The organization excels at using limited resources to meet its goals. The Karibu Fair has demonstrated strong growth each of the last 9 years. The company has created this growth by effectively gaining the necessary support to continue its operations. It uses a grassroots approach and strong partnerships with the community, government officials, and associations. Their work has led to a solid and positive reputation with both the community and the local tourism industry.

This week I met with a local business attorney to further research options for incorporating Karibu (it is now part of a parent association). And based on what I’ve learned, I will write a proposal that Karibu pursue registration as a Section 21 company (LLC by Guarantee) and apply for tax exemption.

The last few weeks have been the busiest to date, with the annual fair (trade show) closing this past Sunday, June 8. The days leading to the event were long, and included development, production, and distribution of final marketing materials, training event staff, finalizing operational logistics, and fairground preparation and setup.

I returned last week from Zulu Kingdom. Zulu refers to both the people and language of South Africa. While I did spend the majority of my time at the Durban Conference Center representing Karibu Fair at Indaba, a massive International tourism marketing event for all of Africa, I also managed to get a pulse on the city. I (and my co-workers) enjoyed cruising the paved roads, emailing at high speed, shopping in markets with full shelves, and dancing to amazing music.

I’m finding a sense of adventure and enjoyment in even the most mundane activities. As I walk to work, or take an evening jog down the dirt roads surrounding the coffee farms near my house, I look forward to the local children who follow me for a distance, giggling gleefully as they shout mazungu, mazungu – white person.