PERSONALITY PROFILE

Zinhle Nzama is driven by passion

Dynamic Zinhle Nzama, 43, acting chief convention bureau officer, South Africa National Convention Bureau exudes passion for the business events industry.

She is a visionary, who enjoys working towards a goal. “If I can picture it, I can work towards it and make it happen,” she said.

Ms Nzama’s career with SA Tourism spans over 20 years. Her current position with the organisation is general manager: strategic events. In essence she has grown within the organisation.

Amongst other qualifications, including a degree in sociology and psychology, Ms Nzama has an MBA in events management.

Ms Nzama said that her degree in sociology and psychology assists her daily, when working with people.

Where do you see the business events industry in Africa?

This is the best time to be in Africa. Business events in Africa is in high demand, we are almost at our pre-Covid numbers. People want to travel to Africa for business events. Airlift and e-visas are some concerns, though more airlines are adding new routes and frequency.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Durban and have a twin sister. I am a Durbanite through and through. I was raised in a single parent, Christian household. I also attended a convent school and am still guided today by these Christian values. My mother, a hard-working nurse, taught us good values and discipline. My sister still lives in Durban. After school, I moved to Johannesburg to work, where I have been ever since.

Where did your career begin?

I commenced my career at SA Tourism, in a temp position, in the guest relation unit, as an admin assistant. When my contract came to an end after a year, I continued on in a voluntary position until a marketing assistant position became available. Subsequently, I was promoted to project specialist, during which time I completed a certificate in project management and IT. Through SA Tourism I was afforded the opportunity to study Tourism Sustainability in Hiroshima, Japan. I lived there for six months and studied with tourism people from all over the world. This provided me with a better understanding of various cultures and generally, a bigger picture of tourism and sustainability.

How did you get involved in business events?

I always loved events and projects, and my career path led me towards this sector. Realising my love for it, I decided to do an MBA in events management. This worked out very well as, when a position became available at SANCB in 2017 – dealing with strategic platforms – I jumped at the opportunity. I was then promoted to general manager: strategic events.

What do you love about the business events sector?

The business events sector is target driven.

What recent accomplishment are you most proud of?

Being part of the organisational team for Meetings Africa 2023. I am most excited about the new Meetings Africa logo and branding — the actual logo reflects ‘open doors’, which works well with SANCB’s current campaign, Open Doors. We reinvented the logo, and it gave Meetings Africa 2023 a fresh look and feel. We also introduced an airline pavilion, as airlift is one of our current challenges.

What role does your family play in your life?

My children are my everything. I have two children: my son, 15 and my daughter, 10. Family drives me, it is my reason for existence.

What would you change in your life if you could when looking back?

No, I would not change anything. Everything that I am today is because of everything I went through. It helped me to become who I am today. I have no regrets.

Do you have any hobbies?

I love cooking and I really enjoying trying new recipes.

Do you play any sports?

I enjoy skipping. It is a great escape and clears the mind.

What do you do for leisure?

I cook, take long drives and enjoy weekends away, when I can.

What is your secret to success?

I am very goal-driven. I want to see a change and be part of making that change happen. I am also driven to understand the tourism mandate and how impactful this sector is — it changes lives.

What is your pet hate?

In general, I am a very tolerant person. However, I do feel uncomfortable when someone stands too close to me in a queue. Social distancing made me more aware of this.

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why?

The Cradle of Humankind. Wow, where humankind originated, it speaks volumes.

What type of holiday would you avoid at all costs? Camping.

If you could be anyone for the day, who would you be and why? Wonder Woman, so that I could make the world a better place, instantly.

What is your favourite city?

Durban remains my favourite city. It has value for money, and it is a beautiful coastal city.

What is your favourite film, television programme?

Film: the Tyler Perry movie, Acrimony. Television programme: any reality show.

How do you relax?

I love music. I relax and reflect when I listen to music.

What is your favourite food?

I love all spicy food. I love any curry and meat.

Who is your favourite movie star?

I really enjoy Idris Elba movies.

What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done?

When I was looking for a home, I took the first place I saw, then and there.

Who is your role model?

My Mom is my role model. She was a single parent, without anything. She was a nurse and sacrificed everything for her children so that they could have a better future.

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps?

You are responsible for your own success; it will determine how far you go. Never underestimate working well with people. To succeed, you need good people skills and kindness goes a long way. Also, have a good attitude — it will take you far.

What is your dream for the future?

I would like to see visible change. My aspiration is to make a noticeable change in peoples’ lives.