Danie Kortjas

Wine Steward at Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani

“I have always been fascinated by the different cultures and cuisines within the hospitality industry. There are endless opportunities to learn and grow. My main aim is to inspire and mentor the people around me in the right direction. I learn by constantly asking questions about anything I don’t understand.

Who inspired me

I was inspired by my friends and colleagues who are in the same industry.

What advice would I give to someone pursuing the industry?

Stay true to yourself, take each day as an opportunity to learn something new, and never forget why you decided to pursue this path. The more you show commitment and dedication, the easier it becomes.

Highlights of the Inter-Hotel Challenge SA 2024 "Grain and Grape to Glass week

The Grain & Grape to Glass week was an adventurous and inspirational week, all thanks to our hosts and judges. We had the pleasure of meeting many winemakers who shared their journeys with us. One of the best parts of this experience was the dinners with perfect pairings and breathtaking views, which helped us understand our palates better and gain more insight into wine production.”

Danie Kortjas is a candidate wine steward for the 2024 Inter Hotel Challenge.