Mike is the adventurous and entrepreneurial spirit behind Crafted Africa. He has assembled an outstanding team that embarks on unforgettable journeys across the breath-taking landscapes of Africa.

Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Malawi, Mike realised while working in the finance industry that he desired a life of adventure. He left his job in London and travelled across South America before the call of home drew him back to Malawi. Noticing a gap in the market, he established Malawian Style in 2010, creating exciting adventures throughout the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. Since then, the business has grown and expanded to include Zambia and Mozambique, with additional ventures in South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, eventually resulting in a rebranding to Crafted Africa. Mike is not only an inspirational leader but also a caring boss who ensures that everyone is looked after.

His love for Mozambique runs deep, so much so that he even got married on a beach near Tofo, with humpback whales jumping in the background. Outside of work, he enjoys diving, safaris, photography, cycling, and swimming. He is also a social butterfly who loves fine dining and wine tasting around the world.

Ronald was born and bred in beautiful Malawi, where his fascination with numbers and nature began at an early age. He pursued his undergraduate studies by majoring in Mathematics and minoring in Biology, developing a strong foundation that eventually led him to finance and accounting. Now, as the money man leading the money team (TMT) at Crafted Africa, Ronald combines his passion for numbers with his desire to make a positive impact. He believes that when he’s chasing for payment, it’s nothing ‘personal’, just ‘finance’.

Outside of work, Ronald enjoys banter and engaging with friends. He loves playing table tennis and volleyball, as well as exploring his passion for farming and travel. His diverse interests and lively personality make him a cherished member of both his professional and social circles.

Tapiwa has been leading sales at Crafted Africa for the past decade, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for travel in Malawi and beyond. Born and raised in this breathtaking country, she knows its hidden gems like the back of her hand.

Through her work with Crafted Africa, she has explored some of the most incredible destinations in the region. Tapiwa has visited South Luangwa numerous times, one of her absolute favourites, along with Malawi’s three stunning national parks: Nyika, Liwonde, and Majete, the country’s only Big Five reserve. Her adventures have also taken her to Zambia’s Kafue National Park and Livingstone, the wild and remote tourism and conservation efforts grow over the years and is always excited to share the region’s best-kept secrets. Whether you need expert advice, insider tips, or a carefully crafted itinerary, Tapiwa is always ready to help create unforgettable journeys.

Razziah Lamarque is a dedicated sales consultant at Crafted Africa with ten years of experience. She has travelled extensively, gaining in-depth knowledge of spectacular destinations across Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi.

Razziah has been captivated by the untamed beauty of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa, Kafue National Park, and Victoria Falls. In Zimbabwe, she has marvelled at the majestic falls, while Mozambique’s coastline has drawn her to its pristine beaches. In Malawi, she has discovered hidden gems like Mulanje’s peak and the serene waters of Likoma Island.

With her expert insights and warm nature, Razziah provides personalised travel recommendations. She specialises in creating tailor-made itineraries for safaris, island retreats, and cultural experiences. Outside of work, Razziah enjoys reading and travelling, which fuel her passion for exploration and discovery.

Tiwonge is a dedicated Sales Consultant at Crafted Africa, where she transforms travel dreams into unforgettable realities. She specialises in curating personalised itineraries meticulously designed to match each client’s unique interests, budget, and travel style. Her commitment to client satisfaction is unwavering; she understands that travelling is an investment in memories, and she is committed to maximising that return for every client.

During her time with Crafted Africa, she has gained firsthand experience and extensive knowledge exploring numerous destinations, including Majete Wildlife Reserve, Mount Mulanje, Satemwa Tea Estate, Zomba, Liwonde National Park, Lake Malawi (Southern Lakeshore and Senga Bay), Lusaka, South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, Livingstone, Victoria Falls, and Lower Zambezi National Park. In her leisure time, Tiwonge enjoys cooking, exploring new places, and spending time with loved ones, further strengthening her passion for creating meaningful memories.

Ivy joined Crafted Africa in March 2023 as a Sales Consultant, bringing over five years of vibrant experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, with a sharp focus on sales and marketing. Her love for travel and bubbly personality drive her passion for connecting with clients, sharing knowledge, and delivering exceptional service in the form of a tour package.

She has explored some of the top destinations across Southern Africa, specifically Zambia and Malawi, from the stunning camps of South Luangwa National Park to the breathtaking Lower Zambezi National Park. She has also explored the tranquil retreats of her motherland, Malawi. Therefore, Ivy’s firsthand experiences make her an expert in curating unforgettable holidays. Outside of work, she enjoys farming on weekends and cherishes simple moments like chasing sunsets.

Chifundo Mgomba is the Head of Reservations, recognised for providing exceptional customer service and consistently striving to ensure client satisfaction. He is renowned for his responsiveness, reliability, and adept problem-solving skills, enabling him to navigate challenges that may arise during the booking process effectively. Chifundo is passionate about creating memorable experiences for clients, dedicated to transforming their travel aspirations into reality.

During his tenure with Crafted Africa, he has travelled to various notable destinations, including Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, Cape Maclear, Nankoma Island, Likoma Island, South Luangwa National Park, Livingstone, Victoria Falls, and Ilha de Mozambique. Outside of his professional responsibilities, Chifundo enjoys watching the English Premier League and is an avid supporter of Arsenal Football Club. His enthusiasm for football adds a spirited touch to his engaging personality.

Samuel joined our distinguished team of travel experts in 2022 as an intern. After showcasing exceptional performance, he was promoted to a permanent team member. In his role, Samuel
manages reservations for accommodation, regional flights, and transfers, ensuring guests enjoy a seamless and exceptional experience. He diligently co-ordinates with lodges and guides to guarantee timely transfers and activities.

Known for his attention to detail and strong team spirit, Samuel has also dedicated time to visiting some of our top attractions, including South Luangwa National Park, Lake Malawi National Park, and Liwonde National Park. Besides his work, Samuel is a pet lover. Back home, he has a dog named Tintin, and he also enjoys cycling to keep fit. Samuel looks forward to connecting with you and assisting with your next travel plans to this beautiful part of the world.

Mwai is Crafted Africa’s Reservation Support Specialist. In this role, he focuses on creating personalised itineraries tailored to the unique preferences of clients, ensuring that each journey is seamless and unforgettable. Mwai has a keen eye for detail, allowing him to anticipate challenges and provide exceptional service.

Beyond his core responsibilities, Mwai actively supports his colleagues by helping to streamline their tasks and enhance overall efficiency within the team. His collaborative spirit has earned him respect in the workplace. He honed his skills at the Malawi Institute of Tourism in Blantyre, where he qualified in Travel and Tourism Management. This solid foundation has equipped him to excel in his position. Outside of work, Mwai enjoys playing his acoustic guitar and is an avid football enthusiast, often found engrossed in matches or discussing the latest developments in the sport during his free time.

Malumbo Praise Nthala is a Reservations Consultant at Crafted Africa and has a strong passion for sustainable travel. In his role he aims to advance his knowledge of Malawi and surrounding destinations to better coordinate travel plans and handle logistics to ensure all arrangements leave a long-lasting positive impact on the guests and hosts. He has a professional background in Tourism Management, majored in Sustainable Tourism focusing on creating exceptional travel experiences that support local communities and protect the environment.

He began his journey through an internship at Nyika National Park under DNPW; he participated in wildlife patrols, guided safaris and engaged in community outreach. Before becoming a full-time lecturer in Tourism in 2024 he worked as a digital solutions developer, applying his self-taught skills in Graphic Design and website development to support hospitality and other brands. For the love of Travel, he also took up a part-time role as a chauffeur from 2020. Outside of work, Malumbo enjoys long-distance motorcycle trips, outdoor night adventures, and of course goat meat Braai gets his salivary glands working.

John serves as Crafted Africa’s dedicated operations manager, bringing years of expertise to the table. Renowned for his exceptional problem-solving skills, he has earned the affectionate nickname “Problem Solver,” a fitting title for someone who excels in optimising operational efficiency. With a strong background in operations management, John possesses a deep understanding of finding innovative solutions to complex challenges.

As a seasoned traveller, John has explored various countries in Southern Africa, including Zambia, Botswana, Tanzania, and South Africa. His experiences have broadened his perspective, allowing him to approach operational challenges with a blend of creativity and practicality. Notably, John has twice driven from South Africa to Malawi to acquire new vehicles, showcasing not only his commitment to Crafted Africa but also his adventurous spirit. 

Whether on the road or in the office, John truly lives up to his nickname as he navigates through the many puzzles of operations with remarkable finesse. He also enjoys the occasional office “braai” and dancing to good tunes.

Edward is a seasoned national tour guide with 16 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. He thrives on the unique challenges each trip offers, ensuring everyone ends the day as a winner.

Edward seamlessly takes on various roles, whether guiding clients through the natural environment or hiking the country’s high points. He is efficient and reliable. Malawi tourism is diverse, from the clear waters of Lake Malawi, where you can see colourful fish species, to the abundance of hippos and crocodiles in Malawi’s Shire River. With wonderful safaris available in all three regions—Northern, Central, and Southern—Edward is sure you’ll love it too. Edward also has a passion for fixing things, especially vehicles, and is a qualified auto electrician with extensive hands-on experience.

Emmanuel Beka is a dedicated tour guide who enjoys exploring and sharing experiences. He has been in tourism since 2009, including eight fulfilling years at Crafted Africa. With over a decade of experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge to every journey. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling to new destinations, attending football matches, and connecting with people from all walks of life.

When travelling, he teaches tourists about the history and cultures of Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique. He has extensive experience driving beyond Malawi’s borders to visit places like the Luangwa Valley, Lusaka, and Victoria Falls. In Mozambique, Emmanuel has explored Ilha de Mozambique, a beautiful island rich in history. Additionally, he sponsors under-18 football and netball teams in his community to help steer youths away from immoral behaviour, while discussing ways to preserve nature and participating in tree planting activities.

Francis is a Malawian born in one of the local villages in the central region of the country. He is a highly determined tour guide with natural communication skills, able to offer engaging and informative tours to clients. With 13 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, each year brings new experiences with various clientele. 

Additionally, his extensive knowledge of automotive repairs serves as an added advantage. He is committed to providing tourists with unique and memorable experiences that foster a deep appreciation for Africa. He has learned to lead visitors through sites of historical and cultural interest, and he is a true professional with a genuine passion for guest satisfaction. In his free time, Francis enjoys exploring his passion for birdwatching, and his growing knowledge of local avian species often adds an interesting twist to his tours.

Mathias has over six years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, with a strong focus on informing, educating, and entertaining clients during their holidays in Malawi and beyond. His expertise extends to wildlife interpretation, where he excels as a leader, manager, and teacher.

Mathias holds a Tour Guiding Skills certificate from the Malawi Institute of Tourism, which he earned after completing a specialised short course. Outside of his professional work, Mathias is a proud father of three children: two boys and one girl and is also a farmer cultivating maize, groundnuts and soyabeans.

Lawrence has been in the tourism industry for over eight years as a guide. He takes pleasure in chauffeuring guests to various destinations within and outside Malawi, and his services are highly regarded. When he is off duty, he enjoys watching football.

Since 2008, Lawrence has been in the tourism industry as a private tour guide, taking pleasure in chauffeuring guests to various beautiful destinations within and outside Malawi. Lawrence executes his duties with proud passion. His knowledge of the tourism destinations in Malawi and surrounding neighbours is key, and his services are highly regarded. He joined Crafted Africa in early 2023 and has been an absolute asset; he continues to do what he knows best: making sure that guests enjoy and have memorable holidays. Liwonde National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve are his favourite destinations, being the first Malawi big five destinations.

Kennedy proudly hails from the vibrant landscapes of Malawi. For nearly a decade, he has had the privilege of serving at Crafted Africa, initially as an assistant operations manager and later as a dedicated guide. Guiding is more than just a job for Kennedy; it is his calling—a path he has chosen to immerse himself in and share the wonders of Malawi with others. Besides, he is also very passionate about cooking, a chef on tour, so to say; he is a Master of Food and creative chef.

He has been fortunate to travel extensively throughout Malawi, but his favourite destination remains Liwonde National Park. The incredible wildlife and tranquil scenery captivate him time and time again. When it comes to cuisine, nothing compares to Nsima with Chambo; it is his favourite Malawian dish.

Meet Antony Kamanga, a dynamic and driven individual from Malawi with a deep passion for continuous learning and personal development. He has recently taken on the role of Operations Assistant at Crafted Africa, a position he’s genuinely excited about. Antony brings with him a growing set of skills and experiences that he’s eager to apply in a practical and impactful way.

Outside of his professional life, Antony enjoys immersing himself in music often found enjoying his favourite tracks, as well as exploring new areas of knowledge to broaden his understanding of the world. 

He is enthusiastic about the journey ahead and is committed to making a meaningful contribution to the success of Crafted Africa while also growing personally and professionally. His dedication and positive energy make him a valuable asset to the team.

Fabiano is Crafted Africa’s Trade Relations Manager, a passionate explorer, wine enthusiast, and proud Malawian. With vast experience in the travel and tourism industry, he specializes in building international trade relations and creating sample itineraries for Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique. Fabiano plays a key role in generating leads, organizing educational trips, maintaining sales systems, and providing destination information to partners.

His dedication has made him highly successful in his role. He has explored many Southern African destinations, including Ilha de Mozambique, South Luangwa National Park, Livingstone and Victoria Falls, and many parts of Malawi, including Likoma Island. Fabiano has also represented Crafted Africa at major tourism trade shows in Central and Eastern Europe (Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic), Germany (ITB Berlin), and South Africa (Africa’s Travel Indaba).

Born in the heart of Malawi, raised in the UK, and shaped by a decade in South Africa, Jessica is a true citizen of the world. While in South Africa, she pursued her undergraduate studies, further enriching her global perspective. With a diverse background in sales across multiple industries – including hospitality – Jessica has found her true calling in tourism, where her passion for travel and connection comes to life. 

Having experienced the beauty of different cultures firsthand, she understands that every traveller seeks something unique. That’s where her magic happens! With an innate ability to relate to her clients, she listens, engages, and curates tailor-made, unforgettable holidays that go beyond expectations. Whether it’s a serene beach escape, an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, or a cultural deep dive, she ensures every detail is designed just for you.

Charity is a dedicated member of Crafted Africa, with a background in travel and tourism management. Her expertise lies in crafting bespoke itineraries that guarantee exceptional experiences for clients. Working with Crafted Africa, she has had the opportunity to go on familiarisation trips with travel agents to the southern part of Malawi, visiting notable destinations such as Liwonde National Park, Majete Wildlife Reserve, Satemwa Tea Estate, Lake Malawi, and Zomba.

On another note, trying a variety of tea at Satemwa Tea Estate was one of the highlights of Charity’s experience, as she has a deep love for tea, even when it is served hot. Beyond her professional endeavours, she finds joy in music, often exploring different genres in her free time. She also cherishes moments spent with her family, whether sharing stories, cooking together, or enjoying outdoor activities

Originally from The Netherlands, Lotte has always felt a profound connection to Africa. With over 20 years in the safari industry, she has explored the continent’s most remote and extraordinary destinations. In March 2020, she followed her passion to the breath-taking landscapes of Malawi, where she married Crafted Africa founder Mike Varndell.

Lotte specialises in remote and sustainable safaris and diving adventures, using her extensive knowledge to craft exceptional, personalised experiences. Her exploration of South Africa’s Winelands and Cape Town’s vineyards also allows her to create memorable wining and dining journeys. An avid adventurer, she thrives on diving, safaris, and photography. Fun fact: while snorkelling, Lotte was playfully nudged by a humpback whale—a formative experience that inspired her to launch our sister brand, Crafted Diving, committed to sustainable and responsible ocean conservation – to be launched in 2026

Angie joined Crafted Africa in June 2025 and kicked things off with an exciting 3 week long fam trip exploring Malawi and Zambia. From Liwonde and Majete to Zomba, Lake Malawi and the wild charm of South Luangwa, she quickly fell for the raw beauty of the region and the warmth of its people.

Originally from South Africa, she spent her early years exploring Zambia, Zimbabwe and her home country, sparking a lifelong love for Africa’s wildlife, landscapes and communities. Angie loves sharing Africa’s stories and inspiring authentic travel experiences. Connecting with people and the communities that protect the wild is something she values deeply. Off duty, she’s chasing sunsets, savouring good food and wine and never says no to an adventure.

Michael’s journey is a perfect example of how life can be unpredictable. Growing up, he dreamt of becoming an artist, fully immersed in creativity and self-expression. However, like many, he navigated the expectations of his parents, who encouraged him to pursue a more stable path—accountancy. Although this felt like a departure from his true passion, he discovered a love for problem-solving that he hadn’t expected.

Deeply connected to his culture, Michael’s love for art never faded; he continues to express his creativity through music and various artistic outlets. At social gatherings, he lights up the room, bringing people together with his energy and presence. Among the things he cherishes—art, music, and good company—his greatest joy comes from the relationships he has with those around him.

For Michael, Crafted Africa isn’t just a workplace; it’s a family. That, more than anything, makes his journey truly special. Fun fact: at Crafted Africa gatherings, we enjoy listening to one of Michael’s tracks, so feel free to ask him about it!

Richard originates from the vibrant and picturesque city of Blantyre in Malawi, and he has been a valued member of Crafted Africa since the end of 2021.

His journey with the company began in an exciting and dynamic role as a house chef. It was during this time that Richard’s deep passion for food, his genuine desire to connect with new people, and his growing admiration for the culinary arts truly flourished. This experience ignited a new sense of purpose and led him to take on a different challenge within the company, ultimately transitioning into an accounting role. This new chapter allowed Richard to perfectly combine his love for food with his burgeoning interest in the field of finance. Among the majestic Big Five animals, the leopard stands out as Richard’s favourite, holding a special place in his heart.

Waliko is a highly motivated and enthusiastic accounting professional with proven experience in business bookkeeping, tax accounting, and financial management. He has worked in various industries, including retail, manufacturing, and finance, which has broadened his expertise in handling diverse financial operations. He has a reputation for investigating and resolving issues, such as financial discrepancies, tax filing errors, and budgeting inefficiencies, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and improving overall accuracy, while constantly striving for process improvement.

During his free time, he enjoys watching football, particularly following the English Premier League, with a strong passion for teams like Manchester United and analysing game strategies. He enjoys discussing financial trends, business innovations, and personal development, making his conversations both engaging and insightful.

Margaret ‘Mwinda’ Khasu is a passionate and resilient accounting professional currently working at Crafted Africa. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences and brings experience from roles at Blantyre DHO, Girls Empowerment Network, and NICO Holdings. Known for her adaptability and sharp eye for detail, she thrives in fast-paced environments and brings a grounded, solution-oriented approach to her work.

Beyond numbers, Margaret has a deep love for self-growth, plants, especially jade and reflective writing. She’s on a journey of healing, choosing softness without losing strength, and believes in showing up for herself daily, whether it’s through a consistent skincare routine or simply keeping a promise to stay grounded.

Working in the tourism space has nurtured her appreciation for culture, storytelling, and the beauty of connecting people with the vibrant spirit of Malawi.

Violet Yolanda Ntonya is excited to join Crafted Africa as the HR Strategic Lead and Executive PA. With over a decade of experience leading HR strategy in the insurance, non-profit, and international development sectors, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for people to the organization.

Violet is especially passionate about building inclusive, high-performing workplace cultures, something she looks forward to championing at Crafted Africa. What she enjoys most in her HR practice is shaping organisational culture, creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to perform at their best. She believes that investing in people is the most powerful strategy any business can adopt.

Beyond her professional life, Violet enjoys writing, cooking, and cherishing time with her daughter, who continues to be her greatest inspiration.