Mark Thomson. I have been in the Tourism & Hospitality industry for 35 years. I started off at the old Carlton Hotel working my way up from a Mail & Message clerk to Management. After spending 10 years here, I moved on working in other 5 star hotels including Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, based in Zimbabwe.
In 2008, I was employed at Tourvest Destination Management to manage the accommodation for 70,000+ pax for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. After the 2010 World Cup, I took over our Risk Accommodation department where I have been ever since. When ever we have special projects, I jump on board to assist, like the Rugby World Cup 2015 – London, Rugby World Cup 2019 – Japan and various ASFE programmes.
My passion is Tourism and with 5 Star service running through my blood, I strive to ensure that our guests will want to come back again and again.
Motto – Arrive as a guest, leave as a friend.
Admin, Inventory & Hotel Manager
Annelize Engelbrecht
I am the Tourvest Destination Management SA Office Manager, and have been with the company since May 2017.
As a perfectionist, my career development always aimed to be filled with punctuality, loyalty, legendary service, respect, language skills and attitude as well as behaviour skills.
What I enjoy about working at Tourvest, is that the company is committed to its people, customers and suppliers by providing exceptional quality, service and value in a sustainable manner.
Communication & Creative
Bianca Engelbrecht
As a determined multi-media designer, and marketer in training, I am eager to learn and perfect my skills.
I love experimenting with different mediums and am constantly learning and applying new methods of artistry. I am fueled by a creative passion that has no limits in its possibilities and is endless in its beauty.
“Creativity is piercing the mundane to find the marvelous.” – Bill Moyers
YNG Forum in the Wild: Week at a Glance
Day of Arrival
WELCOME
Arrival day is dedicated to extending a warm African welcome to our guests. Our professional meet and greet team personally welcomes each guest off their flight.
The arrival service includes private family transfers from the airport to the hotel, complete with light snacks and refreshments. Every aspect of our service features personalized event branding, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled.
Upon arrival at the hotel, each guest is greeted in true YPO style by some African entertainment and the hotel General Manager, who offers hot towels and a specially-made welcome drink. Every room features a special welcome treat, thoughtfully prepared for our guests.
Accommodation: City
OPTION 1: SANDTON SUN
A landmark on the Sandton skyline, Sandton Sun is the ultimate destination complex seamlessly integrated into the Sandton City Shopping Centre Diamond Walk and the Sandton Convention Centre, and within walking distance to Nelson Mandela Square and the Sandton Gautrain Station.
Ideal for business, leisure and groups or conferencing travellers, this unique destination offers guests an unmatched experience with a choice of 557 five-star rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, a fully equipped fitness centre, world-class restaurants and a wide range of convenient meeting spaces.
OPTION 2: RADISSON RED JOHANNESBURG ROSEBANK
The Radisson RED Johannesburg Rosebank serves as the ideal base for exploring South Africa’s dynamic financial hub. Situated in the vibrant Rosebank suburb, just 10 kilometers from the bustling center of Johannesburg, this hotel offers an unmatched stay.
Guests will be immersed in a lively atmosphere, surrounded by bold designs and bespoke wallpaper. The hotel encourages interaction, inviting guests to challenge staff to a game of pinball or spend the day relaxing at the rooftop pool and terrace. Each of the 222 accommodations is thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience in mind, featuring king-sized beds, rain showers, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
OPTION 3: HYATT HOUSE ROSEBANK
Hyatt House Johannesburg Rosebank offers a welcoming retreat in the trendy, upmarket suburb of Rosebank. This modern, luxurious aparthotel features spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, each equipped with a full kitchenette, comfortable living spaces, and plush beds. Guests can unwind on the sunny rooftop pool deck, enjoying the perfect blend of relaxation and style.
Conveniently located near the Rosebank Shopping Mall and the Rosebank Gautrain Station, the hotel is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of Johannesburg.
Accommodation: Bush
OPTION 1: KUBU SAFARI LODGE
Conveniently located near Hoedspruit, Kubu Safari Lodge is the ideal base for exploring the surrounding region, often hailed as the gateway to a wildlife oasis. The lodge offers a captivating dinner, bed, and breakfast package, providing guests with an immersive experience.
Kubu Lodges also boasts a wide range of activities, including guided safaris in open safari vehicles into Kruger National Park and on-site guided walking safaris. Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of other exciting activities in the area, ensuring a diverse and memorable stay.
OPTION 2: KRUGER UNTAMED
Experience Kruger Untamed’s hidden sanctuaries, where untouched landscapes embrace you in tranquil beauty. Retreat to thoughtfully designed canvas suites, ensuring extraordinary comfort amidst the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park. Surrender to the symphony of nature’s sounds, embarking on a soulful journey of relaxation and renewal. Reconnect with the earth’s rhythms, guided by the magic of the wild, and awaken refreshed, ready for another day of soulful adventure.
OPTION 3: MONGENA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
The third option is an authentic experience under canvas. Imagine staying in your own pop-up canvas camp, built in the midst of a Big Five reserve. Create your own sanctuary; this is Africa at its rawest.
Mongena Private Game Reserve is nestled within the malaria-free northern region of the 18,000-hectare Dinokeng Game Reserve, a mere 40-minute drive from Pretoria and a 60-minute drive by tar road from OR Tambo Airport in the province of Gauteng, South Africa.
Offsites
RHINO DEHORNING
Participate in a conservation effort aimed at protecting rhinos from poaching by engaging in a rhino dehorning activity. This unique experience offers firsthand insight into the challenges and initiatives involved in preserving wildlife. The rhino dehorning and collaring will be led by the country’s leading wildlife vet and their expert team. Exclusively for YPO, the vet team will join the group for breakfast, providing YNGers with the opportunity to interact and have meaningful conversations with the veterinary team, deepening their understanding of wildlife conservation efforts.
Optional Extras
WALKING MEDITATION WITH A MONK OR SHAMAN
During the walking meditation led by the monk or shaman, guests experience a serene journey where each step becomes a profound connection to the present moment. Guided by ancient wisdom, they move slowly and mindfully, immersing themselves in the rhythm of nature and the insights shared by their guide. This experience blends physical movement with spiritual presence, fostering a deep sense of inner peace and clarity as guests engage with the world around them in a harmonious and reflective way.
POP-UP BUSH DELIGHTS DURING GAME DRIVES, SUCH AS GOURMET POPCORN AND GIN BARS
During game drives, pop-up bush delights like gourmet popcorn and gin bars add a touch of luxury and excitement to the adventure. As guests pause in the wilderness, they can enjoy freshly popped, flavored popcorn or savor a selection of artisanal gins, all set up in stylish, temporary stations. These indulgent treats enhance the safari experience, offering a unique blend of nature and sophistication amid the rugged beauty of the landscape.
POP-UP CASUAL HAND-CRAFTED CHOCOLATE AND WINE PAIRING OR WHISKY PAIRING
During game drives, pop-up casual experiences featuring hand-crafted chocolate paired with wine or whisky offer a delightful and sophisticated treat. As guests pause to take in the stunning surroundings, they can enjoy artisanal chocolates paired with carefully selected wines or whiskies. These pop-up stations provide a luxurious and relaxed moment, enhancing the safari experience with a blend of rich flavors and scenic beauty.
Note: The above activities are subject to budget.
Education
We have carefully selected resources that align with our vision of extraordinary personal development and transformation. The professionals we have in mind are renowned for their expertise as personal development coaches, authors, and motivational speakers.
Their approach, inspired by concepts like “Living your Strongest Story,” is designed to motivate participants to live a focused and significant life story. Through an interactive and reflective process, attendees will gain clarity and direction for their lives, defining their purpose, embracing their roles, and maximizing their strengths.
What truly sets these professionals apart is their deep understanding of the YPO culture—a culture that emphasizes excellence, growth, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Their familiarity with this unique environment enables them to craft powerful experiences that resonate with our attendees on a profound level. As members of the organization themselves, they are curating a bespoke program designed specifically to inspire, challenge, and elevate our group, making them the perfect fit for this event.
Socials
CONNECT DINE AROUND DINNER
The event will be hosted at the homes of local members, with the group divided among three to four residences. Each home will receive an allowance to support catering, décor, and entertainment, where applicable. The local hosts will craft their own unique dinner experience, with each home themed and entertained according to the host’s personal touches. The local members will be responsible for hosting the YNG event, and we will arrange return transfers for each home, ensuring a seamless and memorable evening for all participants.
CLOSING DINNER