By: Nomvula Ndlovu

In celebration of Nelson Mandela’s legacy, Project ENZA partnered with the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) to empower the youth in the Tourism and Hospitality sector.

Grade 12 Tourism learners from Mcothoyi High School were invited to the ICC to get a personal feel of the centre and its operation.

The school was one of the under-privileged schools that were chosen by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education to take part in educative Madiba Day tours in Durban.

The learners watched a documentary based on the history of the ICC and its achievements. Representatives from the various departments at ICC shared information on how they operate on a day to day basis.

They were given a tour through the centre, from the meeting halls, to the banquet dining rooms and the prestigious ICC Arena.

ICC Marketing Manager Mala Dorasamy said that the initiative was to promote tourism and expose learners to the different careers in the field.

“There are a variety of fields in the tourism industry and students need to be exposed to such so that they can choose wisely when they choose their career paths,” said Dorasamy.

The learners had the opportunity to meet music sensation Somizi and they were excited about their visit.

Nomcebo Cele from Mcothoyi High School found the tour to be informing and exciting.

She said, “It was my first time at ICC, it was exciting and I wish to work for the centre as their food and beverages manager.”

Their highlight of the visit was making cupcakes working alongside ICC culinary chefs.

Sandile Ngcobo said he enjoyed making the cupcakes and was inspired to venture into being a chef.

Tourism teacher Sboniseni Masuku said the visit to the centre was good for the learners as it exposed them to the expectations of their career path.

“I believe that the learners are now more aware of what the tourism field entails and will make good career choices next year,” Masuku said.

The initiative was part of the many plans Durban ICC has to increase tourism growth and to instil the values of professionalism through uncompromising service.