In 2019, Black travelers spent an astonishing $109+ billion on leisure travel, underscoring their significant contribution to the global tourism industry. Yet, despite this undeniable purchasing power, their experiences have often been overlooked or underserved. Tourifique, a trailblazing social travel and marketplace app, is on a mission to redefine travel and events for the Global African Diaspora, offering curated, culturally rich experiences that resonate deeply with this vibrant community.
The Journey and Challenges
As a tech founder, building Tourifique has been a journey of passion and perseverance. Tourifique’s journey began with a simple but profound realization: the travel industry needed a dedicated space that celebrated Afrocentric culture and addressed the unique needs of Black travelers. As an entrepreneur of African descent, I’ve personally experienced the challenges of navigating an industry that sometimes lacks cultural representation and inclusivity. Launching Tourifique wasn’t without its hurdles. From securing funding in an often-exclusive venture capital space to building trust within a community that demands authenticity, every step required resilience and a clear vision.
Despite these obstacles, we have made significant strides. Tourifique has grown to feature over 400 experiences across North America, connecting travelers with Afrocentric tours, attractions, and events. With over 13,000 TikTok followers and millions of views, we’ve built an engaged community that seeks immersive travel experiences and authentic cultural connections.
What is Tourifique?
Tourifique is more than a travel platform; it’s a vibrant community and ecosystem designed to celebrate and amplify Afrocentric experiences. Our AI-powered platform connects travelers with small tour operators and event organizers, offering personalized recommendations through our virtual assistant, MIA. Travelers can explore everything from Afrocentric culinary tours to historical walks that bring the rich tapestry of African heritage to life.
What sets Tourifique apart is its commitment to innovation. Our group booking feature allows seamless coordination and payment splitting, making it easier for friends and families to share unforgettable experiences. Moreover, we’re fostering partnerships with local communities to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably.
Shaping the Future of Travel with Innovation
Tourifique is proud to be at the forefront of TravelTech, leveraging artificial intelligence to make travel more inclusive, personalized, and meaningful. As AI continues to reshape industries, we’re harnessing its potential to create tailored experiences that connect travelers with the heart and soul of local cultures. By integrating newer technologies, we aim to bridge gaps and remove barriers, making travel accessible and enriching for all.
Looking ahead, we envision expanding our reach to Africa, Europe and the UK, markets that align with the interests of our travellers. Our mission is to become the go-to platform for Afrocentric travel and events, setting a new standard for how tourism can celebrate diversity and foster meaningful connections.
I hope our story inspires others to see the power of innovation in addressing unmet needs and creating spaces that celebrate our collective heritage.With the continued support of our community and partners, Tourifique is poised to redefine travel for the Global African Diaspora, one experience at a time.
