ATTA appoints Group CEO
Virginia Messina has been appointed as Group CEO of the African Travel and Tourism Association (ATTA). She will work closely with the leadership team to expand the association’s international engagement, strengthen its policy and advocacy role while building on the success of its industry-leading events and initiatives.
Messina has over 13 years of experience in communications and tourism. She began her career working for the government of Mexico as Head of International Affairs in 2005 and then as Tourism Minister from 2011 to 2012. She moved to the private sector in 2013 to 2017 working as Chief of Staff for the World Travel & Tourism Council before climbing the ranks from Vice President of Government Affairs and Communications from 2017 to 2020 to Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Communications from 2021 to 2025. She was Executive Vice President from the second quarter of 2025 before moving to ATTA in March.
“Virginia’s appointment as Group CEO comes at a pivotal moment for ATTA as we look to take the organisation to even greater heights. We have ambitious plans and her experience, leadership and global connections will help strengthen ATTA’s position as the authoritative voice of African tourism,” said Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO of ATTA.
Africa Albida bids farewell to Group Sales and Brand Manager
Bryony Acutt has left Africa Albida Tourism, effective March 31, after more than seven years as Group Sales and Brand Manager. Her journey with the company began as Marketing Manager from 2009 until 2011 before she returned in 2019.
Acutt’s work, alongside the Sales, Marketing and Brand team, has strengthened Victoria Falls Safari Collection’s positioning on the global stage, contributing to international sales, trade engagement, brand positioning and guest experience. Africa Albida Tourism will review its sales, marketing, branding and public relations structure to align with future growth plans.
Acutt is opening her own hospitality consultancy and representation company, Hosts with Hearts.
“Bryony has played a highly valued and important part in our recovery from 2020/21 and continued growth and expansion since then. She will be missed and we all wish her much success,” said Ross Kennedy, Director of Africa Albida Tourism.
