UMHLANGA Tourism will host its annual Tourism Hospitality Fair on February 18 at the KZN Sharks Board, offering entrepreneurs and industry players practical guidance and networking opportunities within the tourism and hospitality sector.

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The event, now in its second year, will feature registration from 09:00 to 10:00, followed by presentations from 10:00 until midday.

According to Naomi Crous, chairperson of Umhlanga Tourism, the fair is designed to give aspiring and existing business owners “clear direction on how to run and grow a business in the tourism and hospitality industry”.

“We want to equip people with the right information, whether they’re running a B&B, coffee shop, food cart, hotel, or operating tours. Events like this help entrepreneurs understand the landscape, ask questions, and walk away empowered,” said Crous.

The fair is open to guesthouses, BnBs, hotels, Air BnBs and self-catering establishments from Durban North, uMhlanga, Tongaat, Umdloti, La Lucia, Verulam, La Mercy, Mount Edgecombe and Westbrook.

This year’s fair will include 21 vendors, showcasing a range of services and products such as amenities suppliers, branded workwear companies, and other business support offerings.

Crous emphasised that the fair is “more of a networking event than a formal conference,” providing direct access to specialists.

Attendees will also benefit from insights shared by business experts from key municipal departments, including business licensing, as well as representatives from Durban Tourism, eThekwini Business Licensing, rates and revenue department, town planning and the local tourism committee.

Last year’s workshop attracted more than 300 people and was described as highly interactive.

“Our session on liquor licensing was especially successful; people left feeling equipped and confident,” said Crous.

Umhlanga Tourism will also participate in an upcoming trade show in Johannesburg, where the organisation will promote its members. Businesses wanting their brochures included can contact Sabelo through the Umhlanga Tourism office on 031 661 4257.

Entry to the fair is free, but RSVP is essential for catering purposes. Those interested can email info@umhlangatourism.co.za.

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