Destination Spotlight, Saskia Fisher, Visit Lauderdale

Destination Spotlight, Saskia Fisher, Visit Lauderdale

What circumstances led you to begin working at Visit Lauderdale?

As a graduate student of FIU’s School of Hospitality, I started my career at Marriott and had a good relationship with the team at Visit Lauderdale (at the time known as the Great Fort Lauderdale Visitors Bureau). A much-revered job opportunity came up in the Sports Department and I jumped at the chance of joining the team.

What was the first thing you did when you learned you got the job?

When I first learned I got the job, the excitement propelled me to immediately turn to Google to delve into the world of sports in Greater Fort Lauderdale. This proactive approach set the tone for my tenure at Visit Lauderdale, signaling my readiness to embrace Greater Fort Lauderdale’s dynamic and vibrant sports scene.

Tell us about the events Visit Lauderdale hosts and at what facilities the more well-known events take place. Why has Visit Lauderdale solicited these events? Is it all due to facility assets and strengths?

Visit Lauderdale hosts a diverse range of events across various sports, leveraging our destination’s unique assets and strengths to attract participants and spectators alike. Some of our more well-known events occur at premier facilities such as the Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, and the Amarant Bank Center.

These venues offer state-of-the-art amenities, picturesque settings, and ample space to accommodate large-scale competitions, tournaments, and exhibitions.

Our decision to solicit these events is driven by a multifaceted approach that goes beyond just facility assets. While our world-class venues certainly play a crucial role in attracting events, we also consider factors such as our destination’s accessibility, hospitality infrastructure, and local support network. Additionally, we prioritize events that align with our destination’s brand identity and resonate with our target audience, whether swimming and diving championships or youth basketball tournaments.

Describe why Visit Lauderdale as a destination is so meaningful to you.

Greater Fort Lauderdale is more than a destination; it’s a vibrant tapestry of experiences that captures visitors and locals alike. The genuine sense of community and hospitality permeating every aspect of life makes me feel connected. Whether it’s exploring the Everglades, indulging in world-class dining, or simply relaxing on the beach, every moment in the destination is filled with warmth and possibility. Greater Fort Lauderdale is not just a place to visit but a place to belong.

Saskia, you are known in the industry as genuine and detail-oriented. How do these traits contribute to increasing the experience for all athletes, coaches, parents, and spectators who compete and visit your destination?

My reputation for being genuine and detail-oriented is a cornerstone for enhancing the experience of athletes, coaches, parents, and spectators who visit the destination. Embodying authenticity, I foster trust and rapport with everyone I interact with. This genuine approach translates into personalized experiences tailored to meet each individual group’s unique needs and preferences. As a result, visitors to the destination feel like they are indeed the number one priority, leaving with lasting memories and the desire to return.

What was the most significant moment you experienced during the first quarter of 2024?

The most significant moment I experienced during the first quarter was securing for the first time four major Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) sports events for Greater Fort Lauderdale. This summer, the AAU Diving National Championship, AAU Wrestling Scholastic Duals, AAU Taekwondo Nationals, and AAU Karate Nationals will compete in our destination.

The achievement resulted from relationship-building with stakeholders and demonstrating the power of genuine care and perseverance.

In what way or ways are you a different person today because of your experience working at Visit Lauderdale for the past twenty years?

Throughout my 20 years at Visit Lauderdale, my understanding of the competitive spirit inherent in sports has deepened significantly. Initially, I may have viewed sports primarily as entertainment or competition, but over time, I’ve come to appreciate their broader impact on society.

Through my experiences, I’ve witnessed firsthand how sports serve as a powerful unifier, bringing people together regardless of their backgrounds or differences. This realization has influenced my professional outlook and my personal beliefs about the potential for sports to positively affect various aspects of our lives, from fostering teamwork to promoting physical and mental well-being.

As a result, I’ve become more attuned to the transformative power of sports beyond the playing field, shaping my perspective in ways that extend far beyond my role at Visit Lauderdale.

What advice would you give to others in a situation like yours?

I advise embracing openness and inclusivity while nurturing meaningful relationships within the industry. In the competitive world of sports tourism, success often hinges on the strength of the connections we forge with others. Every interaction is an opportunity to build rapport and cultivate lasting relationships with colleagues, partners, or stakeholders.

What would “today Saskia” share with “first day on the job Saskia?”

‘Today Saskia’ would share with ‘First Day on the Job Saskia’ a deeper understanding of sports’ role in uniting people across cultures and backgrounds. She might reflect on how her perspective has evolved since starting her job, realizing the power of sports is beyond just competition.

What goals do you have for your career and Visit Lauderdale in 2024?

My goals for 2024 are centered around elevating our destination as a premier sports tourism hub while furthering my professional growth and impact on the industry. I aim to attract more events and foster partnerships with local sports organizations and venues by leveraging the destination’s world-class facilities.

I am committed to expanding our outreach efforts to new markets and demographics, ensuring that Visit Lauderdale remains top of mind for sports enthusiasts worldwide.