Sustainability is no longer a trend in tourism — it is a responsibility. For 2026, Skål International Cape Town has formally adopted a comprehensive Community, Charity & Sustainability Programme that reflects our commitment to meaningful impact within our city, our industry, and our global Skål network.
The Committee has aligned this year’s initiatives with four guiding pillars:
Importantly, our intention is not to impose sustainability practices or engage in greenwashing. Instead, we are creating a collaborative and supportive platform where members can voluntarily contribute to initiatives that strengthen Cape Town as a destination we are proud to represent — locally and internationally.
Our focus is practical engagement, measurable contribution, and collective leadership within the tourism sector.
A key priority for 2026 is increased participation in the Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards.
The application process is detailed and administratively rigorous, reflecting its international credibility. The Committee will actively support members throughout the submission process to ensure applications are well-structured, evidence-based, and aligned with global standards.
These awards are benchmarked against internationally recognised frameworks, including:
If you are considering entering your business, I encourage you to reach out to Skål Cape Town Committee member Martie Malan | martiemalan@global.co.za for guidance and support.
From 2026 onward, raffle income generated at Club events will be allocated quarterly to projects aligned with our sustainability pillars.
Members will receive regular updates via WhatsApp, email, and social media outlining how to engage, contribute, and participate in these initiatives. Our goal is active involvement — not passive support.
Beyond our local impact, Skål International Cape Town will continue its contributions to the Florimond Volckaert Fund and the Membership Development Fund.
The Florimond Volckaert Fund represents one of the most meaningful expressions of solidarity within Skål International. It provides confidential and dignified assistance to members worldwide facing unforeseen hardship due to illness, accident, natural disaster, or personal crisis.
More than a financial mechanism, the Fund embodies the true spirit of Skål — professional friendship in action. It is a reminder that our global network stands together when it matters most.
Sustainability also means investing in the next generation.
Following the success of the 2025 Tourism Connex event, income and sponsorship have been ringfenced to support tourism students in the Cape. A formal vetting process is underway, and four study bursaries will be awarded at the 2026 WTM Africa Gala Event.
Beyond financial support, selected students will:
This initiative ensures that sustainability is not only environmental or operational — it is generational.
The 2026 Community, Charity & Sustainability Programme reflects a deliberate shift toward measurable impact, structured support, and meaningful engagement.
Through collaboration, international alignment, and local action, Skål International Cape Town continues to demonstrate that professional friendship can be a powerful force for sustainable tourism leadership.
Together, we are not only connecting — we are contributing.
