About Us

Our story that began long ago in far away lands.

E-Tourism Frontiers has been reshaping travel since 2007.​

Led by a women-owned and operated team, we focus on empowering destinations and communities to thrive in a fast-changing world, prioritizing sustainability and authenticity. 

Our programs have trained thousands to harness AI for predictive analytics, optimize campaigns in real-time, and leverage data insights to engage visitors and drive meaningful revenue.

By delivering practical strategies, we help tourism boards and businesses create campaigns that benefit local economies and build stronger connections between travelers and the places they visit.

With a commitment to long-term impact, we guide destinations away from fleeting trends and toward long-term success. Combining advanced technology with a deep respect for culture and community, we help redefine the future of tourism.

Our Partners:

Empowering Destinations, Embracing Technology

ETF E-Tourism Frontiers stands at the forefront of the digital tourism revolution, dedicated to transforming the way destinations across the globe operate in the ever-evolving travel landscape. As a women-led organisation, we bring a unique perspective to the industry, combining innovation, sustainability, and data-driven strategies to drive meaningful change.

Our Mission

To demystify technology and provide cutting-edge strategies that empower destinations to thrive in the digital age, fostering a responsible and sustainable travel sector that benefits both local communities and global travellers.

Our Core Values

Innovation and Creativity: Constantly pushing boundaries to find novel solutions.

Customer Satisfaction: Putting our clients’ needs at the heart of everything we do.

Integrity and Transparency: Building trust through honest communication and ethical practices.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Promoting travel as a force for good.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Leveraging the power of information to guide strategies.

Passion for Travel: A deep-rooted love for exploration that fuels our work.

The ETF Approach

At ETF E-Tourism Frontiers, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our approach is as diverse as the destinations we serve:
Customised Strategies: We craft bespoke solutions tailored to each destination’s unique needs and challenges.
Global Network: Our extensive international connections provide invaluable insights and opportunities.
Hands-On Workshops: Interactive, focused sessions drive ultimate learning in unusual settings.
Truth-Tellers: We’re not afraid to challenge the status quo and provide honest, actionable advice.

Who We Serve

Our expertise caters to a wide range of tourism stakeholders:

  • Tourism Boards
  • Destination Marketers
  • Travel Industry Leaders
  • Travel Businesses of All Sizes
The ETF Difference

What sets us apart? It’s our unique blend of global experience, commercial acumen, and a commitment to evolution.

We’re not just consultants; we’re catalysts for change, helping destination organisations transform into lean, efficient, and effective entities.

Our programmes go beyond the ordinary.

Picture yourself in an unconventional setting, surrounded by like-minded professionals, engaging in interactive sessions that challenge your thinking and inspire innovation. That’s the ETF experience.

Looking to the Future

As we continue to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of global tourism, ETF E-Tourism Frontiers remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. We’re constantly exploring new technologies, analysing emerging trends, and refining our strategies to ensure our clients are always one step ahead.

Are you ready to revolutionise your destination’s approach to tourism? Join us on this exciting journey of digital transformation and sustainable growth.

Learn More About Our Services | Book a Consultation

ETF E-Tourism Frontiers: Where innovation meets destination, and technology empowers travel.

Key Milestones

  • 2007: Formation of E-Tourism Africa, focusing on the African continent
  • 2010: Expansion to E-Tourism Frontiers, broadening scope to emerging tourism markets worldwide
  • 2011: Publication of “A Practical Guide for Tourism in Emerging Markets” by Damian Cook
  • 2014: Launch of DATA – Destination Academy with Technology Application
  • 2023: Sarah Mathews steps in as CEO, ushering in a new era of leadership and innovation

Our Approach

  • ETF’s methodology is built on four core principles:
  • Simplification: Demystifying complex digital concepts for small businesses
  • Practical Training: Offering hands-on learning through seminars and conferences
  • Global Perspective: Applying diverse market insights to local contexts
  • Innovation: Pioneering new technologies and practices (e.g., online payments in Kenya, 2008)

2007

Formation of E-Tourism Africa, focusing on the African continent.

2010

Expansion to E-Tourism Frontiers, broadening scope to emerging tourism markets worldwide

2011

Publication of “A Practical Guide for Tourism in Emerging Markets” by Damian Cook.

2014

Launch of DATA – Destination Academy with Technology Application.

2023

Sarah Mathews steps in as CEO, ushering in a new era of leadership and innovation.

Mission and Vision

Mission

To empower tourism businesses in emerging markets with digital skills and knowledge, enabling them to compete effectively in the global tourism landscape.

Vision

A world where tourism businesses, regardless of size or location, can harness digital technologies to showcase their unique offerings and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Our Impact

ETF has made significant contributions across the globe, collaborating with:

  • Tourism boards
  • Regional authorities
  • Private associations
  • Our reach spans multiple continents:
  • Africa: South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Mozambique, Madagascar
  • Middle East: Jordan, Qatar, Palestine
  • Asia: China, Thailand
  • Europe: Greece, Eastern European countries

The Future of ETF

As we look ahead, ETF is poised to:

  • Expand our global reach
  • Develop cutting-edge training programs adapting to rapidly evolving digital landscapes
  • Foster partnerships to create a global network of digitally empowered tourism businesses
  • Continue advocating for sustainable and responsible tourism practices through digital means
  • Leadership in Digital Tourism
Under the new leadership of Sarah Mathews, ETF is reinforcing its position as a thought leader in digital tourism. We're committed to:
  • Staying ahead of digital trends and their application in tourism
  • Bridging the digital divide in emerging markets
  • Promoting sustainable tourism practices through technology
  • Fostering innovation in online marketing and distribution for tourism businesses

Conclusion

ETF remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, education, and global connectivity. As we navigate the ever-changing digital landscape, we continue to ensure that the tourism industry in emerging markets is well-equipped to thrive in the digital age, contributing to economic growth and cultural exchange worldwide.

The values we live by...

Sustainable Practices

Growth should benefit both communities and the planet.

Cultural Authenticity

Travel is about connection, not commodification.

Using Technology To Simplify, Not Complicate

We demystify tools like AI and social media to make them practical for emerging markets.

Being Practical Over Trendy

We help you avoid fads and focus on what really works.

Booking Travelers, Not Tourists

We’re here for those who value exploration, not exploitation.

Sarah Mathews

Destination Dynamo

CEO of dreams, pixels, and traveller-approved strategies and bill payer

Antonya "Nini" Tran

Chief Crayon Wrangler

Visionary graphic designer and branding maestro with a quirky flair, expertly blending graphic artistry with branding finesse.

Vidya Ajith​

Senior Vice President

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetut elit tellus, luctus nec ullam corper mattis, pulvinar.

Marinel Umandap

Senior Vice President

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consec tetut elit tellus, luctus nec ullam corper mattis, pulvinar.

Meet the Team