Events coordinator Nirene Fortuin assists with group accommodation and conferences. Over the course of the entire conferencing journey, from quotation to event day, she’s on hand to provide advice and support to potential and current clients. A graduate of the renowned Cape Town Hotel School, Nirene joined the Spier team three months ago after stints at a number of hotels, including 15 on Orange Hotel and the Westin Hotel, both in Cape Town.
Events coordinator Nirene Fortuin assists with group accommodation and conferences. Over the course of the entire conferencing journey, from quotation to event day, she’s on hand to provide advice and support to potential and current clients. A graduate of the renowned Cape Town Hotel School, Nirene joined the Spier team three months ago after stints at a number of hotels, including 15 on Orange Hotel and the Westin Hotel, both in Cape Town.
What do you love most about working at Spier?
The farm is so multi-faceted – so much can be enjoyed and experienced here, from wine tasting and Segway tours to picnics and art appreciation.
What makes conferences at Spier different?
The jaw-dropping scenery for a start! It’s hard to beat the farmland, mountains and historic architecture that form a backdrop to our events. Another really special aspect of our conferencing offering is the diverse array of activities that we offer for delegates. These include fun indoor and outdoor team building activities such as The Amazing Race, art expression classes, drumming, laughing yoga and potjiekos cook-offs – for groups of all sizes. Then there’s silent disco, picnics under the trees and even smoothie cycling! All in all, it makes conferences here incredibly memorable and worthwhile.
What do you love most about your job?
The unique challenges that comes with each event – there are different requests all the time. I also love interacting with guests, and collaborating with the team as well as third parties such as event planners.
How do you make a positive difference to your community?
I’ve committed to practising kindness every day.
What’s the most valuable advice you’ve ever received?
Be thankful for what you have in front of you.
Where is your favourite part of the farm?
I don’t have a favourite part yet, but I really do enjoy its greenery and fresh air.
What are you proudest of having achieved?
Handling challenges, complexity and change. And balancing a happy and healthy family life with my career.
What advice do you have for someone trying to get into your line of work?
When studying, give it your all – learn as much as you can. And ask as many questions as possible. The more you know, the more you’ll grow.