Speaker

Glynn O'Leary

Chief Executive
Transfrontier Parks Destinations (TFPD)

Glynn is CEO of TFPD, specialists in rural tourism development. It began in 2006 with the meeting of leaders of the Mier and Khomani San communities, owners of a decaying lodge in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The despondent community described what they believed would be a tourism asset, as “nothing more than a white elephant.” Today, under TFPD's management, the Communities are the proud owners of the iconic !Xaus Lodge, a major contributor to job creation and local enterprise development. In 2010 TFPD was appointed by the Batlokoa community, owners of Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, to manage their about-to-be abandoned lodge. A strong partnership has evolved between the two, and Witsieshoek has since become a sought-after destination in the Drakensberg, providing access to the Amphitheatre and Tugela Waterfall. The lodge is a major contributor to the local economy and development of micro-enterprises. TFPD is also contracted to manage the Government-owned Piggs Peak Hotel in Eswatini. The recipient of local and international Responsible Tourism Awards, TFPD is also Fair Trade certified.