Business Events Africa - Vol 36 No 2 - February 2016

Vol 36 No 2

2016

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa

Voice Of The Business Events Industry In Africa

Formerly the Southern Africa Conference, Exhibition & Events Guide and incorporating incentiveworld.com

CONTENTS

THE AUTHORITY ON MEETINGS, EXHIBITIONS, SPECIAL EVENTS AND INCENTIVES MANAGEMENT

ABOUT THE COVER 8

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As one of Johannesburg’s most recognisable landmarks, the Ticketpro Dome has showcased an array of exciting events. A unique and flexible venue with superior infrastructure, the Ticketpro Dome presents infinite possibilities to host a world-class event.

REGULAR FEATURES 4

Comment

14 Executive Chef

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News

20 TechWatch

11 Personality Profile

36 The Last Word

12 A Local Perspective

SPECIAL FEATURES

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15 EXSA CONFERENCE 2016 The EXSA Conference and AGM was held at Spier, near Stellenbosch in the Western Cape from 31 January to 2 February. The keynote speakers all agreed that the exhibition industry has a tough year ahead but believe unequivocally that there are enormous opportunities for the future.

Business Events Africa

Voice Of The Business Events Industry In Africa

Official media partner

Business Events Africa is published by the proprietors, Contact Publications (Pty) Ltd. (Reg No. 81/11920/07)

Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa

Head Office physical address: Suite 1, Fields Shopping Centre, Old Main Road, Kloof 3610.

Head Office postal address: P.O. Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa.

Tel: +27 31 764-6977 | Fax: 086 762 1867 e-mail: contact@contactpub.co.za

Official Journal of the Southern Africa Chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence

Publisher: Godfrey King e-mail: gk@contactpub.co.za Editor: Irene Costa e-mail: gomesi@iafrica.com

https://twitter.com/bizeventsafrica

Circulation: Jackie Goosen e-mail: jackie@contactpub.co.za

Production Leader: Colleen McCann e-mail: colleen@contactpub.co.za Design & Layout: Beth Marchand e-mail: beth@contactpub.co.za Sales Representative: Sue Anthony (Gauteng / Mpumalanga / Limpopo) Cell: +27 (0)82 688-3536 e-mail: sue@contactpub.co.za Publication details: Business Events Africa is published monthly. There is a Yearbook in June with magazines from January to May and July to December.

Printed by: Paarl Media KZN, 52 Mahogany Road, Westmead, Pinetown, 3610. www.paarlmedia.co.za Annual subscription rate: R600 which includes postage, packaging and VAT. Rates for addresses outside South Africa can be obtained on application to the Subscription Department, Contact Publications.

VOL 36 NO 2 2016 SPECIAL FEATURES 22 VENUE OF THE MONTH The duBoirs Boutique Lodge has an excellent reputation as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premiere conference venues. It is said to be ideal for both business and pleasure.

24 SPOTLIGHT ON TSHWANE The City of Tshwane will play host to the 10th annual Green Building Conference on 1-2 June 2016 at the CSIR International Convention Centre.

VENUE NEWS

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26 CCCC opens for business.

27 New development planned for Centurion.

MARKET NEWS 28 • Italian market leader consolidates in SA.

• Tsogo Sun Arts Academy expands its impact 29 More international buyers attend SAITEX every year.

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SAACI NEWS

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CALENDAR

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SITE NEWS

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

DIRECTORY + ASSOCIATIONS OF INTEREST

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ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

Dawn Holmwood (KwaZulu-Natal) Tel: +27 31 765-7497 Cell: +27 82 558-7383 e-mail: dawnholmwood@outlook.com

Jean Ramsay (Western Cape) Cell: +27 (0)82 495-9022 e-mail: j.ramsay@telkomsa.net

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

Bernadette Fenton (Gauteng) Cell: +27 (0)82 443-8931 e-mail: bernadette@contactpub.co.za

Wendy Odendaal (Gauteng) Cell: +27 (0)79 138 2221 e-mail: wendy@contactpub.co.za

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

Time slows down for no one

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he constant treadmill. We all seem to find ourselves on it and, unfortunately, really don’t know when to get off.

Technology can be a friend, but for our personal wellbeing, it really is a foe.

Turning off a device should be easy but in the stressful environment we find ourselves, we find it almost impossible to do.

Just in case we miss something.

We all suffer from FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) but honestly, what is it we are really missing out on when we don’t switch off?

I think the biggest challenge we all face being in the business events arena is finding a good balance between work and “play”.

Yes, we work in a “fun” environment. We constantly smile, hug and greet and have, on occasion, made some friends along the way. We are well fed, and get to experience things that people outside our sector are envious about – but the question is – is it work?

It is the old age question – when you love what you do, is it really work? In recent times I’ve come to realise the answer is yes. What I am saying is, it is important to separate it and make a mental note to self.

We all look at trends in the sector and the two top trends – technology and food – are ever- changing, ever-consuming. Both are “critical” and have their necessities. On the food side, we talk about healthier eating, and on the technology side, it will make our lives easier?

I think both have become an oxymoron in our current lives.

Healthier eating should go hand-in-hand with a healthier state of mind. We are all so stressed – all the time. This cannot be healthy.

Then we have the one thing that is supposed to make our lives easier – technology and what do we do? We make it the centre of our existence. And then we complain that we can never switch off. Actually you can, but you need to make that choice.

In recent months the issue of mortality has hit home. We seem to think we are immortal and that by answering that e-mail at 10 pm is going to make our lives better.

Spending time doing what you love and with whom you love, I believe, is more important. Yes, work is important. Quite frankly, it pays the bills but you need time for yourself.

Work will still be there in the morning.

On another recent awakening, I started thinking about our sector and how “friendly” it can be, but not always kind.

Honestly, it really doesn’t cost anything to be kind, but sometimes this can be misconstrued to be weak.

We often think about ourselves and sometimes forget that there is a lot happening in a person’s life that we aren’t aware of.

Life is short. We are fortunate to be in this sector, but we do need to learn when to switch off and in doing so, enjoy our sector even more.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

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NEWS

AAXO officially launched

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he Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) was recently officially launched to an enthusiastic crowd of more than 230 people at the Indaba Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre in Johannesburg.

The launch gave attendees from various sectors of the exhibition industry – including exhibitors, service providers, organisers, industry stakeholders and media – an overview of how AAXO is helping to transform the exhibition space in South Africa and more broadly across Africa.

AAXO’s future plans, as well as results of recently commissioned Carol Weaving

SEEN AT THE AAXO LAUNCH EVENT ...

market research, were also announced.

The launch event followed a highly successful Training Day event hosted by AAXO for exhibition organisers on the topic of digital marketing.

The day contained a number of sessions presented by industry experts guiding delegates on how to create and implement a highimpact digital marketing strategy.

In the afternoon, AAXO made its first official debut at the launch function. AAXO’s mandate – to provide professional and credible representation for exhibition organisers, in order to contribute to a profitable industry – was highlighted, as well as AAXO’s progress to date, which includes previous exhibitor training day, the formation of strategic partnerships with local and international industry heavyweights and the commission of up-to-date industry research through Grant Thornton, which will serve as a resource for the exhibition community.

The numerous benefits of AAXO membership were also discussed, some of which include VAT exemption or reduction for international exhibitors; an AAXO-approved badge for members which is a recognisable symbol of the credibility and quality of an exhibition; the Audit Bureau of Circulations’ show audits which validate attendance figures at events; and accessing information, research and resources specific to Africa.

Other benefits include mediation services for members, training opportunities and negotiated supplier discounts.

The next AAXO training day is also an exciting opportunity for members to learn how best to measure return on investment for exhibitions.

NEWS

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A synopsis of the results of the commissioned research was also announced at the launch. The research was highly positive and indicated the significance of events on the economy, the growth of the industry and of the growth of events in the past decade alone, and what can be learnt from the most successful new exhibitions that have entered the market in recent years.

According to Gillian Saunders, principal and head of Advisory Services at Grant Thornton: “This research puts the current climate in the industry into perspective, and highlights challenges and opportunities.

“The industry continues to grow although exhibitors are reigning in expenditure and economising on spend where possible, and there is a keen attention to return on investment. Consumers also have a host of competitive leisure time pursuits competing for their time and money.”

She added: “Organisers will need to innovate to create value and add experiential elements, as well as maximise use of technology to continue to triumph in the space; creating an exhibitor and visitor win:win where each party delights the other.”

Carol Weaving, chairperson of AAXO, is very pleased at the success of the launch and what the future holds for AAXO. “In the short time that AAXO has been active, we have made some very relevant contributions to the industry and created value for our members and exhibition organisers in general.

“We look forward to an even more exciting year in 2016 and encourage all organisers to sign up for AAXO membership to take advantage of the enormous range of benefits that AAXO has to offer.”

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COVER STORY

INFINITE POSSIBILITIES As one of Johannesburg’s most recognisable landmarks, the Ticketpro Dome has showcased an array of exciting events, including some of the most sought-after international entertainers, prestigious exhibitions and incredible events from Disney on Ice to indoor sporting events. A unique and flexible venue with superior infrastructure, the Ticketpro Dome presents infinite possibilities for anyone looking to host a world-class event.

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ver the years, the Ticketpro Dome has more than earned its excellent reputation, having won Best Concert Venue for 14 consecutive years and Best Venue South Africa at the PMR Africa 2014 Awards.

Its capacity as the largest indoor venue in South Africa and the fact that it is equipped to host events of any size and type were what attracted South Africa’s leading ticketing innovator, Ticketpro – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Blue Label Telecoms Limited – to secure a seven-year sponsorship deal, resulting in the new moniker of the

Ticketpro Dome.

Another factor contributing to the ongoing success of the Ticketpro Dome is its 13-year history of successful management by Thebe Reed Venue Management, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Thebe Reed Exhibitions Group, which holds the long-term management contract.

Thebe Reed Venue Management has been awarded the management rights for the Dome for a third consecutive term, and managing director Carol Weaving, sees massive potential for the Ticketpro Dome to grow from strength to strength: “We are proud

COVER STORY to say that the sponsorship deal has been a highly successful relationship thus far, and we look forward to further building the Ticketpro Dome’s presence in South Africa.

“Since being approached by Sasol Pension Fund, (the venue’s owners) in 2003, Thebe Reed Venue Management has taken this venue to new heights, continuously setting the precedent for professional venue management in Southern Africa,” Ms Weaving explained.

No eveNT Too bIg – or Too smAll A versatile space that can be adapted to individual requirements, the Ticketpro Dome has hosted some of the biggest names locally and internationally.

Eager fans numbering up to 19 000 people have attended concerts

by The Script, michael buble, One Republic, Pharrell Williams and Casper Nyovest, to name but a few of the performances held in 2015 alone.

Others will enthusiastically recall having seen entertainers as diverse as Kanye West, Bryan Adams, Elton John, Avril lavigne and Celine Dion at the Ticketpro Dome over the years.

Crowds have also flocked to attend consumer exhibitions, from excited brides-to-be at The Wedding Expo, decorating aficionados at the Homemakers Expo and expectant parents at MamaMagic – The Baby Expo Joburg, to avid gamers at rAge. The incredible 16 500 square metre space gives organisers and exhibitors plenty of room to create high-impact exhibitions.

Equally impressive are the special events hosted at the Ticketpro Dome. It transforms into a winter wonderland annually for Disney

on Ice, and has rolled out the red carpet for the South African of the Year Awards (SATY2015) ceremony, played host to the quirky antics and screeching tyres of Clarkson, Hammond & May Live, and has even become an indoor sports arena for WWE wrestling, the Reebok Crossfit Games and indoor horsemanship competitions over the past years.

However, not all events held at the Ticketpro Dome have to be on a large scale. Private events that cater for far smaller numbers can be arranged, such as year-end functions, product launches and even elegant banquets.

The dedicated staff at the Dome are highly trained to make any event of any size extra special.

WhAT’s oN IN 2016?

TheTicketpro Dome has already kicked off the year with two concerts in January, namely Rodriguez and Roxette. The first half of 2016 is set to be jam-packed, not only with exhibitions but upcoming performances by Lionel Ritchie, Nicki Minaj, Kevin Hart, Josh Groban, Mariah Carey, George Benson and more to come later in the year.

There is also an expansion in the works. Delmont Caldow Caterers are partnering with The Ticketpro Dome, and as a result of this partnership, April 2016 will see the launch of a new 1600sqm multipurpose room, which has been designed to supplement the venue’s ability to host smaller events, as well as allowing multiple events to be conducted simultaneously. Larger-scale events can also make use of the added space. The expansion highlights that the Dome is constantly being invested in and improved in order to maintain its status as a premium facility with an innovative and highly flexible offering to organisers and consumers.

Above all, the Ticketpro Dome is about providing a platform to create extraordinary and memorable experiences.

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COVER STORY

Artist’s impression of the exterior of the new venue.

Artist’s impression of the interior of the new venue.

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ENQUIRE NO

CONTACT: Shinaaz Osman or Debbie Green emAIl: shinaaz@ticketprodome.co.za or debbie@thedomebanqueting.co.za TelephoNe: + 27 11 794-5800 physIcAl ADDress: Cnr Northumberland Road & Olievenhout Avenue, North Riding, Johannesburg, South Africa WebsITe: www.ticketprodome.co.za

PERSONALITY PROFILE

Consistency and passion drives Albert Kruger Albert Kruger, 32, the founder and director of Contemporary Events is an entrepreneur through and through. He started Contemporary Events 11 years ago in his very own garage and has since grown it into what is now called Contemporary Events Group and evolved into a group of four companies. Through strenuous mentorship programmes, he starts his employees from the bottom and drives them to the top.

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here are people from all walks of life who work at Contemporary Events Group and they all have their own success stories since starting at the company.

Albert is an extremely interesting person to talk to not only is he known for his fabulous bowties, and banter that can make any person crack a smile, but his business savvy is something to admire.

Albert is a firm believer in knowing your market and staying on trend, thus travelling around the world to do just that. According to his team, he is a great leader as he motivates, encourages and brings fun to any situation.

His latest encouragement to shout through the office is “Attack it with Passion!!” and in turn the whole office will reply with an echo of “PASSION...PASSION” .

The Contemporary headquarters in Eco Park Centurion is where all the magic happens.

“This is an extremely creative setting that allows for maximum productivity. Load music, laughter and late nights. This is how we do it. Honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Where did you start your career?

I started in the events industry in 2003 as an event sales consultant for Gallagher Estate after returning from working in the hotel trade in England from 2001.

How long have you been in the events sector?

I’ve been in the events sector for 15 years.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in this sector?

What role does your family play in your life?

Every role, from business to every venture in my life.

Do you have any hobbies?

entertainment and in my opinion is the greatest entertainment entrepreneur.

Yes I do. At the moment, I’ve taken to mountain biking.

What is your favourite city?

What do you do for leisure?

Party (sometimes with clients).

Who is your favourite sportsman?

Lewis Pugh, great man.

What is your secret to success?

I believe in consistency and passion in everything you do.

What has been your biggest challenge in the events industry?

To maintain my consistency.

What is your pet hate?

Cape Town.

What is your favourite book, film, TV programme?

Book: Green Mile.

Film: Star Trek.

TV Programme: Will & Grace.

How do you relax?

I make sure that every two weeks I get my two hours massage.

What is your favourite food?

Dim Sum

What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done?

Lazy people. When given an opportunity big or small, give it your all.

Has to sky diving.

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why?

George Clooney. He is not just a Hollywood star but producer, director, and activist. Good looks paired with power and brains.

It has to be Thailand. The humility and the rich culture is what amazes me, makes you fall in love with it.

What type of holiday would you avoid at all costs?

Who is your role model?

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Camping. There is no way.

Just bite the bullet and do it. Procrastination cwan kill your dreams.

Are you married?

If you could be anyone for the day who would you be and why?

What is your dream for the future?

Yes, to my better creative half, J.H Henning.

Ryan Seacrest. He has redefined

Corporates adding more internal not just relying on external support.

To open another Contemporary Events Group in Australia.

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A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

Poor 2015 tourism figures wipe out two years of growth for SA Despite a stronger finish for South African tourism statistics in the final quarter of last year, overall South African tourist arrivals are down -6.8 per cent for 2015, compared to those arrivals recorded during 2014.

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ee-Anne Bac, director: Advisory Services at Grant Thornton says: “Tourism arrivals only grew by 7,5 per cent during 2014 which in effect means that 2015’s negative performance has wiped out two years’ worth of vital tourism growth.”

The Advisory Services team completed the full year’s review of tourism data for South Africa, following Statistics South Africa’s release of Tourism and Migration findings for December 2015, on 10 February 2016.

Ms Bac did emphasise that while significant losses were recorded during the first nine months of 2015, it was the final quarter of the year – from October to December – which helped to “save” South Africa, as significantly improved statistics and data was recorded.

Lee-Anne Bac

According to Grant Thornton’s analysis, for the 2015 year, South Africa experienced its biggest loss from African tourists where a decline of -7.3 per cent was recorded, compared to +9 per cent growth recorded during 2014.

“It is interesting to note that African air arrivals – those African tourists who enter South Africa via an airport – increased by 1,8 per cent in 2015,” Ms Bac continued.

“But this then highlights even greater losses experienced in the number of land border African arrivals over the past year.”

Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) saw a 14,4 per cent increase in African air arrivals during 2015, and Ms Bac attributes this to the introduction of new airlines flying directly to CTIA. Ethiopian Airlines now boasts six return flights per week from Addis Ababa to Cape Town direct.

Overseas tourists to South Africa, which are defined as visitors who are citizens of a country outside of Africa, declined by -4,9 per cent in 2015.

“The overseas tourism market stabilised notably during October (-0,1 per cent) following a disastrous first nine months of the year,” Ms Bac added.

“This recovery showed even greater improvements with +6,4 per cent recorded for November and +6,0 per cent for December 2015.”

When analysing the overseas tourism figures for 2015, Grant Thornton’s data highlights that the -4,9 per cent decline has, unfortunately, eroded all the meagre gains achieved during 2014 (2,9 per cent) and even some of the growth achieved in 2013 (4,5 per cent). This equates to nearly 2,5 years of growth in overseas tourist arrivals lost over the past year.

When assessing the data in terms of overseas tourist arrivals to each international airport in South Africa, it appears as if Cape Town International Airport gained. Overseas arrivals through Cape Town International Airport grew by 5,6 per cent in 2015. And while Cape Town gained overseas tourists, arrivals through OR Tambo International Airport

declined by -5 per cent. KwaZulu-Natal remained fairly stagnant with a small decline of -0,9 per cent through King Shaka International Airport during 2015.

South Africa experienced significant losses in terms of tourists from China during the first seven months of 2015, but remarkable growth during the final four months of last year saw Chinese arrivals ending +2,2 per cent higher than those recorded during 2014.

“It’s important to remember, though, that 2014 was a disastrous year for arrivals from China with a -23 per cent decline recorded in overall tourist arrivals,” Ms Bac said.

“This highlights that we have a long way to go to make up for these losses.

“However, based on arrivals in the past four months, we are extremely hopeful that new records can be achieved quickly to bring us back on track in terms of this very important market for our nation.”

Other key tourist arrivals during 2015 were dismally down compared to the previous year. Some of the biggest losers for 2015 were: • Brazil: -25 per cent • Ghana: -18,2 per cent • Uganda: -13 per cent • Nigeria: -10,6 per cent • Italy: -10,6 per cent In terms of our other key source markets for tourists to South Africa visitors from the UK were marginally up at +1,4 per cent, while Germany (-6,5 per cent), US (-3.9 per cent) and India (-8,5 per cent) also recorded negative performance during 2015.

“The past year has been extremely tumultuous for the tourism sector and various economic and social issues both at home and in some source countries coupled with immigration amendments caused great concern.

“However, one thing is for certain, much of this is now behind us and South Africa’s tourism sector is resilient.

“Recent changes to travel laws and the sheer nature of this industry will hopefully help it to rebound from its current decline in the months and years to come,” Ms Bac concludes.

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

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tourism trends to take into

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consideration

AMID the struggling South African economy, the tourism industry is providing a glimpse of hope as one of the critical sectors that will boost growth and create jobs this year.

“While the tourism sector contributes a significant portion to South Africa’s GDP, its impact will be even more significant as the country faces the possibility of a recession, and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) having cut its growth forecast to 0,9 per cent from 1,5 per cent for this year,” said Charnel Kara, tourism specialist for FNB Business.

“Because tourism is a highly competitive and ever-changing sector, businesses that keep ahead of industry developments will reap the rewards,” Ms Kara added, as she unpacked some of the latest tourism trends: • Currency fluctuations – The vulnerability of the rand against the US dollar will boost tourism in the country as foreign visitors seek to take advantage of the weak currency. As a result, we are bound to see an improvement in tourism numbers and an increase in per capita spend. In addition, the weak rand will make it less feasible for South Africans to travel abroad. Thus, many consumers may opt to travel locally, thereby increasing domestic tourism and stimulating the local economy.

• Outbreak of the Zika Virus – While the outbreak of the Zika virus has had a negative impact on the tourism industry in South America, it has had a positive spin-off for the South African tourism market as tourists redirect to South Africa as an alternative long haul destination.

• Drought and water shortages – The current drought that is escalating food-price inflation will have severe consequences for the hospitality industry as food costs are one of its biggest challenges. Businesses should therefore proactively find ways to manage and keep food costs under control.

• Legislation – While legislative amendments are often beyond the control of businesses, policies and regulations usually have a severe impact on the long-term growth and sustainability of the industry.

• Hiking of rates – Should be carefully considered as this affects the performance of the industry as a whole, especially for over-geared businesses.

“Consequently, businesses in this sector should be prepared to take advantage of the vast opportunities presented by local and international developments.

“At FNB, we remain confident in the growth outlook of this segment and its contribution toward South Africa’s economic wellbeing.”

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EXECUTIVE CHEF

Food chose me Renzo Bico, 32, group executive chef of AHA, has been in the industry for 14 years.

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enzo says: “I have always been happy when around food, so food chose me instead of the other way round. It was very easy for me to choose food as a career.”

He attended a local hotel school that is linked to the international hotel school in Switzerland, and has been in the industry since 2002.

“I have been privileged to work for all the major hotel groups starting off with Protea Hotels, Sun International and Tsogo Sun and now have the opportunity to work for AHA which is an up and coming major hotel group,” Renzo said.

Renzo’s goal for the next five years is to grow AHA’s food and beverage department from strength to strength. He hopes that the benchmarks he has set will reap culinary awards for the various AHA hotels and lodges.

“Achieving culinary awards would be the cherry on the top.”

Renzo loves what he does. “I get to play with my food and nobody can shout at me. I also have a different day every day which makes my position very exciting. I also have the great job of being able to invest in our young chefs who are busy training in the kitchens.”

In terms of trends, he said: “There is a definite move towards healthier eating. We are seeing more innovative ways of preparing foods and the introduction of less popular cuts of meat. For example brisket, flanks, short rib and pork belly.”

He is passionate about the industry, but is concerned by the lack of youth development in the industry. “We, as head chefs and executive chefs, need to invest time into training our young chefs.”

He is married to Adri and has a daughter, Gabriella. She is two years old. He has been married for eight years.

As executive chef for AHA he has to travel extensively for work.

So for leisure, he enjoys spending quality time with his family.

He also enjoys playing golf. His other hobbies include gardening and fishing.

Renzo’s advice to newcomers wanting to become an executive chef is: “It takes dedication, hard work, passion and innovation. It is important that you learn something every day. Just remember, what you learn today you don’t have to learn tomorrow.”

What is your signature dish?

Starter: Pickled Japanese cucumber salad served with tamarind prawns, caramelised pineapple, baby sprouts and chilli jam dressing.

Main course: Braised lamb shoulder served with carrot puree, fondant potatoes, balsamic and mint reduction and lamb and port jus.

I would recommend serving this dish with a chenin blanc.

What is your favourite beverage?

I enjoy my beer.

What has remained constant in this industry?

Long hours and hard work.

What trends are emerging in the conference industry in regards to food?

Guests are starting to request healthier options for tea time snacks. Guests prefer their lunches to be a lighter cocktail lunch than a heavy sit down affair.

What is your great love?

My daughter and family.

What is your favourite food?

I am a huge fan of Thai food, but also enjoy a little bit of Italian.

What is your pet hate?

Repeating mistakes and not learning from them.

Are you adventurous?

I am not an adrenalin freak. I enjoy my feet on the ground.

EXSA CONFERENCE 2016

EXSA challenges and opportunities for 2016

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eynote speakers at EXSA’s recent 2016 conference agree that the exhibition industry has a tough year ahead, but believe unequivocally that there are enormous opportunities for the future.

EXSA’s outgoing chairman, Brad Alder and new chairman, Neil Nagooroo echoed these sentiments at the AGM, expressing optimism and determination in terms of EXSA and the industry as a whole.

They both acknowledged the challenges facing EXSA as a result of the new Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO), but emphasised the vital role EXSA continues to play.

The conference and AGM, held at Spier near Stellenbosch in the Western Cape from 31 January to 2 February, featured an impressive line-up of speakers and, as usual, incorporated invaluable opportunities for delegates to socialise and network.

EXSA Improving Industry Credibility Acknowledging that 2015 was a tough year, Brad said in comparison to other industries (for example manufacturing), the exhibition industry was still “relatively buoyant.” However, the future of the industry lies with its members.

While the exhibition industry is still one of the most unregulated industries, Brad said EXSA was working to improve its

credibility.

For example, together with the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) and Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI), they have formed an integrated professional body that is currently awaiting approval by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

EXSA already sits on several boards and forums and has aligned itself with the Council of Events Professionals (CEP), Africa. “This will give the industry a lot more credibility.”

The board was looking at getting the EXSA Academy for Exhibition & Events up and running, to meet the demand for skills development in the industry.

And following last year’s successful first aid course, he said a more detailed course would be held in 2016, as well as workshops covering awards and judging.

EXSA also planned to increase its exposure in social media.

The Elephant in the Room Discussing EXSA activity and development in 2015, Brad said members had increased from 121 in 2014 to 144 in 2015, but organiser members had decreased from 28 to 15. He described organisers as the “elephant in the room,” with “breakaways” forming the new

association, AAXO. He said it was a “ little bit unfortunate” they had formed their own organisation, but that it had been an ongoing “threat” for six to seven years. EXSA was “actively engaging with the new organisation,” because there were “a lot of synergies”.

“In time to come there could be joint meetings and joint functions,” he said.

“We like to believe we represent the bulk of the exhibition industry. EXSA is a very vocal mouthpiece and we have a very important role to play.”

In response to a question from the floor asking whether EXSA had a strategy to bring organiser members back, Brad acknowledged they believed it was important to have one representative body, and that EXSA was planning to be more active in the organisers’ space.

Enthusiastic about the year ahead, Neil said it was important for EXSA “to be smart at what we do, especially because there’s a new association in our space.”

Echoing Olympian and entrepreneur Steve Evans’ thought that technology is disrupting the world as we know it, he said: “We need to be disruptive. We need to be independent. Our job is to go forward and conquer. Our job is to make EXSA relevant.”

Even though everything is becoming digital, “we know our business”.

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EXSA CONFERENCE 2016 “We have to create value for our members and create a lot more space for us to grow. Let’s stay positive and optimistic. We know exactly what we

Brad Alder, outgoing chairman

have to do. Let’s keep going and let’s make sure we make ourselves proud of what we do. We want to be a brand that people want to be associated with.”

Opportunities for EXSA Members While the topics covered by the eight guest speakers were varied, there was a thread of confidence running through most of the content. Several highlighted opportunities for EXSA members.

Strategist and future studies guru, Guy Lundy discussed South Africa and the world towards 2020, highlighting how current trends and technologies can help the exhibition industry going forward.

This includes the rapid growth of Africa and hotspots within the continent that should be targeted for conferences and exhibitions.

The South African National Convention Bureau’s Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo focused on nitty gritty market research, and

revealed that the business events industry is “actually very healthy.”

While there are challenges ahead, there are also tremendous opportunities, she said.

The message from digital entrepreneur, Fred Roed, was for the events industry to make business come to life online.

“Package what you are really good at doing and creating in the offline world, online.”

Strategic planner and marketing guru, Chris Moerdyk focused specifically on the impact of “new marketing trends on exhibitions and events.”

Enthralled by augmented reality (AR), his advice was for members to take sound, video or graphics and put them into reality. This way a perfectly ordinary venue could become incredibly exciting, he said.

Essentially, don’t be threatened by new technology, embrace it and use it.

EXSA announces new chairman and board FOLLOWING the EXSA AGM held during the EXSA Conference, EXSA is delighted to announce that Neil Nagooroo, of Sandton Convention Centre, has been voted in as the new EXSA chairman.

EXSA (the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa) is now in its 36th year and has four Forums within the Association – Venues; Organisers; Services/Suppliers and Young Professionals.

There are eight new members to the Board which is made up as follows: • Chairman: Neil Nagooroo, Sandton Convention Centre.

• Vice-Chairman: Andrew Binning, Inkanyezi Exhibitions and Events.

• Immediate Past Chair: Brad Alder, Octanorm.

• Treasurer: Andrew Gibbs, Concept G.

Venue Forum • Neil Nagooroo, Sandton Convention Centre/ • Lindy Cambouris, CTICC. Organiser Forum • Andrew Binning, Inkanyezi Exhibitions and Events.

• Lorin Bowen, Synergy Business Events.

• Clive Shedlock, Conker Exhibitions.

• Zaida Enver, Pure Grit.

• Young Professionals Forum: Katherine Gunningham, Compex.

• Western Cape Forum: Karen Healey, Resource Design.

• KZN Forum: Denver Manickum, I-cube Alternate Advertising.

Services Forum • Patrick Cronning, Expo Guys.

• Doug Rix, DK Design.

Neil Nagooroo, new EXSA chairman.

“I am humbled by the vote of confidence of the EXSA Board and honoured to lead the Association in the year ahead,” said Mr Nagooroo.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing members of the Board for their commitment to the industry in their respective portfolios within EXSA.” Neil is an MBA graduate who currently heads up the sales and marketing team at the Sandton Convention Centre. He has a profound understanding of hospitality and tourism in South Africa gained from his broad experience in the industry which he has been part off for the past 11 years.

As executive project manager at SA Tourism, he was responsible for the organising and delivery of all SA Tourism’s exhibitions, including the Tourism INDABA, the largest trade show in Africa.

Through his experience at the Sandton Convention Centre and SA Tourism, he has developed a key understanding of the South African tourism industry and how to market the country both domestically and internationally, and ensuring that revenue targets are met while focusing on customer excellence.

EXSA CONFERENCE 2016

The impact of green responsibility and sustainability needs FACTS and figures show that “green” responsibility and sustainability in the events industry is not only vital, but will become a way of life for the industry within the next four years.

Not only are new minimum environmental standards for the event industry nearing reality, global exhibition trends show that green is the only way to go.

Two of the eight keynote speakers at EXSA’s 2016 conference highlighted the importance of sustainability and the need for responsibility within the events and exhibition industry: Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, chief convention bureau officer of the South African National Convention Bureau, discussed global exhibition trends and stressed that “green responsibility will be a vital factor in 2016.”

Grace Stead, a key role player in event greening, and a founding member of the Event Greening Forum (EGF), reported back on the new standards for the event industry that are currently in the pipeline.

Global Exhibition Trends Go Green Focusing on the potential to strengthen the South African global brand and move towards economic transformation and

growth within the industry, Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo said EXSA members were the solution.

“It’s not just about bringing people in as tourists, it’s also about job creation and helping us to grow.”

With primary global risks for 2016 focusing on food, water and climate issues, she said one of the four major global exhibition trends related to green stands.

Another related to exhibition stands in general.

“Exhibition stands are no longer built to impress. Trade show participants are acknowledging the stand as a communication tool. It’s not about the best stand; only green is important,” she said.

And when it comes to “green responsibility,” exhibitors are going to “need to use display materials that are re-usable or re-cyclable, and also easy to erect and dismantle without leaving damage. We as an industry have to be an example.”

Amanda cited the Vancouver Conference Centre as a successful example. Here exhibitors must add greening and sustainability. It is not negotiable. But right now, in South Africa, “too many people find it too expensive and don’t bother.”

Standardising Green Global Events With about eight years involvement in finding solutions for event greening in South Africa and internationally, Grace Stead explained how EGF has addressed the vital issue facing EXSA members and other exhibition providers. That is, how the industry as a whole can ensure events are more sustainable.

While they have made “quite an impact” using the word “green,” she said it was now necessary to encourage people to embrace the idea in a more practical way and look further than just green, pushing the terms sustainable and responsible.

Grace explained that the process for development involved a technical working group that could develop draft minimum standards in line with South African Nationals Standards (SANS) guidelines. This has been done and the draft document is open for public comment.

The purpose of the standard is to address all aspects of sustainable events – environmental, social, financial and organisational. This would also produce a tool to enable industry players to understand the minimum requirements of environmentally sustainable events, and create a benchmark for reporting on Continued on page 19

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EXSA CONFERENCE 2016

EXSA delegates dance the night away under the stars THE balmy Cape weather was kind to EXSA 2016 conference delegates who enjoyed a delicious three-course gala dinner on an

open patio, under the oaks, outside the Spier Conference Centre. There was plenty of time for socialising and networking

before the dinner, and the chance to dance the night away under the stars to the music of Me and Mr Brown.

Jacqui Nel, Exhibition Freighting GSM; Lynn Chamier, Professional Exhibition Solutions; Chantal O’Shea, Exhibition Freighting GSM; Conrad Kullman, 3d design; and Megan Arendse, CTICC.

Arno Ruiters and Alshanthe Smith, CTICC; Antonio Di Paolo and Jan-Hendrik Fourie, Prosperis; and Katie Reynolds-da Silva, The Events magazine.

Lawyer Louis Nel; Colleen Tapson, The Event; Victor Kotze, Prosperis; and Lance Gibbons, Film & Event Media.

Karen Healey, Resource Design; Keith Burton, African Agenda; Charl Smit, Gearhouse; and Liezle Bothma and Clive Shadlock, Conker Exhibitions.

Martin Hiller and Ruth Baldwin, 3S Media; Doug Rix, DK Design; Andrew Binning, Inkanyezi Events; and Andrew Gibbs, Concept G.

Dylan Solomon, 3d Shell; Aubrey Eloff, TwoWay Exhibitions; Graeme Marshall, Inhouse Venue Technical Management; and Neil Nagooroo, SCC.

Shelley Patterson and Sue Gannon, EXSA; with Karen Healey, Resource Design.

Theo Botha, Gibson Karmakuenda, Bronwen Shaw, and Chad Botha, all from Inspire Furniture.

Conference room.

Mel Cook, The Exhibitionist; Marlene Govender, Durban ITC; AimeĂŠ Delagey, EXSA (standing); Cara Nortman, SSQ Exhibitions; Lorraine Strydom, SCC; and Gwyn Heaton, Durban ICC.

Jack Smit and Dean Gunningham, Compex; Ross Wilson, urbantonic; and Katherine Gunningham, Compex.

EXSA CONFERENCE 2016 Continued from page 17

The impact of green responsibility and sustainability needs environmental performance.

event organisers, event owners and service providers.

Everyone must start taking responsibility and look at every possible sustainability practice including the reduction of waste; responsible use of local resources; and efficient use of energy and water.

Also vital is sensitivity towards local cultures as well as benefits for the local community; recognition of environmental, social and economic impacts or events; the need to use environmentally responsible venues; and the value of monitoring and reporting.

“There is nothing new here and no rocket science is involved, but there is need for continual improvement.”

operations and management, as well as economic, environmental, social and cultural criteria.

While the standards will start with a bare minimum, once in place all exhibition and events professionals will need to comply for any event to be considered “green”.

Furthermore, everything must be green: venues, exhibitions, selection of transport, selection of AV and other production elements, event marketing and communications, and food and beverage chosen for any event or exhibition.

Ultimately, the question is whether the new policy is possible and practical.

It’s going to take a few more years to implement, and in the meantime, says Grace. Your comment is needed. The draft will be available on the Event Greening Forum soon.

What Can EXSA Members Do? For events to be classified as sustainable, event management needs to have a strategy that involves organisers and clients taking responsibility.

More specifically, she said, they need to protect and conserve the natural environment; respect and conserve local cultures and ways of life; and contribute to stronger local economics and a better quality of life for local communities.

“First set the bar and have that as a minimum standard, then see how well you are performing.”

Appealing to the events industry not to be passive about the green responsibility initiative, Grace said that essential role players involved everyone from exhibitors to

The Standards Criteria for Green Events The standards criteria include sustainable

Wessel Vosloo, Concept G; Janine McEvoy, Scan Display; and Rhoda Farrant, The Event.

Aidan Koen, Scan Display; Cindy Wright, Resource Design; and Desmond Dolinschek.

Patrick Cronning, Expo Guys; and Nicholas de Klerk, Design and Display.

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo

Barry O’Mahoney

Chris Moerdyk

Dylan Kohlstadt

Fred Roed

Grace Stead

Steve Evans

EXSA’s GM, Sue Gannon with Keith Burton, African Agenda (right) and 2016 chairman, Neil Nagooroo.

Guy Lundy

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20

TECHWATCH

Lighting the way

L

ighting is one of the most overlooked event elements. Lighting determines how your guests see the room when they first enter.

It can give depth and ambiance to an event space; it can transform a simple event space into a spectacular experience. But, most importantly, it aids communication.

Humans listen with their ears, but understand with their eyes. Therefore, it could be said that lighting is vital for clear communication and even more so when an individual is presenting to a large audience.

For a presenter to connect with the audience and for their message to come across effectively, they need to be appropriately lit for their facial expressions to be clear and their body language readable.

Presenter lighting needs to be as natural as possible, preferably warm

lights at a 45° angle to mimic sunlight.

David Limbert, Magnetic Storm’s lighting expert says: “In my opinion, a warm traditional light, like a tungsten is perfect for lighting presenters. Basic LED lights should be avoided where possible for this application, as they combine red, green and blue to make a white light, that is either uneven or too harsh for skin tones and the speaker ends up looking pale and ill, and features aren’t highlighted clearly.“ As well as lighting’s necessity for communication, the colours used to enhance a space is also important.

Colour has an incredible effect on mood, perception, and likes and dislikes – all without us knowing.

Chromology is the psychology behind colour and our mood. All colours have two effects.

For example, red symbolises passion,

love, warmth, power, and excitement – all positive emotions. But it also symbolises aggression.

In studies, red elevates blood pressure and respiratory rates and stimulates hunger. But it also has the effect of stimulating people to make quick decisions and increase expectations.

That’s one of the reasons why it’s a popular inside casinos. It’s an attention grabber. Words and objects in red grabs attention immediately.

Understanding how to use colour in events can help you create a mood or feeling is vital.

David adds: “Sometimes it’s best to keep it simple, especially for presenters.

But lighting designers are there to guide event planners to achieve their creative vision, and ensure the lighting complements the physical and aesthetic event space.”

Who is David Limbert?

With a solid background in theatre, and an incredible talent in lighting (cementing his reputation for excellence in London’s famous West End theatres), David heads up creative services at Magnetic Storm.

Joining Magnetic Storm in 2003, David has become a key individual in the business and is responsible for the creative execution of events and the technical aspects, for installations and event infrastructure.

With his passion for the industry, David is the chair of PANSA Eastern Cape; and deputy chair of SAACI Eastern Cape.

FUTURE FOCUS

Thami Motlhabane – “it’s not about glitz and glamour” Thami Motlhabane, 30, senior account director of The Unusuals, aims to exceed her own expectations. “For me, the business events sector is all about having the ability to mix my talents with my passion and spice it up with challenges which I love realising. It is an achievement to attain all in one and simultaneously.”

T

he Unusuals, the events subsidiary to The Creative Counsel (TCC).

TCC the largest activations agency in South Africa with a service offering covering the full value chain from field marketing, market insights, creative and strategy, social media, main market access and activation execution.

“The Unusuals are a fully-fledged nationally based events team – with a scope of services covering both small and large scale.

An events team dedicated to finding the unusual elements within usual functions and enhancing the elements to create a sensory journey for the client from start to finish through a turnkey solution,” Thami said.

When did you realise you wanted to be in business events?

By the time I realised, I was in it. It swallowed me up and I was in a dance I would have never missed.

Were you discouraged from pursuing a career in business events?

I was warned, but never discouraged.

How long have you been in the industry?

Eight very challenging, gorgeous, no sleep and fulfilling years.

What challenges do you face as a young person in this industry?

We are in an industry filled with

professionals who have been dancing to this tune for many years and the challenge is sometimes found in the focus of delivery being based on the number of years rather than value and passion for strategy and execution involved.

What does your job entail? Do you ever have a typical day?

Typical would mean monotony for me and monotony for me is boring. So typical? No. However, I thrive on the constant of creating magic every day in all I touch, see, do and say.

Which personal traits do you need for this position?

A little bit of crazy for the creative, assertiveness, a sense of humour, pedantic, pedantic, pedantic…. did I say pedantic? I meant detail orientated.

What advice would you offer young people who are reluctant to explore the business events industry?

It is no easy industry and business eventing is not about glitz and glamour – you will need to have an understanding of branding, marketing, communications, business management skills, legal terms, finances, human resources and basically knowledge of all the industries you plan to engage with.

What is your goal for the next years?

I want to grow, to push any boundaries I may have set for myself. I want to exceed my own expectations, I want to create happiness and fulfilment within myself, I want to be an awesome wife, mother, daughter, friend, sister, employer, employee and reach as close as possible to perfection in all the roles given to me to conduct on this gorgeous planet.

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VENUE OF THE MONTH

Photograph supplied

by Neville Nixon.

Contact Gill Straker at 083 775 8957 Email: marketing@theduboirs.co.za | Website: www.theduboirs.co.za

VENUE OF THE MONTH

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Photograph supplied by Ivor Hamilton.

Photograph supplied by Ivor Hamilton.

duBoirs Boutique Lodge … ideal for both business and pleasure

T

he duBoirs Boutique Lodge has an excellent reputation as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premiere conferencing venues. With state-of-the-art facilities and professionally-appointed conference rooms, duBoir’s also has varied and delicious menu options.

Should you be conducting a conference over a number of days, duBoir’s has wonderful accommodation available which is sure to keep you comfortable and well-rested during your stay.

We offer four-star graded accommodation for both business and pleasure. Our 10 beautifully-adorned luxury rooms are each individually decorated and fully-equipped with modern facilities, rich wood furniture,

Photograph supplied

by Ivor Hamilton.

full en-suite bathrooms and are infused with a decadent mix of soft furnishings and ambient lighting. All our rooms have digital satellite television, individual air-conditioning and heating, electronic safes, hairdryers and coffee and tea facilities.

We are a stone’s throw from Inanda Dam, Valley of a 1000 hills and a short drive from the Midlands Meander.

With access to culture, art, nature and adventure, The duBoirs makes for an ideal family, work or romantic vacation.

Whether you are at the beginning of a relationship, or celebrating a milestone anniversary, revitalise your love with a romantic weekend escape, complete with a romantic picnic under our picturesque

canopy of trees while the gentle flowing creek serenades you.

Our wedding packages include the use of a manicured garden, function hall, exquisite furniture and settings, as well as our team of extremely professional staff.

Our professional on-site event manager will ensure your event is slick, impeccable and your every expectation is met.

Tie the knot under our gazebo overlooking the dam, or against a backdrop of our cascading waterfall.

Let your guests enjoy their welcome drinks on the terrace overlooking our beautiful landscaped gardens.

Have your dream wedding to remember forever at The duBoirs.

Photograph supplied

by Ivor Hamilton.

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SPOTLIGHT ON TSHWANE

Great minds set to gather at Green Building Conference

S

outh Africa’s capital, the City of Tshwane, will be the site of national and international knowledge sharing when it hosts the 10th annual Green Building Conference on 1-2 June 2016.

The focus at Green Building16 will be on leap-frogging straight to the latest thinking, innovations, and technologies, enabling built environment designers to imagine and, indeed, construct higher performing healthier buildings now and into the future.

The longest running conference of its kind in South Africa, the Green Building Conference forms part of Sustainability Week 2016, a platform whereby authorities from across the continent and beyond, together with private sector investors, business operators, professionals, and researchers examine their respective areas from a sustainability perspective, whether economic, social or environmental, and exchange ideas on how to improve and encourage sustainable development among cities.

Hosted by the City of Tshwane, and organised annually by Alive2Green, Sustainability Week, which will run from 31 May to 2 June 2016, aims to advance the “Green Economy” through the sharing of knowledge and experience across disciplines, sectors, markets and continents, while actively seeking to develop and accelerate sustainability-oriented pipeline projects.

It will also call for delegates to re-evaluate their business context and the cause and effect of actions, while further engaging on key challenges and solutions which will prove to have a catalytic effect on the “Green Economy”.

“Green Buildings form an integral part of the Green Economy conversation, especially in South Africa where energy efficiency remains a focus and, as such, the Green Building Conference is a much-anticipated highlight of Sustainability Week 2016,” said Llewellyn Van Wyk, chairperson of the Green Building Conference, and principal researcher in Building Science and Technology at the Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR).

This year’s edition will be held under the theme “Building Smart: The Necessity Imperative” and invites delegates to engage and exchange ideas around current challenges facing human settlements and strategies to manage those.

The objective is to share knowledge and experiences, especially in the form of case studies, and find solutions, while sharing lessons of

the past, international best practices, and perspectives from across a number of different sectors.

The theme further calls on government to accelerate progress already underway while investigating all opportunities to ensure a positive socio-economic transformation and sustainable improvement to the living and working conditions of the people of Africa in the long term, and believes that through the design and construction of energy, water, and resource efficient buildings, onto which energy generation technologies such as roof top solar, and rain water harvesting can be added, self-sufficiency can become a reality.

“Promoting self-sufficiency as the challenge to supply electricity, water, and waste services in cities grows daily, is a key strategy to building resilience and ensuring low cost futures for citizens.

We need to re-imagine how our human settlements are planned, designed, and managed,” continued Mr Van Wyk. Speakers at the Green Building Conference encompass design, architecture, and urban development professionals from around the world who have experience in regard to the theme, and will include a panel led by Jordi Farrando, of Spain, a founding member of the Urban Projects Department of Barcelona City Council, lecturer at Politechnycal University of Catalonia and currently Secretary General of the International Union of Architects; Nela de Zoysa, of Sri Lanka, the principal of Design Corp and founder of Nela de Zoysa Design Corporation, who has vast experience in the areas of Design, Design Development and Construction Management; and Buhle Mathole, founder of Kabu Design Architects, a firm with a deep sense of African heritage, and a master architect who has been involved in large-scale projects such as the Gautrain stations, who heads a stellar line-up of South African speakers who will engage in highly interactive sessions around much-anticipated topics.

“In South Africa, and internationally, Green Buildings are being driven by blue chip tenants on the one end of the value chain and by the investment community on the other, facilitated by effective organisations, and encouraged through supportive government policies and well administered cities.

“The Green Building Conference aims to advance this dialogue with our African and international counterparts on innovative ways

SPOTLIGHT ON TSHWANE

in which we can contribute to the great work already being done across our African cities,” Mr Van Wyk concluded.

A major sponsor of the Green Building Conference is Lafarge, a leading sustainable cement, concrete, aggregates and construction firm invested in inventing more socially responsible lifestyles for the

future of the planet and its people. Affiliated organisations include the South Africa Institute of Architects.

Registration for the Green Building Conference and Sustainability Week, taking place at the CSIR International Convention Centre from 31 May to 2 June 2016, is now open.

Arcadia Hotel … affordable conferencing ARCADIA Hotel, located at the foot of the Union Buildings, Pretoria, is a privately-owned, but professionally-managed commercial hotel.

The hotel has been a “front runner” of Pretoria’s hotel industry for more than 40 years now and continues to offer delegates friendly, caring touch of hospitality in conferencing.

Conference facilities at the hotel have been constantly upgraded, yielding consistent conference business. All 139 guest bedrooms are en-suite and have also been recently renovated with soft furnishings and offer all modern guest amenities.

Conference facilities include eight venues for up to 250 delegates and offer “absolute value for money” in terms of a day conference, as well as a 24-hour package, which includes accommodation and dinner for delegates.

Besides all standard conference equipments and catering for break times as part of the day package, free wireless Internet access is available across the hotel, to the delegates.

Secure, undercover parking for vehicles is available.

Arcadia Tours & Transfers, an associate company of the hotel, offers airport transfers to and from OR Tambo International Airport, as well as sight-seeing tour options for delegates, while at leisure.

Transport within city limits and to the new Gautrain terminals at Hatfield and Pretoria is complimentary to hotel resident guests.

Conference business at the hotel consists of both domestic and international markets and the “caring touch of conferencing” provided by the hotel has earned it many loyal and return customers.

Though the hotel has changed its internal appearance and upgraded the facilities over the years, the friendly and caring customer service has always remained the hallmark of the hotel.

Arcadia Hotel has a three-star grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa both as Accommodation & MESE Venue and is also a “Highly Recommended Commercial Hotel” by AA in South Africa.

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26

VENUE NEWS

CCCC opens for business

C

ape Town Tourism is on a massive drive to market the Western Cape as a global destination for business travel and as a result there has been a great demand for a conference facility with a capacity to host up to 1 200 delegates in one venue (1 900 pax in total) across 19 venues.

The highly anticipated Century City Conference Centre (CCCC) and Hotel is officially open for business with a significant number of confirmed bookings for 2016 already in place.

Designed with both hospitality and operations in mind, a further advantage is that the adjacent hotel, which offers 125 rooms, now increases the number of rooms in the area to 600 in total; all within walking distance from the Conference Centre.

In addition to this, there has been a substantial private equity investment of R1billion into this mixed-use development in the Bridgeways precinct, exposing Century City to a global audience giving local businesses the advantages of the spill-over effect.

The CCCC has had vast industry support from organisations such as the South African National Convention Bureau and WESGRO, in addition to the Minister of Tourism himself, Derek Hanekom; all in agreement that this new development is key to promoting business travel to the Western Cape.

Joint chief executive officers Glyn Taylor and Gary Koetser have travelled the globe extensively, not only in an effort to draw inspiration from the best conference centres in the world, but most recently to further promote this world-class facility.

They have been received with huge

interest and excitement at annual trade shows such as IMEX in Frankfurt and Las Vegas, Incentive Business Travel (IBTM), Meetings Expo Africa, the World Travel Market Expo (WTM) and Tourism Indaba.

Their recent experience has only echoed their sentiment regarding Cape Town as one of the leading conference destinations in the world.

Key insights were shared by Mr Koetser, who said: “It is encouraging to see that the Western Cape is clearly seen not only as one of the world’s leading leisure destinations, but as a forerunner for business travel globally.”

Mr Taylor said: “We believe the CCCC is a great new asset to the hospitality industry and a perfect opportunity to increase the number of business travellers to South Africa and Cape Town.”

VENUE NEWS

New development planned for Centurion HAVING identified growing demand for accommodation and superior conference and meeting facilities in the expanding Centurion area, Protea Hotels has announced plans for the construction of a new hotel with extensive conferencing amenities in the area.

Mark Satterfield, chief operating officer, Middle East & Africa, of Marriott International, said: “Centurion continues to develop as a significant business and government hub in South Africa, and we have experienced an increase in demand for conference and meeting facilities from the corporate, group and conference markets.

“This trend is re-inforced by the popularity of our nearby Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! in Menlyn, which opened last year and already has seen strong performance across these key segments.”

With its 180 rooms of various sizes and

types, including semi self-catering rooms geared for longer-stay travellers working on long-term projects or relocating, the hotel also offers significant conference and event facilities.

All the meeting and conference rooms are designed for flexible use and can be split into smaller venues.

Other facilities include a business centre and restaurant, fitness centre and outdoor pool.

The new four-star hotel, set to open in early 2018, will also cater to the sporting community with its close proximity to the international cricket grounds at Supersport Park.

Being close to the N1 highway, the hotel is within easy reach of OR Tambo International Airport and Pretoria city centre, and with the Gautrain Station and Centurion Mall Shopping Centre nearby, it’s well located from both an accessibility

and shopping perspective.

Mr Satterfield highlights the strength of the Protea Hotels brand both within South Africa and in the wider sub-Saharan region, commenting: “Protea Hotels enjoys a strong reputation as a leader in the hotel industry, and we are thus confident that this new development in Centurion will be welcomed and will be an attractive addition to the venues available in the area for accommodation and business purposes.

“With Protea Hotels forming part of Marriott International, a leading global hotel group, the benefits of the international affiliation will no doubt similarly carry through to the new property.

“Guests at the hotel will be able to enjoy the benefits of the leading international hotel loyalty programme, Marriott Rewards, which certainly adds to the appeal,” Mr Satterfield concluded.

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MARKET NEWS

28

Italian market leader consolidates in SA

I

taly’s top conferences and exhibitions company, Fiera Milano S.p.A. (public limited company), has completed the full acquisition of its South African branch, Fiera Milano Exhibitions Africa (FMEA).

The move will see the multi-national company expand its operations in South Africa and Africa under a new strategy as directed by its newly appointed global chief executive officer, Corrado Peraboni.

Responsible for its local implementation will be Maria Chieppa, the newly appointed general manager of FMEA, and former senior executive of the listed Italian entity.

FMEA is also a leading conference

organiser in South Africa with the fastgrowing Cape Town Art Fair, and the biggest Good Food and Wine Show in Africa, in its portfolio.

Ms Chieppa said: “FMEA sees good potential for growth in South Africa. As such, we are making a R10-million investment in the 2016 Good Food and Wine show to cement its position as the leading event on the country’s culinary calendar.

“A further R8-million will be invested in the Cape Town Art Fair as we elevate it to world-class exhibition levels. ” Each year, the Good Food & Wine Show takes place in three different cities

(Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban) to showcase innovations, trends, products and the latest developments in food and beverages, lifestyle gadgets, and appliances.

In 2016, FMEA’s multi-million rand investment will be directed at transforming its format and content in collaboration with industry associations for a renewed emphasis on food and wine. Extended exhibition hours and gala dinners will also form part of the new-look show.

As before, the latest in world-class food and wine products will be on display for the enjoyment of local chefs. The 2016 show dates are 27 – 29 May in Cape Town; 29

Tsogo Sun Arts Academy expands its impact THE positive impact that the Tsogo Sun Arts Academy has had on many youngsters’ lives in its two full years of operation inspired two other Tsogo Sun properties to embark on their own local programmes, which are now reaping rewards for the children involved.

Tsogo Sun’s Hemingways Casino in East London and Emnotweni Casino in Nelspruit have launched their own programmes in the areas of arts and crafts and hip-hop dance respectively – both of which are highly popular.

The Tsogo Sun Arts Academy had been operating primarily in Gauteng. It was launched in 2012 as a carefully designed full-year curriculum that uses the arts as a catalyst to provide opportunities for change in the lives of primary and high school learners in disadvantaged communities around Johannesburg. Now the Academy is spreading its wings.

Hemingways has established a Kids for Art/Craft programme, which is run

by Belinda MacDonald, executive PA at Tsogo Sun’s East London property, in conjunction with Sharon’s Arts School and Which Craft? for 50 primary school learners from five schools.

A storeroom was converted into a fullyequipped arts room where weekly classes are run for the junior and senior groups.

“There has been such a huge response to the academy that a second class for

each age group has been implemented this year,” said Shanda Paine, Tsogo Sun Group CSI manager.

The classes not only concentrate on art (painting and drawing), but specialist teachers also teach the students other art forms, such as craft work and clay. Already the young budding artists are starting to emerge.

Recently, three artworks from these learners were submitted to the largest annual child art exhibition in the world being held in China later this year.

Neville Austin, marketing manager of Hemingways, said: “We’re encouraged by the response and enthusiasm to learning art by the youngsters and one of our aims is to provide ongoing opportunities for talented learners to encourage their love of art – and have a positive impact on their futures.”

Emnotweni Casino started a Performing Arts Development Programme in 2013, with Hip-Hop dance as the first phase and the SOS Children’s Village in Kamagugu as the place where the programme would have a positive impact. Ten children were selected for the classes.

“The objective of this programme is to give youngsters an opportunity to learn a performing arts skill and hopefully create job opportunities for the future,” explained Nicolette Botha, marketing manager at Emnotweni and project manager for the programme.

MARKET NEWS

– 31 July in Johannesburg; and 28 – 30 October in Durban.

From 19 – 21 February, the fourth edition of the Cape Town Art Fair was hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

“Trade shows and exhibitions are powerful marketing tools for host cities and countries and FMEA’s new strategy will ultimately strengthen and support economic growth in South Africa – not only in the promotion of Cape Town, but also through the attraction of international FMEA clients, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and business partners to the region.”

Ms Chieppa explained: “South Africa,

with its international airports, good infrastructure and currency value, is an attractive destination and we will be very successful in attracting business to the country.

“At the same time, South Africa will become Fiera Milano S.p.A.’s springboard into Africa. I have appointed a new management team of experts in their respective fields and we are looking for sustainable local growth, and will also use South Africa as a base from which to enter sub-Saharan African markets.”

According to Ms Chieppa, Fiera Milano S.p.A. first entered South Africa in 2012 via

a partnership agreement and the recent full acquisition demonstrates the organisation’s long term commitment to the country.

“We will continue to expand our local exhibitions and conferences portfolio, and we will be adding business-to-business meetings, and premier international events, to our offering.

“We are proud of our local history and of showcasing South Africa as a business destination with much to offer the international community.”

Fiera Milano S.p.A. is the only Italian trade fair company listed on the Italian stock exchange.

More international buyers attend SAITEX every year FOR more than 20 years, the Southern African International Trade Exhibition (SAITEX) has attracted thousands of business visitors from around the world, and more arrive every year.

SAITEX has a massive following in local and overseas markets, with visitors from 72 countries attending last year’s show – 38 per cent more than in 2014.

Show organisers predict another record-breaking 2016 SAITEX, which takes place from 19-21 June at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand.

“Economic cycles boom and dip all the time, and top business champions take it in their stride,” said SAITEX organiser John Thomson.

“Even when times are tough and markets are pessimistic, business owners and entrepreneurs double their efforts to find or create exciting new products, and new customers and markets eager to do business.”

Despite current gloom and doom regarding dipping Rand exchange rates, rising interest rates, low GDP growth estimates and the myriad of other market indicators, millions of consumers in Africa and around the world will always want and need quality products, goods and services.

“SAITEX 2016 is already attracting massive interest from both regular exhibitors and many new local and

overseas companies keen to explore opportunities in African countries,” Mr Thomson said.

He continued: “The worst time to stop marketing activity is when business is slow. All successful business owners know that tough times call for positive action. Not surprisingly, SAITEX exhibition space at Gallagher Convention Centre is filling up fast.”

A hallmark of SAITEX is its extraordinary variety. Tens of thousands of products in hundreds of categories were displayed by more than 590 companies from 49 countries last year.

“However, SAITEX is known as much more than just a showcase of retail products,” Mr Thomson explained. “It’s a versatile, multi-faceted marketing platform and networking hub ideally suited for doing business in – and with – Africa.”

Exhibitors and delegates use SAITEX to discover new markets, products, suppliers, service providers and customers, and to network with likeminded people in the many market categories and sectors it represents.

“We already have confirmation from major stakeholders, India and Taiwan, of their participation in this year’s show, with substantially increased space bookings. Hong Kong has also confirmed its pavilion again for this year, and there

have been exhibitor enquiries from countries never seen at the show before, such as Ecuador,” he said.

Strong African participation One of the biggest reasons for the show’s ongoing success is its positioning as an international springboard into Africa. Last year, 27 African countries had companies exhibiting at the show.

Mr Thomson, added: “SAITEX is a highly cost-effective platform for African companies to do business with the rest of the world, simply because the world comes to SAITEX, all in one place at the same time, to do business in Africa.

Of course, SAITEX is also perfectly placed for intra-Africa business – a growing trend at the show.”

Visitors sign up early With five months to go, visitors are already signing up with SAITEX’s online registration facility, unusual and encouraging for this time of year, according to Mr Thomson. More than 13 500 visitors attended last year’s show.

“The visitor demographic for SAITEX reflects an interesting mix of entrepreneurs, distributors, manufacturers, retailers, agents, importers, wholesalers and exporters,” Mr Thomson concluded.

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SAACI NEWS

30

Deep fried and battered

By Adriaan Liebetrau, SAACI chief executive officer

I

have been in the hospitality industry for 17 years, starting in 1999, and the one thing that has stagnated is the food served at tea breaks and cocktail parties. They still look exactly the way they looked 17 years ago.

In my previous column, I wrote about the need for the industry to become more innovative and creative. In that article, I was referring to new formats, presentations styles. In a nutshell, it is time for us all to move away from the same old conference styles. I think the same can be said about the food served at events and conferences.

I am sure like me, you attend a lot of meetings, events and conferences and we know the one thing that people always complain about is the food, agree?

Please humour me as I put pen to paper and have a personal rant on the matter.

When I walk into an event, I do cringe when the “elaborate” food served is the same as the chefs served up years back in my very first job.

One would think with TV programmes like MasterChef Australia and UK, would have ignited a change in the food sector in South Africa.

Alas, it would seem the majority of our banqueting departments and their chefs are still behind the curve when it comes to trends.

In our sector, it appears the move to healthy eating is still a pipe dream. Most of us are on healthy eating plans and not having the choice limits what we can eat.

Honestly, I would much rather have a carrot stick than freshly baked scones with jam, cheese and cream. But no, the chef has not given me a healthy option to choose from.

I challenge you to take note. At the next event you attend, have a look at the platters served to you. I can almost guarantee that you it will be served deep fried and battered or baked goods. How boring and fattening.

As a hotel general manager, I remember challenging my team to find healthy and appealing options for the buffet table.

If you don’t want to eat it why would your guests want to eat it? Maybe it has something to do with how I was trained at hotel school?

So here is my challenge. Dear chefs and banqueting teams, please think out the box for the sake of our industry and our stressed bodies.

Nothing stops you from having coffee and tea food pairings at breaks. Have some street food during lunch like they have at all the new cool and trendy markets. Don’t hide your chefs in the kitchen.

Get them to do live cooking action station. I like to see my food prepared in front of me – fresh and healthy. Be bold and stop with the deep fried and battered, muffins and scones from the 80s and 90s.

SITE NEWS

Site congress incites change

By Jean Ramsay

T

he SITE Southern Africa conference recently incited delegates to change mindsets with its thought provoking topics. The conference was recently held at the new Century City Conference Centre in Cape Town.

The conference provided delegates with some insightful and innovative information on developments in the Western Cape. It also challenged delegates on how to stay relevant and exceed expectations in the coming year.

Keynote speaker, Douglas Kruger, gave delegates thought-provoking techniques and perception changing ideas on how to be the brand that leads the way in this day and age.

His direct and logical approach to innovation and communication left delegates

rethinking their perception of branding and marketing.

Tim Harris, chief executive officer of Wesgro gave delegates a positive forecast for the Western Cape. While Lance Greyling, the City of Cape Town’s director for trade and investment, made a very important point about how the industry can drive tourists to the Western Cape over winter, and lessen the seasonal tourism issue.

He also challenged attendees to come up with their own suggestions.

Natalia Rosa moderated the conference with her professional expertise and finesse.

The panel discussion looked at cross-cultural differences when doing business with internationals.

The panel highlighted the importance of knowing the behaviours, beliefs, values, and symbols that are acceptable in the countries you are doing business with.

Africa, India, Sweden and the UK were represented on the panel.

Judy Lain, Wesgro chief marketing officer, introduced the exciting new Project Khulisa which is a new Western Cape initiative to step-change economic growth and job creation through selected key economic sectors; including tourism.

She touched on how to decrease seasonality and increase the length of visitor stay.

On an African note, Paul van den Brink, Air Access Project Team, gave an overview on how they are trying to expand existing routes and introduce new routes into Africa.

The conference was followed by a lovely lunch and site inspection of Century City Conference Centre.

The SITE Southern Africa Annual General Meeting took place after the conference.

What we’re all about ... motivational experiences Why we do it? ... business results SITE ORGANISATIONAL MISSION •

•

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Site is the only global network of travel and event professionals committed to motivational experiences that deliver business results Site provides insights and connections that inspire the utilisation of this powerful tool across diverse industries, regions and cultures Site serves as a source of knowledge and best practices where members can make personal connections that sustain professional growth Contact Tes Proos Office: + 27 (0)21 555 3617 Fax: 086 698 7792 Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who E-mail: tes@crystalevents.co.za seek the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary experiences. That organisation is Site ... www.crystalevents.co.za

31

32

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CALENDAR

Local and international conferences, workshops and exhibitions of interest to the conference, exhibition and special events market For free entries in this calendar, please supply information to: Contact Publications, PO Box 414, Kloof 3640.

Tel: (031) 764-6977. Fax: (031) 764-6974. E-mail: colleen@contactpub.co.za LOCAL: 2016 FEBRUARY 18-21: IAPCO 2016. Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town. More information: www.iapco2016.co.za FEBRUARY 23-24: MEETINGS AFRICA. Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Sandton, Johannesburg. More information: www.meetingsafrica.co.za/ APRIL 4-6: INTERNATIONAL LUXURY TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA. Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town. More information: Chardonnay Marchesi. Tel: (011) 549 8300. E-mail: Chardonnay@ThebeReed. co.za

INTERNATIONAL: 2016 FEBRUARY 23-24: AIME. Venue: Melbourne Convention Centre, Melbourne, Australia. More information: aime@reedexhibitions.com.au Tel: +61 2 9422 2500 MARCH 2-4: COCAL 2016. Venue: Guadalajara, Mexico. More information: www.cocal2016mexico.com/ MARCH 16-18: ACE OF M.I.C.E. EXHIBITION. Venue: Istanbul Congress Centre + Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar. More information: Tel: +90 (216) 465 95 56-57.

E-mail: info@ameistanbul.com. Website: www.ameistanbul.com/ APRIL 19-21: IMEX Frankfurt. Venue: Frankfurt, Germany. More information: Tel: +44 1273 227311. Website: www.imex-frankfurt.com MAY 25-27: IAPCO EDGE SEMINAR. Venue: Whistler, Canada. More information: info@iapcoeducation.org. Website: www.iapcoeducation.org JUNE 14-16: THE MEETINGS SHOW. Venue: Olympia, London, UK. More information: Steve Knight, Event Director. E-mail: steve.knight@centaurmedia. com. Website: www.themeetingsshow.com JUNE 15-17: IBTM AMERICA. Venue: Nashville, USA. More information: E-mail: ibtmamerica@reedexpo.com. Website: www.ibtmamerica.com

APRIL 6-8: WORLD TRAVEL MARKET AFRICA. Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town. More information: Chardonnay Marchesi. Tel: (011) 549 8300. E-mail: Chardonnay@ThebeReed.co.za APRIL 8: IBTM AFRICA ONE-DAY CONFERENCE. Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town. More information: Chardonnay Marchesi. Tel: (011) 549 8300. E-mail: Chardonnay@ThebeReed.co.za JUNE 5-7: SAACI Congress. Venue: Mangaung (Bloemfontein). More information: Adriaan Liebetrau. Tel: (011) 880-5883. E-mail: gm@saaci.org. Website: www. saaci.org

INTERNATIONAL: 2016 SEPTEMBER 27-29: IT&CMA. Venue: Bangkok Convention Centre, CentralWorld Bangkok, Thailand. More information: E-mail: itcma@ttgasia. com. Website: www.itcma.com OCTOBER 18-20: IMEX AMERICA. Venue: Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Las Vegas, USA. More information: www.imexamerica.com NOVEMBER 12-16: 55th ICCA Congress. Venue: Kuching, Malaysia. More information: Mathijs Vleeming, marketing project manager, ICCA, Toren A, De Entree 57 1101 BH Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 20 398 1962. E-mail: mathijs@icca.nl. Website: www.iccaworld.com NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 1: IBTM WORLD. Venue: Barcelona, Spain.

More information: ibtmworld.sales@reedexpo.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL: 2017 MAY 16-18: IMEX Frankfurt. Venue: Frankfurt, Germany. More information: Tel: +44 1273 227311. Website: www.imex-frankfurt.com DATE TBA: 56th ICCA Congress. Venue: Prague, Czech Republic. More information: Mathijs Vleeming, marketing project manager, ICCA, Toren A, De Entree 57 1101 BH Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 20 398 1962. E-mail: mathijs@icca.nl. Website: www.iccaworld.com

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34

DIRECTORY

OFFICE BEARERS National Chairperson: Zelda Coetzee Vice Chairperson: Wayne Johnson Treasurer: Glenn van Eck CMP Vice Treasurer: Keith Burton Chief Executive Officer: Adriaan Liebetrau Physical Address: Association Hub, 158 Jan Smuts Avenue, 4th Floor East Wing, Rosebank 2196; Box 381, Parklands 2121. Tel: (011) 880-5883

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Gwynneth Arendse-Matthews CMP (C&E Forum): Southern Cross Conferences. Tel: (021) 683 5106. Cell: 082 414 4378. E-mail: gwyn@scconferences.com Keith Burton: African Agenda. Tel: (021) 683 2934. Cell: 083 415 4111. E-mail: keith@africanagenda.com

EASTERN CAPE Chairperson: Andrew Stewart Vice-Chairperson: David Limbert Treasurer: Glenn van Eck Co-ordinator: Wendy Knott-Craig Committee: Natalie de Lange; Gill Dickie; Rachel Greensmith; Sadie Isaacs; Cheryl Kietzmann; Leigh Myles-Rohroft; Toni Payne; Alastair Stead; Patsi van Zyl. Eastern Cape Co-ordinator: Wendy Knott-Craig. Tel: (041) 360-4415. Cell: 073 201-8699. E-mail: ec.za@ saaci.org Natalie de Lange: Bojangles Caterers. Tel: (041) 5863700. Cell: 083 469-7259. E-mail: bojangle@global. co.za Gill Dickie: Budget Car Hire. Tel: (041) 581-4242. Cell: 079 527-7619. E-mail: gilld@budget.co.za Rachel Greensmith: The Boardwalk. Tel: (041) 5077777. Cell: 082 290-4617. E-mail: rachel.greensmith@ za.suninternational.com Sadie Isaacs: Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality. Tel: (041) 582-2575. Cell: 082 990-7652.

E-mail: conference@nmbt.co.za Cheryl Kietzmann: The Function Warehouse. Tel: (041) 581-0454. Cell: 083 593-7239. E-mail: cheryl@ thefunctionwarehouse.com David Limbert: Magnetic Storm. Tel: (041) 393-4800.

E-mail: david@magnetic.co.za Leigh Myles-Rohroft: Hotel Savoy (JH Group). Tel: (041) 368-8343. Cell: 083 228-3928. E-mail: leigh@ jhgroup.co.za Toni Payne: Access Management. Tel: (041) 408-8958.

Cell: 084 421-2623. E-mail: toni@accessmanagement. co.za Alastair Stead: Scan Display. Cell: 073 236-6618.

E-mail: alastair@scandisplayec.co.za Andrew Stewart: PeriExpo. Tel: (041) 578-5987. Cell: 082 581-3733. E-mail: andrew@periexpo.co.za Glenn van Eck CMP: Magnetic Storm, Box 27427, Greenacres 6057. Tel: (041) 393-4800. E-mail: glenn@ magnetic.co.za Patsi van Zyl: The Green Room Design Company. Tel: (041) 581-8903. E-mail: patsi@greenroom.co.za KWAZULU-NATAL Chairperson: Nick Papadopoulos Vice-Chairperson: Imrah Ahmed Treasurer: Dawn Holmwood Co-ordinator: Carol Macnab Committee: Kim Gibbens; James Seymour; Zelda Robertson; Denver Manickum; Keith Bentley; Scott Langley; KwaZulu-Natal Co-ordinator: Carol Macnab. Cell: 079 072-0133. E-mail: kzn.za@saaci.org Imran Ahmed: Aqua Tours & Transfers. Tel: (086) 1002782. E-mail: imran@aquatours.co.za Keith Bentley: The Gateway Hotel. Tel: (031) 536-9200. Cell: 083 779-3567. E-mail: gm@ thegatewayhotel.co.zaa Kim Gibbens: Aqua Mice. Tel: 086 100-2782. Cell: 079 693 9530. E-mail: kim@aquamice.co.za.

Marlene Govender: Durban ICC. Tel: (031) 360-1000.

E-mail: marleneg@icc.co.za Dawn Holmwood: Tel: (031) 765-7494. Email: dawnholmwood@outlook.com

Zelda Coetzee: Imfunzelelo Tourism & Event Specialists.

Tel: (021) 674-0013. Cell: 084 657-5476. E-mail: zelda@ imfunzelelo.co.za Dorcas Dlamini (Venue Accommodation Representative): Protea Hotel Group. Tel: (011) 275 1000. Cell: 082 903 7204. E-mail: dorcas@proteahotels.com Wayne Johnson: Fancourt. Tel: (012) 653 8711. Cell: 083 448-1324. E-mail: waynej@fancourt.co.za Crystal Kasselman (WC Chair): Centeq Events. Tel: (021) 9489549. Cell: 082 414-4471. E-mail: crystal@centeqevents.co.za Denise Kemp (Public Officer): Eastern Sun Events. Tel: (041) 374-5654. Cell: 082 654-9755 E-mail: denise@easternsun.co.za Aidan Koen (NTB Chair): Scan Display Solutions Pty Ltd. Tel: (011) 447-4777. Cell: 082 561-3188. E-mail: aidan@scandisplay.co.za Nonnie Kubeka (Government Representative): Gauteng Convention Bureau. Tel: (011) 085 2500. Cell: 083 571 7410.

E-mail: nonnie@gauteng.net Adriaan Liebetrau: Tel: (011) 880-5883. Cell: 082 863-6302 E-mail: adriaan@saaci.org Nick Papadopoulos (KZN Chair): Eat Greek. Tel: (031) 5633877. Cell: 084 450 5011. E-mail: eatgreek@telkomsa.net Kim Roberts (Advisory Board Representative): The Forum Company. Tel: (011) 575 3750. Cell: 082 652 2008.

E-mail: kim.roberts@theforum.co.za Scott Langley: Durban ICC. Tel: (031) 360-1000. Cell: 082 805-8794. E-mail: scottl@icc.co.za Denver Manickum: I-Cube Alternative Advertising.

Tel: (031) 701-0474. Cell: 083 482-8525. E-mail: denver@icube.co.za Nick Papadopoulos: Eat Greek. Tel: (031) 563-3877.

E-mail: eatgreek@telkomsa.net Zelda Robertson: Tsogo Sun. Tel: (031) 362-1360.

E-mail: zelda.robertson@tsogosun.com James Seymour: Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau. Tel: 031 366-7575. Cell: 082 925-5508. E-mail: james@durbankzncb.co.za NORTHERN TERRITORIES Chairperson: Aidan Koen Vice-Chairperson: Estelle Lötter CMP Treasurer: Joe Hattingh Co-ordinator: Heather Heskes Committee: Aidan Koen, Chris Prieto CMP, Brian Prowling, Bronwen Shaw, Gabi Babinszky, Yolande van den Berg NTB Co-ordinator: Heather Heskes. Tel: (011) 787-4672.

Cell: 076 321-6111. E-mail: gp.za@saaci.org Gabi Babinszky: Compex. Tel: (011) 262-2490. Cell: 086 658-5059. E-mail: gabi@compex.co.za Joe Hattingh: Lumi Mobile. Tel: (012) 345-5161. Cell: 082 329-6569. E-mail: joe@lumimobile.com Wayne Johnson: Fancourt. Tel: (012) 653 8711 Cell: 083 448-1324. E-mail: waynej@fancourt.co.za Aidan Koen: Scan Display Solutions Pty Ltd. Tel: (011) 447-4777. Cell: 082 561-3188. E-mail: aidan@ scandisplay.co.za Estelle Lötter CMP: Ripcord Promotions. Tel: (011) 482-2835. Cell: 082 651-4556. E-mail: estelle@ripcord. za.com Chris Prieto CMP: Tel: (011) 973-5138. Cell: 083 7782644. E-mail: saaci.chrisprieto@gmail.com Brian Prowling: IEBE. Tel: (011) 463-1767. Cell: 083 379-3154. E-mail: brian@iebe.co.za Bronwen Shaw: Crowne Plaza Johannesburg – The Rosebank. Tel: (011) 448-3600. Cell: 083 646-8778.

E-mail: bronwens@therosebank.co.za Yolandé Van Den Berg: Selah Productions. Tel: (011) 913-0326. Cell: 083 323-3910. E-mail: info@ selahproductions.co.za GAUTENG/TSHWANE Chairperson: Robert Walker Vice-Chairperson: Melanie Pretorius Treasurer: Marius Garbers Co-ordinator: Heather Heskes Committee: Anette Burden; Nellie Swart; Leon Pheiffer; Neliswa Nkani; Oscar Motsepe; Pieter Swart; Roz Prinsloo; Jeana Turner Gauteng/Tshwane Co-ordinator: Heather Heskes.

Tel: (011) 787-4672. Cell: 076 321-6111. E-mail: gp.za@saaci.org Anette Burden (Stakeholder Engagement): Casa Toscana Lodge. Tel: (012) 248 8820. Cell: 082 787 6144. E-mail: anette@casatoscana.co.za Marius Garbers: Baagisane. Tel: (012) 362 6327.

Cell: 082 789 7963. E-mail: mgwcom@mweb.co.za Oscar Motsepe (Community): Lesett Corporation.

Tel: (012) 661 3100. Cell: 082 807 7000. E-mail: oscar@lesett.com

Esmare Steinhöfel (Chair: Venue Forum): CTICC. Tel: (021) 410-5000. Cell: 071 888 2624. E-mail: esmare@cticc.co.za Andrew Stewart (EC Chair): PeriExpo. Tel: (041) 581 3733.

Cell: 082 578 5987. E-mail: andrew@periexpo.co.za Glenn van Eck CMP: Magnetic Storm. Tel: (041) 393 4800.

Cell: 082 800 2616. E-mail: glenn@magnetic.co.za ADVISORY BOARD:

Helet Borchardt (Community): Sanlam. Tel: (021) 947-4486. Cell: 082 458 8211. E-mail: helet.borchardt@sanlam.co.za Kim Roberts (Intelligence): The Forum Company. Tel: (011) 575 3750. Cell: 082 652 2008. E-mail: kim.roberts@theforum.co.za Liezel Short (Academy): Red Hot Events & Hiring. Tel: (021) 510 0547. E-mail: liezel@redhotevents.co.za Jaques Fouche (Into Africa): Gearhouse SA Pty Ltd. Tel: (021) 9297232. Cell: 083 607 2046. E-mail: jaques.fouche@gearhouse.co.za Liam Prince (Branding & Communication): Selbys Productions. Tel: (031) 700 6697. Cell: 072 589 8782. E-mail: liam@selbys.co.za Lillian Hlabangane (Stakeholder Engagement): City of Tshwane. Tel: (012) 358 8248. Cell: 082 700 5172. E-mail: LilianH@tshwane.gov.za Bronwen Shaw (Sustainability): Crowne Plaza Johannesburg – The Rosebank. Tel: (011) 448-3600. Cell: 083 646-8778. E-mail: bronwens@ therosebank.co.za Moses Gontai (Future Focus): Namanje Event Solutions Pty Ltd. Tel: (011) 538 7262. Cell: 073 407 9322. E-mail: moses@namanjevents. co.za

Neliswa Nkani (Branding & Communication): City of Tshwane. Tel: (012) 358 7750. E-mail: neliswan@ tshwane.gov.za Leon Pheiffer (Future Focus): EPH Productions. Tel: (011) 100 3305. E-mail: leon@montededios.co.za Melanie Pretorius (vice-chairperson): CSIR. Tel: (012) 841 3821. E-mail: mpretorius1@csir.co.za Roz Prinsloo (Sustainability): Workshops Anonymous. Tel: (012) 661 9229. Cell: 083 407 8583.

E-mail: roz@workshopsanon.co.za Dr Nellie Swart (Academy): UNISA. Tel: (012) 433 4678. Cell: 082 771 0270. E-mail: swartmp@unisa.ac.za Pieter Swart (Intelligence): Conference Consultancy SA Pty Ltd. Tel: (012) 349 2301. Cell: 083 230 0763. E-mail: pieter@confsa.co.za Jeana Turner (Into Africa): NFS Technology Group.

Tel: (011) 394 9554. Cell: 071 440 3617. E-mail: jeana@nfs.co.za Robert Walker (chairperson): Jukwaa Group. Tel: (012) 667 2074. Cell: 082 550 0162. E-mail: r.walker@ jukwaa.net WESTERN CAPE Chairperson: Crystal Kasselman Vice-Chairperson: Desireé Smits van Waesberghe Treasurer: Jaques Fouche Co-ordinator: Lara van Zyl Committee: Jaco du Plooy, Kurt Johnson, Janine Abrahams, Esti Venske, Lerisha Mudaliar, Liezel Short; Thiru Naidoo, Zeenat Parker.

Western Cape Co-ordinator: Lara van Zyl. Cell: 082 223-4684. E-mail: wc.za@saaci.org Janine Abrahams: Tourvest. Tel: (021) 525-2500.

Cell: 083 440-06806. E-mail: jabrahams@tourvestdm. com Angelique Isaacs: Impact Incentives & Events. Tel: (021)712-5358. E-mail: angelique@impact-incentives.co.za Jaco du Plooy: NH Lord Charles Hotel. Tel: (021) 855-1040. E-mail: j.duplooy@nh-hotels.co.za Jaques Fouche: Gearhouse SA (Pty) Ltd. Tel: (021) 929-7200. Cell: 083 607-2046. E-mail: jfouche@ gearhouse.co.za Kurt Johnson: AV Alliance. Tel: (021) 469-1420. Cell: 082 822-8867. E-mail: kurt@avalliance.co.za Crystal Kasselman: Centeq Events. Tel: (021) 948-9549. Cell: 082 414-4471. E-mail: crystal@ centeqevents.co.za Lerisha Mudaliar: Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau (Wesgro). Tel: (021) 487-8694.

Cell: 072 631-7674. E-mail: lerisha@wesgro.co.za Thiru Naidoo: Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau (Wesgro). Tel: (021) 487-8600.

E-mail: thiru@wesgro.co.za Zeenat Parker: HWB Communications. Tel: (021) 421-0430. Cell: 081 248 2801. Email zeenat@hwb. co.za, Liezel Short: Red Hot Events. Tel: (021) 510-05478.

Cell: 083 283-2330. E-mail: liezel@redhotevents. co.za Desireé Smits van Waesberghe: Capemotion.

Tel: (021) 790-2190. Cell: 072 335-5282. E-mail: dsmitsvanwaesberghe@helmsbriscoe.com Esti Venske: Cape Peninsula University of Technology. Tel: (021) 460 3518. E-mail: venskee@ cput.ac.za

DIRECTORY

BOARD MEMBERS Brad Alder: Octanorm. Tel: (011) 433 2010. Fax: (011) 433 1927. Cell: 082 445-2661. E-mail: brad. alder@octanorm.co.za Andrew Binning (Organiser Forum): Inkanyezi Event Organisers. Tel: (041) 363-0310. Cell: 082 372-9247. E-mail: andrew@inkanyezi.co.za EXSA OFFICE National Chairperson: Brad Alder Immediate Past Chair: Nigel Walker Treasurer: Jason King General Manager: Sue Gannon, Box 2632, Halfway House 1685. Tel: (011) 805-7272.

Fax: (011) 805-7273. E-mail: exsa@exsa.co.za Website: www.exsa.co.za.

Lindy Cambouris (Venue Forum): Cape Town International Convention Centre. Tel: (021) 4105000. Cell: 071 888-2625. E-mail: lindy@cticc.co.za Karen Healy (Western Cape Forum Chair): Resource Design. Tel: (021) 510-7776. Cell: 082 893-6036. E-mail: karen@resourcedesign.co.za Jason King: Hypenica. Tel: (021) 700-4300. Cell: 072 386-7321. E-mail: jason.king@hypenica.com

Bronwyn Mathias (Young Professional Forum Chair): Seatworks. Tel: (011) 027-6360. Cell: 082 774-6570. E-mail: bronwyn@seatworks.co.za Doug Rix (Suppliers Forum): DK Design. Cell: 082 579-7071. E-mail: Dougrix@wol.co.za Clive Shedlock (Venue Forum): JHB Expo Centre. Tel: (011) 494 1920. Fax: (011) 494 1005.

Cell: 083 589-8422. E-mail: karabo@expocentre. co.za Lorraine Strydom (Venue Forum): Sandton Convention Centre. Tel: (011) 508-0474. Cell: 084 568-1277. E-mail: Lorraine.Strydom@tsogosun. com Nigel Walker: Complete Exhibitions. Tel: (012) 667-2074. Fax: 086 653 2616. Cell: 082 5517604. E-mail: nigel@compex.co.za

Graeme Marshall (Suppliers Forum): Gearhouse South Africa. Tel: (011) 508-0472. Cell: 083 6073036. E-mail: graeme.marshall@inhousevtm.com

Secretariat: Mariaan Burger. Cell: +27 (0)82 557 8041. E-mail: info@sitesouthernafrica.com

Tanya Angell-Schau: Cell: +27 (0)82 559 9007.

E-mail: tangellschau@tourvestdm.com

COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Adriaan Fourie: Cell: +27 (0)84 545 3355. E-mail: adriaan@wesgro.co.za

Nicholas Leonsis: Cell: +27 (0)82 564 6996.

E-mail: nicholasl@travkor.co.za

Official Journal of the Southern Africa Chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence

Cindy Pereira Buser: Cell: +27 (0)72 192 5656.

E-mail: cindy@mirchee.co.za

OFFICE BEARERS:

Justin Exner: Cell: +27 (0)60 302 6018. E-mail: justin@vineyard.co.za

Chapter President: Tes Proos, Crystal Events, Box 50596, Waterfront 8002.

Cell: +27 (0)84 682 7676.

E-mail: president@sitesouthernafrica.com Treasurer: Peter-John Mitrovich. Cell: +27 (0)82 318 1889. E-mail: peter-john.mitrovich@ grosvenortours.com

ICCA – International Congress & Convention Association

Barry Futter: Adventure Works. TCell: +27 (0)82 335 4090. E-mail: barry@adventureworks.co.za Daryl Keywood: Cell: +27 (0)82 904 4967.

E-mail: daryl@walthers.co.za.

Henk Graaf: Cell: +27 (0)83 696 3307. E-mail: henk@swafrica.co.za

SUB COMMITTEE (Business Africa Development): Nicholas Leonsis (Chair): Cell: +27 (0)82 564 6996. E-mail: nicholasl@travkor.co.za Bunny Boolah: Cell: +27 (0)83 632 2420. E-mail: bunny@africanlink.co.za SUB COMMITTEE (Young Leadership Development): Nonhlanhla Tsabalala: Cell: +27 (0)71 351 4458.

E-mail: nonhlanhlaT@tshwane.gov.za.

ICCA African Chapter: Chairperson: Gadi Mbuya, Shades of Green Congresses, Arusha, Tanzania Tel: +255 272050081 / +255 789655690 E-mail: ceo@shadesofgreensafaris.net

Secretariat: Chris Prieto CMP, ICCA Africa Regional director. Cell: 072 273 7230. E-mail: africa@icca.nl. Website: http://www.iccaworld. com/dbs/africanchapter

Vice-chairperson: Fred Simiyu, Kenyatta ICC Tel: +254 20 2214535 e-mail: fred.simiyu@kicc.co.ke

ICCA African Regional Office: Regional Director Africa: Chris Prieto CMP, PO Box: 4957, Atlasville 1465.

Cell: 072 273 7230.

E-mail: africa@icca.nl.

Website: http://www.iccaworld.com

President: Nina Freysen-Pretorius, The Conference Company.

Tel: (031) 303 9852. Fax: (031) 303 9529. e-mail: nina@confco.co.za

OTHER ASSOCIATIONS OF INTEREST TO THE INDUSTRY AAXO – Association of African Exhibition Organisers, Box 1597, Kelvin 2054. Tel: +27 11 549 8300.

E-mail: info@aaxo.co.za Website: www.aaxo.co.za.

Chairperson: Carol Weaving. Secretariat: Cindy Wandrag.

ABTA – African Business Travel Association, Box 2594, Pinegowrie 2123. Tel: (011) 888-8178. Fax: (011) 7823814. Cell: 083 679-2110. E-mail: monique@abta.co.za.

Website: www.abta.co.za. Founder: Monique Swart.

ANTOR – Association of National Tourist Office Representatives. President: Hélène Bezuidenhoudt.

Vice-president: Wendie White. Treasurer/Secretary: TBC. Postal Address: Box 41022, Craighall 2024. Cell: 083 200 4444. Fax: (011) 523-8290. E-mail: helene. bezuidenhoudt@franceguide.com ASATA – Association of Southern African Travel Agents, P O Box 650539, Benmore 2010. Tel: (011) 2930560/61. Fax: 086 504-9767. E-mail: barbara@asata. co.za. Chief Executive Officer: Otto de Vries. Cell: 076 140-7005. Fax: 086 505-1590. Office Manager: Barbara Viljoen.

EGF – Event Greening Forum, 179 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, Private Bag X7000, Parklands 2121.

Tel: (011) 447-4777. E-mail: info@eventgreening.co.za.

Website: www.eventgreening.co.za. Chairman: Justin Hawes. Vice-chairman: Greg McManus.

FEDHASA National Office – Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa, Box 71517, Bryanston 2021. Tel: 0861 333 628. Fax: 0867 165 299. E-mail: fedhasa@fedhasa.co.za. Website: www.fedhasa.co.za Manager – National Office: Lynda Bacon.

PSASA – Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa. Tel: (011) 462-9465. Fax: 086 515-0906. Cell: 083 458-6114. E-mail: nikki@psasouthernafrica. co.za Website: http://www.psasouthernafrica.co.za Executive Director: Nikki Bakker.

SABOA – Southern African Bus Operators Association, Postnet Suite 393, Private Bag X033, Rivonia 2128. Tel: (011) 011 9288 Fax: (011) 011 9296. E-mail: saboa@ saboa.co.za President: Mr A Sefala.

Executive Manager: Mr E Cornelius.

SATI – South African Translators’ Institute. Executive Director: Marion Boers Tel: (011) 803 2681. E-mail: office@translators.org.za Website: www.translators.org.za SATSA – Southern Africa Tourism Services Association, Box 900, Ferndale 2160. Tel: (011) 886-9996. Fax: +27 866832082. E-mail: jennym@satsa.co.za. Website: www.satsa.com. Chief Executive Officer: David Frost.

Chief Operations Officer: Jenny Mewett.

SKAL International South Africa. For full details go to www.skalsouthafrica.org or contact Skal International secretary Anne Lamb on tel/fax: (021) 434-7023. Cell: 082 708-1836. E-mail: anne@yebo.co.za.

STA – Sandton Tourism Association. Tel: 083 558-5445.

E-mail: secretariat@sandtontourism.com. Website: www.sandtontourism.com.

TBCSA – Tourism Business Council of South Africa, Box 11655, Centurion 0046. Tel: (012) 664-0120. Fax: (012) 664-0103. E-mail: comms@tbcsa.travel. Website: www. tbcsa.travel or www.tomsa.co.za. Member Relations Manager: Boitumelo Moleleki TGCSA – Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. Private Bag X10012, Sandton 2146. Tel: (011) 895-3000. Fax: (011) 895-3001. E-mail: enquiries@tourismgrading.co.za.

TINSA: Interpreters/Translators Network of Southern Africa (TINSA). Co-ordinator – info@ interpreter.org.za Tel/Fax: (011) 485-2511. Cell: 083 249 0010. Website: www.interpreter.org.za TPSA – Technical Production Services Association, Box 2245, Pinegowrie 2123. Tel: 082 371 5900.

E-mail: admin@tpsa.co.za Website: www.tpsa.co.za – Administrator: Tiffany Reed.

TTA – Tshwane Tourism Association, Box 395, Pretoria 0001. Tel: 012 841 4212. E-mail: secretary@ tshwanetourism.com. Website: www.tshwanetourism. com. Chairperson: Bronwen Cadle de Ponte.

Secretary: Sethimbile Nzimande. Membership Coordinator: Liz Oosthuysen. E-mail: membership@ tshwanetourism.com

35

36

THE LAST WORD

Change is the constant

By Craig Newman, chief executive officer of the Johannesburg Expo Centre

D

ue to a number of economic, social and political factors, the exhibitions, conferences and events industry is in a constant state of change.

WHO IS

Craig Newman?

Craig Newman, chief executive officer of the Johannesburg Expo Centre, has made a phenomenal contribution to the South African exhibitions and events industry. Since 1991, Craig has successfully occupied leadership positions in some of South Africa’s leading business events industry companies that included Forge Ahead Exhibitions, TML Reed Exhibitions, Oasys Innovations, Balanced Solutions and Kagiso Exhibitions and Events.

He also served on the Exhibition & Events Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) Board in 2003 and 2004 and again as the Venue Forum chairman of the EXSA Board in 2009.

As an active member of the South African exhibitions industry, Craig has developed an enviable understanding of the South African market, as well as the African continent market and his wealth of knowledge and experience has been tantamount to the excellent turnaround strategy for Johannesburg Expo Centre.

In 2014, he was elected to the main Board of Directors at the UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry and was later appointed to the UFI Executive Committee. His most recent achievement is his appointment as vice-chairman of the UFI Middle East Africa Chapter.

In 2015, the sector experienced a degree of fragmentation as members of some of the foremost exhibition organisers in Southern Africa announced they intended to break away from the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA).

This was with a view to launching a new industry body.

Internal fractions, member politics and dissatisfaction with EXSA’s delivery were cited as some of the main reasons for the members’ resignations. I had several concerns about this decision at the time, as we were experiencing local industry growth and increasing interest from international stakeholders.

I believe our industry strength has always been our unity and we must join forces in 2016 in order to achieve muchneeded and positive results.

Despite these factions, as well as several political and economic challenges, 2015 was a positive year for the industry with some encouraging outcomes.

Africa is finally being recognised as a forerunner of the global exhibitions industry and South Africa’s exhibitions, conferences and events industry is fast becoming one of our most important sectors to attract foreign visitors and investment.

Within the international exhibition sector, several global events are currently planned and hosted in South Africa by international investors, including UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services, BAUMA, Automechanika and Electra Mining.

South Africa has the experience, the expertise, the knowledge and the infrastructure to become the official channel for large global companies into Southern Africa.

As a result, I believe international exhibitions and events companies will continue to look at new opportunities and partnerships here, having recognised the growth potential of the African market.

Those companies looking to alternative markets to grow their income, companies, their footprint and their revenue should only be looking in the direction of Africa.

Over the past few years, the local exhibition industry has also seen a series of new joint ventures, purchases and

investments, with examples from the Middle East and Europe, including Messe Frankfurt, UBM Montgomery, Terrapin, Fleming Gulf FZE and Reed.

Internationally-based branded exhibition shows bring with them large international exhibitors who, linked to their local distributors, bring credibility and critical mass to an exhibition.

These large-scale exhibitions, together with local tradeshows and events, make a considerable contribution towards the local economy and job creation.

Looking ahead, the industry must focus its energy on innovation and furthering our global reach. This can be done in two ways.

Firstly, we need to collaborate and work together with government in order to allow international exhibitors and visitors to enter the country without difficulty.

This will help to speed up certain processes and ensure we continue along the path of growth and development.

Secondly, using the great team of industry associations we have at our disposal, we must expand our footprint as South Africans.

We need to get more involved with our neighbours, such as Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, and let them understand the potential within the business events industry so we can offer Africa as a marketplace to the rest of the world.

We must endeavour to spread the word about our industry capabilities, its successes, potential, and what it can do to help promote other industry sectors.

As South Africans, we are relatively advanced in comparison to the rest of Africa, with regards to the value of exhibitions and conferences and what they bring to the economy.

There are structures already in place from national through to regional and the municipalities. The next step is to approach our neighbours with these structures and invite them to be a part of it.

I remain positive about the industry’s future in 2016 and I believe through consistent delivery of exceptional customer service, as well as working hand-in-hand with leading local and international partners, we will ensure our continued success and the provision of world-class events for clients and delegates.

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