From Garth
Well what a year it has been! Far better than those terrible times during covid but now it’s almost on the other side of the scale. Wow us humas are never totally satisfied are we! As the world becomes more and more stressed in terms of too many people and mega pressure on our planet we all need to stop and take a breath to reflect on what we have and who we are!
It is once again that time of year when we should look back and be proud as 2024 has been nothing short of a “huge success” in terms of so much. Thank you to all those that have made eTravel the special place it has become. But now take some time out for yourself and pat yourself on the back and be proud.
Be safe, be grateful and recharge your soul so that you are up to the challenges that we face in 2025!
Message From Tammy
The last few months have been filled with excitement and challenges with moving into the NDC space and connecting with the people that are linked directly or indirectly with our wonderful organization. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment 😊
- We finished our financial year to June 2024 up on prior year by 4.3% and the forecast to June 2025 looks just as bright
- We generated the Highest Override income in the history of eTravel and hence had the largest payout to ITCs in September – the start of the magical time of year 😊
- We introduced our very first eTravel Seminar which we will continue to do every year:
- September - live in both CPT and JNB with one of the events being online as well
- February will be a follow onto the September Seminar which will be held in KZN and EC with one of the events being online for the rest of the group to join
- We have jumped headfirst into the world of NDC and the learning continues daily with challenges galore BUT I do foresee that over the next 2 to 3 years there will be major enhancements and developments on the NDC front and I believe that it will all come together slowly but surely. Just know that we are with you every step of the way with regards to this learning process as we navigate the nuances, technicalities and complexities with the additional workflows.
- We are fully aware and constantly looking at ways that we can enhance this process which is not a quick fix, but it is one of our Key Drivers to get right and make our ITCs and Staff’s lives ‘easier’ over time.
- The Open Forum of 2024 held at the CTICC was filled with laughter, connecting, bling, celebrities and fabulous winners! It was wonderful connecting with our Top Class ITCs, our Valued Preferred Partners and our Incredible team of eTravel & eHolidays Staff.
As the year winds down – we hope that you will all take a moment to reflect on what has been (the ups and the downs), what you have achieved and know that the worlds opportunities are abound for those that grab the bull by the horns and makes every moment count.
As we near the end of the celebration of eTravel’s 25th Birthday year I would like to share our gratitude to our Founder, CEO and Leader and hence thought no better way than to close off with a repeat of the ‘Final Surprise’ handed over to Garth at this year’s Open Forum
The GIFT handed over to Garth by the staff, is in celebration of the past amazing 25 years and what has been achieved. From the very first paper clip purchased marking the start of eTravel’s journey, to the famous plastic tea-tray from Pick n Pay that we were never allowed to throw away or replace to celebrate every day with all our very special Travel Friends, Colleagues and family.
The TROPHY is a reminder when the days get tough to reflect and know that you have made a difference and that you have touched so many lives along the way. It is a reminder when you are sitting in your office in the bush, thousands of kilometres away from the hustle and bustle of the Head Office, that you are appreciated and that we work hard because we believe in you.
You are DETERMINED – once you put your mind to something your PASSION and DISCIPLINE kicks in and nothing will stop you from achieving that dream that eventually becomes a reality because of the goals you put in place, the sacrifices you make and the time you dedicate to achieving what you want.
Your HONESTY is always refreshing and sometimes a little ‘scary’ BUT it’s always appreciated as there are never any grey area’s which allows for transparency and a clear vision – we know what we need to do and we do it willingly.
You impart WISE knowledge onto us whenever we are with you, and we all use this wisdom in our personal and professional lives. You love sharing stories with us and more often than not, there is a little hidden lesson in there somewhere.
Your FUN and WITTY sense of humour has us in stitches and we love it when you’re around as the world seems ‘lighter’ and ‘less serious’ with a lot more laughter taking place.
You are KIND-HEARTED & CARING and treat every person regardless of race, belief or background the same. In a world where one can choose to be anything – choosing to be KIND is very rare and if we all treated everyone with kindness all the time the world would be a lovelier place!
You love GIVING and it makes you happy when you GIVE – you really do enjoy watching your bank balance take a dive in September with Override payments to ITCs and Bonus payments to Staff in November.
Your GENEROSITY is never taken for granted and we are grateful for who you are and what you mean to us.
These gifts and this Trophy are a reminder to you of what you mean to us.
Cheers to the next 25 years Garth and THANK YOU😊
Wishing you all a wonderful Festive Season with Family and Friends and be safe!
- New additions to the Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve
Spring is in the air and there have been a number of new additions to the wildlife family.
3 Cheetah cubs were born at the end of September and have been relocated to an enclosed boma to ensure that they have the best possible chance of survival against the predators in the reserve which would most likely be lions, leopard and hyena. Once they are old enough to hunt on their own, they will be released into the reserve.
Joining the cheetah cubs is a 4-month-old elephant calf as well as a 6-week-old rhino calf.
With the first rains in mid-November the population explosion of impala, nyala and wildebeest is around the corner.
2 Male cheetahs have also been introduced to the reserve and are doing well in their new surroundings.
- Recent sighting
11 very lucky guests were fortunate enough to see a pangolin on their morning game drive at the beginning of November.
These prehistoric mammals eat ants and termites with their long tongues and are endangered by hunting, trafficking, and habitat loss, and need our help to survive.
The Leopard’s Bend Wildlife Foundation was founded by Garth in 2019 with the aim of raising funds to ensure the protection of the endangered species on the Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve.
- Renovations
July & August saw renovations taking place at the lodge with the decking in the main area being replaced and the rooms now featuring laminate flooring which has taken the lodge to the next level.
A bird hide has been completed and offers the most spectacular views of the Drakensberg Mountains, the perfect spot for an early morning cup of coffee before your game drive.
Open Forum 2024
eHolidays - Open Forum 2024
eHolidays brought fun to the 2024 Open Forum with our vibrant casino-themed stand, complete with cocktails and games.
We truly enjoyed connecting with everyone and creating an opportunity for ITCs and consultants to meet in person. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by – your support means the world to us!
A special shoutout to our top supporters for 2024:
1st Place
Essential Travel
2nd Place
Above and Beyond Travel
3rd Place
SW Travel
4th Place
Travel Trio
5th Place
Travel Notes
Thank you for being part of an unforgettable year!
If you haven’t given us a try yet, pop us an email at info@eholidays.co.za – we’d love the opportunity to work with you!
AWARDS
eTravel were awarded with an achievement for outstanding support by Etihad Airways.
Albert attended the awards ceremony at the Protea Hotel by Marriot Melrose Arch on Friday 15th November to accept this award on eTravel’s behalf.
Tammy Michelle Hunt joined Beachcomber in Mauritius in August 2024 for the Beachcomber Top Awards event where eTravel walked away with the “Top Home-based ITC Revenue” award.
Congratulations and well done to everyone for their hard work that made this accomplishment possible.
Who is who in the zoo – eTravel Finance
Dana White
I started my journey at eTravel in November 2021 and have been fortunate enough to escalate my career to Group Bookkeeper in October 2024. I’m grateful for the opportunity that eTravel has given me to learn , grow and showcase my talents.
Outside of work , I enjoy cherising moments with my family & friends and exploring the city . My guilty pleasure ? Online shopping !
I’m excited to continue growing professionally and contributing to the ongoing success of eTravel
Feroza Ismail
I’m the bsp supervisor and have been with eTravel since 2006. Happily married for almost two years and mother of two girls, Huda & Shasmeen and our fur baby Maya who keeps me very busy BUT I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Jesse Saal
Hi, I’m Jesse , a finance clerk in the debtors department at eTravel, where I’ve been working since February 7, 2022. My primary responsibilities include clearing and allocating funds to accounts. Outside of work,
I’m an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for running. I regularly participate in races and aspire to take my endurance to the next level by completing marathons in the future.
Madafi Hendricks
Married for 33 years with 3 children
Need a BSP airline ticket refund?
With 25 years of experience..
I’m ready to serve you!
Megan Dunn
Hi , I ‘m Megan Dunn. I’ve been a finances clerk at E Travel since 2021, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a wonderful team.
Traveling is my passion, and I feel fortunate to work in an industry that fuels my wanderlust. Outside of work, family is everything to me. I’m a proud mom of two beautiful kids and have been happily married to my amazing partner and best friend for 11 years. In my free time , I enjoy swimming and binge – watching TV series. I’m also a foodie at heart, with a weakness for delicious pasta dishes and mouthwatering pizzas. As I continue my journey at E Travel, I’m excited to see what the future holds -new challenges , opportunities, and adventures await!
Kimberley Edson
Hello, my name is, Kimberley Edson. I am a Financial clerk mainly dealing with direct settlements and new accounts. I started my journey at eTravel a short 8months ago. I love the outdoors (hiking and beach visits), I’m also the dance leader at my church and enjoy performing very much. I have travelled locally but would love to travel to Thailand sometime in the future.
I have experienced so many new things and can’t wait to experience many more things in future in my personal life as well as with the eTravel family 😊
Tiyana Fernandez
My journey with eTravel unlocked in August ’23 as a Finance Admin Clerk.
Always willing to help and learn, bubbly personality and forever ready for a good laugh.
During “airplane mode”, you’ll find me spending time with my best friends = my daughter & my husband, extended family and friends. I enjoy scenic drives, swimming, discovering new places and doing new things.
Grateful & appreciative to be part of such an elite family.
I look forward to plenty more memories and milestones with the eTravel group. 😊
Charnelle Pretorius
Hi, I’m Charnelle, a finance enthusiast with a heart for kindness. By day, I’m a Credit Controller, ensuring financial stability and growth. By night, I’m a plant mom, cat lady, and wife, spreading love and positivity wherever I go.
I believe that compassion and empathy are essential in both personal and professional life. Join me as I share my thoughts on finance, wellness, and life’s simple joys.”
Damian Roberts
A finance clerk at eTravel, where I’ve been working since June 2023. In addition to my financial responsibilities, I also serve as a First Aider and Fire Marshal for the company.
Outside of work, I’m a passionate soccer and rugby fan – on a Monday to Thursday you can find me in the gym!
Hayley Adonis
Employed at eTravel as a BSP Clerk since Jan 2019. I am an introvert, driven by self-motivation – it’s up to me to get the results I desire. Outside of work family is my top priority especially my son who brings immense joy and keeps me on my toes
Michelle De Kock
Hi, I’m Michelle, eTravel’s Finance Supervisor and ITC Admin Clerk with 13 years of experience. A self-confessed foodie and outdoor lover.
I’ve been happily married for five years and am proud dog mom to Mr. Hype Man of the Park.
I unwind with sunrise runs and hikes on weekends then breakfast at all the spots from Muizenberg to Simonstown
Sakeena Baker
I’m Sakeena and my job is to see that your prepayments, service fees, and internet tickets goes smoothly and efficiently.
I’m a wife and a mother of two girls and a baby boy, some of my hobbies are learning new languages.. I’m currently studying Arabic, also a bit obsessed with blading.
Natasha Titus
Been at e-Travel for 17 years working in the bsp department.
Main function ticket refunds.
Married to Wayne for 24 years and have 2 boys.Love watching series and spend time with my family and friends.
Goodbye Frustrations: Welcome to Our New, Improved Telephone System!
We know that everyone has been frustrated with the previous telephone system, however, we are now officially on our new telephone system and it’s working wonderfully 😊
