This program is designed for ambitious and emerging Tour Operators who are:

• Self-starters with a strong drive to grow their business and develop professionally in the tourism industry.
• Committed to growth and serious about learning and applying best practices to build a successful and sustainable business.
• Engaged learners willing to participate fully in all program activities, including workshops, syndicate work, coaching, and mentoring sessions.
• Dedicated and accountable and will invest the time and energy required to show up on time and deliver their best at every stage of the journey.
• Open to collaboration as a professional ready to network, share experiences, and work with peers for mutual growth.

If you are passionate about tourism and ready to take your business to the next level, this program is for you.

Interested operators must attend one of the three virtual training sessions for consideration for the full 7-month programme. 

The online Zoom session link will be shared by close of business on 31 March 2025 or earlier if possible.  

Space is limited, so register today by clicking below. 

If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact our Project Manager, Rob Hetem.

The project, a collaboration between the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs and SATSA, aims to empower emerging tour operators to participate meaningfully, maintain and create sustainable jobs, and contribute to the growth of the tourism industry in KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa.

The primary goal of this project is to provide selected participants with the necessary tools and support to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately promoting inclusivity and increasing access to opportunities. Through this program, we aim to equip businesses with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the tourism industry and seize growth opportunities.

The project will cover various aspects of the tourism business, including statutory requirements, tourism channels and services, commission, pricing, costing, contract and supplier management, insurance, finance, customer service, and quality assurance. Moreover, you will gain insights into marketing and networking, sales tracking, impact monitoring, advanced presentation skills, trade requirements, and more. Our mentorship program will provide medium-intensity 8-hour coaching and mentorship interactions, conducted virtually for your convenience.

Throughout the program, we will focus on personal development, goal setting, overcoming obstacles and boundaries, and scaling and developing your business with support. You will also learn about the power of partnerships, linkages, networking, trade integration, cooperative marketing, business information gathering, segmentation, and finding access to finance. Practical application in the workplace will be emphasised to ensure that the acquired knowledge can be effectively implemented.

To enhance your learning experience, we are pleased to offer Industry Immersion opportunities for four days and SATSA Growth Affiliation for the remainder of the year. These opportunities will allow you to observe and learn from reputable tourism companies, gaining valuable insights into operations and best practices.

We encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge in the tourism industry. By being selected for this development project, you will join a community of ambitious operators striving for excellence and growth in KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa.

What are the Costs? 

KZN EDTEA is subsidising the full cost of this exciting project, meaning it is free of charge. This includes all project activities, such as training sessions, travel, accommodation, etc. 

Full Project Timeline: 

1. Closing of Virtual Session Registrations, 31 March 2025 (open to all)
2. Virtual One-Day Workshops, 1 to 3 April 2025 (open to all)
3. Selection of 40 Participants to move forward in the project, 11 April 2025
4. Needs Analysis Completed, 14 April 2025 - 9 May 2025 (for the 40 selected participants from this point forward)
5. Four-Day In-Person Training Workshop (Durban), 5 – 9 May 2025
6. Needs-based Mentorship Agreement Signed, 9 May 2025
7. Mentorship Programme (8 sessions each over 3 months), May to July 2025
8. Four-Day Job Shadowing (Durban), 9 – 13 June 2025
9. Participant Profiles marketed to SATSA Members, Ongoing
10. SATSA Chapter Meeting Attendance, Quarterly - Ongoing
11. SATSA Growth Membership (free of charge), April 2025 – December 2025

Please note that dates might change without prior notice. The adjudicators determine acceptance into the 7-month program at their sole discretion.