Amid calls by politicians for greater support for small businesses in the tourism sector in KwaZulu-Natal, Amanda Dube was already leading the way and showing what could be done with such support.
The 22-year-old Durban University of Technology graduate and nature enthusiast from Ozwathini has transformed her passion into a thriving tourism business, proving that young entrepreneurs can drive economic growth and create opportunities in rural communities.
In June 2024, she started a business that focused on the art of cooking local cuisine by the river, leveraging natural resources to create a unique kitchen cooking set.
With 171,400 followers on TikTok, Dube’s popularity resulted in adventure tourists from KZN and Gauteng wanting to experience wilderness cooking with her.
So she introduced the Wilderness Cooking Experience with Amanda, where tourists pay a booking fee of R1,000 a day to witness her creativity and unique art. The fee includes a camping tent, food, and hiking trails.
“By showing off the beauty of nature and a unique cooking style, I attract tourists,” she said.
Beyond the practicality of preparing sustenance outdoors, wilderness cooking offers a unique and visceral connection with the land and its ingredients. It’s a reminder that food is more than just fuel, but is a means to connect with the environment and the people around us.
— Amanda Dube
Dube’s wilderness cooking was ignited by her passion for nature.
“I love the outdoors, the act of preparing food over an open flame [and] using locally sourced ingredients… It creates a sense of community and shared experience that is often missing in modern society,” she said.
“Wilderness cooking represents a return to our roots, tapping into the ancient tradition of preparing and enjoying food in a natural setting.
“Beyond the practicality of preparing sustenance outdoors, wilderness cooking offers a unique and visceral connection with the land and its ingredients. It’s a reminder that food is more than just fuel, but a means to connect with the environment and the people around us,” she explained.
Due to the momentum that Dube’s initiative has generated, she was recognised on uKhozi FM, the biggest radio station in South Africa by listenership, in December 2024.
She also received support and encouragement from celebrities such as DJ Zinhle and Lerato Kganyago.
In March she will be hosting the Wilderness Cooking Experience in Ozwathini in the Midlands. She is expecting more than 40 tourists for the fest. The booking fee is R2,750 and there will be added tourism activities such as games and wine tasting.
“My guests will get to experience the sights and sounds of the wilderness first-hand, from the stunning landscapes to the diverse wildlife and plant life."
Attendees will also be introduced to traditional cooking techniques.
“They’ll get to witness the art of cooking over an open fire, using local ingredients and traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.”
Dube also promotes local tourism businesses.
“I work with Tamane Bush Camp which is a small thriving local tourism business that offers visitors an immersive and authentic wilderness experience.”
Her major goal is to promote sustainable tourism.
“As a content creator I can advocate eco-friendly and responsible tourism practices, such as using local products, supporting small businesses and educating tourists about the importance of preserving the environment,” she concluded.
This article first appeared in vutivibusiness.co.za
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