By Sitha Maliwa:
In South Africa’s bustling travel and tourism sector, Lisa Sebogodi stands out not only for her two decades of industry expertise but also for her unwavering commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and smart, intentional travel. As the Director of Batsumi Travel, a multi-award-winning agency, Lisa has carved out a niche in township tourism – transforming it from an overlooked sector into a vibrant space of economic opportunity.
From business success to community impact
Batsumi Travel is well known for delivering seamless corporate and leisure travel, events, and transport solutions nationwide. But what makes Lisa’s work remarkable is her people-first approach. Through the Township Tourism Development initiative, she connects high school learners studying tourism with mentorship, industry training, and hands-on experience. The aim? To equip the next generation of travel professionals with skills, confidence, and pathways into an often difficult-to-access industry.
“Creating access is non-negotiable,” Lisa says. “It’s not enough to build a successful business; you have to open the door for others to follow.”
Travel that doesn’t break the bank
For Lisa, travel is more than a luxury – it’s a tool for connection, learning, and self-discovery. She believes that, with the right approach, anyone can explore the world without overspending.
“I always tell people, plan early, but keep an open mind. Some of my best trips came from being flexible with my travel dates or even my destination,” she says.
She’s also a fan of travelling outside of peak seasons. “Not only is it cheaper, but you get to enjoy quieter moments, shorter queues, and more meaningful conversations with locals.”
Budgeting is another non-negotiable for her: “It’s not enough to just guess what your trip will cost. Allocate money for accommodation, transport, meals, and activities – and then actually stick to that budget.”
Lisa encourages travellers to slow things down: “Instead of hopping from one place to another, spend more time in fewer locations. You’ll save money on transport, and you’ll discover hidden gems you’d miss if you were rushing.”
She’s also quick to point out the value of loyalty programmes: “Airline miles, credit card points, hotel rewards = they all add up. Learn how to combine them and take advantage of bonus offers.”
Finally, Lisa warns against chasing the lowest price. “Cheapest isn’t always best. Sometimes paying a little more upfront saves you from bigger expenses or disappointments later.”
A voice for the future of tourism
Lisa’s leadership is rooted in transformation – ensuring that South Africa’s tourism industry reflects the diversity of its people and offers opportunities for growth at every level. She’s proof that business success and social impact can go hand in hand.
As Women’s Month shines a spotlight on female trailblazers, Lisa’s story is a reminder that changing an industry doesn’t just happen in boardrooms or at conferences. Sometimes, it starts with a single open door – and the courage to invite others in. – @NewsSA_Online
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