One vision of consensus, compliance and confidence

Some 200 industry thought leaders converged at the African Pride Arabella Hotel and Spa in Hermanus to discuss a range of initiatives aimed at further enhancing the relevance and profile of South Africa's travel industry.

Among these, the launch of a Young Professional in Travel chapter to nurture young talent within the industry and the initiative of ASATA to be recognised as a professional body by the South African Qualifications Authority. The intention is to introduce new, relevant job designations recognising their competence and on-going professional development.

ASATA are also working with CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) and the QCTO (Qualifications Council for Trades and Occupations) to revise the curriculum for travel and tourism studies and enhance its relevance for industry.

A further initiative to position travel professionals and indeed ASATA-accredited members prominently among consumers was the launch of a marketing toolkit to which members will have access online. The Toolkit provides creative marketing tools in a variety of flexible formats so that members can assist the association in publicising to their leisure or corporate clients and the wider public the importance of relying on an ASATA member for their travel arrangements and the role travel professionals play in the marketplace.

Delegates were given an opportunity to attend several breakaway sessions aimed at helping them run their businesses professionally. Among these a workshop on the amended B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice, the Protection of Personal Information Act and the results of a recent survey by the African Business Travel Association revealing key trends, challenges and opportunities faced by companies doing business in Africa.

For more, go to www.asata.co.za