On Saturday, we gathered at the Rupert Museum to celebrate an important milestone in the DEDAT Visit Stellenbosch Tourist Guide Training Programme. Sixteen new tour guides officially received their guiding badges and cards, including nine Adventure Guides and seven Culture Guides.

In a world where regenerative tourism, inclusive development, and transformation are often discussed as concepts, they become real when newcomers to the sector and those already in it seeking promotion are supported, celebrated, and meaningfully included.
The tenacity, grit and dedication of these learners have been truly inspiring. Alongside their professional growth, they have built strong relationships, remarkable camaraderie and a genuine commitment to the industry. They are undoubtedly leaders in the making.

A sincere thank you to the Stellenbosch tourism sector for embracing these guides and creating opportunities for them to gain experience and establish themselves within the industry. Thank you also to DEDAT for making this programme possible and for trusting us to deliver through alternative learning approaches that place practical experience, mentorship and personal development at the centre of learning.

While this event celebrated an achievement, it also marked the beginning of new journeys. The culture guides have already progressed to further regional qualifications, while the adventure guides will continue with Mountain Bike Guide training in July.
Good tourism is not measured by visitor numbers, marketing campaigns or economic statistics. It is measured by people — by the opportunities created, the confidence built, the careers launched, and the communities strengthened along the way.