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Meet The Team
NALA AFRIKA is a proudly women owned initiative led by three passionate changemakers committed to sustainable travel and meaningful social impact. We believe in using tourism as a force for good, not only to explore new places, but to uplift communities, protect the environment, and create lasting change in the lives of those who need it most.
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Rooted in compassion, collaboration, and purpose, our work reflects the power of women to lead with integrity and heart. To support this vision, we are guided by an independent advisory board, bringing the total leadership group to five dedicated individuals. This board provides oversight, accountability, and strategic guidance, ensuring our projects are thoughtfully managed and aligned with our values as we continue to grow.
Director
Mirjam Meyer
With over two decades of experience in tourism and a diploma in economics, Mirjam is the founder of the successful DMC, Amazing Africa. She is deeply passionate about sustainable tourism and community upliftment, dedicating her work to raising awareness and giving back.
Director
Simone Dimmerling
Simone is the visionary behind iThemba Elitsha and a respected voice in the non-profit space. She champions the rights and well-being of disadvantaged youth in Africa, with a heartfelt passion for empowering communities and driving social upliftment.
Advisory Board
Stephan Franz
Stephan is an insurance and finance specialist from Cologne who strongly believes that everyone in our interconnected world deserves equal opportunities. For him, education and self esteem are the foundation on which lasting change is built. After a holiday in Namibia, he discovered a deep connection to Africa, a place that continues to inspire his commitment to creating meaningful and inclusive opportunities for others.
Director
Kerstin Bahnmueller
Kerstin brings tourism expertise since 2004, combined with strong multilingual and financial management skills. She is committed to creating meaningful change through sustainable practices that ensure long-term impact in the lives of others.
Advisory Board
Heike Gerntholtz
Heike has always been passionate about tourism and Africa, which made joining the tourism industry straight after school a natural choice, and one she has never regretted. With over 30 years of experience, she has come to understand just how vital the tourism sector is, not only as a major creator of jobs, but also as a key contributor to the preservation of Southern Africa’s remarkable natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
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Through her active involvement in the management of a private game lodge, sustainable tourism is a subject especially close to her heart. Heike remains deeply committed to responsible tourism practices that protect the environment while supporting local communities.
Advisory Board
Sarah Stengel
Sarah works for Amazing Africa and has been involved in several social projects linked to and supported by NALA Africa. She is deeply passionate about sustainable tourism and committed to supporting and uplifting less fortunate communities through meaningful, responsible initiatives.
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With a strong love for Africa, Sarah is driven by the need to help bridge the gap between vastly different lived experiences across the continent. Her work is guided by a belief that tourism can be a powerful force for good when it is approached with care, respect, and a long-term vision for community growth.