My conversation today, is with advisory board member Essence of Africa Leanne Heigh. Our chat today will explore the inspiration behind this exciting project, what sets it apart from other travel shows, and the key factors driving its success. Leanne shares her insights on the gaps in the market, the unique African business environment, and why quality meetings and global buyers are at the heart of Essence of Africa.

Profile

I arrived in Africa in February 1994 as a young backpacker, I stayed on as a Tour Leader and within a frighteningly short period was managing the largest overland truck company on the continent.

In November of 2013, my husband James and I were asked to become joint CEOs of Tourvests operations in East Africa, Tourvest had just bought out the minority shareholders.

It also coincided with the worst trading period in the history of East African tourism as the industry reeled from terror attacks and then ebola outbreaks.

Tourvest emerged stronger from these events and restructured. I remained as CEO for the Lemala and Adrift brands which have since evolved into a group of 10 properties operating in Tanzania and Uganda, and an exciting activity brand offering exhilarating adventures on the River Nile. We are all incredibly proud of the team members that make up the #spiritoflemala and the positive impact that our tourism work has on our staff, their families and the communities from which they are drawn.

Lemala is a happy place and I am proud to play my part in its work.