Velma is a firm believer in the potential of technology to drive inclusive growth and entrepreneurship across Africa. As Airbnb’s regional lead for Africa and the Middle East, Velma leads Airbnb’s Policy and Partnership work across the region, including the creation of the Airbnb Africa Academy and the Africa Travel Summit. She is passionate about how Airbnb can redefine travel in Africa and take tourism to people and places that need it most, and the role technology will play in unlocking this potential. 

Velma joined Airbnb in March 2016 as the Regional Market Manager for Sub Saharan Africa. Prior to this she led marketing for Cape Town Tourism, where her team won numerous awards for destination marketing and she is delighted to be collaborating with Cape Town once again.