I have been in the travel and tourism industry for 18 years. I hold a National Diploma in Travel and  Tourism Management, and have acquired various certificates in management and leadership studies and most recently excelled in the Executive Development Programme for Women in Tourism from Unisa, 2021 intake.Upon completion, some of my responsibilities broadened to include contracting, while still managing daily operations for my team. I am passionate about development and mentoring, especially of new graduates joining our organization through learnership programmes, many whom have been inspired and motivated to start their own businesses and have been very successful and continue to grow within the industry. I have learnt a lot from this program and gained better understanding of the importance of applying a strategic approach to projects and daily functions of a business to foster its success. As a female leader in the tourism industry, taking up space and being empathetic has never been more relevant. Through the program I have built a strong networking team of ladies in tourism to form an impact in the lives of those who come after me.