We chat to Chris Godenir, recent recipient of the FEDHASA Hotel General Manager of the Year Award, for some travel industry insights.
You’re a strong advocate for adapting, innovating, and bringing people together. How has this approach influenced your leadership style?
Adaptability, innovation, and collaboration have been key to my journey as a leader. Each opportunity requires a different approach, and being flexible allows me to achieve the best outcomes. Innovation sets leaders apart — finding creative and sometimes untested solutions has been critical in my role. Hospitality is a people-driven industry, and I’ve learned that true success comes from recognizing individual strengths and moulding them together to create greatness.
How would you describe the current state of South Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry post-pandemic?
We are on the road to recovery but still have a long way to go. South Africa has massive tourism potential, but we remain too siloed in our approach and need to reduce bureaucracy. While some progress has been made, infrastructure, particularly in local municipalities, needs urgent attention. Labour regulations, climate change impacts, visa restrictions, and perceptions of safety continue to pose challenges.
What needs to change?
We must start believing in our own potential. The challenges we face are not insurmountable, we need to break them down into manageable steps and tackle them one by one. It’s time to leave behind divisions and celebrate our identity as the Rainbow Nation, embracing Ubuntu and reconnecting with our heritage and environment. Our young population is an asset, and tourism must be recognized as a key vehicle for job creation. Collaboration is essential! We must work together across sectors and engage with local government to cut red tape and improve infrastructure. South Africa is one of the most incredible destinations on earth, and while challenges exist, nothing worthwhile ever comes easily.
Cape Town has rebounded strongly post-COVID, while other regions still struggle. How can tourism be more inclusive across different regions and communities?
For tourism to thrive, the entire country, not just select areas, must attract visitors. We are too focused on the Big Five, the Waterfront, and Table Mountain. South Africa has so much more to offer, from vast open spaces, diverse wildlife, fresh air, and immersive, and authentic cultural experiences.
How can travel planners and tour operators help?
Operators tend to stick to tried-and-tested routes, but it’s time to be braver in recommending lesser-known destinations. The best travel experiences often happen outside of comfort zones. There are incredible places ready and waiting for business, and operators just need to broaden their mindset and introduce travellers to something new.
Words like collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability are often discussed but not always put into practice. How can the industry move beyond talk to real action?
Each year, hospitality professionals gather for an industry Think Tank to discuss real-time issues and actionable solutions. This year’s event takes place on 8 August at The Maslow in Sandton. It’s a chance to collaborate and drive meaningful change while raising funds for Reach for a Dream, the Endangered Wildlife Trust, and the Think Big Academy. To join, contact thinktank@touchingdreams.co.za or enquiries@touchingdreams.co.za.
For tourism professionals looking to make an impact, what advice would you offer?
Get involved! Reach out via the Touching Dreams website — I’m happy to connect people with opportunities to make a difference in tourism and hospitality.
What guidance would you give travellers who want their trips to contribute positively?
Most properties have social investment initiatives supporting local communities. Ask about them when you visit. You can also work with us at Touching Dreams NPC, where our mission is to create employment opportunities through tourism, support early childhood development, and collaborate with the Endangered Wildlife Trust on sustainability projects.