The CEO of ASATA (Association of Southern African Travel Agents), Otto de Vries was awarded the 'Business Personality of the Year" award, for the work he has done in challenging the recent changes to South Africa's immigrations regulations on behalf of his members and the broader industry.
Continuing in his quest to continue to put the spotlight on this very issue, De Vries took part in one of three business travel-related panel discussions at the event, with his discussion looking specifically at the drastic implications to the travel industry that are looming as a direct result of the changes to this immigration legislation.
In addition, the event also screened an exclusive one-on-one video interview with new Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom, who was put through his paces by renowned TV news anchor and Business Traveller Africa magazine consulting editor Jeremy Maggs.
A worthy winner, Otto's dedication to the travel and tourism industry is unwavering. He has worked in South Africa's tourism industry for the past 26 years - 18 of those in senior management roles - which has sparked his passionate drive towards the development of a professional travel industry; one that complies with legislative and ethical requirements, one that inspires confidence in the industry among both members and consumers, and one that is enhanced by the consensus of all parties.
