Several ladies from South Africa’s travel industry have been nominated in various categories at Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government 2013. The awards recognise women in Africa and honour their contributions to uplifting their communities in their countries. With Women’s Day (August 9) fast approaching, eTNW celebrates these women in travel…
Bongiwe Pityi, Acsa
Bongiwe is Acsa’s deputy director of airport operations. She has 13 years of experience in the aviation industry and has played an integral role in the company, including being part of the team that constructed King Shaka International Airport.
“I am humbled at having been nominated within the aviation industry and, in particular, as part of South Africa’s national airports, which not only serve as strategic national assets but gateways into our country.
“It confirms that our duty is to serve, meaning that, if we are passionate, customer-focused and consistent, we are guaranteed to make the passenger´s experience at our facilities a pleasant and stress-free one,” she says.
Bongiwe adds that aviation is still one of the industries where women are least represented, which is why awards such as these are important. “It sends an important message that women are equally capable and remain important contributors at a leadership level within the travel industry.”
Carla da Silva, Air Mauritius
Carla, who is Air Mauritius’s regional manager for South Africa and Latin America, has 16 years’ experience in the aviation industry. She began her career as an international flight attendant for SAA and has experience in many operational and management roles. Carla has also initiated a mentorship programme for women in the aviation industry.
“Good and sound leadership is necessary for the absolute success of companies in this day and age, where so many uncontrollable dynamics are apparent,” she says.
Carla adds that the tourism and travel sectors have amazing women who are adding tremendous value to their industries. “The travel industry possesses so many dynamic and passionate women who have made significant changes to our industry and are often not recognised. Their success stories should be shared so that more women are inspired to make a difference, to be innovative, to uplift others and to leave a legacy in this ever-changing and dynamic industry.”
Captain Jane Trembath, SAA
After receiving her commercial pilot’s licence in 1984, SAA senior captain, Jane Trembath, has flown all types of aircraft. In the early 2000s, she commanded SAA’s first all-female flight and in 2007 became the first woman pilot in South Africa to command wide-body international flights.
One of the criteria for finalists is corporate social development. Jane’s voluntary projects have included promoting flying to women and mentoring female pilots. She is also a motivational speaker, providing lessons on how women can find their power and develop their leadership skills.
While the nomination is flattering, Jane says she would feel the same way about her work regardless. “In the end, it’s doing a good job that brings inner satisfaction.”
Jane adds that it is important that women in the industry become role models, as it opens up possibilities for young ladies to consider all facets of the industry as a career option. “Being a woman in a man’s world has had both rewards and challenges and I wouldn’t swap my journey for anything,” she says.
The award winners will be announced this week, on July 31, at a gala function in Johannesburg.
