In a nutshell: 2020, the year that brought about momentous change
As we draw the curtains on a year filled with numerous challenges and usher in a decade filled with hope and promise, it seems like a good time to pause and reflect on the year gone by.
2 020 was unlike anything we ever witnessed before, with major trials and challenges. However, it also brought alongside it a myriad of lessons and opportunities. It was the year of the unknown and the new–the year that set the stage for innovations and ingenuity in our systems and processes, the year that accelerated the future.
The pandemic was tough on the travel industry and was the biggest challenge we faced in terms of impact and reach. It stood out from other challenges the industry usually has to face, because this time we were fighting and trying to contain the unknown. There were financial and job losses in every sector, which initiated a ripple effect in a situation that was already fluid and constantly shifting.
While it took away some things, the year also forced us to grow, evolve and gain a new perspective. The earth finally had some breathing space and a chance to restore. We saw carbon emissions fall sharply, and wildlife reclaimed niches they once called home even as the air became cleaner and quieter. 2020 gave us the opportunity and space to reinvent ourselves. It allowed us the time to bring in disruptions, innovations and adopt sustainable alternatives. In South Africa itself, we had interesting examples of penguins wandering around the streets of Simon’s Town, and lions napping on empty roads in Kruger National Park–one of the largest national parks in Africa.
Lessons for a lifetime
The lockdown provided a lot more time and fodder for introspection. I realised that we lose alignment in the daily hustle-bustle of life, and we also lose sight of what is truly important. On the personal front, I was able to reorient and focus on all dimensions of personal wellness–physical, spiritual, mental and emotional. This means that I now make conscious efforts to meditate, exercise more often, be mindful of my diet, read voraciously and spend quality time with friends and family.
I have also learnt to look within– we can only give what we have, so to make an impact on society we must first work on ourselves. Happiness is not too complicated or aspirational, and joy can be found in the smallest of things if we remain purposeful and positive.
Another thing I am taking away from the experience is this–always put people first. In South Africa, we center our belief system around the principle, Umntu Ngumtu Ngabantu, which translates to ‘I am who I am because of others’. This calls us to look out for the community and each other. The safety of our colleagues, citizens, and potential visitors is a top priority.
The pandemic has brought prominence to the economic inequality that exists across the globe. I am thankful to have a roof over my head and food on the table, and have learnt to give back to society, especially to those who live alone, and are without means to support themselves.
It has also provided me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. I am a big believer in the power of personal interactions – however social distancing measures have pushed us to innovate. Everything from the way we interact within our teams, to the way we sell and promote South Africa has changed.
I have a bunch of optimists for a team. However, the one thing we all missed was human interaction – it was imperative to hold everybody together via video calls and meetings. Little things matter, and we learnt that it was important to reach out to our colleagues and immediate teams with empathy. It could be as simple as asking about their day, and actively listening to what they have to say.
Charting a new course
In South Africa, we remained committed to the safety and health of our visitors. Over the last few months, a lot of consultative work and focus was placed on both, de-risking the sector and putting health & operational protocols in place for the safety of all tourists and employees.
South Africa has plenty of USPs for the evolved and cautious post-COVID traveller. For example, the appeal of a safari holiday has increased given its natural ability to support