SEESA (https://www.seesa.co.za/index.html)  – Established in 1998, SEESA (Small Enterprise Employers of South Africa) is a trusted partner to over 30,000 businesses nationwide, providing expert support in Labour Law, Legal Compliance, and Business Solutions. With a network of 21 offices across South Africa, SEESA offers tailored, cost-effective services to businesses of all sizes and industries. Our experienced team of professionals is dedicated to understanding each client’s unique needs and delivering practical, compliant solutions, allowing you to focus on running your business with confidence and peace of mind.

Adventure Institute (https://adventure-institute.co.za/) –

Is a forward-thinking South African initiative committed to helping individuals, teams, and organisations thrive in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world. Through a dynamic range of courses, we focus on developing both soft and hard skills, guided by expert facilitators with decades of local and international experience.

We empower you to navigate workplace challenges, adapt to global shifts, and understand the evolving job market shaped by technology and artificial intelligence. At our core, we believe creativity and innovation belong to everyone, not just a select few. Our goal is to unlock your potential and help you discover opportunities in a world full of possibility.

Dear TTA Members!

As we turn the page into August, there’s a distinct sense of momentum in the air. And for good reason! The Tshwane Tourism Awards are just around the corner, and we’re so proud to officially announce this year’s finalists. These businesses, organisations and individuals represent the very best of our city’s tourism spirit: excellence, resilience, creativity and heart.

This year’s entries were inspiring, and the judging process reminded us just how much passion and hard work is happening behind the scenes across our local industry. From tour guides to guesthouses, events to experiences, there is no shortage of commitment to quality, and we can’t wait to celebrate every single finalist at our gala event on 16 August. If you haven’t booked your ticket yet, now’s the time!

Get those outfits ready: this is your moment to dress up, shine and network with fellow champions of tourism. And if the heels and jackets aren’t quite your thing, don’t worry… on 2 September we’ll trade the formal wear for golf shirts and sunshine at our TTA Golf Day. Two very different days, both full of connection, fun and the kind of industry spirit that sets Tshwane apart.

The Tshwane Tourism Awards aren’t just about trophies. They’re about connection. They’re about celebrating progress, learning from one another and lifting the standard of tourism in our capital city, together. We hope you’ll join us in supporting your fellow members, partners and peers.

We’re also heading into a season of growth: not just with the coming of spring, but with renewed energy as we prepare for the last leg of 2025. Keep an eye out for upcoming training, networking and campaign opportunities.

See you at the awards!

Warm regards,
Susan Marais

We are thrilled to announce the finalists for the Tshwane Tourism Awards 2025! These outstanding individuals and businesses have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and resilience in shaping Tshwane’s vibrant tourism landscape.

From hidden gems to household names, each finalist represents the spirit of our city and the strength of our local tourism industry.

Join us as we celebrate their achievements and look forward to an unforgettable awards evening on 16 August 2025 at Batter Boys Village, Pretoria.

Conference and Events Venue of the Year

• CSIR International Convention Centre
• Inani Hotels – Morning Star
• Kievits Kroon Gauteng Wine Estate
• Menlyn Boutique Hotel
• South African National Biodiversity Institute
• Southern Sun Pretoria
• Sunbet Arena Time Square

Education and Training Provider of the Year

• School for the Art & Science of Event Management, by Conference Consultancy South Africa
• The Capital Hotel School and Training Academy

Guesthouse of the Year

• 137@ Murray Street Guesthouse
• Casa Toscana Lodge
• Noxolo Guesthouse

Hotel of the Year

• City Lodge Hotel Hatfield
• Garden Court Hatfield
• Menlyn Boutique Hotel
• The Maslow Time Square Hotel

Lodge of the Year

• Kwalata Game Lodge
• Mela Luxury Game Lodge
• Ritsako Game Lodge

Restaurant of the Year

• Capital Craft Beer Academy
• Eat In Italian
• LeSi Restaurant @ Casa Toscana Lodge

Spa and Wellness Provider of the Year

• Incognito Spa and Events Pty Ltd
• L’abri Day Spa Pretoria
• Mangwanani Spa

Supplier to Industry of the Year

• Albacoxe Productions
• eCom
• Q2B SOLUTIONS PTY LTD
• Tourvest

Tour Operator of the Year

• Famba Famba Tour Design Specialists
• La Luonde Tours
• Ulysses Tours & Safaris CC

Tourist Attraction of the Year

• Acrobranch Adventure Park (PTY) LTD
• Adventure Zone Africa
• Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris
• DITSONG: National Museum of Natural History
• Freedom Park Heritage Site & Museum
• Sundowner Flyfishing Adventures at Oxbow Country Estate
• Time Square
• Voortrekker Monument

As we count down to the Tshwane Tourism Awards on 16 August, anticipation is building. Not just for the glitz and glamour of the evening, but for the announcement of our winners. We are proud to assure all entrants, finalists and supporters that the judging process is fair, professional and rooted in integrity.

The Tshwane Tourism Awards are not decided on popularity or opinion. They are adjudicated against clear criteria across four compliance-based categories:

1. Community Contribution & Sustainability
2. Internal Environment & Team Culture
3. Industry Collaboration & Engagement
4. Business Growth & Improvement

Each finalist was invited to submit detailed evidence to support their original entry, and this documentation is what our panel of industry experts is now reviewing. Our judges score independently, focusing only on the evidence submitted, ensuring the process is objective and accountable.

We are honoured to introduce the powerhouse professionals lending their expertise to this year’s panel:

Dr. Nellie Swart

Associate Professor of Tourism, UNISA | Chair: Tourism Educators South Africa (TESA)

Dr. Swart is a certified meeting professional with a DCom in leadership performance and change. She leads the Executive Development Programme for Women in Tourism at UNISA, has co-authored five books, and boasts over 70 peer-reviewed publications. Her accolades include being named one of the 100 Most Powerful People in African Hospitality and a Top 5 Woman in Leadership in Africa (2023). In 2024, she received AAXO’s prestigious award for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry.

Sibulele Mabusela

Director: Domestic Tourism, City of Tshwane

With over 20 years of experience, Sibulele transitioned from graphic design to destination marketing and has served in key roles with both KZN Tourism Authority and now the City of Tshwane. His expertise spans destination branding, consumer engagement and partnership marketing. Passionate about nurturing young talent and empowering SMMEs, Sibulele is deeply invested in building an inclusive, thriving tourism landscape.

Dr. Portia Pearl Sifolo

Director: Centre for Sustainable Tourism & Innovation | Senior Lecturer, Tshwane University of Technology

Dr. Sifolo is a leading researcher (NRF Y2-rated) and academic, specialising in strategic tourism management and entrepreneurship. Her doctorate focused on stakeholder engagement in tourism supply chains, and her ongoing work contributes to sustainable policy and innovation across Africa. She serves on multiple editorial boards, judges national awards, and is an expert advisor on international projects promoting African tourism development and youth innovation.

Sean Lemour

Quality Assurance Specialist: TGCSA | Hospitality Strategist | Former Director: Tourvest Destination Management

Sean Lemour is a seasoned tourism professional with over two decades of senior experience in the hospitality and tourism industry. Currently serving as a Quality Assurance Specialist at the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA), he plays a key role in maintaining service excellence and grading standards across the country.

Sean has held leadership positions at renowned organisations including Tourvest Destination Management, where he served as Director, and the Legacy Hotels & Resorts Group. His career spans high-level operational oversight, incentive travel programmes, and destination management across Southern Africa.

Known for his sharp operational insight and passion for developing young talent, Sean is a respected hospitality strategist and mentor, committed to sustainable tourism growth and bridging the gap between strategy and guest experience.

The Tshwane Tourism Awards are in excellent hands. Each of these leaders brings academic rigour, practical insight, and a deep love for the tourism sector to the table.

We extend our sincere thanks to our judging panel for their time, discernment, and service, and to all our entrants for your transparency, passion and pride in what you do.

See you on the red carpet!

The Tshwane Tourism Association (TTA) is looking for a dynamic and professional photography partner to capture the spirit of our city’s tourism industry throughout the year. From the Tshwane Tourism Showcase (welcoming 400+ industry stakeholders annually) to our popular Tshwane Tourism Golf Day, the prestigious Tshwane Tourism Awards and our various chapter meetings, we need someone who can bring these events to life through high-quality images.

This partnership is more than just a service exchange – it’s a chance for massive exposure in the tourism and hospitality industry, while enjoying the many perks of being our official photography partner.

What’s in it for you?

Recognition as TTA’s Official Photography Partner – Your name, logo and contact details will feature on our website, event programmes and marketing collateral.
Prime visibility at events – Display your banners at our key events and network directly with business owners, venue managers, hotels and event professionals who regularly book photography services.
Monthly exposure to members – Feature a special deal or promotion in our monthly newsletter.

Direct business referrals – Our members frequently require professional photography for venues, events and marketing campaigns – you’ll be the recommended go-to photographer.
Event portfolio opportunities – Gain incredible content for your own portfolio while photographing Tshwane’s flagship tourism events.

Full Sponsorship Benefits Include:

• A branded table and 4 Tickets to the annual Tshwane Tourism Awards
• A T-box at the Tshwane Tourism Golf Day
• Free TTA Membership for one year
• Full sponsor listing at each major event, including your logo on the event programme, banners, and digital promotions.
• A listing and link to your personal website on our website
• Regular social media posts.

This is a unique opportunity to partner with TTA, build long-term industry relationships and showcase your talent to the very businesses that hire photographers every day – from hotels and guesthouses to event venues and tourism attractions.

Please note: This partnership is based on a full sponsorship exchange – in return for the benefits listed above, photography for 5 events (the Tshwane Tourism Showcase, Golf Day, Tshwane Tourism Awards, one General Managers’ Meeting and one Chapter Meeting per year) will be provided.

For any additional events outside of these key dates, our photography partner will always be given first option to quote for the work.

Submissions are now open!
If you’re a passionate photographer who can commit to capturing our main annual events, we’d love to hear from you. Ts & Cs apply, but this partnership guarantees ongoing exposure and opportunities for collaboration.

Email your proposal and portfolio to admin@tshwanetourism.com

1. Future of Hospitality Workshop

• Date: Saturday 6 September 2025
• Venue: Town Lodge Menlopark
• Cost: R1500 per person (includes a light lunch)
• Group Discount: 10% off for 3+ attendees from the same hotel
• Provider: The Adventure Institute, in partnership with the Pretoria Bucket List
• Bookings: francois@adventureinstitute.co.za
• Overview: A one-day workshop exploring global hospitality trends, guest experience expectations, and practical strategies for service improvement and team engagement.

2. Food Handler Programme: Train with Purpose. Serve with Confidence.

• Provider: Capital Hotel School
• Overview: A practical, compliance-aligned programme that equips kitchen and service staff with job-ready skills in food hygiene, preparation, personal presentation, and guest interaction.
• Highlights:
  • Food safety and hygiene training
  • Basic food prep (e.g. breakfasts, salads, sandwiches, gourmet burgers)
  • Guest service and beverage introduction
  • Personal grooming and kitchen etiquette
  • Includes a chef’s knife and utility knife for each participant
  • Includes a 1-day Food & Beverage Service Attendant module
• Bookings: sales@capitalhotelschool.co.za
• Website: www.capitalhotelschool.co.za/training

3. Kitchen Hand Programme (in partnership with Built Africa)

• Provider: Capital Hotel School
• Overview: Offered in partnership with Built Africa, this NQF Level 3 Occupational Certificate provides unemployed women (ages 35–50) with professional kitchen training as a pathway to employment and empowerment.
• Focus Areas:
  • Hands-on kitchen training
  • Food safety and hygiene
  • Basic cooking and preparation techniques
  • Effective teamwork in a kitchen setting
• Note: This course forms part of a broader development programme that also includes life skills, trauma counselling, computer literacy and entrepreneurship training.
• Bookings: sales@capitalhotelschool.co.za
• Website: www.capitalhotelschool.co.za/training

4. EAPoEMiP Course (Event Architecture® Principles of Event Management in Practice)

• Duration: 6 months
• Start Date: 4 August 2025
• Applications Close: 11 July 2025
• Cost: R21,320 (payment plans available)
• Provider: Conference Consultancy South Africa

Overview: In-depth, accredited course covering the full scope of event planning and execution, ideal for those pursuing a career in event management or wanting to formalise their experience.

As we gear up for the exciting summer travel season, Ulysses Tours and Safaris is thrilled to announce the expansion of our fleet with the addition of a state-of-the-art 32-seater Yutong R9 luxury coach! This strategic investment reflects our continued commitment to offering safe, comfortable, and premium travel experiences to our valued clients.

The new coach is designed with passenger comfort and modern convenience in mind. Key features include:

• Automatic gearbox for a smoother ride
• Reclining leather seats with seat belts for optimal comfort and safety
• On-board toilet facilities
• DVD player, microphone and speaker system for entertainment and guided tours
• Fridge for refreshments
• Individual charging ports, reading lights, and curtains
• Laminated flooring for a clean and elegant interior finish
• Ample luggage storage underneath the coach

With the addition of this impressive vehicle, our total seating capacity now stands at 342, ensuring that we are well-prepared to meet increasing demand for group travel, corporate tours, school excursions, and luxury safari transfers.

At Ulysses Tours and Safaris, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier transport solutions that combine reliability, luxury, and efficiency. The Yutong R9 is more than just a bus, it’s an extension of our brand promise to make every journey an experience to remember.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon!

Plan your summer escape with Ulysses, where the journey is just as remarkable as the destination.

We’re proud to be part of a life-changing journey with Built Africa, who have enrolled 60 incredible women between the ages of 35 and 50 to complete the Occupational Certificate: Kitchen Hand – NQF Level 3 with us at Capital Hotel School.

These women, each with a powerful story and remarkable resilience, are developing professional kitchen skills that will serve as a foundation for future employment and self-reliance.

Our role in this training focuses on:

• Hands-on kitchen training
• Food safety and hygiene practices
• Basic prep and cooking techniques
• Working effectively in a kitchen team

While CHS is specifically responsible for the Kitchen Hand component, these ladies are also receiving life skills training, trauma counselling, computer literacy, entrepreneurial guidance, and more as part of a broader development programme led by Built Africa.

We look forward to seeing them grow – both in skill and in confidence.

For professional training opportunities with Capital Hotel School, contact us at sales@capitalhotelschool.co.za or visit our website for more information visit https://capitalhotelschool.co.za/training/

In the hospitality industry, first impressions matter – and it often starts in the kitchen. Whether you’re managing a hotel, restaurant, school kitchen, or catering operation, ensuring your team is properly trained isn’t just good practice, it’s a legal requirement.

At Capital Hotel School, our Occupational Certificate: Food Handler Programme is designed to do more than tick a compliance box. It empowers your kitchen and service staff with practical, job-ready skills that directly impact food safety, guest experience, and overall professionalism.

Why choose our Food Handler Programme?

This hands-on, high-impact programme equips learners with essential skills in:

• Food hygiene & safety protocols
• Basic food preparation (including breakfast items, salads, sandwiches, and gourmet burgers)
• Guest service and beverage basics
• Personal grooming & kitchen etiquette
• Confidence in guest interaction and front-of-house professionalism

What’s included:

• A chef’s knife and utility knife per participant
• A 1-day Food & Beverage Service Attendant module
• Practical & theory-based instruction with real-world applications

Give your team the training they need to grow, and your business the service excellence it deserves.

For bookings and enquiries, contact us at sales@capitalhotelschool.co.za or visit our website: www.capitalhotelschool.co.za/training

Looking for a unique and adventurous way to mark your special day? Acrobranch has you covered with an exciting Birthday Party Offer perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages (3+)!

 Special Offer – Just R1980 for 11 people

• Use promo code AcroParty11 to get:
• Access to any 2-hour adventure course (excl. combos)
• Climbing gloves for all participants (age 7+)
• A FREE Future Pass for the birthday star!

Add more friends at standard rates

Valid at 12 locations nationwide
Book by 31 Jan 2026 for parties up to 30 June 2026

Let’s make it a birthday to remember, high up in the trees!

Book now | #gethooked

Pretoria is buzzing with exciting events this August, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From food and wine lovers to theatre fans and festivalgoers, the city is alive with opportunities to explore and celebrate.

Kick off the month with the Prawn and Wine Festival at Kievits Kroon on 3 August, followed by IPA Day at Capital Craft and The Wizard of Oz at Atterbury Theatre on 7 August. Heritage meets festivity with the Basaars at Voortrekker Monument and the Seafood and Wine Festival at Irene Village Mall on 9 August.

Mid-month, we celebrate excellence at the Tshwane Tourism Awards on 16 August at Batter Boys. Dance enthusiasts can look forward to Lord of the Dance at Time Square on 24 August, while the final weekend is packed with indulgent experiences, from the Champagne, Chocolate and Gin Fest in Cullinan to Krone at Loftus and the Pretoria Oyster and Bubbly Fest at Le Si Restaurant.

Whether you’re after culture, cuisine or celebration, Pretoria has it all this August – so mark your calendars and join in the fun!

We are thrilled to invite you to the first-ever Tshwane Tourism Golf Day, a celebration of business, leisure, and the vibrant tourism community in the capital city!

This exciting event is designed to create a fun and sustainable networking platform for all tourism industry stakeholders. It’s more than just a day on the greens, it’s a chance to connect, collaborate, and unwind in a beautiful setting.

Event Details:

• Date: 2 September 2025
• Venue: Wingate Country Club
  539 Norval Street, Wingate Park, Pretoria
• Shotgun Start: 11:00 AM
• Format: 4-Ball Alliance Stableford (Best 2 scores to count)

4-Ball Entry: R5 500.00

Includes:

• Welcome Drin
• Green Fees
• 2 Golf Carts
• Golf Shirts
• Halfway House Meal
• Dinner
• Gift Bag
• T-Box Sponsorship Opportunities:

Premium T-Boxes (1, 9, 10, 18 & Putting Green):

• • R4 000.00 (Includes lunch for 2)

All Other T-Boxes:

• • R3 500.00 (Includes lunch for 2)

Tshwane Tourism Association members enjoy R500 discount on T-Box prices!

Executive Sponsorship Packages:

Ready to Participate?

Email juanita@silvercrestevents.co.za

Let’s tee off to great conversations, strategic partnerships, and a day to remember!
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Tshwane Tourism Golf Day!

The spotlight is almost ready to shine! In just three weeks, Tshwane will come alive with celebration as the Tshwane Tourism Awards 2025 honours the trailblazers, innovators, and champions of our vibrant local tourism industry.

Date: 16 August 2025
Venue: Batter Boys Village, Pretoria

This prestigious event promises an unforgettable evening of recognition, connection, and celebration. From red carpet glamour to delicious dining and impactful networking, the Tshwane Tourism Awards is where excellence meets opportunity.

Ticket & Sponsorship Packages Now Available:

Whether you’re attending to support the industry, gain brand visibility, or reward your team, we have a package to suit your needs:

• Individual Ticket – R550
  Includes red carpet arrival, full-course dinner, awards ceremony access, and networking opportunities.
• Branded Table – R7,700
  Seats 10 guests
  • Includes your company logo on the table
  • Perfect for hosting clients, partners, or your team in style
• Silver Sponsor – R7,000
  1 branded table + 2 extra tickets
  • Listed as an official Silver Sponsor
• Gold Sponsor – R13,000
  2 branded tables + 4 extra tickets
  • Featured as a Gold Sponsor in event materials
• Platinum Sponsor – R24,000
  4 branded tables + 10 extra tickets
  • Premium logo placement
  • Verbal recognition during the ceremony
  • Opportunity to present an award
  • All Gold & Silver Sponsor benefits included

Want more visibility?
We’re also offering exciting sponsorship opportunities for goodie bags, the perfect way to get your brand into the hands of every attendee.

Secure your seat or become a sponsor today:
https://www.q2b.co.za/OnlineTickets/Index/1450…

For sponsorships or more information, contact: admin@tshwanetourism.com

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