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The Pathways Foundation is a centre where people from all continents can join together with the aim of increasing their
understanding of different cultures, societies and ways of sustainable living. The centre will provide a space and
a structure in which people can come together and share their experiences and ideas. Gamspirit firmly believe in
a two way learning process, where local people are teachers and mentors as well as active participants in learning,
and where outsiders come to Africa, humble enough to learn.
Everything from our business practices to the way we build our homes and the way we live our lives impacts ourselves,
those around us and the world. The challenge is integrating all of our activities into a sustainable way of living.
At the Pathways Foundation we explore this challenge in its many aspects and invite people from all over the
world to join us as learners and teachers.
Courses and programmes cover a wide spectrum – culture in all its forms, personal development and renewal,
environmental issues, alternative technologies and sustainable business practices. Running through all these
activities is the awareness that personal as well as practical needs require our attention at all times.
The Foundation is currently, through the International Centre for Responsible Tourism – The Gambia - (ICRT-TG),
running taught models of a Masters Degree in Responsible Tourism. Yoga retreats and regular meditation sessions
are operating. A multi-faith group has been formed to explore African spirituality and the common ground between
belief systems.
In addition to these programmes mentoring and consultancy services (personal, business and community development) are
offered.
International Centre for Responsible Tourism - The Gambia
The West African branch of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism based at Greenwich University in
London, ICRT - The Gambia gives Gambians the opportunity to study aspects of Responsible Tourism.
Kartong Association for Responsible Tourism (KART)
An association of local businesses involved in tourism. Gamspirit has supported the development of KART, the
training of local guides and the development of a responsible tourism policy within the village. Gamspirit has
also raised funds for the maintenance of the local community forest.
Association of Small Scale Enterprise and Tourism (ASSET)
An association of informal sector groups involved in tourism ranging from tourist taxi drivers, to stall holders
in the craft markets to independent hoteliers, ASSET raises the profile of these local businesses. Geri Mitchell,
Gamspiri’s Managing Director was Chair of ASSET for four years and remains an active member of the association.
Responsible Tourism Partnership
A forum which brings together the main stakeholders in the tourism industry in the Gambia, the Gambian Tourism
Authority, hoteliers, ground handlers and local businesses to advocate for responsible tourism practices and
legislation. Geri Mitchell, Gamspirit’s Managing Director is currently vice-president of the partnership.
Plymouth Banjul Challenge
Do you want a challenge? Every year intrepid drivers from the UK nurse their vehicles through Europe and Africa,
mountains and deserts to meet the Plymouth Banjul Challenge. Cars are auctioned for charity by ASSET and the
Gambian Olympic Committee for the benefit of tourism and sports projects throughout the Gambia.
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