Mafunda Kombo Faki

Mafunda Kombo Faki is a visionary youth leader, tourism expert, and entrepreneur from Zanzibar, Tanzania, whose work focuses on youth empowerment, sustainable tourism, and the blue economy. She holds a Master’s degree in Tourism Management and is the founder and Managing Director of Zanvacay, an association dedicated to equipping youth with entrepreneurial skills and promoting economic opportunities in tourism.

Mafunda is the recipient of the 2024 Malkia wa Nguvu Award in the Tourism category, organised by Clouds Media, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sector. She serves as Program Director for the Zanzibar International Youth Tourism Summit (ZIYTS) 2025. She is a Youth Ambassador for the African Tourism Board, where she advocates for greater youth involvement in sustainable tourism initiatives across Africa.

In addition to her entrepreneurial and leadership roles, Mafunda works at Zanzibar Insurance Corporation as Operational and Inbound Officer, contributing to the development and delivery of innovative travel insurance products. Her professional experience includes participation in international programmes in Germany, Thailand, Cyprus, Turkey, and throughout East and Southern Africa, further expanding her expertise and global perspective.

Driven by a passion for positive change and community impact, Mafunda continues to inspire youth to take an active role in shaping the tourism industry, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. As a Youth Advisory Board member, she brings her expertise, leadership, and commitment to the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective.