Judges in the Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality category included: Riaan Steenberg, Director of Global Operations, Regenesys; Ann Gradidge, HR Manager, Emperors Palace; Chris Wilson, Group HR Executive, SAFAL Group.
The Standard Bank Rising Star Awards programme was established for the purposes of recognising, celebrating and connecting young talented people who have a capacity for achievement and success and who contribute in an inspirational manner to the future of the nation. From over 400 entries this year, 60 finalists emerged from a rigorous three-phase judging process to be named as finalists and represent the top echelons of South African workplace talent.
"It is such a privilege and a massive personal achievement for me to have been considered above all candidates that were nominated, and is significant because I don't necessarily see myself as someone who is extraordinary - I just love my job and want to do it well and that is how I have gotten to where I am. It means a lot to me because I see a lot of opportunity going forward to be able to share my knowledge and expertise within my field with other people to help them achieve greatness," says Mortlock.
Mortlock is extremely passionate about the tourism industry in South Africa and loves knowing that they (STA Travel South Africa) have driven demand for unique product offerings both internationally as well as domestically to make young people inspired to travel the world.
"STA Travel is a brand that allows its team to push the boundaries of doing things that other companies might not do. When we need to create new products and campaigns, it really helps that we can be strategic in a youthful, adventurous and out-of-the-box approach. To be able to then track and see the results of our work is the cherry on top!"
