Social Media Week Lagos

“We travel because distance & difference are the secret tonic of creativity; when we get home, home is still the same but something inside our minds has changed, and that changes everything.” - John Lehrer


In recent years, there has been intense focus on Africa as the new tourist hub. Through social media the world is able to see Africa’s rich heritage & beautiful landscape. However, the conversations omit one key group in the value chain, the African Traveler. Misconceptions have been perpetuated about the African traveler primarily due to the negative portrayal of Africans in the media. Misconceptions include overstaying, illegal immigration, among others - which have typically lead to tighter border controls and increased visa restrictions for Africans.


Can travel be a tool to change the socio-economic landscape of Africa?  Africans travelers have the potential to add significant value to the global economy and can help broker a shift in conversations on travel barriers. This panel will explore how exposing our citizens to other cultures via immersive travel can foster individual & economic development while encouraging Africans to become real-life ambassadors of our heritage.