Tourism leaders, business professionals, and public sector stakeholders gathered under one roof recently to celebrate World Skål Day – and the energy was electric. Hosted by Skål International Nelson Mandela Bay, the evening honoured a prestigious guest: Skål International World President 2025, Denise Scrafton, visiting all the way from Gold Coast, Australia.
The gathering, themed around collaboration and progress, was a celebration of both local achievement and global travel milestones. It also provided a powerful platform for key voices from across the industry to reflect, connect, and chart a course toward a more inclusive and sustainable tourism future.
As one of South Africa’s most active Skål clubs, Skål International Nelson Mandela Bay continues to champion the organisation’s global philosophy of “Doing Business Among Friends.” By nurturing trusted professional connections, the club promotes responsible tourism practices across the city and beyond.
Among the evening’s esteemed guests were top local government officials, including Councillor Bassie Kamana, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture; Executive Director Wandisile Makwabe; and Acting Director for Tourism, Ms. Siphokazi Ngombane. Each reaffirmed the city’s commitment to partnerships that drive inclusive tourism growth.
In her keynote address, President Scrafton emphasised the importance of unity, innovation, and sustainability in the travel and tourism sector.
“Together, we strive to inspire innovation, progress, and a tourism sector that prioritises people, planet, and prosperity. This evening has been a celebration of that shared vision – a powerful reminder of the transformative impact tourism can have when approached collectively,” Scrafton said.
She also praised the local community, adding, “Nelson Mandela Bay is truly a hidden gem, and I have been deeply moved by the warmth and professionalism of the community here.”
Scrafton’s visit also included site inspections of venues across the metro, preparing for an exciting milestone: the Skål International World Congress coming to Nelson Mandela Bay and its surrounds in 2026.
Councillor Kamana lauded the leadership in the room, particularly the presence of dynamic women at the forefront of tourism growth.
“It is both encouraging and inspiring to witness women leading at this level. Nelson Mandela Bay has long been known for its hospitality and spirit of collaboration. With Skål’s leadership, we are confident that the path forward will be one of innovation, shared value, and sustainable growth,” he said.
Celebrating Excellence: The Skål Nelson Mandela Bay Member Awards
A highlight of the evening was the much-anticipated Member Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the club and the broader industry over the past year:
- President’s Award: Doné Louw (NMB Convention Bureau Manager)
- Front Runner Award: Hugh Bartis (Nelson Mandela University)
- Stirrer / Agitator Award: Heidi Halgryn (Kouga Local Municipality)
- Star Award: Violet Lupuwana (Chumile Travel and Tours)
- Newcomer Award: Wendy Knott-Craig (The PR Junction)
Another proud moment for the club was the celebration of Salome Clack, President of Skål International Nelson Mandela Bay and Junior Vice President: South Africa. Clack was recently honoured as Skål International South Africa’s Club President for 2024 at the World Travel Market Africa in Cape Town – a recognition of her exceptional leadership and success in securing the bid to host the World Congress next year.
The evening closed with a strong sense of renewed momentum and shared purpose. As Skål International Nelson Mandela Bay looks ahead to 2026, the city’s tourism community stands united – ready to welcome the world with open arms and showcase the very best of the Bay.
PICTURED: (LtoR) NMBM MMC Bassie Kamana, Skål International Ambassador and Membres d'Honneur Lavonne Whittmann, Executive Director (acting): EDTA Wandisile Makwabe, Nosipho Booi: Tourism
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