Tourism Breaking News
Skål International’s 2025 World President, Denise Scrafton made a powerful and symbolic visit to India, a first in many years, reaffirming India’s rising prominence in the global Skål movement. Her presence inspired renewed energy and deeper alignment across clubs, with a focus on future leadership, sustainability, youth engagement, and international cooperation.
“India is fast becoming a vital force in global tourism and an emerging powerhouse within Skål. It’s time we lead today to shape a stronger tomorrow — together,” said Denise Scrafton, echoing her presidential theme and setting the tone for her impactful journey.
NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President of Skål International and Director of Region 10 (India), who accompanied her throughout the journey added, “Denise’s visit comes at a time when Skål India (Region 10) is evolving into a mission-driven force in global tourism. We are focused on collaboration, youth engagement, sustainability, and responsible tourism — values that align beautifully with her leadership vision.”
Sanjeev Mehra, President of Skål International India, shared, “Her presence energized our movement and inspired our clubs. We are proud of the momentum we’re building — launching new clubs, driving inclusive leadership, broadcasting powerful and meaningful communications. India is on the path to becoming Skål’s top-performing nation. With 91 years of legacy, Skål International stands as the world’s largest and oldest organisation of tourism and hospitality professionals. Remarkably, three of its top ten clubs globally — Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata —are proudly from India.”
Ms. Scrafton, who joined Skål in 2002, has held every major leadership role — from President of Skål International Melbourne and Skål International Australia to President of the Skål International Council and now World President. She pioneered the Membership Development Fund and was awarded the prestigious Skål Order of Merit. Her distinguished professional career spans key leadership positions with Flag International and Choice Hotels, and she now works with THSN Hotels and Apartments. Her contributions have earned her national acclaim in the Australian tourism industry.
Her first stop was Skål International Chennai, where she participated in a symbolic tree plantation initiative, along with meeting the members of the club reinforcing Skål’s growing focus on sustainability. “It was an honour to welcome World President Denise to Chennai,” said Kamleshwaran P S, President of Skål International Chennai. “Her insights on sustainability and ethical tourism resonated deeply with our members and reaffirmed our commitment to responsible travel.”
Next, at the gathering of Skål International Kolkata, Denise relaunched the Young Skål chapter, made possible through the strong support of IIHM and its founder Dr. Suborno Bose. “We are honoured to welcome President Scrafton to Kolkata, the city of joy,” said Amin Asghar, President of Skål International Kolkata. “Her energy and emphasis on youth, women empowerment and innovation are a source of inspiration for all our members.”
Lastly, at the Skål International Delhi celebrations, members gathered for a vibrant reception cheering her presence. “Having the World President with us was a moment of pride,” said Mr. Ranjit Vig, President of Skål International Delhi. “Her words strengthened our commitment to ethical tourism and elevated the spirit of unity within our club.”
Looking ahead, Mehra noted, “All eyes are now on Mumbai. We are gearing up to host a truly historic Skål International India Congress this September. It will be a celebration of our unity, growth, and future.”
Mohan added, “After delivering a successful India Congress in Mumbai, our next focus will be the Skål International World Congress 2025 in Cusco, Peru — and we are committed to making that a grand success as well.”
In a heartfelt conclusion, Scrafton reflected, “The warmth, professionalism, and passion I’ve experienced here will stay with me forever. Skål International India is not just participating in the global movement — it’s helping shape it. The future of global tourism has a strong Indian heartbeat.”
Skål International India proudly rededicates itself to Skål’s enduring mission — promoting sustainability, fostering ethical and visionary leadership, communications and advocacy, and advancing the spirit of “Doing Business Among Friends” across borders and generations.
