Grand Africa Safaris is a luxury DMC based in Cape Town and Arusha, founded with a mission to deliver the ultimate safari experience. A division of the award-winning Ker & Downey® Africa group, we service luxury travel agencies and boutique tour operators in North America and English-speaking markets across the globe.

As the reigning Mrs. Universe Africa 2023, I've been fortunate to experience incredible support and opportunities. My journey to the crown has been shaped by my commitment to promoting diversity and representation in the industry.I've dedicated myself to making a positive impact, striving to advocate for important causes such as combating human trafficking, addressing gender-based violence, and promoting education. I am grateful for the respect and admiration that these efforts have… Show more As the reigning Mrs. Universe Africa 2023, I've been fortunate to experience incredible support and opportunities. My journey to the crown has been shaped by my commitment to promoting diversity and representation in the industry.I've dedicated myself to making a positive impact, striving to advocate for important causes such as combating human trafficking, addressing gender-based violence, and promoting education. I am grateful for the respect and admiration that these efforts have garnered.My deep love for my continent drives my wholehearted support for African travel and tourism. I'm fortunate to have gained valuable expertise in the industry, and I strive to contribute in meaningful ways with my negotiation, sales, and marketing skills.My passion for wildlife preservation, sustainability, and environmental awareness motivates me to work towards creating a better world. I truly believe in the power of small actions to bring about significant change, and I am committed to raising awareness about these important issues.As Mrs. Universe Africa 2023, I hope to inspire others to embrace their strengths and make a positive difference. I aim to serve as a humble role model for women everywhere, encouraging them to recognize their own power to shape their destinies. Show less

As an ambassador for the BLoved Foundation, I endeavor to embody the essence of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending broken pottery with gold. Just as this art embraces the scars and increases the value of the pottery, BLoved is dedicated to restoring and empowering the broken, vulnerable, and abandoned, helping them understand their true worth.Restoration is at the heart of BLoved's mission. It signifies not only the process of making something old new again but also the act of giving… Show more As an ambassador for the BLoved Foundation, I endeavor to embody the essence of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending broken pottery with gold. Just as this art embraces the scars and increases the value of the pottery, BLoved is dedicated to restoring and empowering the broken, vulnerable, and abandoned, helping them understand their true worth.Restoration is at the heart of BLoved's mission. It signifies not only the process of making something old new again but also the act of giving back what was stolen from individuals: their future, their health, and most importantly, their hope.Through the development of four unique programs, BLoved collaborates with purpose-driven organizations and projects to enable the restoration of as many people as possible. These programs encompass a wide range of initiatives, including feeding schemes, youth development, community aid projects, and the fight against human trafficking. The common thread that runs through all these projects is love and care, recognizing that love has the power to heal, forgive, and overcome all obstacles.As an ambassador for the BLoved Foundation, I have the opportunity to join in the journey of restoration. Together, we can make a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most, spreading love, hope, and empowerment to create a brighter future for all. Show less

As a leader in the luxury and lifestyle business, I excel in the field of consulting and enhancing the lives of high-net-worth individuals. With expertise in luxury lifestyle and experiences, I offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to the unique needs and desires of my esteemed clientele.My role as a luxury lifestyle consultant encompasses various facets, including property investment, where I provide strategic guidance and access to exclusive opportunities. Whether it's… Show more As a leader in the luxury and lifestyle business, I excel in the field of consulting and enhancing the lives of high-net-worth individuals. With expertise in luxury lifestyle and experiences, I offer a comprehensive range of services that cater to the unique needs and desires of my esteemed clientele.My role as a luxury lifestyle consultant encompasses various facets, including property investment, where I provide strategic guidance and access to exclusive opportunities. Whether it's finding the perfect luxury property or advising on investment opportunities, I ensure that clients make informed decisions that align with their refined tastes and financial goals.I also specialize in creating personalized travel arrangements, curating bespoke itineraries that cater to the discerning traveler. From exclusive accommodations to immersive cultural experiences, my attention to detail and insider knowledge ensures that my clients embark on unforgettable journeys tailored to their specific desires.As an image consultant, I possess a keen eye for style and personal branding. My expertise in wardrobe curation, grooming, and overall presentation empowers your clients to exude confidence and make a lasting impression in any setting. Whether it's for business or personal endeavors, I help individuals craft an image that reflects their unique personality and aspirations.Overall, as the Director of your luxury and lifestyle business, I am committed to delivering unparalleled experiences and opportunities to those seeking an elevated lifestyle. My deep understanding of the intricacies of high-end living, coupled with your unwavering commitment to excellence, establishes me as a trusted advisor and partner in creating a refined and exclusive lifestyle for my esteemed clientele. Show less

White Desert Antarctica, specializes in curating once-in-a-lifetime and exclusive trips to Antarctica. Operating in Antarctica for almost 20 years, we fly you 5 hours from Cape Town International Airport to Antarctica in a private plane during Antarctica’s summer - we have a very short season which runs from mid November to early February. This Antarctic adventure is truly unparalleled and is perfect for those bespoke individuals who have Antarctica on their bucket list and would like to… Show more White Desert Antarctica, specializes in curating once-in-a-lifetime and exclusive trips to Antarctica. Operating in Antarctica for almost 20 years, we fly you 5 hours from Cape Town International Airport to Antarctica in a private plane during Antarctica’s summer - we have a very short season which runs from mid November to early February. This Antarctic adventure is truly unparalleled and is perfect for those bespoke individuals who have Antarctica on their bucket list and would like to have a unique and luxury experience. Show less

Zephné Weston offers unwavering commitment as a Property Practitioner, offering invaluable guidance to both buyers and sellers alike throughout the entire residential search process. She exhibits a strong work ethic and total dedication to her clients, having worked across a culturally diverse array of clients' needs in Europe, the UK, United States, Mexico, and South Africa. Zephné proudly considers herself a CEO, or Chief Energy Officer, committed to a life of positivity, joy, and… Show more Zephné Weston offers unwavering commitment as a Property Practitioner, offering invaluable guidance to both buyers and sellers alike throughout the entire residential search process. She exhibits a strong work ethic and total dedication to her clients, having worked across a culturally diverse array of clients' needs in Europe, the UK, United States, Mexico, and South Africa. Zephné proudly considers herself a CEO, or Chief Energy Officer, committed to a life of positivity, joy, and sustained success in her personal and professional pursuits. As she notes, "A home is where love resides, memories are created, friends always belong and where laughter never ends." Show less

Leveraging over a decade of experience in the luxury travel sector, I established Asante Travel, a boutique tour operator committed to designing bespoke experiences across Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. By cultivating strategic partnerships with suppliers and leveraging expert negotiation abilities, I consistently provided distinguished offerings to discerning clientele. With a dedication to sustainable tourism practices, I had the honor of collaborating with principled teams and… Show more Leveraging over a decade of experience in the luxury travel sector, I established Asante Travel, a boutique tour operator committed to designing bespoke experiences across Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. By cultivating strategic partnerships with suppliers and leveraging expert negotiation abilities, I consistently provided distinguished offerings to discerning clientele. With a dedication to sustainable tourism practices, I had the honor of collaborating with principled teams and organizations characterized by the highest standards of quality and ethics.Regrettably, I temporarily had to relinquish my position due to a health concern. Show less

As the executive leader of product contracting and strategic initiatives, I directed a high-achieving contracting group focused on maximizing corporate revenue. Through close cooperation with the CEO, Sales and Operations functions and outstanding relationships with suppliers, I coordinated the creation of distinctive and progressive programs. Furthermore, I played a pivotal part in conceptualizing, designing, and successfully launching the new luxury brand, Ikewana, with a primary emphasis on… Show more As the executive leader of product contracting and strategic initiatives, I directed a high-achieving contracting group focused on maximizing corporate revenue. Through close cooperation with the CEO, Sales and Operations functions and outstanding relationships with suppliers, I coordinated the creation of distinctive and progressive programs. Furthermore, I played a pivotal part in conceptualizing, designing, and successfully launching the new luxury brand, Ikewana, with a primary emphasis on delivering ultra-premium travel experiences in Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands. Show less

As the Business Development Manager for African Travel Concept, I served as the company's ambassador domestically and abroad. My responsibilities entailed close collaboration with the product contracting team to craft tailored programs catering to distinct markets. Furthermore, I played an active role at global trade shows and partnered with the contracting team to secure preferential rates for distinctive and unique programs. Notably, my fluency in Spanish proved invaluable in meaningfully… Show more As the Business Development Manager for African Travel Concept, I served as the company's ambassador domestically and abroad. My responsibilities entailed close collaboration with the product contracting team to craft tailored programs catering to distinct markets. Furthermore, I played an active role at global trade shows and partnered with the contracting team to secure preferential rates for distinctive and unique programs. Notably, my fluency in Spanish proved invaluable in meaningfully impacting Latin American markets. Show less

uring my time with Tourvest Travel Services’ corporate division, I played a pivotal role in securing in-house corporate contracts. I excelled at managing numerous successful responses to requests for proposals and further developed my ability to deliver poised and compelling presentations to C-level executives within large enterprises. Through dedicated efforts, I strengthened the company's corporate client portfolio and demonstrated experience in collaborating cross-functionally to achieve new… Show more uring my time with Tourvest Travel Services’ corporate division, I played a pivotal role in securing in-house corporate contracts. I excelled at managing numerous successful responses to requests for proposals and further developed my ability to deliver poised and compelling presentations to C-level executives within large enterprises. Through dedicated efforts, I strengthened the company's corporate client portfolio and demonstrated experience in collaborating cross-functionally to achieve new business development objectives. Show less

During my tenure at Giltedge Travel, I collaborated extensively with executive leadership, sales, marketing, operations, and incentives teams to orchestrate a comprehensive and exceptional client experience program. This involved considerable domestic and international travel on behalf of Giltedge, which was an emerging company at the time. My visits to suppliers across Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands, Europe, and Asia played a vital role in bolstering outbound programs and establishing key… Show more During my tenure at Giltedge Travel, I collaborated extensively with executive leadership, sales, marketing, operations, and incentives teams to orchestrate a comprehensive and exceptional client experience program. This involved considerable domestic and international travel on behalf of Giltedge, which was an emerging company at the time. My visits to suppliers across Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands, Europe, and Asia played a vital role in bolstering outbound programs and establishing key partnerships. Notably, I had the privilege of playing an instrumental role in securing the Mexican contract for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with the Mexican Football Association, leveraging long-standing relationships. This achievement marked an inflection point for Giltedge's business, resulting in record-setting revenue generation for the company. Show less

My journey to Mexico took an unexpected turn when I crossed paths with the owner of The Mark Travel Corporation while attempting to sell timeshare. At his encouragement, I was recruited by the company and initially tasked with overseeing all operations in Mexico. This encompassed collaborating with destination management companies (DMCs) across the country, extensive travel, marketing initiatives, cooperative marketing strategy development and implementation, customer service, airport… Show more My journey to Mexico took an unexpected turn when I crossed paths with the owner of The Mark Travel Corporation while attempting to sell timeshare. At his encouragement, I was recruited by the company and initially tasked with overseeing all operations in Mexico. This encompassed collaborating with destination management companies (DMCs) across the country, extensive travel, marketing initiatives, cooperative marketing strategy development and implementation, customer service, airport management, and training suppliers on the innovative technology concepts developed by Tricept Solutions. Within a year, I expanded my portfolio to include the role of Product Contracting Manager, responsible for negotiating rates with suppliers to ensure the company maintained a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Additionally, I initiated and project-managed the first-ever virtual familiarization (FAM) trip following the significant damage caused by Hurricane Wilma, effectively contributing to increased bookings to Mexico when travelers were hesitant. As the company's headquarters were located in Milwaukee, USA, I was based in Cancun, Mexico. Despite my young age (22 years), I worked independently and without direct supervision, earning recognition from senior leadership as a key contributor to the company's success in Mexico. Show less

As a Timeshare Sales Executive at a prestigious resort in Cancun, Mexico, I demonstrated remarkable sales proficiency, effectively marketing and selling timeshare units to potential clients with finesse. My strong communication and persuasion abilities allowed me to engage prospective buyers, articulate the value proposition of timeshare offerings persuasively, and secure sales agreements. Consistently meeting or surpassing sales objectives, I showcased a keen understanding of client… Show more As a Timeshare Sales Executive at a prestigious resort in Cancun, Mexico, I demonstrated remarkable sales proficiency, effectively marketing and selling timeshare units to potential clients with finesse. My strong communication and persuasion abilities allowed me to engage prospective buyers, articulate the value proposition of timeshare offerings persuasively, and secure sales agreements. Consistently meeting or surpassing sales objectives, I showcased a keen understanding of client requirements, adept objection handling, and successful deal closure. By building trust and credibility through extensive product knowledge and a customer-centric sales approach, I cultivated enduring client relationships and encouraged repeat business. Additionally, I demonstrated exceptional adaptability by swiftly acquiring fluency in Spanish to effectively engage with the Mexican, Spanish, and wider Latin American markets. Recognized for exceptional sales performance, I advanced to the role of "closer", highlighting my proven ability to drive sales and achieve results within a luxury resort setting. I also attended several in-person training courses to enhance my skills as a salesperson, trainer, and for personal development. Show less

I successfully orchestrated and supervised restaurant and bar operations, ensuring seamless service and maintaining exceptional quality and guest satisfaction. I collaborated closely with both front-of-house and back-of-house teams, directing daily operations to deliver efficient and outstanding service.With complete financial accountability, I oversaw revenue, expenditures, and budgets for F&B procurement, executing daily financial transactions and maintaining accurate financial… Show more I successfully orchestrated and supervised restaurant and bar operations, ensuring seamless service and maintaining exceptional quality and guest satisfaction. I collaborated closely with both front-of-house and back-of-house teams, directing daily operations to deliver efficient and outstanding service.With complete financial accountability, I oversaw revenue, expenditures, and budgets for F&B procurement, executing daily financial transactions and maintaining accurate financial statements.I provided comprehensive supervision, leadership, and training to restaurant and bar staff, conducting performance assessments, managing schedules, and fostering a harmonious team environment. I ensured that the staff were proficient in the restaurant's background, menu offerings, and service standards, elevating customer experiences.By actively engaging with patrons, I ensured exceptional dining and bar experiences. I cultivated a welcoming and inclusive ambiance for all guests, preserving the restaurant's stellar reputation for hospitality.Collaborating with the Restaurant Manager and culinary team, I contributed to menu planning, enhancing the restaurant's diverse and upscale dining offerings.I maintained strict adherence to health and safety protocols, environmental sustainability practices, and operational regulations, overseeing daily inventory management, procurement, and stock replenishment for food and beverage supplies.Assisting in the organization and execution of special events, private functions, and VIP gatherings, I provided personalized service tailored to high-profile attendees.I actively supported promotional strategies and marketing campaigns, conceptualizing and implementing special promotions, events, and partnerships to attract and retain clientele.As a brand ambassador, I represented the restaurant, safeguarding its esteemed reputation and contributing to its enduring success and legacy within the prestigious London locale. Show less