Skål International
Skål International World Congress 2026
Skål International World Congress 2026
The 85th Skål International World Congress was held from 29 September to 2 October 2026 in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, bringing together approximately 320 delegates and tourism leaders from around the world for three days of business, networking, friendship and cultural exchange.
Special recognition goes to President Keith Murcott and the members of the Local Organising Committee, including Salome Clack, Donè Louw, Glenn van Eck and Heidi Halgryn, whose dedication, hard work and commitment were instrumental in creating a memorable experience for all participants.
Few destinations could have provided a more meaningful setting for this global gathering than Nelson Mandela Bay, a region named in honour of one of the most influential leaders of the 20th century, recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, and an international symbol of freedom, equality, reconciliation and hope. Located on South Africa's Sunshine Coast, the Bay encompasses the city of Gqeberha and offers a remarkable blend of beautiful beaches, rich heritage, vibrant culture and exceptional wildlife experiences. Delegates had the opportunity to discover a destination renowned for its warm hospitality, stunning coastal scenery and spirit of resilience, unity and diversity.
Welcome
Get-Together
The official Congress programme kicked off with the Welcome Get-Together on 29 September at the iconic Happy Valley, an evening celebrating the rich natural and cultural heritage that makes this destination so unique. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed local entertainment, cultural performances, regional cuisine and storytelling that reflected the diverse heritage of the Eastern Cape. The event also highlighted Nelson Mandela Bay's world-renowned marine environment, including its rich biodiversity, spectacular coastline, marine wildlife and growing reputation as a destination for responsible and sustainable ocean-based tourism.
Opening
Ceremony
On 30 September, the Opening Ceremony took place at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The Congress partnered with the Ronwen 360 Foundation to host a special football activation at the stadium earlier in the day. Young people from local communities had the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of an international sporting venue, walking onto the field and enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to inspire confidence, ambition and future aspirations.
Hosted by the Executive Mayor of Nelson Mandela Bay, the ceremony showcased the destination's ability to host world-class international events while providing delegates with an unforgettable South African welcome. The ceremony also featured welcome addresses from political and tourism leadership, reaffirming the importance of tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, international cooperation and sustainable development.
Delegates were inspired by keynote presentations and celebrated excellence within the global tourism community through the prestigious Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards, recognising outstanding achievements in sustainability across the tourism industry worldwide. The occasion also marked the announcement of the Skål Club of the Year 2026, with Skål International Veracruz, Mexico, receiving this prestigious recognition.
Following the Opening Ceremony, delegates gathered at the Boardwalk Convention Centre for the Global Marketplace and Business-to-Business (B2B) Sessions, where tourism professionals connected to explore new partnerships and business opportunities. A key feature of the day was the Tourism Product Exhibition that provided delegates with the opportunity to discover new tourism offerings, engage directly with suppliers and learn more about the diverse experiences available throughout Nelson Mandela Bay, the Eastern Cape and South Africa. Delegates also attended a captivating presentation by Christo Brand, whose personal journey and experiences provided valuable insights into leadership, trust, resilience and the human connections that shape our lives and careers.
Twinning
Ceremony
Another meaningful event on 30 September was the Twinning Ceremony, conducted by Congress Director Victoria Wales. The Twinning Programme celebrates the spirit of friendship, cooperation and international understanding that has defined Skål International since its foundation in 1934. Established to strengthen global connections among Skål Clubs, the programme encourages collaboration, cultural exchange and mutual growth.
The following twinning agreements were formalised during the ceremony:
- Cape Winelands (South Africa) and Ensenada-Valles Vitivinicolas (Mexico);
- Cusco (Peru) and Pretoria (South Africa);
- Nairobi (Kenya) and Pretoria (South Africa);
- Pretoria (South Africa) and Taipei (Taiwan).
Elements
As the sun set on an inspiring day of business engagement, delegates gathered at Elements where they enjoyed an authentic South African experience, with local cuisine, regional flavours and entertainment creating a memorable showcase of the destination's hospitality offering. Conversations that began during the day's business sessions continued into the evening, creating new connections and future opportunities for collaboration across the global tourism industry..
Annual General Assembly
On 1 October, the Annual General Assembly (AGA) took place at the Boardwalk Convention Centre. Reports on the work carried out by the Executive Board within their respective portfolios, as well as progress made throughout the year on Shaping Tomorrow, Skål International’s strategic transformation initiative designed to modernise governance, strengthen leadership, improve organisational effectiveness, enhance member value, and ensure the organisation’s long-term sustainability, were presented. The AGA included an Open Forum, giving delegates the opportunity to share their views, raise questions, put forward suggestions and discuss matters of importance to the organisation, encouraging an open exchange of ideas and constructive dialogue. The results of the elections held prior to the AGA were also announced as follows:
Vice President 2027/President Elect 2028: Enrique Flores, Skål International Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit (Mexico).
Director Region 1 (U.S.A): Mark Irgang, Skål International Long Island.
Director Region 2 (Canada, Bahamas): Sean Buckland, Skål International Halifax (Canada).
Director Region 4 (Latin America): Ian Gillespie, Skål International Lima (Peru).
Director Region 5 (Germany): Moritz Freise, Skål International Berlin.
Director Region 6 (Switzerland): Georges Koch, Skål International Montreux Vevey.
Director Region 9 (Türkiye): Ugursal Ugur, Skål International Antalya.
Auditor: Karen Trevino, Skål International Arkansas (U.S.A.) and Deputy Auditor: Ranjit Vig, Skål International Delhi (India).
Distinction of Membre d’Honneur was conferred on Ali Acundas, Skål International Izmir (Türkiye), Julie Dabaly Scott, Skål International Nairobi (Kenya), Sanjay Datta, Skål International Delhi (India), and Ernst Krolke, Skål International Sydney South (Australia).
The Assembly reconfirmed Cádiz, Spain, as the host destination for the 2027 Skål International World Congress, scheduled to take place from 10 to 13 November 2027 (Prebooking now available), and selected Helsinki, Finland, as the host site for the 2028 Skål International World Congress, which is scheduled for 26 to 29 September 2028.
President's
Gala Dinner
The day culminated in the President's Gala Dinner, one of the most eagerly anticipated events of every Skål International World Congress. The evening brought together members to celebrate friendship, achievements and the future of the organisation. One of its most emotional moments was the standing ovation for President Andres Hayes, in recognition of the successful AGA, his leadership throughout the year and his unwavering commitment to advancing Skål International.
The Gala Dinner also featured the symbolic handover of office from outgoing President Andres Hayes to incoming President Mohan NSN, as well as the presentation of the chain of office to the Vice President-Elect Enrique Flores. Director Marc Rheaume was presented with the distinction of Membre d'Honneur, awarded as a right to members of the Executive Board who have served a minimum of three years. Director Deniz Anapa, who has served on the Executive Board for two years, received a Recognition Certificate. President Andres Hayes congratulated all the Directors for their hard work, dedication, and valuable contributions throughout the year.
Finally, the winner of the Rafael Millan Club Development Award was announced. Established to honour Rafael Millan’s outstanding dedication, vision, and commitment to the growth of Skål International through the creation of numerous Skål Clubs over many years of service, the award recognises exceptional initiatives that have led to the creation or reactivation of Skål Clubs worldwide. Congratulations to Skål International India, which became the first recipient of this prestigious award.
Awards
The Congress also provided an opportunity for President Andres Hayes to present the Presidential Awards 2026, recognising members for their outstanding leadership, achievements, dedication, and contributions to the global Skål International network:
Skålleague of the Year:
Dawn Smith (Skål International Cape Town)
Rising Skål Leader:
Ruvarashe Zimuto (Skål International Cape Town)
Carlos Gonzalo Novelo Escamilla (Skål International Merida)
Lifetime Achievement
Lavonne Wittmann (Skål International Pretoria)
Yolanda Ruanova Fernández (Skål International Campeche)
Ambassador of the Year
Sebastián Salvia (Skål International Mar del Plata)
Rodrigo Álvarez y Jiménez (Skål International Puebla)
Ugursal Ugur (Skål International Antalya)
Mustafa Yalcin (Skål International Istanbul)
Vinzenz Rosa de Pauli (Skål International Macau)
María Eugenia Moreno (Skål International Cancun)
Janet Tan-Collis (Skål International Singapore)
Order of Skål Merit
Barry Biggar (Skål International Washington D.C.)
María Elena Jean Muñoz (Skål International Ciudad de Mexico)
Sara Pardo (Skål International Panama)
Richard Scinta (Skål International Orlando)
Certificate of Appreciation
Ana Herrero (Skål International Panama)
Iris Salazar (Skål International New York)
Excursions
While the formal Congress programme concluded with the Gala Dinner, the visitor journey was far from over. The following day, delegates participated in a range of complimentary excursions across Nelson Mandela Bay, further exploring the destination's wildlife, culture, heritage, marine experiences and tourism attractions. Many delegates then embarked on post-congress tours to some of South Africa's most sought-after destinations, including the Eastern Cape's private game reserves, the world-renowned Garden Route, and numerous other destinations throughout South Africa. For many international visitors, the congress became the starting point of a much broader South African travel experience, with some delegates remaining in the country for several additional days and even weeks before returning home.
Photo Galleries
The successful hosting of the 85th Skål International World Congress 2026 stands as a testament to Nelson Mandela Bay's capability as a leading international meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions destination and reinforces South Africa's position as a preferred global tourism destination.
