Leading conference industry sales representative Tourism Portfolio has expanded into Africa with its appointment by destination management company Travel Motives DMC South Africa. Sydney-based Tourism Portfolio will spearhead Travel Motives’ sales and marketing efforts in Australia as part of the DMC’s expansion into new international markets.

Established in 2002 by Donna Kessler - the National Marketing and Sales Person of the Year in the most recent Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) awards - Tourism Portfolio is among Australia’s most successful specialists in the conference and incentive sector, representing venues, destinations and event suppliers in Australia and overseas.

“Travel Motives is a leader in its field, offering extremely professional and creative services in extraordinary destinations throughout southern Africa,” Ms Kessler said. “Tourism Portfolio is very proud to represent them in Australia.”

Travel Motives was established in 1996 and has grown to become one of Southern Africa’s leading full-service destination management companies, handling more than 40,000 delegates annually in South Africa and neighbouring countries.

General Manager of Travel Motives Inbound Division Collette Hoppe said the company had identified Australia as a key market and had appointed Tourism Portfolio to provide a full-time, in-country sales partner. 

“We are absolutely delighted to have Donna and Tourism Portfolio onboard,” Ms Hoppe said.  “Donna brings with her a wealth of experience and her natural exuberance and passion is evident from the first moment you meet her.”

Tourism Portfolio's other clients include the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa, Off-Site Connections, Gulf Ventures (Dubai and Oman), Emirates Hotels & Resorts Dubai, Emirates Hotels & Resorts Australia, Distant Frontiers (India, Nepal and Sri Lanka), and Blue 360 (Spain & Portugal).