*** Cover Photo: Blessing Mmola, the Sales and Marketing Manager of Hotel 247 in White River, unpacks the programme of the Black-Tie Gala Dinner Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide to be held at Hotel 247 on 5August 2023 ***
Jambo Africa Online’s Publisher, SAUL MOLOBI, comes face-to-face through a virtual interview with Blessing Mmola, the Sales & Marketing Manager of Mpumalanga’s Hotel 247 on tourism and the hotel’s contribution to the country’s fight against societal ills of gender-based violence and femicide at their upcoming star-studded event
Blessing Mmola is a charismatic and accomplished professional who serves as the Sales & Marketing Manager at Hotel 247, a premier hospitality establishment renowned for its impeccable service and prime location. With a rich background in hospitality and tourism, Blessing brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role.
Blessing Mmola’s qualifications in the field of hospitality and tourism are nothing short of impressive. Armed with a National Diploma in Tourism Management from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) augmented by marketing and public relations qualifications, she has honed her skills in marketing, customer service, and business strategy over the years. She has augmented this with impressive vocational training qualifications – most notably the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development-accredited and delivered Empretec Training Workshop which was project managed by Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA). Her extensive knowledge of the industry allows her to identify and seize opportunities, creating innovative marketing campaigns that drive business growth.
Described as a vision of elegance, Blessing’s presence exudes the grace and poise of a beauty queen. With a captivating smile that lights up any room, she effortlessly charms clients, colleagues, and guests alike. Her unique combination of beauty and professionalism makes her an outstanding representative of Hotel 247’s brand.
One of her most endearing qualities is her sociability and approachability. She has an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life, making everyone feel valued and welcome. This skill extends to her role in managing the sales team, where she inspires and motivates her colleagues to achieve their best.
Despite her affable nature, Blessing maintains a high level of professionalism in all aspects of her work. She is known for her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to delivering excellence. Under her guidance, the sales and marketing team thrives in a supportive and results-driven environment.
As the Sales & Marketing Manager at Hotel 247, Blessing is the epitome of hospitality excellence. With her extensive qualifications, beauty, charm, and warm, sociable demeanour, she exemplifies the very essence of the hotel’s commitment to providing a remarkable guest experience. Her marketing acumen and professionalism make her an integral part of the hotel’s success, ensuring that Hotel 247 remains a top choice for travellers seeking a memorable stay.
Bringing GBV and femicide into the spotlight: 5 August 2023
Gender-based violence and femicide have been significant social ills plaguing South Africa, with alarming rates of violence against all genders. The tourism sector, as a major contributor to the country’s economy and social fabric, can play a crucial role in addressing these challenges in raising awareness; training and sensitizing hotel staff; economic empowerment initiatives that plow back into communities; advocacy and policy support involving multiple stakeholders.
“These are the reasons that motivated us into undertaking a number of initiatives,” says Blessing, “which will triumph into the annual seminar we have organized for 5 August, part of our Women’s Month celebration. We believe the tourism sector can utilize its extensive reach to both domestic and international tourists to raise awareness about gender-based violence and femicide. By educating tourists and our communities about the issue, they can become advocates and help spread the message as well.”
Tourism industry personnel, including hotel staff, tour guides, and transportation operators, can receive training and sensitization programs on recognizing signs of gender-based violence, knowing how to respond appropriately, and providing support to potential victims. Such efforts can contribute to creating a safer and more supportive environment for both locals and tourists.
“Believing that the tourism sector has to collaborate with local NGOs and government organizations in combatting gender-based violence,” says the sassy Blessing. “Our hotel has forged partnerships with Who is She? Foundation which gave birth to a co-partnership with 12 more other provincial government departments and corporate entities under the slogan ‘GBVF is REAL’.” These partners include Mpumalanga’s Department of Social Development and Office of the Premier; the national Department of Justice and Correctional Services; SANCA Lowveld; Mpumalanga Shelters; Men-Up organization; University of Mpumalanga; Ehlazeni TVET College. The speakers will include Dr Prudence, Linkie Mohlala, Bianca Horring and Mrs Mpumalanga Ambassador.
Blessing continued matter-of-factly. “It’s important to remember that combatting gender-based violence and femicide requires a multi-faceted approach involving various sectors of society, including government, civil society, and the private sector. By leveraging its influence and resources, the tourism sector can be a meaningful contributor to creating a safer and more equitable society in South Africa.
The multisectoral partnership is critical in combatting gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide due to the complex and multifaceted nature of these issues. GBV and femicide are not isolated problems; they are deeply rooted in societal norms, cultural attitudes, economic factors, and systemic inequalities. “Therefore, addressing them requires a collaborative and coordinated effort involving various sectors of society,” asserts Blessing.
The event is targeted at both the public and corporate sectors and a small percentage of the community such as shelters.
The event is divided into 3 legs taking advantage of our targeted market.
The first is dubbed “The Red Carpet moment with Mercedes Benz” comprises of business networking, visitation of stalls, photoshoots, light meals, welcoming drinks and beautiful saxophone music to create a soul-soothing ambience.
The second leg of the involves the an indaba which will be addressed by team of the finest hand-picked speakers who will tackle a variety of issues pertaining to GBVF. “Without any doubt,” says Blessing oozing confidence, “we believe they will make a tremendous impact to the audience. Their topics include lived experiences on surviving the trauma; the impact of GBVF on mental health; a parolee who has found the courage to talk about her GBVF story; the importance of protecting a boy child; empowerment of both individuals and communities.”
The third leg involves ploughing back into the communities through charity projects – thus involves raising funds and their handover to Vusi Sindani’s school shoes project and Who is she? Foundation’s December food parcel distribution to indigent families.
In closing, Blessing said: “We humbly appeal to both the public and private sectors to support this initiative. We also invite individuals, particularly couples, to buy the tickets to attend the event. By supporting these initiatives financially or through in-kind contributions, the tourism sector can strengthen the efforts to prevent violence and provide assistance to victims.
“We are convinced the tourism sector can contribute to economic empowerment for women in South Africa by promoting women-led businesses, encouraging female entrepreneurship in the tourism industry, and providing job opportunities and equal treatment. As a powerful economic force, the tourism sector can advocate for policies that address gender-based violence and femicide. By using their influence, industry stakeholders can work with the government to implement measures that enhance the safety and security of all citizens and visitors.”
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Tickets are still available to secure your seat now!
Call 063 446 2894 or 0824922813
Call Hotel 247 on +27 13 751 1100.