On the 1st of March, the finalists of the ASATA Diners Club Awards were honoured at a prestigious function attended by major industry players and stakeholders. Considered one of the highest accolades in the South African travel industry, nominations were received from all over the country.
The ASATA Diners Club Awards recognise those professionals in travel who go the extra mile, burn the midnight oil to deliver excellent customer service and ultimately contribute to the professional image of the industry. The goal of the awards is to recognise these individuals, as nominated by their peers, industry colleagues and managers, and to further strengthen the message of professionalism and enhance the credibility and commitment individuals make when choosing to commence, develop and grow a long-term career in travel.
The judging was conducted by an independent panel with an in-depth understanding of the industry. To further ensure neutrality, there were no judges represented by the retail or wholesale sector. Judges signed a confidentiality clause and scoring sheets were anonymous, with no reference to nominees’ names or companies, and therefore the quality of the motivation and reasons for nomination were of utmost importance, as the judges did not know the candidates.
Reinstating these prestigious awards has resulted in a long-awaited accolade for those professionals in the travel industry who pursue service excellence and contribute to making a difference. Well done to all the finalists and we are pleased to announce the names of those who ultimately won the awards:
- Corporate Consultant: Angelique Anderson, Sure African Imprint Travel
- Leisure Consultant: Jacqui Giles, Club Travel
- Independent Travel Consultant: Janine Corry, 24Point7 Travel Studio
- Key Accounts Executive: Rachael Penaluna, Sure Maritime Travel
- Wholesale FIT: Carla Seaman, Travel Vision
- Wholesale Groups: Lizelle Morrison, Beachcomber Tours
- Wholesale Sales Representative: Cheryl Smith, Travel Vision
- Exceptional Commitment: Johanna Mukoki, Travel with Flair
- Tomorrow’s Leader: Dorcas Dlamini, Protea Hotels
Due to the complexities and various factors influencing both leisure and corporate travel reservations, it is recommended that you use the valuable services of a travel professional to ensure peace of mind. When looking for an ASATA member, visit the website at www.asata.co.za.
Otto de Vries
CEO: ASATA