Southern Sun has once again proven its excellence in the South African hospitality industry by winning top honors in multiple categories at the prestigious 2024 Hotel to Hotel Challenge. Popularly known as the “Hospitality Oscars,” this annual event celebrates outstanding talent, innovation, and skill within the industry.
Marcel von Orlock, CEO of Southern Sun, praised the hotel group's performance, saying: This year's honorees exemplify the dedication, passion, and leadership culture that is essential to Southern Sun. We are extremely proud of our team's achievements, which reflect our commitment to excellence and growth in South African hospitality. ”
Among outstanding accomplishments, Southern Sun Cape Sun General Manager Wayne Siepman was named General Manager of the Year in due recognition for his visionary leadership. His honor reflects Southern Sun's enduring commitment to management excellence and guest experience.
In the culinary category, Bath's 54 representatives Chef Letabile Maseola and Wine Steward Simphiwe Duma wowed the judges with their outstanding food and wine pairings. Their creations, a harmonious blend of grilled sea bass, shrimp arancini and De Grendel op di Berg Chardonnay 2023, demonstrate innovation and a deep understanding of flavour.
In addition to the group's success, Southern Sun Cape Sun's Executive Chef PJ Peter Lakay received the coveted Show Cook Man of the Match award for his outstanding culinary artistry. Meanwhile, Southern Sun's budding pastry stars shined as Edward Hotel's Nonzuzo Mulungu was crowned Lancewood Pastry Chef of the Year and won a special culinary trip to France .
Southern Sun's excellence extends beyond the kitchen, with Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani's wine stewards Danie Korchas and The Edward's Sanele Mhlongo demonstrating their mastery of service and wine knowledge. Their recognition underscores Southern Sun's focus on developing well-rounded hospitality professionals.
The group also excelled in the barista category, with 54-year-old Simphiwe Mshali from Bath and Ivan Lange from Southern Sun the Cullinan standing out for their passion and precision in their coffee art.
Commenting on these achievements, Southern Sun CEO von Orlock further commented: “This year's winners are a testament to the values that define Southern Sun. The InterHotel Challenge is more than just a competition, it is a platform to showcase the skills and dedication of our people who are at the heart of South African hospitality. 's success reflects the strength of our team and our unwavering investment in their growth.”
The 2024 InterHotel Challenge brought together the nation's top hospitality professionals for an exciting showcase of their talent, with a focus on mentorship and skills transfer. Southern Sun's continued success at this event confirms Southern Sun's leadership in shaping the future of the industry.
For more information, please visit https://www.southernsun.com/.
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