Dear Skålleagues and Friends,
What an incredibly busy and rewarding month June has been for our network. More than just a series of events, this past month has been a powerful demonstration of our core philosophy in action: Doing Business Among Friends. This principle is the bedrock of our club, transforming every interaction, from a simple handshake to a formal partnership, into an opportunity to build a truly valuable and resilient tourism network.
The strength of this network is directly proportional to the quality and diversity of its members. It is this collective expertise that allows us to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and ultimately, grow our businesses. That is why I am particularly delighted to celebrate the continued expansion of our club.
At our June lunch, we had the distinct pleasure of officially welcoming more professionals into our ranks: Siyamthanda Frans (Protea Hotel by Marriott), Ziska Haak (Ankerdata), Jomar Venter (Venturix Travel), Samantha van Zyl (PSG Insure), Liana Walker (Destination Africa), and Chris Thwala (Destination Africa).
Each of these individuals brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and connections that enrich our collective. Their presence opens new doors for collaboration and strengthens our shared pool of knowledge.
We also had the honour of presenting a gold badge to Heidi Helm of Access Southern Africa, recognising her long-standing commitment and friendship – the very essence of what makes our organisation so special.
Left to Right: Skål International Cape Town President Johan van Schalkwyk with Heidi Helm
Our networking lunch at the wonderful Hotel Verde was a perfect example of this dynamism, where a guided wine tasting from Stellenbosch Hills was not just a sponsorship, but a genuine partnership that brought members and friends closer together.
To further cement this, Stellenbosch Hills has extended an exclusive deal to members, offering a 15% discount and free delivery on online orders with the code: SKAL – a direct benefit born from a trusted relationship.
Left to Right: Skål International Cape Town President Johan van Schalkwyk with Heidi Helm
Explore Stellenboch Hills’ Full Range of Wines
This principle of collaborative growth was also at the heart of our Youth Month initiatives. With approximately 4.9 million unemployed youth in South Africa, our industry has a critical role to play. On 18 June, in partnership with FEDHASA, SAACI, and Women in Tourism Next Gen, we hosted a dynamic Youth Day Networking Event. It was more than a gathering; it was an investment in the future of our network.
By connecting aspiring young leaders with trailblazers like Dr. Edo Heyns (Allée Bleue Wines), Tania Molteno (Enyi African Spiced Rum), and Busi & Gugu (Twin Ventures Tours), we facilitate the transfer of knowledge and inspiration that is vital for long-term success. The future of our industry is bright, and it is our duty to mentor and empower rising stars.
The value of our network also extends far beyond our city’s borders. In June, we welcomed international friends who remind us that we are part of a global family. The visit from Ron & Sharyl Batchelor, founding members of Skål International Launceston, and the official pennant handover, was a beautiful symbol of this worldwide friendship.
Skål International Cape Town Vice President Aimee Lentz pictured with Membre d’Honneur Anne Lamb and Carol Bayne, alongside Committee Member Karin Schmidt with Ron Batchelor (Skål International Launceston) and Kim Botti (Skål International Cape Town Member).
We were also delighted by a visit from Gideon Fourie, Vice President of Skål International Bali. He will be joining our July lunch, providing a fantastic opportunity to forge direct connections with another tourism market.
These global friendships are about to become even more structured and beneficial. July is a landmark month as we formalise our twinning with Skål International Bonn on Friday, the 11th. This isn’t just a ceremony; it is the creation of a strategic bridge to the German market, designed to generate tangible business opportunities.
As I represent our club at the official ceremony in Bonn, I invite you to join our Vice President, Aimee Lentz, at our simultaneous celebration at the Lagoon Beach Hotel. Let’s gather at 14h00 to connect, celebrate, and cheers with a live link-up to Bonn.
This is a great moment to expand your network and be part of a major step forward for our club. Bonn will join our recently twinned Izmir – as well as long-time twinned partners Hamburg, Perth, and Melbourne.
As we navigate the Cape Town winter, don’t forget to visit our online store for Skål-branded beanies, jackets, and scarves to keep warm and proudly represent the network to which you belong.
Explore the Skål Cape Town Store Today
Birthday Celebrations
Thank you for your active participation. It is through your engagement that we continue to build the most valuable tourism network in the city – one built on trust, collaboration, and friendship.
Skål!
Yours in friendship and tourism,
JOHAN VAN SCHALKWYK
President – Skål International Cape Town
