Women in the engine room at MSC SA

THIS Women’s Month, MSC Cruises South Africa celebrates three women whose leadership, expertise and passion help shape the cruise line’s success behind the scenes. For Candace Beaver, Head of Revenue at MSC Cruises, a career in travel has always been about people. “I started my career in travel in 2007 as a call centre agent, where I quickly realised the travel industry was about far more than selling holidays,” she says. “I saw it was about creating meaningful experiences and understanding the impact travel can have on people’s lives.” Since then, Beaver has progressed through operations and commercial leadership roles at Flight Centre, Imagine Cruising and now MSC Cruises. Along the way, she has learnt that successful businesses are built by empowering teams, putting customers first and embracing change. Reflecting on her journey, Beaver credits the people around her for shaping her approach to leadership. “I’ve been lucky to work with colleagues and mentors who have challenged and inspired me. I’m passionate about encouraging more women to pursue leadership in travel and I hope my journey shows that careers are built through curiosity, opportunity and the people who help you grow along the way.” Brand builder MSC’s Marketing Manager, Nompumelelo Vundhla, brings 10 years of marketing and communications experience to the table. She has contributed to internationally recognised brands, including LUX Resorts & Hotels and MAC Cosmetics Sub-Saharan Africa, before stepping into senior leadership at MSC Cruises. “I began my career as an intern and have consistently advanced through dedication, continuous learning, strategic thinking and a passion for delivering meaningful results,” she says. Her role at MSC focuses on accelerating commercial growth, strengthening brand value and enhancing customer engagement. “For me, marketing is about more than promoting a product, it’s about inspiring people to experience something meaningful,” says Vundhla. Leading together For Thango Gombiza, Public Relations Manager at MSC Cruises, the women who have surrounded her throughout her life have played a defining role in her personal and professional development. “Throughout my life, I have been surrounded by extraordinary women whose support, guidance and inspiration have shaped me. These are women who have led me, women I have had the privilege to lead and women with whom I have worked side by side.” Having started her career in communications in 2008, Gombiza has worked with several brands, including some in the travel and tourism sector. She recognises that it’s a sector that plays a vital role in South Africa’s social and economic landscape, creating opportunities, connecting people and contributing significantly to economic growth. She highlights MSC’s people as one of its greatest strengths, noting that MSC Cruises’ South African operations are powered by a workforce that is 80% female. Her message to women entering the industry is simple: “Embrace every opportunity, make the most of every space you occupy and leave a positive and lasting impact wherever you go.”