3 minute read
20 Questions
Ntsikelelo Wiseman Dlulane, acting CEO of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, shares his thoughts on the MICE industry and personal take on life with Meetings magazine. It takes a Wiseman
Where do you see the events industry currently? It is difficult to predict where we might end up with the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic; however, should the situation improve, the events industry has an opportunity to be a major economic driver.
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Where would you like to see the industry in the next five to ten years? We need to be able to sufficiently manage the risks inherent in crowds being susceptible to possible viral exposure.
What role or influence do you believe your organisation plays in the industry? We provide space for event organisers in the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife protected areas, which enables visitors to enjoy the ambience, flora and fauna that our province has to offer.
What is the most challenging aspect of what you do? Striking a balance between biodiversity conservation and development. What do you enjoy the most about what you do? I enjoy meeting our objectives in ensuring the sustainability of biodiversity conservation and our natural heritage for the benefit of present and future generations.
What was the best piece of advice you ever received? Be bold enough to take decisions no matter the outcome, but be a decision-maker.
What was your very first job? I was employed at a technical site agency during the construction of the Chief Albert Luthuli Memorial Hospital.
What drives you both personally and professionally? My personal drive is the desire to see positive change in people’s lives. My professional drive is to leave a legacy.
What are some of your career highlights? I have implemented major-impact projects that are people-centric and infrastructure-related initiatives. These have resulted in job creation, skills development and ownership of tourism facilities by previously disadvantaged rural communities.
Who were your role models growing up? Growing up, my role model was my grandmother – our family’s matriarch. She taught me lessons of persevering in the face of adversity. Outside my family setting, I admire Paul Kagame, the current president of Rwanda, for how he turned a country ravaged by civil war and genocide into one of the most admired nations in Africa.
Who do you currently most admire and why? I currently most admire Judge Zondo, who, despite all the criticism levelled against him, has remained focused on the objective of what he needs to deliver.
What quote best describes your outlook towards life? “Your past does not have to determine your destiny.” – Napoleon Hill
What do people most often wrongly assume about you? That I am not a people person.
What values will you not deviate from? Remaining true to myself, respect for others, accountability, and empowering others to achieve their goals.
What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time? I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, and fishing.
What was your best holiday and why? I went on vacation to Ezulwini Valley in the Kingdom of eSwatini with my entire family. I got to spend time with them, away from all the pressures of work, and it was the first time we went out as a group.
What are some of your ‘bucket list’ items? I have a few! Flying first class with my wife to Dubai and taking my children to Disneyland, but also travelling to different African countries. And one day, I want to attain a PhD and contribute to the education of children from less fortunate families.
What is your favourite read? The Art of War by Sun Tzu. Other good reads include The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Collaborating with the Enemy by Adam Kahane.
What three items do you never leave home without? My cell phone, wallet and tablet.
What is your most prized possession? My most prized possession is the knowledge that my family is behind me – they keep me grounded.
