How does Hands on Journeys define the term Sustainability

by Simla Sooboodoo

How would you define the term sustainability and what does it mean to Hands On Journeys?

I would say, Forget the buzz words i.e responsible, sustainable, eco – they all have their merit, but we need to do more. We need to combine them all into a way of travel, one that delivers on both sides which is why I have created this concept, Empowerment Tourism.

For us, Empowerment Tourism is about taking a community on a journey, showing them what is possible using the skills they have, those we can teach, and the opportunities we can provide. At the end of that journey, they should be able to support themselves and continue to grow with a sense of pride that is harder to achieve when you are continually being provided with external support. Travellers come away knowing first hand their funds and time have created new jobs, provided builders work to construct toilets or wells and left someone inspired on a new business venture.

Whether it is donating a food cart and teaching the locals how to sell their tasty snacks to tourists, or helping women set up a jewellery business that expands beyond their current reach, use all the skills from within your group to provide the most empowering and impactful results as well as seeing the iconic sights.

We believe by combining the beauty of a country’s attractions with the warmth and hospitality of local communities, you are able to achieve a balanced insight into the destinations we serve.

For many in the modern day world taking a few months out to volunteer abroad isn’t a viable opportunity, by following the Empowerment Tourism model you are able to maximise your time and money to deliver an unforgettable journey for all.

Empowerment Tourism is an authentic experience. Life is not about following trends or telling others how to live. Too often, organisations don’t ask others, “what do you need?” but rather make assumptions. For us, that is never the solution.

Locals need so much more than education and health facilities. They need so much more than donations to survive and progress.

Let’s work together with the inner power, skills and determination of the locals themselves, to change communities from the inside out. Welcome to Empowerment Tourism with Hands on Journeys; taking purposeful travel to the next level.

Seeking out locals in need with little resources but so much potential to succeed, we are empowering communities to build their own futures with their own skills.

We supply the tools, guidance, training and ongoing support. And as a result, communities are beginning to live a whole new sustainable life; making money for themselves with the talents they possess.

The impact of these projects on the locals’ lives is magnificent but the deep, heartfelt transformation within the travellers who choose to travel with us is amazing.

Travellers get to experience a day in the life of these locals, fully immersing themselves in the culture whilst assisting with the empowerment projects. This is a golden opportunity for travellers to directly make a difference, learn about others and themselves, and experience an unforgettable trip.

From setting up a thriving textile business in the slums of India to a successful food stall on the streets of Cambodia, Hands on Journeys are changing the face of travel in communities, for a better brighter future.