Who We Are
About Our Foundation
Our Story
The seeds of the Caring & Kind Travel Foundation were sown in 2022, when a group of visionary tourism professionals in Johannesburg, South Africa, united with a shared dream. These founding members, driven by a profound commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, set out to create an organization that would redefine the relationship between travel and global stewardship.
Central to our mission are five key pillars:
We are dedicated to advocating for and implementing travel practices that are environmentally responsible and sustainable, ensuring that tourism has a positive impact on both the environment and the destinations.
Our foundation is committed to uplifting local communities in tourist destinations. We believe in fostering economic growth and development in these communities, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are equitably shared.
A core part of our ethos is cultivating a deep respect for the environment among travellers and industry professionals. We engage in and support initiatives that protect and preserve natural habitats and biodiversity.
We are passionate about maintaining and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the destinations we engage with. Our efforts are aimed at protecting and promoting cultural diversity and heritage in tourism destinations.
We are committed to the conservation of wildlife and the protection of diverse ecosystems. Our initiatives focus on safeguarding natural habitats, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring the well-being of wildlife across tourism destinations.
This collective of founders envisioned a unique framework where travellers, through their journeys, could contribute to the greater good. The key to this vision was engaging tourism entities such as tour operators, travel agents, and other industry professionals as the primary benefactors of the Foundation. By allocating a portion of their revenue to our cause, these partners enable their clients to be part of a larger movement – a movement towards a more responsible and sustainable travel experience.
Our founders’ innovative approach ensures that travel is more than just an individual pursuit; it becomes a collective effort toward nurturing the destinations that enrich our lives. The Foundation’s initiatives are tailored to the travel patterns of our donors’ clients, focusing our impact on regions most affected by tourism and where our efforts can make the most significant difference.
Beyond funding, the Caring & Kind Travel Foundation is deeply involved in the execution of sustainable tourism projects, particularly in Africa. This hands-on approach allows us to be more than just a funding entity; we are active participants in the change we wish to see in the world.
Our funding model, primarily supported by the private tourism sector, provides flexibility for donors to contribute as they see fit, fostering a culture of voluntary and meaningful support. We also welcome contributions from outside the tourism industry, embracing the idea that responsible tourism is a collective responsibility.
The Caring & Kind Travel Foundation, born from the passion and foresight of its founders, is a testament to the power of collaborative vision. It stands as a symbol of hope and action, uniting travellers, tourism professionals, and communities in a shared mission. Together, we embark on a journey where each step taken is a step towards a more sustainable and caring world. Join us as we turn this noble vision into a lasting legacy.
Our Economic Model
Non-Profit Status
The Caring & Kind Travel Foundation is a non-profit company (NPC), dedicated to serving the public good. Unlike commercial enterprises, our primary goal is not to generate profits for shareholders, but to pursue a mission focused on social, environmental, and cultural objectives. We are driven by our values and commitment to responsible tourism and the well-being of the communities we support.
Sources of Funding
Our foundation is financially supported through various channels: donations from private companies in the tourism sector, contributions from business partners, grants, individual donations, and funds raised through charity events and crowdfunding campaigns. This diverse financial backing enables us to achieve our ambitious goals and maintain our commitment to our causes.
Use of Funds
Dollar Sign in a Cycle, or Hand Giving) The funds we receive are primarily from private companies in the tourism sector. Annually, we decide on the initiatives to support, which include promoting sustainable tourism, supporting community development, preserving the environment, and protecting cultural heritage. These decisions are aligned with our annual missions and objectives, ensuring that every dollar spent has maximum impact.
Transparency and Accountability
As an NPC, we value transparency and accountability in all our actions. Though we are a private legal entity, we commit to maintaining openness about our financial operations. This is achieved by publishing annual financial reports and explaining our decision-making processes regarding resource allocation. Our commitment to transparency is a cornerstone of our credibility and the trust we build with our partners and the public.
Impact and Success Measurement
To measure the impact of our work, we use a range of specific indicators related to our programs and projects. These might include the number of communities assisted, environmental improvements achieved, or the extent of cultural heritage preservation. Additionally, we share success stories and testimonials that illustrate the positive effects of our work. These narratives provide a tangible and human perspective on the impact of our actions, thereby reinforcing our commitment to our missions.
Committee Members
Meet our dedicated committee members
With an expertise in strategy and business model.
Mark was appointed Head of Marketing at ICOnyx.
With an expertise in strategy and business model.
Sam joined ICOnyx in February 2012.
David was appointed Director of ICOnyx in 2009.