Working in the public sector is not a career, but a “calling to serve the people of South Africa”, says Dr Laeticia Jacobs, who is passionate about South Africa’s tourism sector and transforming it into a thriving sector that steers economic development in the country. “My dream is to continue making a greater impact in society and contribute to transformation in the tourism industry,” emphasises Dr Jacobs, who graduated with a PhD in Tourism Management from the Faculty of Economic and Management. Read more about her career highlights, aspirations and how UP contributed towards her development.

Q: Please share the details of your studies, mentioning the qualification/s you completed at UP and what motivated you during your studies.

A: I completed my PhD in Tourism Management in 2018 and graduated in April 2019. I have a passion for the tourism industry.

Q: Briefly summarise your professional career, including your current position and highlights/milestones thus far.

A: I am a Deputy Director at the Department of Tourism, South Africa. I have managed a number of projects at the Department, but my highlights include being Programme Manager of the SANParks Infrastructure Maintenance Programme, which employed over 900 local rural community members and over 60 SMMEs surrounding national parks.

I was also the key person from the Department of Tourism who developed the National Astro-Tourism Strategy, which will be implemented by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Science and Innovation. The strategy will be launched by the President of South Africa in the financial year 2023/24.

Q: To what extent did your studies at UP benefit you in your career and contribute to your success?

A: My studies at UP greatly contributed to my career and personal developed. My studies not only added to the body of knowledge on the topic I was studying, but also allowed me to improve my skills in time management, critical thinking, writing and communication.

Q: Can you single out a special mentor/trusted advisor who played an indispensable role in your life/studies/career?

A: Prof Elizabeth du Preez and my brother Prof Brian van Wyk were very instrumental in me completing my studies. My husband, Connel Jacobs was and continues to be my constant support. One cannot be successful on your own, you need a support system to help you navigate through the obstacles of life.

Q: Given your academic experience at UP, what advice can you pass on to current students?

A: Work hard, and if you feel like giving up, take a small break, get up and give it another shot!

Q: What really inspires and motivates you personally?

A: Doing good unto others and working hard fuels me. I think I got the “hard-working” trait from both my parents who worked six days a week.

Q: What, in your opinion, is the foundation of a successful career?

A: As a self-proclaimed hard worker who has reaped the benefits of hard work in my career, hard work lays a good foundation for a successful career. Consistent hard work is key. It is also important to have a good work-life balance. Make time to exercise and look after your health, so that you are also mentally fit to reach your goal. Success takes time, so be patient and learn through the process.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about your chosen career path?

A: I am in the public service and for me its not only a career path, but a calling to serve the people of South Africa.

Q: Which business/trade-related or career-related publications (magazines/newspapers/blogs, etc.) do you enjoy reading?

A: All things tourism!

Q: What are your professional/business/personal aspirations?

A: My dream is to continue making a greater impact and contribute to transformation in the tourism industry and to grow in the Department, and also be an exemplary tourism scholar. I would still like to pursue a postdoc and write more academic articles.

Q: As a UP and EMS alumni, what makes you proud to be associated with the University?

A: I am both a Matie and UP alumni and when I relocated to Pretoria from Cape Town, UP was the obvious choice to grow academically and I have no regrets. I have learnt a lot during my studies at UP.

Q: What are your hopes and aspirations for Africa and its people for the rest of this decade and beyond?

A: To truly see Africa, appreciate the value of its people and everyone working together to create better lives for all.