WE ARE AFRICA AWARDS 2023

The We Are Africa Awards celebrate the very best in independently-minded, brilliantly executed African travel initiatives

After four years, the We Are Africa Awards returned and with the help of the tribe we  celebrated the visionaries of African travel and their extraordinary achievements in design, leadership, commitment and experiences that highlight all that the continent has to offer.

AWARD CATEGORIES

Celebrate industry visionaries across four revolutionary categories.


Whether it’s a show-stopping art installation, interior overhaul, or pace-setting new build, this is for the design elevating how Africa is perceived internationally and changing the look of modern Africa.


Honouring the individual who has made a contribution to growing Africa’s reputation as a high-end travel destination and shaping Africa’s future for the better.


Recognising the efforts of a company that has made a real difference in the realms of conservation, sustainability and community upliftment.


A powerful experience or encounter on African soil that surprises, amazes and challenges the traditional expectations of African travel.

Far more than just an award, each trophy is our way of saying thank you – for challenging perceptions, for creating the boldest, bravest experiences and, above
all, for setting a sky-high standard in African luxury travel.

Winners were announced on 15 May 2023 at We Are Africa Open House and our esteemed media chose their winner out of the shortlist in each category. Take a look at the achievements of the tribe.

Extraordinary Leadership – Winner and Short List

WINNER: Grace Leonard | Elewana

Michael Lutzeyer | Grootbos Private Game Reserve

Ingram Casey | Escape+Explore

Jonathan Mutisya | Finch Hattons Camp

Sara Gardiner | Matetsi Victoria Falls

Robert More | MORE Family Collection

 

Extraordinary Experience – Winner and Shortlist:

WINNER: Grootbos Florilegium | Grootbos Private Game Reserve

Silent Safaris | Green Safaris

WILDeconomy Masterclass | andBeyond

Okavango Delta Guided Cycling Safari | Natural Selection Safaris

Escape Pod | Escape+Explore

Where Time Stands Still | Bakkrans

 

Extraordinary Commitment – Winner and Shortlist:

WINNER: The Sarara Foundation | Sarara

Dentist Outreach Program | Nomad Tanzania

Isibindi Foundation Projects | Isibindi Lodges Africa

Commitment to Pemba | Fundu Lagoon

Reforestation in Rwanda | Wilderness Rwanda

Gorillas Nest X Twongere Kawa Coko Cooperative | One&Only Rwanda

Extraordinary Design – Winner and Shortlist:

WINNER: Grumeti River Lodge | andBeyond

ORC Discovery Centre | Ongava Game Reserve

Cape Cadogan & Upper Union Restaurant | MORE Family Collection

The Art Rug Project | Molori Safari

Chisa Busanga Camp | Chisa Busanga

Lolebezi | African Bush Camps

 

A huge congratulations to all award winners and nominees! We look forward to what the tribe achieves in 2023 and beyond!