I have had the privilege to call 3 very different countries (South Africa, the United Kingdom and the People's Republic of China) with their different people and cultures, at different stages of development, with access to various levels of opportunity, home. I am now on a mission to transform the African tourism industry through leveraging emerging and digital technologies. I am a wife, a mother, an entrepreneur and an explorer. I am Phakamile Hlazo, the Zulu Nomad.
I am Phakamile Hlazo, a tourism entrepreneur and strategist also known in the industry as the Zulu Nomad, which is the name of the award-winning travel brand I founded in 2016. My passion for innovation and the potential presented by the digital economy in Africa's travel and tourism led me to create InAfrica, an online experience marketplace bridging the gap between African suppliers and travellers.
I am also the chair of SATSA Access, Inclusivity and Diversity board, where I contribute to the common goal so many of us share, to make our industry more inclusive.
"Technology innovation is a necessary enabler for sustainable transformation and inclusion in the African tourism industry."
Running Zulu Nomad since 2016 has introduced me to exceptional tour guides, accommodations providers, and fellow operators. They are passionate about travel in Africa but face many challenges, challenges which we at Zulu Nomad believe technology can go a long way in solving. As of July 2019, the Zulu Nomad services now extends beyond providing memorable experiences in Africa, we are architects of a technology-driven travel and tourism industry in Africa.
InAfrica is a place where people from all walks of life can find immersive and unique experiences to enjoy our beautiful continent. Our platform is a perfect place for all types of travellers to find authentic and adventure packed experiences in Africa and for African activity and tour operators to have easy access to their ideal customers and conclude their sales easily and safely, online. Our merchants are empowered with their own website and the best software to manage their tours and experiences.
I am available for tourism and innovation- related speaking engagements, workshops and specialised consulting works. This is what some of my previous and current partners and clients have to say about me
Phaka is one of the few entrepreneurs that I have worked with and who, despite numerous challenges, have remained focused and consistent over the years. She is also an exceptional communicator and her negotiation skills are a force to be reckoned with.
Phaka is a seasoned change manager with a great attitude to her work.