FEDHASA Celebrates Hospitality Excellence at Inaugural Awards Ceremony
The Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA) recently held its inaugural Hospitality Awards, marking a milestone 75th year for the organization. The prestigious ceremony, held at the Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town on April 12th, 2024, recognized the exceptional talent and dedication of individuals across the South African hospitality industry.
Celebrating Passion and Innovation:
FEDHASA Chairperson Rosemary Anderson emphasized the importance of the awards: “The FEDHASA Hospitality Awards were created to celebrate the incredible talent and dedication of hospitality professionals across Southern Africa. This year’s finalists and winners exemplify the passion, innovation, and commitment that drives our industry forward, even in challenging times.”
Tourism Minister Highlights Collaboration and Recognition:
The Honourable Minister of Tourism South Africa, Patricia de Lille, congratulated FEDHASA and offered her praise: “Tourism and hospitality are powerful vehicles to showcase our country. But it’s the people who are at the heart of this sector. I want to express my deep gratitude to all the winners. Your commitment is what keeps us at the top of many global destinations.”
Minister de Lille further stressed the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors, applauding the awards for recognizing categories often overlooked, such as Executive Housekeeper and Young Professional of the Year. She reassured the industry: “You are such an important part of this sector. We appreciate what you do.”
Enara Muza: A Story of Opportunity:
The awards ceremony also highlighted the vast career opportunities within the hospitality industry. Enara Muza, the Executive Housekeeper of the Year, exemplified this. Muza transitioned from teaching in 2008 and began her hospitality journey as a restaurant runner. Through hard work and dedication, she climbed the ranks in housekeeping management, ultimately leading a team of 30 at the prestigious Silo Hotel.
FEDHASA Chairperson Elaborates on Industry Potential:
Rosemary Anderson commented on Muza’s story and its broader implications: “Stories like Muza’s demonstrate the boundless potential the hospitality sector holds, especially for South Africa’s youth. The industry provides a pathway for passionate individuals to build rewarding careers. The FEDHASA Hospitality Awards highlighted the hospitality leaders of tomorrow who are already making their mark. By fostering this next generation, South Africa can harness the power of tourism and hospitality for economic growth and job creation.”
2024 FEDHASA Hospitality Award Winners:
The ceremony honoured a range of outstanding individuals and businesses:
- Culinary Excellence: Clinton Bonhomme (Durban ICC)
- Executive Housekeeper of the Year: Enara Muza (The Silo Hotel)
- Facilities Manager of the Year: Jannie Roos (Peermont Hotels, Casinos and Resorts)
- [and so on… list all winners and categories]
FEDHASA Hall of Fame Inducts Industry Legends:
The ceremony also inducted new members into the FEDHASA Hall of Fame, recognizing lifetime achievements of industry stalwarts:
- Arthur Gillis (Platinum Hospitality Holdings)
- Clifford Ross (City Lodge Hotels)
- Nicky Fitzgerald (Angama)
Looking Forward: Nominations Open for 2025
