Entertainment
Finding your entertainment in Tourism
The Department of Tourism looks to have the South African youth as not only tourism entrepreneurs but contributors to the growth of the country’s tourism sector.
It’s official South Africa is the top travel destination on the continent!
A known fact about Tourism is that it contributes greatly to the countries economy and that South Africa is the top tourism economy in Africa. With that being said, it only makes it twice as beneficial if the tourism sites are enjoyed by both locals and tourists from all over the world.
The Department of Tourism has long grasped the potential of travel and tourism and sees South Africa’s tourism sites as an opportunity for the youth to diversify their ‘social tastes’.
” There is quite a lot of other things to do which are cheaper a lot affordable, that are as entertaining as their normal lives. The South African youth needs to use tourism sites as other means of entertainment, said Blessing Manale, head of communication in the Department of Tourism.
Considering that Gauteng has the largest population of students, the Tourism Department recently launched the “First Timer Campaign” which also looks to introduce students coming into Gauteng to take part in the tourism spaces and experience what these sites have to offer.
In Manale’s view ,Tourism sites such as Freedom Park in Pretoria and Solomon Mhlangu Square, Vilakazi street in soweto, Capture Sites in KZN can be utilised and provide that fun element that the youth need and at same time educate about South Africa’s history.
“The entire country is available for young people, for those that are shooting 4 minute movies, for those doing music videos and birthdays. The country is abundant with tourism facilities”, Manale said.
The first timer campaign encourages youth to experience gauteng,places like the Vaal area, Maboneng, Ekurhuleni as well heritage sites and museums which the Department looks to turn into places of enjoyment.
” Looking to the future, I believe that Travel & Tourism is South Africa’s greatest resource and the country’s strategy for expansion which priorities regional integration, environment sustainability and putting the community at the heart of decisions will make for a successful combination”, Said Gloria Guevara,WTT president and CEO.
A stand off between the best university choirs, a battle of melodies and voices, creativity and great coordination.
It was a battle of the voices at the UJ Sing it out competition as choirs took to the stage to deliver a performance deserving of a trophy.
The City Waldorf powered through their performance, which saw them take the trophy home.
Nozipho Mashana, Empress South Africa contestant. A believer of working hard and using her craft to instil positive attitudes and carrying that through ones being.
Image: Supplied
Who is Nozipho Mashaba?
Nozipho Mashaba (25) from the rich grounds of Venda to the city of Gold describes herself as a humble and caring soul. A woman with determination to be successful and a hard worker.
How do you use your craft as a tool to spread positivity?
If they say it’s impossible, it’s impossible for them not for you. No matter where you come from or what you have been through the future is yours too. Our dreams are valid and we all have the power to make them come true.
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What does it mean for you to be part of Empress South Africa?
Empress South Africa is a wonderful women empowerment platform, that doesn’t discriminate your size, race, background (whether you rich or poor), you height your weight and your looks.
This is something that I’ve dreamt about doing for the longest time and day by day, moment by moment I’m getting closer to realising my dream. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have made it this far and being able to make my hometown proud.
What is that one thing you would like the world to know about you?
I love people and changing lives so much. Every time l meet someone l make an impact in their lives. I’m one person who is not scared of losing because that way l get to learn how l can make myself better. I take risks and l challenge myself to new things.
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What made you choose modelling?
I love the thrill and influence that comes with it, having to touch more lives either than those close to me through modelling is a fulfilling feeling.
Since it’s women’s month what message do have for women out there and those looking to follow in your footsteps ?
Always know that you are beautiful, important, unique, wonderful and talented. Your dreams are valid. Speak up and trust me someone will hear you. Believe in yourself, do what you want, take chances, get the right information and you can do more than you think. Dare to be ambitious and don’t let others define you cause you are enough. Lastly never settle.
This women’s month we celebrate Nozipho’s determination in using her craft to encourage young people to move beyond their limits.
Image: Supplied