First time woman at the helm of SANParks | Rhewal

Hapiloe Sello (Photo: Provided)

This is the very first time since the South African National Parks Council (SANParks) was founded in 1926 that a woman is at the head of this institution.

Hapiloe Sello was appointed CEO of SANParks after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

According to Pam Yako, chairman of the SANParks board, the board is delighted to appoint a leader of Sello’s caliber to the role – “someone with deep-rooted knowledge of the interconnectedness of conservation, tourism and people”.

“I have no doubt that SANParks is in good hands for the next phase of its growth,” said Yako.

Sello joined SANParks as executive general manager for tourism development and marketing in 2015 and acted as SANParks CEO from June to November last year, among other duties.

“As head of tourism, she spearheaded the implementation of the organisation’s commercialization strategy and various tourism products, events and strategic partnerships, which helped bring in the necessary resources for the SANParks.”

Yako says Sello’s appointment is an important step forward for transformation and women’s empowerment in the sector.

“This is a great leap forward for African conservation and tourism as a catalyst for progress and sustainable change.”

The council wished Sello strength and prosperity in her new role.

“We further encourage internal and external stakeholders to support her in this role.”