How this entrepreneur turned her love for travel into a business

Former accountant, Mbali Mbonambi, has transformed her love for travel into a successful business venture with Leisure Holiday Day, a top operator in Durban. Founded in 2017, Leisure Holiday Day has been catering to travelers for over two years, offering unique experiences and holiday packages. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Mbonambi shared insights into her journey as an entrepreneur and the evolution of the travel and leisure industry since the inception of her business. Mbonambi's passion for travel served as the driving force behind the establishment of Leisure Holiday Day. She expressed her deep connection to exploring new destinations and embracing diverse cultures, stating, "I'm a traveler myself. I love traveling. I've been called the wanderlust daughter. Each time I get a chance to go somewhere, I take it. I don't hesitate. That's how much I love it." This genuine love for travel has propelled Mbonambi to curate exciting holiday experiences for her clients. Reflecting on the changes in the travel and leisure sector, Mbonambi highlighted the increased interest among younger individuals in embarking on travel adventures. She noted the growing trend of millennials and Gen Z travelers exploring new destinations, alongside the entry of the older generation into the tourism landscape. Adapting to these shifts, Leisure Holiday Day has pivoted towards promoting domestic holiday packages to cater to the changing preferences of travelers. By offering affordable and convenient local travel options, Mbonambi aims to make travel experiences accessible to a wider audience. As Mbonambi looks towards the future, she envisions scaling her business by targeting the younger demographic with appealing holiday packages. Recognizing the affinity of older travelers for group trips, she plans to introduce specialized group packages to accommodate their preferences. Additionally, with aspirations to expand her team, Mbonambi aims to recruit two employees to enhance marketing efforts and facilitate business growth. When questioned about her post-election expectations, Mbonambi expressed optimism for a resurgence in travel activities. She eagerly anticipates a post-election period where people are eager to explore new destinations and embark on memorable journeys. With a commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences, Mbonambi remains dedicated to fulfilling the wanderlust of her clients and fostering a vibrant travel community in Durban.