For eThekwini-based Tourism Blue Flag Beach Steward, Nomfundo Ndaba, World Tourism Day means exciting possibilities! Across the world, tourism creates millions of jobs for youth and equips them with the necessary skills needed to excel in this industry. Nomfundo pointed out that tourism creates income, not just for stewards, but also for women and youth in rural areas and small businesses that contribute to this sector.
Tourism for inclusive growth means that everyone from any part of the country can participate. The lady who makes traditional beadwork and even the man who takes rickshaw rides along the promenade. WESSA Tourism Blue Flag Project Coordinator, Lindo Mkhize, explained that Beach Stewards are funded by the National Department of Tourism, with the aim of contributing to the tourism sector by supporting local coastal businesses. Stewards are hosted for a year at various tourism companies or organisations, providing capacity to the host, while gaining valuable work experience. Lindo pointed out that the Stewards are also trained in guiding, innovative skills and career development.
This support is also evident in the numerous coastal clean-ups that stewards participate in, especially after the devastating looting that took place in July. Stewards were active across KwaZulu-Natal helping small businesses and our City get back on their feet. The beach clean-ups help keep our Blue Flag Beaches clean; Blue Flag Beaches being internationally accredited for their exceptional standards of cleanliness, water quality, safety and security. These beaches are often the main attraction for visitors to enjoy in various coastal towns and cities. Stewards provide valuable environmental information to visitors and keep these Blue Flag Beaches protected.
Nomfundo Ndaba said that: “World Tourism Day celebrates inclusive growth in tourism and new employment opportunities for South African youth. We aim to support the tourism industry as it rebuilds stronger and more resilient after Covid, and we are here to make sure of it!”
For more information contact:
Sarah Alcock
WESSA Marketing and Communications Manager
Tel 033 3303931 / 076 213 9873
Email: sarah@wessa.co.za
www.wessa.org.za