As we move further into the year, March brings renewed energy and opportunity, especially here in the beautiful Cape Winelands. From harvest season in full swing to the vibrant experiences our region offers, it’s a time to celebrate connection, collaboration, and the unique strength of our local tourism community.

While we focus on our region, we remain mindful of global developments. Ongoing tensions in the Middle East continue to influence international travel patterns and broader economic conditions, reminding us of the importance of resilience and adaptability within our industry

In an ever-changing environment, collaboration and resilience remain key. Together, as a global network, we continue to adapt, support, and grow stronger. Closer to home, Skål Cape Winelands continues to grow as a dynamic network of professionals committed to supporting one another, sharing opportunities, and showcasing the very best of our region.

Thank you to everyone who attended our recent function at Beluga. It was a memorable lunch that ended early evening for some. It was made even more special as we watched our “dream ship” set sail—while many of us wished we were on board!

A warm welcome to Hans Belz, who was officially inducted and so enthusiastically received by all. The energy in the room was fantastic, with meaningful connections made and plenty of networking taking place throughout the lunch. Another highlight was Our President Tanya Lubbe handing over the Director Chain to Fiona Angelica – Fiona is our Region 14 – Africa director and chair of the Trade Shows, Global Partnerships & Advocacy committee. Please watch this

We also extend our sincere thanks to those who supported our raffle prizes, and for the “fine money” collected in good spirit—all contributing towards our chosen charity for the first part of the year, Grace Animal Sanctuary.

Grace Animal Sanctuary does incredible work under their motto Rescue, Rehab, Rehome. They are dedicated to sterilising, vaccinating, deworming, and providing veterinary care to thousands of animals across the Western Cape. Despite the scale of their work, one of their greatest ongoing needs is something very simple—water.

We look forward to supporting this worthy cause together and making a meaningful difference in the months ahead.

Join Skål Cape Winelands for a relaxed and enjoyable wine tasting experience at the beautiful Villiera Wines in Stellenbosch.

You will be welcomed with a drink from Cape Town Spirits, followed by a mixed tasting of Cap Classiques, white and red wines, accompanied by delicious cheese and charcuterie platters.

If you would prefer to forgo the wine tasting, please let us know and we will happily arrange alternative refreshments for you. There will also be a fun round of Two Truths and a Bluff — so get your poker face ready.

WTM

Skål Cape Winelands members are encouraged to make the most of World Travel Market one of the largest global travel trade events. WTM offers a fantastic opportunity to:

• Network with international tourism leaders and fellow Skål members

• Showcase the unique experiences and attractions of the Cape Winelands

• Explore new trends, destinations, and innovations in travel

• Strengthen business connections and partnerships within our global network

Participating in WTM helps our members stay ahead in the tourism industry, promote our region internationally, and bring fresh ideas back to the Cape Winelands community. A list has been circulated if anyone is keen to work on the Skal Stand for a 2-hour time slot – please let me know if keen

Part of the WTM Skål International Cape Town is hosting the Gala Dinner and National Awards Ceremony and warmly invites members, guests, and friends from across the tourism and hospitality industry— an evening dedicated to connection, celebration, and recognising excellence in our sector. We are delighted to announce that this year we will be joined by Skål International World President Andrés O. Hayes, Past World President Lavonne Wittmann, and Skål International Africa Region 14 Director Fiona Angelico. Together, we will celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of our vibrant tourism community.

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE FEEDBACK

PR and Marketing March Update

A key focus of the committee is working closely with other Skål committees—including Finance, Governance, Technology, Sponsorship, Membership, Training, Trade Shows, Congress, and Young Skål—to understand their needs and amplify their initiatives across newsletters, websites, and social media. Members have been assigned to liaise directly with specific committees to ensure clear communication and support.

The team is creating and working on outlining a strategy or plan, explaining goals, roles, and approaches to guide decisions and coordinate efforts across committees. We excited about a new global Skål app that will further strengthen connections and serve as a central media platform.

Young Skål revitalization is underway to engage younger members.

.

Collaboration, support, and visibility across all committees remain the cornerstone of the PR & Marketing strategy.

YOUR COMMITTEE AND MEMBERS

Your Committee

Tanya Lubbe – President – Sales Manager of Mdluli Safari Lodge

Berna Van Rooijen – Senior Vice President – Tales from Africa Travels

Lizelle Bailey – Secretary and Junior Vice President – BaileyZA Exclusive Tours & Travels

Kathy Ridler – Treasurer- Retired, Caring services

Carol Collins –- Communications and web administrator – Readers Restaurant and Wittedrift Manor House in Tulbagh

Kai Gideon – Young Skal and social Media – Afrogem PR –

Wayne Bezuidenhout – – New member liaison and membership -– Blue V Coaches

Fiona Angelica –Director – Region 14 Africa – RBS Car Hire

Reggie Ferriera – Events Coordinator – Cape Town golf championships organizer

Leigh-ann Conroy Khan – Events Coordinator – Afrogem Public Relations and Marketing

Trish Van Straaten – Industry Engagement and events – Key accounts Manager – Apex Vehicle

Riel Meynhardt – Statutes – Evergreen Manor & Spa

Annalize Grimbeek –Sport Tourism Events Development Training NPC

Diedricht Johan Brand– Neuro Diverse Tourism

Members

Angelique Le Roux – Ceres Zipline Adventure

Annamarie Ferns – Ward 7 councillor- Stellenbosch Municipality

Bianca Smith – Mdluli Safari Lodge Sales

Celeste Vogel – Account Director at Preferred Hotel and Resorts

Christine Macvicar – Marketing African Safari Collection

Chris Phillips – Go to South Africa Tours

Elcke De Voux –Aquila Collections

Eon Rabe – Committee member – Connect Travel SA

Francis Nieuwoudt – Director of the Drakenstein Business Chamber

Glenda Pieters – Naturally Good

Guinalda Nash – Director of Albatross Tours –

Hans Belz – Wine tourism conference

Jaco Du Plooy – Revenue Net

Jason Chen –Kanu Wine Farm

Kim Van Der Westhuizen – Town 2 Country Experiences

Kimon De Zeeuw – Preferred Hotel and Resorts

Kirsten Van Der Hoven – Marketing Model

Leana Louw – Destination Africa

Lecelin Roberts – Staymore Guest house

Liana Walker – Destination Africa

Patty Nieuwoudt – CEO of Tulbagh Tourism

Pieter Rossouw – DIVERSO MARKETING

PJ Daly – Wittedrift Manor House

Robyn Spicer – Managing Director of Stellenbosch Sure Travel

Rolf Zeitvogel – Master distiller at Triple Three

Rosamary Balino – Cape Flava Tours, Guide and operator –

Tracy Bougard – Destination Africa Safaris –

Zile De Kock – Marine Dynamics shark and whale Tours

Welcome Back and new Members

LORRAINE DE KLERK – LUXORLAINE

NICK VAN DER VENTER – CAPE TOWN GIN AND SPIRITS COMPANY

NAOMI COETZEE – CAPE TOWN GIN AND SPIRITS COMPANY

CRAIG VAN DER VENTER – CAPE TOWN GIN AND SPIRIT COMPANY

It’s wonderful to see our community grow with passionate individuals and innovative businesses.

We look forward to connecting, sharing experiences, and celebrating the spirit of tourism together. Welcome aboard!