A Note from Skål Cape Town President Johan van Schalkwyk
Dear Skålleagues,
We are already just over 6 weeks into the new year and I would like to extend my sincere wishes to each of you for a successful, healthy and prosperous 2026.
The start of a new year always offers a moment to reflect on the strength of our network and the value of our friendships. Skål International Cape Town enters 2026 with renewed energy, growing engagement, and a clear commitment to supporting one another as leaders in tourism.
Our first gatherings of the year have already reminded us why our club continues to thrive. The enthusiasm at our opening networking evening and the strong attendance at our February luncheon reflect a membership that is active, connected, and proud to represent both Cape Town and the wider Skål community.
Left to right: Past President of Skål International Cape Town and Senior National Vice President Dawn Smith, Skål Cape Town Committee Member & Treasurer Kevin Robinson, Chantal Steward, and Skål International Cape Town President Johan van Schalkwyk.
At our first networking event, we celebrated not only the start of 2026 but also some special milestones. Three of our members marked 10 years of dedicated membership. Your ongoing passion, leadership, and commitment have helped shape and strengthen both our local club and the wider Skål network.
We introduced a new award: The Annual Skål Cape Town International Friendship Award, with the inaugural honour going to Skål International Bonn. It celebrates a partnership built on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to strengthening global connections.
WATCH MORE ABOUT THE ANNUAL SKÅL CAPE TOWN FRIENDSHIP AWARD
As Skål Cape Town continues to grow, we are excited to welcome Kaylin Taljaard and Micheala Crowe to our committee and to formally induct Heinz Erwee as our Second Vice President. We are confident that their expertise and dedication will strengthen our committee.
EXPLORE MOMENTS FROM OUR JANUARY COCKTAIL NETWORKING EVENING
As we celebrate these wonderful milestones, we were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of long-time Skål International Cape Town member, Andrea Bennett. Her dedication to the Club and her warm engagement with the community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.
Skål is more than a professional association. It is a global network of tourism professionals across more than 80 countries, united by friendship, trust, and a shared belief in ethical and sustainable tourism. Here in Cape Town, we have the privilege of being part of one of the most dynamic tourism destinations in the world — and each of you plays a role in shaping its reputation and growth.
Upcoming Events
In the weeks to come, join us on Wednesday, 25 February, for the Community-Built Tourism | Turning Local Engagement into Sustainable Value, exploring how community engagement drives sustainable tourism and lasting value.
Mark your calendars for our monthly networking event on Tuesday, 10 March 2026 — an opportunity to connect with fellow professionals who share your passion for tourism and hospitality.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Annual WTM Africa Networking Evening. This year’s celebration will be held at the iconic Cape Town City Hall, a night of connection, celebration, and collaboration you won’t want to miss!
Looking ahead, 2026 will focus on engagement and collaboration. Throughout the year, members can look forward to:
Left to right: Skål International Cape Town Second Vice President Heinz Erwee, Cape Town President Johan van Schalkwyk, and Cape Town Vice President Aimee Lentz.
Our intention is simple: to create a space where members feel welcomed, valued, and inspired – a club where relationships translate into opportunity, where experience is shared generously, and where friendships extend beyond the meeting room.
As tourism professionals, we understand that our industry is built on people. It is built on service, collaboration, resilience, and optimism. When we support one another, we strengthen not only our individual businesses but our destination as a whole.
I encourage you this year to participate actively. Attend regularly. Introduce a colleague. Reach out to a fellow member. Reconnect with an international Skålleague when travelling. Every interaction adds to the strength of our network.
Thank you for your continued commitment to Skål International Cape Town. Thank you for the professionalism you bring to our industry, and for the spirit of friendship that defines our club.
Skål!
Johan van Schalkwyk
President – Skål International Cape Town
