In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of Memberships at ATTA (African Travel and Tourism Association). After an impressive tenure at South African Tourism where she served as Acting Head and Marketing Communications Manager for the UK and Ireland markets, Kgomotso brings fresh perspectives to her new role at ATTA.

Kgomotso shares her vision for ATTA memberships, comparing it to a gym membership - it's all about active participation and making the most of available resources. Just two months into her role, she's already implementing a "listening roadshow," engaging with members to understand their needs and expectations.

The conversation delves into her extensive experience at South African Tourism, where she was instrumental in analysing market trends, driving tourist arrivals, and developing strategic marketing campaigns. She discusses her approach to understanding travel trends, particularly highlighting the growing importance of multi-generational travel and how past data can inform future strategies.

Drawing from her experience working across European markets, Kgomotso offers valuable insights into market analysis, tourism growth strategies, and the importance of delivering the right message to the right audience at the right time.

Key Topics:

• ATTA's membership value proposition
• Tourism market trends and analysis
• Strategic marketing in tourism
• Multi-generational travel insights
• UK and Irish tourism markets
• African tourism development

Whether you're a tourism professional, marketing specialist, or interested in African travel market dynamics, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of African tourism.

For more information and to get in touch with Kgomotso directly, you can reach out at kgomotso@atta.travel.

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In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson sits down with Dan Pearce, CEO of TTG Media, for an insightful journey through the world of travel journalism and industry resilience.

Dan shares his fascinating career path, from aspiring actor to English teacher in Italy, before finding his true calling in journalism. His story of acquiring TTG and steering it through the tumultuous waters of the COVID-19 pandemic is both inspiring and enlightening.

Listeners will be intrigued by Dan's perspectives on:

• The enduring value of travel agents in the digital age
• TTG's evolution and commitment to promoting "smarter, better, fairer travel"
• The importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the travel industry

Dan's reflections on resilience and risk-taking post-COVID offer valuable insights for anyone in the travel industry or beyond. His passion for connecting people and fostering human relationships in the travel sector shines through, making this episode a must-listen for travel enthusiasts, industry professionals, and anyone interested in the future of travel media.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends personal anecdotes, industry expertise, and forward-thinking insights on the ever-evolving world of travel. For more information, log onto www.ttgmedia.com.

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In this episode of Kusa Cast, host Graeme Watson interviews Jillian Blackbeard, the CEO and founder of Africa's Eden. Jillian is based in Gaborone and has an extensive background in tourism, having worked for Peermont Hotels, Botswana Tourism, and as the Africa director for the World Travel and Tourism Council. She founded Africa's Eden with the vision of improving destination marketing by focusing on the needs of travellers and promoting regional collaboration.

Africa's Eden was established in early 2020 with the aim of improving regional tourism marketing. The organisation was created to address the lack of consumer-focused marketing and the need for regional collaboration in Southern Africa. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Africa's Eden has grown from 15 members to over 400.

The pandemic provided an opportunity for the tourism industry to reassess and collaborate more effectively. Africa's Eden held its first major conference in February 2022, which was a significant success despite initial uncertainties about border openings. The event highlighted the industry's resilience and the importance of face-to-face interactions. Jillian emphasised the need to break down silos within the tourism industry, including those between regions, business practices, and sectors such as aviation and tourism. Collaboration across these areas is essential for sustainable growth and development.

Africa's Eden aims to expand its reach by including new countries like Mozambique, Malawi, and Angola. The organisation continues to promote in-destination events to provide immersive experiences and foster deeper relationships between buyers and the destinations.

Tune in to hear Jillian Blackbeard share her insights on the importance of regional collaboration, sustainable tourism, and the evolving landscape of the travel industry. For more information on Africa's Eden, log onto https://africaseden.travel.

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