ATTA Group MD steps down
The African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA) has announced that Group MD Nigel Vere Nicoll will step down on December 19, concluding a 30-year executive tenure with the association.
He will hand over his responsibilities at ATTA and Experience Africa Events to the incoming Group CEO and thereafter continue as President of the association in a consultancy role.
“Nigel’s immense charm and innate common sense have guided ATTA through decades of evolution and challenge. His ability to unite our diverse industry around shared purpose – always with warmth, humour and humanity – has left an indelible mark on all of us. These reflections from industry stalwarts show not only the respect he commands but the deep affection and gratitude we all share for his extraordinary contribution to African tourism,” said James Haigh, Chair of ATTA.
New appointments for Malawi’s Department of Tourism
Malawi’s Department of Tourism in the Ministry of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism has announced the appointment of a new Minister, George Partridge.
Patridge brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Group Chief Executive of Press Corporation, CEO of National Bank of Malawi, Director of the Reserve Bank of Malawi as well as Chairman of Malawi Airlines, National Bank of Malawi, Telecom Networks Malawi and Sunbird Tourism boards. He also served as the Institute of Bankers in Malawi’s first President.
Seychelles appoints new Minister
Nicola Amanda J Bernstein has been appointed as Seychelles’ 15th Minister of Tourism. Her portfolio will include tourism and culture.
Bernstein holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and journalism from Kingston University, London, and a master’s degree in diplomacy and international studies from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.
Her early career in the UK included roles with the International HIV and AIDS Alliance and the Commonwealth HIV and AIDS Action Group, focusing on communication, advocacy and global health awareness.
On returning to the Seychelles, Bernstein joined the Department of Foreign Affairs as Press Attaché before taking up the role of Principal Counsellor at the Seychelles Embassy in Addis Ababa. She later returned to serve in the Consular Division, supporting Seychellois citizens abroad.
Bernstein also brings private-sector experience, having held senior positions at Barclays Bank (now ABSA) and within the broader financial services industry, contributing to major strategic and rebranding projects.
“My journey and experience in the private sector and diplomacy, coupled with my drive and perseverance, have shaped my commitment to share the knowledge I have gained across the various fields I’ve worked in. I am ready to keep learning, to challenge the status quo, to make a difference and to leave things better than I found them. Most importantly, I am ready to work hand in hand with every stakeholder,” Bernstein said during her address to the National Assembly.
