About Us - Travelead

Our Story

The Inspiring Journey of Travelead
From Apartheid to Empowerment

Travelead was founded in 2008 by Ramie Veerappan, a woman whose life journey is deeply intertwined with the history of South Africa.

Born and raised during the oppressive Apartheid era, Ramie experienced firsthand the brutal regime that segregated people by race, denying non-Europeans the right to vote, own land, or even move freely within their own country. South Africa, for Ramie, was not a place to call home but a land she despised for its violence and injustice.

Seeking a better life, Ramie left South Africa and made Canada her new home, never imagining she would one day return to the country she had fled. However, what seemed unimaginable happened in 1994 when Nelson Mandela was freed, and South Africa held its first open and fair elections for all citizens.

Ramie returned to her homeland in 2000 and was exhilarated to witness the transformation into a "rainbow nation" where freedom and equality reigned.

The Birth of the Rainbow Nation

This return was a turning point for Ramie. For the first time, she saw the true beauty of South Africa—a beauty she had been unable to appreciate during her youth due to the restrictions placed on non-White people. Moved by the country's rich culture, resilient history, and stunning landscapes, she decided to share this newfound appreciation with others. In 2008, Travelead was born with a mission to bring people to South Africa, not only to witness its beauty but to understand its complex history and the strength of its people.

Fostering Deeper Connections through Travel

Over the past 16 years, Ramie has guided hundreds of eager travelers through South Africa, showing them a country reborn. Each tourist that visits creates close to ten jobs, and Ramie takes immense pride in contributing to the economy of her birth country. As Travelead has grown, so too has its offerings, expanding to include destinations across Southern, East, and West Africa. Through her work, Ramie continues to foster a deeper connection between travelers and the rich, diverse continent she is so passionate about.

What sets us apart for your
Africa Travels

This is your opportunity to visit Africa with a company that has local expertise and deep roots in Africa. You can rest assured that you are dealing with experts who have insider tips and knowledge to make sure your trip is seamless and stress-free. We meticulously craft an itinerary to suit your preferences and exceed your expectations. The result is an unparalleled experience—one that leaves a lasting impression and memories to cherish for a lifetime.