Time is precious, yet we often rush through life without truly being present. Niel Els’ passing is a stark reminder—are we making time for what matters most?
RIP Niel 1961 – 2025
Sometimes, we need to pause and reflect on life. Just days ago, we lost a dear friend and colleague, Niel Els. His passing is a stark reminder of how precious time is and how important it is to be there for one another.
In just two months, it will be ten years since I arrived in Cape Town with a dream—to build Destination Africa. By then, the company had already thrived in Kenya for 25 years under Duncan Muriuki and David Nguro. With Duncan Muriuki’s blessing, I boarded a plane from Nairobi to Cape Town, eager to take on the journey ahead. Along the way, I was fortunate to meet incredible people, some of whom are no longer with us but have left behind lasting legacies—Gert Lubbe, Johan Keller, and now Niel Els.
Gert’s passion lives on through the Montagu Country Hotel, now in the capable hands of PJ Basson.
Johan’s legacy endures at De Denne and Highgate, lovingly carried forward by his dear Louise.
and Niel—his impact on all of us remains strong. We promise to continue building Destination Africa, always honouring his memory. Leana Louw is a fantastic managing director, and her team is working in his spirit.
Niel was the one who introduced me to the fellowship of Skål International. I became a member on May 24, 2016, and I have never looked back. Since Wednesday morning, I have received hundreds of calls and messages from people sharing how much Niel meant to them. His kindness, warmth, and dedication touched so many lives.
The past two days have made me reflect deeply. Do we work so hard that we forget to truly be present with those we love? Have we lost sight of what matters most in the rush of deadlines, social media, and the constant noise of daily life?
I took these afternoons to slow down—to sit with my children and grandchildren, share meals, and embrace the gift of time together. It reminded me that we must nurture the relationships that matter. We need to check in on our friends and family—not just with a message, but face-to-face, with a shared coffee, a heartfelt conversation, or a glass of wine.
Niel’s passing is a reminder that tomorrow is never guaranteed. Let us not wait until it’s too late. Let’s take the time now to care for each other, to truly be present, and to cherish the moments we have together.
I leave you with the Skål toast, a beautiful reminder of what is truly important in life:
TO FELLOW SKÅLLEAGUES EVERYWHERE!
HAPPINESS!
GOOD HEALTH!
FRIENDSHIP!
LONG LIFE!
SKÅL!
