2008 ASATA Awards to recognise individual excellence

After 50 years of recognising superior service provided by suppliers in the travel industry, the 2008 ASATA (Association of Southern African Travel Agents) Awards will this year, for the first time, acknowledge outstanding individual contributions to the travel industry.

“Previously, our awards program recognised brands were recognised rather than people. We know that brands are only as good as the people who work for them, which is why it is fitting that the ASATA Awards shift to acknowledge and award the star performers in the travel industry as nominated by their compatriots,” explains ASATA CEO, Robyn Christie.

The 15 categories for nomination cover every aspect of the travel industry, with two special categories being highlighted, which include a Veteran Award of Excellence and an Award of Excellence for Tomorrow's leader. The judging panels, which will comprise suppliers, wholesalers and retail agents, will vary for each respective category.

The 2008 ASATA Awards aim to identify the industry's movers and shakers and acknowledge the valuable contribution they, as individuals, make towards the South African travel industry. The travel industry is asked to log onto the ASATA website http://www.asata.co.za to complete their nominations and submit their entries electronically or via fax before the 20 March 2008.

The winners will be announced at a gala event, which will be held as part of the annual ASATA Conference from the 26 – 29 April 2008 at Sun International's new playground of the rich and famous in Egypt, Port Ghalib.