Council Members
PhD, MSc | Strategic Leader in Leadership and Change Management
Hospitality | Tourism | MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events)
Dr. Eddy Khosa is an accomplished executive with over 28 years of senior leadership experience in the hospitality, tourism, and events industries across both public and private sectors. Known for his ability to lead transformative change, Dr. Khosa has successfully implemented turnaround strategies for struggling hotels and Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs), restoring them to operational and financial health.
He previously served as the CEO of the Johannesburg Tourism Company, a wholly owned entity of the City of Johannesburg, where he spearheaded destination marketing and stakeholder engagement strategies at local and international levels. He is also the former National Chairperson of FEDHASA (Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa), where he championed policy advocacy and sectoral development.
Dr. Khosa has served on numerous boards and industry bodies, including:
- Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA)
- CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) – Interim Chairperson
- Institute of Directors South Africa (IoDSA) – Member
His strong grounding in governance is matched by his expertise in the Public Financial Management Act (PFMA) and Municipal Financial Management Act (MFMA)—skills that have enhanced his value in both corporate and government advisory roles.
From 2019 to 2022, he was General Manager of AH Hotel & Conferences in Accra, Ghana, where he brought operational excellence and innovation to the West African hospitality sector.
Dr. Khosa holds a PhD in Leadership and Change Management (AIU, USA), an MSc in Global Management (University of Salford, UK), and has recently completed postdoctoral research in Project Management, with a focus on Information Systems Integration.
A highly respected strategist and people-centric leader, Dr. Khosa is passionate about driving transformation, building resilient institutions, and mentoring future leaders within the tourism and hospitality ecosystem.
Director, School of Tourism and Hospitality – University of Johannesburg
Prof. Diane Abrahams is a respected academic and strategic leader with a distinguished career spanning the corporate, non-profit, government, and academic sectors. She holds a BSc (Hons), MSc, and PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as Director of the School of Tourism and Hospitality within the College of Business and Economics at the University of Johannesburg.
Throughout her career, Prof. Abrahams has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to economic and social development in South Africa. She has held several senior positions in strategic development and governance, contributing meaningfully to transformation initiatives that drive impact across both public and private sectors.
In her current academic leadership role, Prof. Abrahams oversees both the academic departments and the commercial operations unit of the School, providing vision, guidance, and stewardship. Her leadership is marked by a passion for transformative change, a deep understanding of stakeholder engagement, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in higher education.
She is particularly passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Tourism and Hospitality industry, recognizing their crucial role in unlocking opportunities for the next generation of leaders and professionals. Prof. Abrahams is a champion for creating inclusive and future-focused pathways that support young talent and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the sector.
Chief Executive Officer, BEE Online Group
Tyrone Naidoo is a leading authority in Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) in South Africa, widely recognized for his significant contributions to economic transformation and inclusive growth. As Chief Executive Officer of BEE Online Group, he provides strategic direction to organizations navigating the complex landscape of BEE compliance and transformation frameworks.
With a strong foundation in corporate compliance and governance, Tyrone has overseen ownership transactions involving some of South Africa’s largest JSE-listed companies, multinational corporations, and government entities. His in-depth knowledge spans both the legal and operational dimensions of BEE, allowing him to deliver innovative, practical, and impactful solutions tailored to clients across sectors.
Tyrone’s influence extends beyond the boardroom. His appointment to the Tourism Transformation Council highlights his ongoing commitment to driving equity and representation within the tourism industry. In this role, he actively contributes to shaping national transformation strategies, ensuring historically disadvantaged communities benefit from and participate meaningfully in the tourism economy.
A respected thought leader and transformation advocate, Tyrone Naidoo continues to champion a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable economic future for South Africa.
Data Scientist | AI & Machine Learning Specialist | Mentor
Dale Seema is a seasoned data scientist with extensive experience in the telecommunications and banking sectors. His expertise lies at the forefront of emerging technologies, with a sharp focus on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data. Dale’s strategic insights and technical acumen have enabled organizations to unlock the full potential of data-driven decision-making and digital transformation.
Beyond his professional work, Dale is a passionate mentor dedicated to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders. He has mentored aspiring data scientists and entrepreneurs from world-renowned institutions such as the University of Singapore, MIT, and the University of Texas McCombs School of Business.
Through mentorship, Dale empowers individuals to not only master AI technologies but also to implement impactful digital strategies within their own ventures and organizations. His commitment to knowledge sharing and skills development makes him a valuable contributor to the global tech ecosystem.
With a blend of real-world experience and a forward-thinking mindset, Dale continues to drive innovation and shape the future of technology—one breakthrough at a time.
Former High Commissioner of South Africa to Canada | Board Member | Advocate for Inclusive Development
High Commissioner Sibongiseni Dlamini-Mntambo is a distinguished diplomat and strategic leader with a multifaceted career spanning public service, corporate governance, and international relations. She served as South Africa’s High Commissioner to Canada from 2017 to 2021, where she was instrumental in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting South Africa’s interests on the global stage.
During her tenure in Canada, HC Dlamini-Mntambo held several key leadership positions within the diplomatic community. She chaired the Women Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited in Canada, led the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Group of Heads of Mission, served as President of the Ottawa Diplomatic Association and Vice Dean of the Africa Group Heads of Mission. Her exemplary service earned her recognition as “Ambassador of the Year” in both 2018 and 2019.
Before her diplomatic appointment, she amassed extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. Her roles included positions at the Department of Economic Affairs and Tourism, the Department of Minerals and Energy and the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa. In the private sector, she worked in the FMCG and mining industries, notably serving as Public Affairs and Communication Adviser for the Chamber of Mines of South Africa. There, she led industry communication efforts within the Mining Industry Public Affairs Committee (MIPAC) and the Mining Industry Growth and Development Task Team (MIGDETT), aiming to develop a national growth strategy for the mining sector.
HC Dlamini-Mntambo’s commitment to social development is evident in her ongoing involvement with various organizations. She is a non-executive director at the Southern Africa-Canada Chamber of Commerce (SACANCHAM), a council member at the University of Pretoria, and a board member at ProBono.org. Additionally, she dedicates time to supporting educational initiatives, including assisting a school in Midrand that serves children from underprivileged backgrounds.
Academically, she holds a BA (Honours) degree in Communication Science, a University Diploma in Education, and a Master’s degree in Business Leadership (MBL). She has certificates in SAIM: Business Management and Nyukela Public Service SMS Pre-entry Program. Her educational background underpins her strategic approach to leadership and governance.
H.E. Dlamini-Mntambo continues to be a formidable advocate for inclusive development, leveraging her vast experience to foster equitable growth and representation across sectors.
Executive Leader | Destination Marketing Strategist | Aviation & Tourism Consultant
Mr. Thulani Nzima is a distinguished executive with over three decades of leadership experience in the travel, tourism, aviation, and corporate sectors. He began his career in 1984 after earning a B.Com degree from the University of South Africa (UNISA), starting in the banking industry before transitioning into the tourism and travel ecosystem where he would leave a lasting impact.
He spent 14 years at South African Airways (SAA), where he held numerous senior roles locally and abroad. From overseeing market development in Asia, Australia, and the Americas to serving as Regional Manager for the Benelux countries based in Holland, Nzima drove strategic expansion, stakeholder engagement, and international partnerships. During his tenure, he also represented SAA on high-level platforms, including the Netherlands Foreign Airlines Association and the Schiphol Operators Association.
Upon returning to South Africa in 2000, Nzima rose through the executive ranks at SAA, culminating in his appointment as Senior Executive for Market South Africa, where he was responsible for national sales strategies and government relations. His leadership extended to the realignment of SAA’s Voyager loyalty programme and key corporate sales initiatives.
In 2005, he was appointed CEO of South African Travel Centre (SATC), where he drove franchise expansion, international partnerships, and revenue diversification. He also served on the boards of SATC Group, GlobalStar TMC International, and as Chairman of Travel Experience (Pty) Ltd—a joint venture with the AA.
From 2007, Nzima served as Director of Sales and Marketing at Avis Rent-A-Car Southern Africa, overseeing all revenue-generating strategies, digital transformation, branding, and government relations. He was also a Divisional Board Director during this period.
In 2012, Nzima became the CEO of South African Tourism, where he led national and international destination marketing, overseeing the National Convention Bureau, the Grading Council, and key global platforms such as Indaba and Meetings Africa.
Following his tenure, he chaired the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency Board from 2016 to 2021 and continues to lead as Chairperson of the Sam Nzima Foundation and SATOVITO. Today, Mr. Nzima is a multifaceted entrepreneur and consultant, with interests spanning tourism, aviation, energy, technology, logistics, and public speaking.
Driving Innovation and Sustainability in South
Africa’s Business Events Sector
Glenton De Kock is a prominent leader in South Africa’s Meetings, Events, and Tourism industry, currently serving as CEO of SAACI.
With extensive experience across both public and private sectors, he is instrumental in elevating the industry’s professionalism, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
His expertise includes tourism development, destination management, stakeholder engagement, and organisational transformation. Glenton is a passionate advocate for collaborative, sustainable event practices that prioritise community benefit and balance environmental stewardship with human impact.
Leadership Strategist | Executive Coach | Author | Conversation Catalyst
Affectionately known as Coach uMalusi, Dr. Nomvuselelo Songelwa is a leadership strategist and executive coach whose life and work bridge ancestral wisdom with modern executive insight. Born and raised in the rural Eastern Cape, her formative years as a cattle herder shaped the grounded, intuitive leadership style that now defines her coaching philosophy.
With over 20 years of leadership experience across government, conservation, and tourism—including serving as CEO of a national organisation—Dr. Songelwa is a respected voice in transformative leadership. She is the founder of SkofNom Leadership & Coaching, where she supports leaders and institutions in cultivating conscious, values-driven leadership rooted in African identity and emotional intelligence.
Her signature H.E.R.D. L.E.A.D.E.R.™ framework draws from indigenous knowledge systems and the quiet strength of herding culture. It offers a soulful, empathetic alternative to conventional leadership models—prioritising harmony, empathy, resilience, and dignity over hierarchy and control.
Coach uMalusi is the author of two acclaimed books:
📘 Lipstick Chronicles: The Warfare of Inclusion – a compelling exploration of women’s leadership, visibility, and voice.
📙 Life Lessons of a Cattleherder: Reflections from the Boardroom – a poetic and practical guide to authentic leadership through an African lens.
She is also the founder of Lipstick Chronicles, a movement amplifying women’s stories, and a host on VukaOnline Radio, where she sparks intergenerational dialogue on purpose, culture, and leadership.
As a keynote speaker, facilitator, and mentor, she is widely recognised for her ability to make leadership deeply human. Whether on global stages or in quiet coaching spaces, Dr. Songelwa empowers leaders to lead with presence—not just position.
Through every story, she honours the wisdom of her ancestors while shaping a leadership legacy for future generations—rooted, courageous, and unapologetically African.
Former Member of Parliament | Disability Rights Advocate | Public Leadership Expert
Poppy Audrey Mocumi is a seasoned public servant, educator, and disability rights advocate with an illustrious career spanning more than four decades in education, governance, and political leadership. Her extensive experience and lifelong commitment to inclusive development have positioned her as a respected voice in both national and community spaces.
Mrs. Mocumi began her professional journey as an educator, dedicating over 20 years to teaching in schools across the North West province. Her passion for community upliftment and public service led her into active political engagement. She held several influential roles, including Member of the North West Provincial Legislature (2004–2009) and Member of the National Assembly of South Africa (2009–2014), where she served on key committees such as Science and Technology, Police, Public Works, and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (SCOPA).
A tireless champion for the rights of persons with disabilities, Mrs. Mocumi is the National Chairperson of Disabled Women South Africa and has served on the National Executive Committee of Disabled People South Africa (DPSA). Her leadership has contributed to shaping disability policy, advocacy, and representation in various sectors.
She is also a respected figure in political and civic leadership, having held executive roles within the ANC, ANC Women’s League, and South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Tshwane region. Throughout her political career, she has been a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, social justice, and ethical governance.
Mrs. Mocumi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of South Africa (UNISA) and is completing a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Disability Studies at the University of Cape Town. She also holds advanced qualifications in Governance and Public Leadership from UNISA and the University of the Witwatersrand.
A passionate lifelong learner and public speaker, Mrs. Mocumi has represented South Africa on international study tours to countries including Brazil, Germany, China, Botswana, and Mauritius, among others, gaining valuable insights into global public policy and inclusive governance.
Poppy Audrey Mocumi continues to use her voice and experience to advocate for inclusive development, disability rights, and ethical leadership in South Africa and beyond.
Project Management Specialist | Localization Strategist | Tech-Travel Expert
Kyasha Bhoola is a highly skilled project manager with over a decade of experience specializing in the localization of global business operations in South Africa. With a strong foundation in deploying new business ventures for international operators, Kysha excels at bridging the gap between global vision and local execution.
Her key strength lies in translating complex business requirements into actionable project plans—ensuring that local market dependencies, compliance factors, and operational nuances are fully integrated. She has successfully led cross-functional teams through every phase of project deployment, from initial scoping and stakeholder engagement to delivery and optimization.
Kysha brings deep expertise in stakeholder management, effectively engaging both local and international partners to align expectations and foster collaboration. Her ability to navigate diverse business cultures and communicate clearly across varying levels of technical understanding has made her a trusted lead on high-stakes projects.
With advanced insight into the Tech-Travel industry, Kysha is particularly adept at managing technology-driven projects that require agility, innovation, and a deep understanding of both customer behavior and market trends.
Kysha is passionate about driving operational excellence and building sustainable systems that support long-term growth in new markets.
Kholo is a registered Chartered Accountant CA(SA) and the Managing Director of Do Bizz Group, a boutique finance and compliance consulting firm. She has recently completed her LLB degree with the University of South Africa with an interest in corporate law.
She has over a decade of experience in auditing, financial management, operations and compliance. Her experience was gathered in healthcare retail, film and television, as well as in the public sector. After completing her articles with Deloitte, she joined the healthcare retail industry as a Group financial manager and later as Group People and Culture Leader. These roles entailed the intricate design of systems and processes for high financial performance, people-centric operations and organisational efficiency. In The TV and Film space, she was tasked with delivery of high-value productions,
stakeholder management (both local and international) and managing the statutory compliance of multiple production SPVs with the DTIC. She is currently consulting in the Private Equity Investment sector.
Kholo serves as Finance Committee Chairperson on the board of Titans Cricket and Titans Cricket Union. She is also the accounting officer for Kopano Odessey, an NPO focused on fostering a passion for reading and supporting literacy in children adopted
into homes of safety. She is also the treasurer for a branch of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa. She has recently completed her LLB degree with the University of South Africa with an interest in corporate law.
General Secretary – SACCAWU | Labour Convenor – NEDLAC | Member – COSATU Central Executive Committee
Mduduzi Mbongwe is a seasoned trade unionist and dedicated advocate for workers’ rights in South Africa, with over three decades of experience in the labour movement. He currently serves as the General Secretary of the South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers Union (SACCAWU), a position that reflects his longstanding commitment to advancing the interests of workers across multiple sectors.
Mr. Mbongwe began his career in labour activism in 1992 when he joined SACCAWU as a Local Organiser. Through years of steadfast dedication and principled leadership, he steadily rose through the ranks—first serving as Regional Secretary, then as Deputy General Secretary, and eventually assuming the role of General Secretary. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping the union’s strategic direction, expanding its influence, and improving conditions for its members.
In addition to his leadership role within SACCAWU, Mr. Mbongwe plays a key role in broader labour representation. He is a member of the Central Executive Committee of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), contributing to national-level labour strategy and policy development. His insight and influence also extend to NEDLAC (National Economic Development and Labour Council), where he serves as a Labour Convenor in the Labour Market Chamber, representing the interests of workers in national socio-economic dialogues.
With a deep understanding of worker-related issues, collective bargaining, and economic policy, Mr. Mbongwe continues to be a strong voice for labour justice, equity, and inclusive economic transformation in South Africa. His decades-long service reflects not only his passion for worker advocacy but also his unwavering belief in the power of organized labour to shape a more equitable society.
Founder | Director | Investor | Developer
Tzaneen, Limpopo Province, South Africa
24 Years of Excellence in the Hospitality Industry
Adri Kruger is a celebrated entrepreneur and visionary leader with over two decades of experience in hospitality, tourism, and community development. She is the founder and director of several successful ventures, including the award-winning Tzaneen Country Lodge, Conference Centre & Spa, S.A. Home Development Co (Pty) Ltd, Tarentaalrand Trading & Retail, Limpopo Central Reservations, Limpopo Conference Organizers, and Africa Only Travel & Tours.
Adri holds a BA (Hons) Theology degree and is a proud Vital Voices Fellow (2016–2017), with executive education completed at Harvard University. She was also part of the AWEC Cohort (2022–2023), reflecting her commitment to continuous growth and leadership in the African business landscape.
Under her leadership, Tzaneen Country Lodge quickly rose to prominence, earning the AA Travel Award for Best Country Commercial Hotel in South Africa within its first year. Adri has since become a trailblazer in the industry—serving as the first female President of the Greater Tzaneen Chamber of Commerce (2005) and later as Chairperson for SATSA Limpopo (2007). Her governance roles include board positions at the Limpopo Tourism Agency, Van Velden Hospital, and TOMSA.
Her accolades are numerous. Notably, Tzaneen Country Lodge won the AHI Best Small Business in South Africa (2013), the SATOA Award for Responsible Tourism in Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands, and in 2014, Adri was named the Sanlam/Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2024, she received the prestigious “SHE” Award from the Institute of Peace through Tourism at ITB Berlin for her commitment to sustainable tourism. That same year, the lodge received the ACOYA Award for Best Hotel Under 100 Rooms in Africa.
Adri is deeply passionate about community upliftment, job creation, and the empowerment of women, especially in rural areas. Her work continues to inspire positive change in both the tourism industry and beyond.
“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” – Mother Teresa