Touching Dreams

17/08/2026

What an inspiring day at the recent Hospitality Industry Think Tank.

We were proud to join industry leaders in meaningful conversations around the future of hospitality and tourism — from AI and innovation to sustainability, skills development, and the power of collaboration.

A key takeaway was clear: the future of our industry will be shaped by how we work together to create more resilient, sustainable, and guest-centred experiences.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the important discussions and shared their insights. We look forward to turning these conversations into action.

Read more about the event here: https://url.za.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/7wAJCmwkVRiRkZqWf9s8mhRrA9H?domain=atta.travel

https://atta.travel/resource/southern-africa-s-hospitality-think-tank-puts-ai-sustainability-and-youth-at-centre-stage.html

31/07/2026

Our final panel focused on the heart of why we do what we do, creating opportunities that change lives.

The discussion highlighted the impact of Touching Dreams and how the support received through the Hospitality Industry Think Tank, Gala Dinner and general donations directly enables initiatives like the Think Big Academy.

Every sponsorship, donation, and partnership helps us invest in the future of South Africa's youth by creating pathways to education, skills development, and meaningful employment.

It was a privilege to hear from our incredible panel, who shared the importance of collaboration between industry and community in building a stronger, more inclusive hospitality sector. Together, we explored how businesses can move beyond corporate social investment and become active partners in transforming lives.

A sincere thank you to our panellists:
Nonkululeko sithole
Natasha-lee Shunmugam
Sipho Claasen
Our inspiring Think Big Academy learners, whose stories reminded us why this mission matters every single day.

Thank you to Chris Godenir for facilitating such a meaningful conversation, and to everyone who continues to support the Touching Dreams vision.

Together, we are creating opportunities, restoring hope, and empowering the next generation of hospitality professionals.

31/07/2026

Panel 4 | facilitated by Dimitri Syrris, brought together an exceptional group of industry leaders to unpack one of hospitality's most pressing topics: building resilience in an era of climate change and increasing operational risk.

A huge thank you to our panelists:
Nick Konstandoudakis
Deborah O'Connor
Fabio Nava
Carl Coetzee

The discussion explored how sustainability is no longer a "nice-to-have"—it's a business imperative.

Some of the key takeaways included:

Data is the foundation of good decision-making. You can't manage, finance, insure or market what you can't measure. Credible ESG data enables better funding opportunities, informed operational decisions, and transparent sustainability reporting.

Climate risks are increasing. From floods and droughts to wildfires, hospitality businesses must move from reacting to disasters to proactively preparing for them.

Maintenance is one of the greatest risk mitigation tools. Regular inspections, infrastructure upkeep, fire prevention, and water management are essential to protecting both guests and assets.

Green finance is growing. Sustainability-linked funding presents exciting opportunities, but organisations need measurable, reliable ESG data to unlock access to these investments.

People matter as much as technology. Training teams, strengthening safety protocols, and embedding a culture of preparedness are just as important as implementing new systems.

The panel reinforced a simple but powerful message:

Resilience isn't built overnight, it's built through collaboration, data-driven decision-making, proactive planning, and a shared commitment to sustainability.

Thank you to Dimitri and our outstanding panelists for sharing their expertise and inspiring meaningful conversations that will help shape the future of the hospitality industry.

31/07/2026

Panel 3, One of the most insightful discussions at the Hospitality Industry Think Tank explored a topic that impacts every business in tourism:

Are industry associations still relevant, and what value do they truly deliver?

Facilitated by Dave Milne, the panel brought together David Frost (SATSA), Michael Hagemann (FEDHASA), Miguel Martins (South African Short-Term Rental Association) and Shaun Lamont (VOASA) for an honest conversation about advocacy, collaboration and the future of South Africa's tourism industry.

A key takeaway was that associations are far more than membership organisations. They are the collective voice of the industry, working behind the scenes to influence legislation, remove barriers to growth, improve destination marketing and represent thousands of tourism businesses at every level of government.

The discussion highlighted how collaboration between organisations such as SATSA, FEDHASA, VOASA, the South African Short-Term Rental Association and TBCSA has helped drive meaningful industry progress, from visa reform and the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme to destination safety initiatives and international marketing campaigns.

One message resonated throughout the session: tourism grows when the industry works together, not in silos.

The panel also challenged businesses to become active participants within their associations. Membership alone doesn't create value, engagement does. By contributing expertise, participating in committees and supporting collective initiatives, businesses help shape the future of the industry they operate in.

Another important theme was the need for stronger public-private partnerships. The panel agreed that government and industry share the same goal of growing South African tourism, but greater transparency, collaboration and ongoing dialogue will be critical to unlocking the sector's full potential.

The session served as a powerful reminder that many of tourism's biggest wins happen quietly behind the scenes. Whether it's influencing policy, improving regulations, strengthening destination marketing or advocating for industry interests, these successes are made possible through organisations working together with a shared vision.

A huge thank you to Dave for facilitating an engaging discussion, and to David, Michael, Miguel and Shaun for sharing their expertise and demonstrating why collaboration remains one of South Africa's greatest strengths.

31/07/2026

Panel Discussion 2, Technology in hospitality is no longer just about keeping up, it's about staying ahead.

Facilitated by Samantha Williams, this insightful panel featuring Sarah Marron, Janine Louw, Jacob Messina, and Chris Snyman explored how technology, AI, and innovation are reshaping the future of hospitality.

Some of the standout takeaways included:

- Best-in-class vs all-in-one technology: Every hotel is unique. The future lies in connected ecosystems where specialised solutions integrate seamlessly to create the best guest experience.

- The guest remains at the centre: Technology should never add complexity. It should create a frictionless, personalised journey that guests remember.

-Change management is just as important as technology: Successful digital transformation isn't about implementing new systems—it's about helping people adopt them.

- Don't just sell rooms, sell experiences: From spa treatments and dining to local activities and curated packages, ancillary revenue presents a significant opportunity to increase guest spend while creating more memorable stays.

- AI is changing how guests discover hotels: If your property isn't visible in AI-driven recommendations, you're already missing potential bookings. Rich content, authentic reviews, compelling imagery, and an effortless booking journey are becoming essential.

- Discovery earns attention. Trust secures the booking. Hotels that combine strong digital foundations with exceptional guest experiences will be the ones that thrive.

One message echoed throughout the discussion: AI isn't replacing hospitality, it is enhancing it. The hotels that embrace innovation while maintaining authentic human connections will be best positioned for the future.

A huge thank you to Samantha for expertly facilitating the conversation, and to Sarah, . Jacob Messina, and Chris Snyman for sharing practical insights, honest experiences, and a clear vision of where our industry is heading.

31/07/2026

The opening panel of the Hospitality Industry Think Tank, expertly facilitated by Dimitris Manikis, set the tone for a day of thought-provoking conversations around the future of hospitality and leadership.

Joined by an exceptional panel comprising Jonathan Goldberg, Mokwena Morulane, Nick Dickson and Jacob Messina, the discussion explored what it takes to lead through uncertainty in an industry that continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace.

From the importance of empathetic leadership and creating environments where people can thrive, to embracing innovation, AI and technology without losing the human connection that defines hospitality, the panel challenged attendees to think differently about the future.

A powerful theme throughout the conversation was Ubuntu, the essence of African hospitality. The panel highlighted the opportunity to showcase Africa's unique warmth, strengthen regional collaboration, improve connectivity across the continent and unlock the immense potential that exists within African tourism.

The discussion also explored how leaders can navigate global uncertainty, demographic shifts and workforce challenges by remaining adaptable, financially resilient and committed to developing people.

Some of the key takeaways included:
- Leadership is about creating hope, even during uncertainty.
- Technology should enhance the guest experience—not replace human connection.
- Businesses that anticipate change will always be better positioned than those that react to it.
- African hospitality has a unique competitive advantage rooted in authenticity, care and community.

A heartfelt thank you to Dimitris, Johnny, Mokwena, Nick and Jacob for sharing their knowledge, experience and vision. Your insights inspired meaningful conversations and challenged us all to think bigger about the future of hospitality.

31/07/2026

The Hospitality Industry Think Tank was privileged to welcome Jonathan Goldberg, who delivered a compelling keynote on the future of AI, innovation and the transformation of the hospitality industry.

One message echoed throughout his presentation: AI won't replace your job, but someone using AI will. The future belongs to those who embrace technology, remain curious and continuously adapt.

Some of the standout insights included:
• AI is reshaping every industry, and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) may be closer than many realise.
• Businesses must expose their teams to the realities of AI without creating fear, focusing instead on the opportunities to learn, grow and evolve.
• Hospitality has a unique advantage. While technology can streamline processes like check-in, check-out and guest communication, the human touch remains irreplaceable. AI creates more time for personalised service, meaningful guest interactions and upselling experiences that build loyalty.
• Data and AI will enable hotels to better understand guest preferences, creating more personalised and memorable stays.
• Only a small percentage of hotels currently have an AI strategy, highlighting the urgent need for the industry to embrace digital transformation.
• The future of education and work must prioritise critical thinking, business acumen and the effective use of AI tools, not discourage them.
• Advances in AI, robotics, renewable energy and healthcare are accelerating at an unprecedented pace, creating opportunities that will reshape how we live and work.

Perhaps the most important takeaway was this: the old way of thinking is no longer enough. Success will belong to organisations that invest in their people, embrace innovation and empower their teams to use technology as a competitive advantage.

A sincere thank you to Johnny challenging us to think differently about the future and inspiring meaningful conversations that will shape the next chapter of hospitality.

31/07/2026

The day has finally arrived!

The Hospitality Industry Think Tank is officially underway, and the energy in the room is incredible.

Today brings together passionate leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across the hospitality industry to share insights, challenge perspectives, and collaborate on shaping the future of hospitality.

We're excited to hear from our esteemed panel of speakers, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and explore the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for our industry.

A huge thank you to everyone who has joined us today. We can't wait to see what this inspiring day holds and the meaningful conversations that will spark lasting impact.

Here's to collaboration, innovation, and building a stronger future for hospitality!

The day has finally arrived! The Hospitality Industry Think Tank is officially underway, and the energy in the room is incredible. Today brings together passionate leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across the hospitality industry to share insights, challenge perspectives, and collaborate on...

30/07/2026

Turning Conversations into Opportunities

At Touching Dreams, we believe that real change happens when industry comes together with purpose.

Our upcoming panel discussion will focus on a topic that is close to our hearts: how the tourism and hospitality industry can support meaningful CSI initiatives that create lasting employment opportunities for South Africa's youth.

The conversation will highlight the impact of the Think Big Academy, which proudly welcomes 100 new learners on 1 July 2026, and explore how collaboration between businesses can help equip the next generation with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they deserve.

Joining the discussion are inspiring voices from across our industry:
Nonkululeko sithole
Natasha-lee Shunmugam
Sipho Claasen
Two Think Big Academy Learners (2025/26) sharing their personal journeys and aspirations

Facilitated by Chris Godenir

This isn't just another panel discussion, it's a call to action.

Together, we can invest in people, strengthen our industry, and build a future where young South Africans have access to meaningful careers and opportunities.

We invite industry leaders, partners, and changemakers to join us in making a difference.

#𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

30/07/2026

Preparing Tourism for a Changing Future

The tourism and hospitality industry is entering a new era—one where resilience, sustainability, and environmental responsibility are no longer optional; they're essential.

Panel Discussion 4 at the Touching Dreams Conference will explore how our industry can prepare for changing weather patterns, manage risk more effectively, navigate evolving sustainability and environmental grading requirements, and identify practical ways to fund these critical initiatives.

We're privileged to welcome an outstanding panel of experts:
Nick Konstandoudakis
Deborah O'Connor
Fabio Nava
Carl Coetzee

Facilitated by Dimitri Syrris.

At Touching Dreams, we believe that meaningful progress starts with meaningful conversations. By bringing together leaders from across the tourism, insurance, sustainability, and property sectors, we're creating a platform to share knowledge, challenge perspectives, and develop practical solutions for a more resilient future.

Join us as we explore how the tourism industry can adapt, innovate, and continue to thrive in an ever-changing world.