Leadership in tourism goes beyond organizing safaris and climbing expeditions; it requires vision, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility to communities and the environment. For decades, Zainab Ansell, affectionately known as Mama Zara, has embodied these qualities. As the founder and CEO of Zara Tanzania Adventures, she has transformed Tanzania’s tourism landscape, pioneering Kilimanjaro climbing and safari operations while uplifting thousands of people through sustainable practices.
Her outstanding contributions were globally recognized at the Canada Legacy Honours 2025, where she received the Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award. This milestone not only celebrates her professional journey but also affirms her role as a humanitarian, entrepreneur, and ambassador of Tanzania’s rich heritage.
The Canada Legacy Honours 2025
The Canada Legacy Honours is a prestigious annual celebration recognizing excellence, resilience, and leadership within the global diaspora community. The 2025 edition, themed “A Glorious Night of Diaspora Excellence and Impact”, brought together trailblazers from various sectors, including business, culture, innovation, and humanitarian work.
In this international spotlight, Zainab Ansell was honoured with the Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award. This award highlights leaders who not only excel in their industry but also integrate social responsibility and humanitarian values into their work. Mama Zara’s recognition was more than a personal achievement; it was a celebration of Tanzania, of African women in leadership, and of the transformative power of tourism when anchored in community development.
Zainab Ansell’s Journey in Tourism Leadership
When Zainab Ansell founded Zara Tanzania Adventures in 1986, tourism in Tanzania was still in its early stages of development, and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in this sector were limited. Driven by determination and a pioneering spirit, she built Zara from the ground up, transforming it into one of East Africa’s most respected tour operators.
Over the years, Zara Tanzania Adventures has become synonymous with Kilimanjaro climbing Tours, offering thousands of international visitors safe and memorable ascents of Africa’s tallest peak. Beyond the mountain, Zara organizes Tanzania safaris across Tanzania’s most iconic national parks, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Manyara, positioning the company as a complete adventure brand.
Mama Zara’s leadership has not only elevated Zara’s reputation but has also set new standards for sustainable tourism in Africa. She championed the professional development of guides, porters, and hospitality staff, ensuring fair wages, training, and dignity for the workforce that powers Tanzania’s tourism industry.
Zara Charity: A Legacy of Humanitarian Impact
Recognizing that true leadership extends beyond business success, Zainab Ansell founded Zara Charity, the humanitarian arm of her enterprise. Through this initiative, she has directed tourism revenue toward causes that uplift communities and protect the environment.
Zara Charity’s work is multi-faceted. It supports education by providing scholarships and resources for disadvantaged youth. It champions women’s empowerment, creating opportunities for women in tourism and entrepreneurship.
One of the most inspiring projects is the support for Moshi Kids Centre, offering care, education, and hope to vulnerable children. Zara has also invested in porter welfare, ensuring fair treatment, proper equipment, and healthcare support for the men and women who assist climbers on Kilimanjaro. More recently, Zara Charity has extended its impact to youth sports, sponsoring teams like Mandela Rangers FC in the prestigious Zuberi Cup, providing young athletes with a platform to thrive.
These initiatives reflect Mama Zara’s belief that tourism should benefit not only visitors but also the communities and landscapes that make Tanzania unique.
Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award: Why Mama Zara Stands Out
The Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award is reserved for individuals whose work bridges the industries of humanitarianism and tourism, blending professional excellence with community service. Mama Zara’s recognition stands out because of her ability to combine tourism innovation with sustainable development.
Her leadership is rooted in values of inclusivity, fairness, and environmental stewardship. Unlike many operators who view tourism purely as business, Zara Tanzania Adventures integrates social good into every expedition and safari. From the way porters are treated to the environmental policies guiding treks and community initiatives funded by tourism, every aspect reflects a philosophy of shared growth.
The award affirms what many in Tanzania and beyond already know: that Zainab Ansell’s story is not just about building a company, but about transforming lives and creating a model of tourism that inspires globally.
Zara Tanzania Adventures: Leading into the Future
As the tourism industry evolves, Zara Tanzania Adventures remains a leader in shaping sustainable travel. Mama Zara’s future vision includes expanding eco-friendly lodges, strengthening conservation programs, and further supporting Tanzania’s youth through education and sports.
Zara Tanzania Adventures is also committed to leveraging technology and global partnerships to enhance the visitor experience while maintaining the integrity of Tanzania’s natural and cultural heritage. The goal is clear: to continue offering unforgettable adventures while ensuring that every expedition contributes to a greater purpose.
A Legacy that Inspires Generations
The Global Humanitarian & Tourism Leadership Award is more than a trophy for Zainab Ansell; it is a recognition of her lifetime mission. Through Zara Tanzania Adventures and Zara Charity, she has redefined what it means to lead in the tourism industry. Her legacy is one of resilience, empowerment, and a belief that business can be a force for good.
From the slopes of Kilimanjaro to the halls of international recognition, Mama Zara’s journey continues to inspire. She is a symbol of how one woman’s vision can transform not only an industry but also countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on Tanzania and the world.
