Accessibility Awareness Day Recap: Cape Town Celebrates Inclusion at The Diamond Works Institute

To celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) in May, the Diamond Works Institute and Cape Town Travel Massive hosted a special event designed to reframe how the travel industry approaches inclusion and accessibility.

Thanks to The Diamond Works Institute, guests were treated to a multi-sensory diamond experience, combining luxury with learning in a space that proved that accessibility and exclusivity can coexist beautifully.

The event featured presentations showcasing accessible tourism innovations and trends in the industry, as well as a valuable networking and hospitality thanks to our sponsors.

“Accessibility is a foundation, not a feature“

Sherise Dreyer, Cape Town Travel Massive chapter leader and host, shared her insights and experiences on designing for accessible tourism. Here’s a few key takeaways from her talk:

• Inclusivity is about ensuring every person, regardless of ability, background, age, or identity, feels welcome and represented.
• Accessibility means removing barriers so everyone can fully participate in all aspects of travel and experience design.
• Accessibility benefits everyone, from young parents to older travellers
• The disabled market controls over $8 trillion globally
• Inclusion starts with visibility and co-creation
• Tourism should be a bridge, not a barrier

Event highlights

• Racquel Dennison from Sozo Labs explored how immersive tech (like VR/AR) can break down access barriers and create truly engaging, inclusive experiences.

• Jacques Stoltz, Director of Tourism at the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Western Cape Government shared the provincial vision for accessible tourism as a strategic pillar — one that fosters both equity and economic growth.

• Fuad Peters, Travel Massive Cape Town reflected on community-building and the need for shared responsibility in designing inclusive travel experiences.

• Balini’s reveal of the Dove Dress was a highlight of the day. The flowing garment symbolised soft strength, dignity, and peace, and stood as a stunning reminder that what we wear can speak volumes about who we are and what we believe in.

Thanks to our event and prize sponsors:

A big thanks to everyone who gave their generous support.

• Hout Bay Harbour Distillery provided handcrafted local spirits brought a touch of warmth and sophistication to GAAD 2025 — a perfect pairing with a day centered on intentional, inclusive hospitality.
• AB Creations provided impeccable food, epic service, and creatively unmatched presentation.
• Beautiful Possibilities donated lipgloss & lipliner combos and discount vouchers for every attendee.
• Canterbury Car Service sponsored 4 car wash vouchers and service discounts.
• Jude’s Rhyming Grind donated a R450 coffee hamper brewed with purpose.
• The Royal Boma gave an african food, wine & coffee tasting experience for two.
• Long March to Freedom sponsored a guided tour experience through their remarkable outdoor exhibition of 100 life-sized bronze figures telling South Africa’s liberation story.
• Photography by Ashley Robertson

“Let’s build destinations and futures that invite everyone in — and hold the door open.”

If you’re passionate about inclusion, or interested in hosting your own accessible tourism event, collaborating, or learning more — please don’t hesitate to reach out to Sherise Dreyer at chommie@iamcapetown.co.za