Who we are

KŌKUMI Collective was founded for travel related brands that value nuance, collaboration, and strategic evolution. We’re selective, because that’s how ecosystems work best—intentionally connected, creatively fuelled, and rich with mutual benefit.

What Is “Kokumi”?

“Kokumi” is a scientific-neologism, coined in the 1980s & 1990s, to describe a heightened, layered mouthfeel — what chefs call the sixth taste. It doesn’t stand alone, but it elevates, enhances and amplifies everything it touches. It’s subtle, but powerful. Lasting.

The word “kokumi”, written in katakana as コクミ, blends two Japanese terms: “koku” (rich, depth, and full-bodied sensation) and “mi” (taste).

KŌKUMI Collective exists to enhance, not replace your voice. Through thoughtful strategy, meaningful relationships, and impeccable brand alignment, we grow your brand and its market presence.

Why KŌKUMI

Collaborative Ecosystem

We treat client representation like a web, not a silo.
We are a collective in the truest sense—an ecosystem of aligned brands that strengthen one another by design. We intentionally curate our collective so clients can benefit from shared contacts, insights, and opportunities—growing faster together than they would alone. The result is layered, resonant, and mutually expansive.

Did you know?
When multiple clients select the same trade show or industry event, costs are shared — making high-value visibility more accessible, and connection more collaborative.

Design-Led Representation

Perception is power. With a background in design and brand development, we ensure your presence is polished, considered, and consistent across every touchpoint—trade-facing or not.
Consistency isn’t optional. It’s what sets the exceptional apart.

Deep Roots, Wider Reach.

Our background is the luxury travel industry—but our perspective is broader. Our work extends beyond traditional channels to include creative brand collaborations, unexpected partnership verticals, and culturally relevant growth strategies. This allows us to surface ideas, networks, and opportunities that others may not be looking for.

Considered Growth

While spikes may feel exciting, we favour a more measured approach. We focus on momentum that endures — building reputation, not just exposure. Visibility that deepens over time. Recognition that expands your reach. We are focused on consistent, purposeful and timely efforts for growth.

Business Development Roots

Our expertise was forged through the real work of building businesses through sales and partnerships — both our own and those of our clients. We’ve worked in the travel, creative, and tech industries. This gives us a clear commercial lens and a deeply practical understanding of what drives long-term value. Every element we bring — strategic positioning, intelligent outreach, and thoughtful partnerships, is shaped by lived experience and guided by growth. It's business development, elevated.

 

Where substance meets strategy.

Global Perspective

We’ve worked with and in various global markets. We are made of “tri-culture kids” - meaning we cary at least 3 cultures in our upbringing and in our adult lives. This gives deeper perspective and understanding to the various markets we represent you in and in the markets we open for you.

Meet the Founder

Our consultant bios are available on request.

We frequently draw on the expertise of external specialists, particularly in areas related to ESG regulations and sustainability. All outside experts will be submitted for client review and approval before beginning work.


  • Founder

    With over 14 years of experience spanning brand building, business development, and partnerships, Lindsay brings a rare cross-industry fluency to the luxury travel space. Her background — shaped by roles in travel, tech, and creative industries —fuels a strategic, design-led approach to growth. As an independent consultant, she’s known for crafting tailored, commercially-minded solutions that help brands thrive. At the heart of her work is a passion for meaningful collaboration, long-term upliftment, and an inclusive, future-forward travel industry.

    Born in New York City and raised in Paris, Lindsay is a dual citizen of the United States and South Africa, and has called Cape Town home for over 16 years. She’s a passionate advocate for sustainability and DEI, and finds joy in riding, wine, music, exploration, a great martini, and time spent by the ocean with her dog, Kaida.

Contact us

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