The Skål International Cape Town Gala Evening and Skål South Africa Awards remain one of the most anticipated highlights on our calendar — an evening that brings together tourism leaders, industry professionals, and Skålleagues from across the globe in celebration of friendship, collaboration, and achievement.
This year’s event, held during WTM Africa, once again reaffirmed Cape Town’s position as a leading global tourism hub and a place where meaningful industry connections continue to thrive. With the city preparing to welcome international delegates for Africa Travel Week, anticipation built rapidly in the days leading up to the Gala Evening.
The event was hosted at the iconic Cape Town City Hall — a venue steeped in history and perfectly suited to an evening of elegance, recognition, and global connection. With Table Mountain as its backdrop, the City Hall set the tone for an unforgettable night that reflected both heritage and international significance.
Guests were welcomed with a warm and elegant opening, enhanced by the beautiful performance of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra Academy, creating an atmosphere that immediately captured the spirit of celebration and excellence.
A highlight of the evening was the presence of Skål International World President Andrés O. Hayes, who joined Skålleagues in Cape Town during his visit for WTM Africa and broader engagements across South Africa. His attendance further strengthened the global bonds of Skål and highlighted the importance of collaboration within the international tourism community.
In his address, President Hayes also honoured several distinguished members with his Presidential Coin — a symbol of recognition and global Skål friendship. Among those acknowledged were Past World President Lavonne Wittmann, Past Cape Town President and SISA Senior Vice President Dawn Smith, Membre d’Honneur Carol Bayne, and Past Cape Winelands President Carol Collins, each recognised for their ongoing contribution and service to the Skål network.
The Skål South Africa Awards once again highlighted outstanding individuals and organisations who continue to elevate the tourism industry through leadership, innovation, and commitment.
A major highlight of the evening was the recognition of Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism, who was awarded the prestigious Karl Twiggs Award for his exceptional contribution to tourism. His leadership and dedication to positioning Cape Town as a world-class destination continue to leave a lasting impact on the industry.
Other notable recognitions included:
Each award reflected the spirit of “doing business among friends” and the values that define Skål International.
One of the most significant highlights of the evening was Skål International Cape Town being awarded Club of the Year at the Skål South Africa Awards Ceremony for the third consecutive year.
This achievement reflects consistency, commitment, and the collective effort of a club that continues to grow and actively engage within the Skål network. Guided by a dedicated and passionate committee, Skål Cape Town remains focused on fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and delivering value to its members and the wider tourism industry. It is a meaningful milestone built on shared purpose, teamwork, and unwavering dedication.
Throughout the evening, Skålleagues and tourism professionals from across the world came together to connect, engage, and celebrate shared success. From meaningful conversations to moments of recognition, the Gala embodied the essence of Skål — unity, friendship, and professional excellence.
As Skål International World President Andrés O. Hayes so fittingly expressed, the evening reflected the sentiment: “United in friendship, we grow together.”
The Skål International Cape Town Gala Evening and Skål South Africa Awards was more than an event — it was a celebration of people, partnerships, and purpose. It highlighted the strength of our global network and the shared commitment to growing the tourism industry through collaboration and friendship.
An evening defined by excellence, connection, and unforgettable moments — and one that continues to reinforce Cape Town’s role at the heart of international tourism.
To friendship. To business. To tourism.
To view the extended gallery of the evening, click here.
