Carrying the torch forward
Last weekend, we laid our dear friend and colleague, Niel Els, to rest. From Cape Town, we made our way into the Klein Karoo, to his beloved Oudtshoorn—where I first met Niel 11 years ago when Destination Africa expanded from East to Southern Africa. The memorial was filled with laughter as, one by one, friends and family shared stories about this remarkable man. Messages poured in from his friends in Skål and Chaine de Rotisserie, spanning the globe, each one a testament to the impact he made in the industry and in their lives.
A true ambassador
Niel was a force of nature. A true ambassador for South Africa, he travelled far and wide, proudly sharing the magic of his home country. Now, it is up to us, his colleagues, to carry that torch forward. And we will. Because we are a team, united in purpose and passion. Since the news of his passing, we have been overwhelmed by the number of agents reaching out, having read about Niel on Facebook or through the many channels within the tourism industry. His influence stretched far and wide, and his legacy is one we intend to honour.
As a team, we are committed to keeping the spirit of Destination Africa alive and thriving, just as we did when Niel was with us. The strength of a great team lies in its ability to move forward, no matter the challenges. None of us are indispensable—not even me. While that may be true in business, Niel was more than just business—he was a friend, and friends can never be replaced. Still, the journey must go on, and thanks to our dedicated crew, we remain steady on course. Whoever steps into his role will have big shoes to fill, but with a strong team beside them, they won’t be walking alone.
Niel’s two sons and his beloved grandson were deeply touched by the outpouring of love and stories shared at the memorial. Everyone had a memory of something Niel had done for them—proof that a life well lived is one that leaves a lasting impact. It’s all about legacy, about making a difference in the lives of others. That’s what we should all strive for.
Finding our rhythm
Now, a new week begins. We are adjusting, finding our rhythm, and stepping into the spaces Niel left behind. But don’t worry, my friend—we’ve got this. It’s full steam ahead, just as you would have wanted.
I want to close this week’s reflection with words from Hunter S. Thompson—words that could have been written for Niel and the way he lived his life:
“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, ‘Wow! What a ride!’”
Hamba Kahle, Niel.
Rune Engstrøm
