The inaugural Tshwane Tourism Golf Day, held at the Wingate Park Country Club, brought together over 100 professionals from the hospitality industry, cementing its place as a premier networking event for the hospitality sector. 

Susan Marais, chairperson of the Tshwane Tourism Association, said the event’s success lies in its ability to facilitate meaningful connections and conversations that might not occur in a traditional boardroom setting.

“We’re in the hospitality industry and are the hardest-working people that you will ever meet. We’re here to promote business and meet new people,” she said. 

The event aimed to foster business opportunities among members, with supplier members supporting hotel members and attractions collaborating to drive business to each other.

Marais said the association plans to host future networking sessions in more engaging and enjoyable ways. 

“You can sit down in a boardroom and have a serious meeting, and there is a place for that, and that is very important. But how much business will happen here today? People are relaxed and they are sharing their ideas, they might not share in a serious business meeting,” she said. 

Despite the challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, Marais is heartened to see many businesses recovering and thriving again.

The golf day welcomed association members, suppliers, and anyone interested, with no specific criteria to meet.

Marais emphasised that the event’s success would be determined by the number of new business deals and relationships formed. 

With the next event already booked for March 25, 2026, the association is looking forward to another successful year.

The association has 200 members and hosts various events throughout the year, including a tourism showcase at the CSIR in January and the Tshwane Tourism Awards in August. 

Marais highlighted the importance of internal practices, collaboration, and business growth and development for its members. 

“If each of our 200 members improves just a little bit in all four categories, then the city will be even better,” she said.

She also encouraged association members to be involved in their local communities and make a positive impact.

She cited an example of the association’s members who close their restaurants once a month for a thorough clean-up of their premises and surrounding areas.

“They do that of their own initiative, and they don’t even want credit for it,” she said.

The association will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, and Marais said it will continue to have Tshwane Tourism Golf Day as a highlight on its calendar.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za

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