Maya Angelou said “I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels.” She could’ve been referring to Bernice Maharaj. While Covid-19 has kept her grounded, she dreams of traveling to the countries and cities she works with and beyond, at her employer Hideaways, a subsidiary of Jenman Africa Safaris.
Recently appointed after a 6-month Work Integrated Learning Placement at False Bay TVET College, Bernice is now the junior Reservation Consultant for a collection of bespoke properties and luxury safari experiences that are positioned across Southern Africa.
Completing her National Certificate N6 in Tourism in 2021, she would happily recommend studying at False Bay TVET College for the opportunities it presents.
Bernice is exposed to all aspects of the Agency, liaising with clients and providers, bookings, custom service, accounts, logistics and even a little marketing. Her all-round experience makes her an exceptional addition to any Travel and Tours Agency.
While this story sounds like a fairy tale, at times during her study career, she questioned her choice of study, her thoughts giving into the uncertainty of others. However, through small validations, a good lecturer and her determination to follow her dreams, her passion and enthusiasm for the industry was restored. “Don’t follow your families and friends’ dreams, follow your own and always put your best work forward” recommends Bernice.
When she attended the World Travel Market Exhibition in 2019, as part of a class excursion, her mind was opened to so many possibilities that she realised she wasn’t dreaming big enough. “The tourism sector is so vast and intertwined with so many direct and indirect career possibilities.”
Focused on her career and travel goals, we are sure she will be getting her passport stamped soon!
