DURBAN ICC TALENTS SHINE BRIGHT AT 2023 INTER HOTEL CHALLENGE
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The Durban International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) is elated to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its talented young team members at the 2023 Inter Hotel Challenge (IHC). The competition, sponsored by HEINEKEN Beverages, witnessed remarkable performances from Durban ICC participants across various categories, including the Cape Wine Academy, Sommeliers’ Academy, KitchenAid Africa Bio-Wheat Baker of the Year, and Avanti SA Baristas.
The annual challenge gathered participants from 26 hotel chains and boutique establishments across major metropoles and top tourist destinations, aiming to elevate hospitality standards and promote economic inclusion.
Sibusiso Khumalo, representing Durban ICC, showcased his expertise as he took joint top honours in the Sommeliers’ Academy Top Performers category. Achieving an overall score of 94.83% reinforced his status as a rising star in the hospitality industry.
Khumalo’s exceptional skills were once again on display securing a notable 4th position among the top performers in the Cape Wine Academy category. He demonstrated his exceptional knowledge and expertise with a score of 90% in this section of the competition.
The IHC judging panel also recognised Wiseman Manshele, as one of the top three KitchenAid Africa Bio-Wheat Bakers of the Year, for his outstanding contribution to the competition.
Tracy Colbeck‘s impressive performance in the Avanti SA Baristas competition secured her third place overall in KwaZulu-Natal, further highlighting the talent and skill nurtured at Durban ICC.
Commenting on the success, Lindiwe Rakharebe, Chief Executive Officer of the Durban ICC, expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements. “We are thrilled to see these young professionals’ dedication and talent recognized at the Inter Hotel Challenge. These accomplishments not only reflect their individual skill but also highlight the commitment of Durban ICC to fostering excellence in the hospitality sector.”
The IHC, supported by leading sponsors such as HEINEKEN Beverages, the National Youth Development Agency, Lancewood, KitchenAid, The Diamond Works Institute, and Avanti Coffee, is designed to fast-track training in hotel and restaurant services. Participants undergo workshops presented by leading experts, covering various categories, including chefs, pastry chefs, wine stewards, mixologists, baristas, and more.
These participants’ achievements add to the success of the Durban ICC team in this year’s competition. The IHC judges, seasoned professionals in the industry, praised the overall standard of entries, emphasizing the continuous rise in excellence year after year.
As a key player in the South African hospitality sector, Durban ICC remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the growth of young talent in the industry. The organization extends its congratulations to all the winners of the 2023 Inter Hotel Challenge and looks forward to continued success in fostering excellence in hospitality.
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Issued by: The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC)
For more information contact: Durban ICC Acting Marketing & Communications Executive – Sandile Makhanya, 031 360 1192 or sandilema@icc.co.za
Notes to the Editor:
Categories in which the Durban ICC team members placed:
Cape Wine Academy Top Performers:
Lucian Hendricks (Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town) – 100%
Nadia Sibanda (Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel) – 97%
Wandile Mpakumupaku (The President Hotel) – 95%
Sibusiso Khumalo (Durban ICC) – 90%
Njabulo Prince Zondo (InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo) – 87%
Sommeliers’ Academy Top Performers:
Ashley Klassen (Queen Victoria Hotel) – 94.83%
Sibusiso Khumalo (Durban ICC) – 94.83%
Nadia Sibanda (Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel) – 93.1%
Siyanda Craig Mthethwa (Southern Sun The Edward) – 91.38%
Sinalo Yanga Ngubo (54 on Bath) – 89.66%
KitchenAid Africa Bio-Wheat Baker of the Year:
Senzo Khumalo (The Oyster Box)
Wiseman Manshele (Durban ICC)
Wandile Shange (Southern Sun The Cullinan)
Top Three Avanti SA Baristas – KwaZulu-Natal:
Samkelisiwe Nyandu (Oyster Box Hotel)
Sfundo Mhlongo (Beverly Hills Hotel)
Tracy Colbeck (Durban ICC)