Richard Mabunda has been involved in Heritage and Tourism since 2001 when he started the Thomo Heritage, Arts and Culture Project in the Giyani Area. He has been involved in Culture and Heritage Training and Research including Tourism, Archaeology, Heritage and Project Management. He has worked with Professors and students from the University of Pretoria, Wits University, UNISA and international institutions. He has also been a researcher and guide for the Tsonga Kraal institute since 2002, consulting to academics from Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium and the UK. He has assisted over 40 students with their Masters research in Culture and Heritage as well as conducting educational tours for Primary to High School students with hands-on, experiential tours involving learning about hunting, iron smelting, salt-making and the likes.

Richard has received numerous accolades and awards from various institutions including The Thabo Mbeki bursary, an award from the Limpopo Department of Arts and Culture, UNISA, SABC and a Lifetime Award from the Heritage Institute. In 2013 he was awarded the CATHSETHA NQF Level 4 for Heritage Management, Tourism, Information Management, Tour Operating and Communication. He is in the process of getting his National Accreditation. He will be offering tours all around the country but his passion lies in Limpopo where he will be offering Hands-on, experiential tours of the Royal House, Traditional Healers, woodcarvers, dancers and potters.

His project, the Thomo Heritage Park, is progressing towards the end goal of being a comprehensive Heritage Institution with an Interpretation Centre, live demonstrations, experiential learning and guiding, as well as a Living Museum. Rich is a knowledgeable, fascinating Guide with a diverse background. He is able to provide visitors with a treasure-chest of cultural information and experiences. A tour with Richard is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone interested in the Shangaan culture, history and traditions.