Belu Mabandla is the new Executive Director of the Joburg Tourism Destination Marketing unit from mid-August 2024.
“I’m excited to lead the team responsible for promoting Joburg as we continually work to reinvigorate our city’s image, ensuring it remains a sought-after destination that attracts more visitors and drives economic growth,” says Mabandla.
“Despite the challenges faced by large metropolitan areas, Joburg is undeniably one of the world’s most vibrant and magnetic destinations, brimming with rich culture, diversity, resilience, heritage, creativity and allure. It is truly a cosmopolitan, all-year-round destination for business, lifestyle and leisure tourism, entertainment, fashion, gastronomy, retail and mega events.”
Mabandla is an accomplished destination marketing professional with over 25 years of experience in tourism, trade and investment promotion across South Africa and Europe. She was Head of South African Tourism's North Europe Hub where she led successful marketing campaigns that significantly increased tourist arrivals and strengthened the brand in the Benelux and Nordic regions.
Her diverse expertise includes roles at the Southern African-Netherlands Chamber of Commerce, Coega Development Corporation and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. She has also worked in the banking sector. Mabandla holds an MSc in financial management from the University of London and has qualifications in international trade, business coaching and commerce from local universities.
