Business Events Africa April 2018 Vol 38 No 4 by Contact Publications

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 38 No 4 April 2018

IT TAKES A VILLAGE ‘It takes a village’ and SAACI Congress 2018 welcomes business events industry members to join the village by attending the flagship event of the business events calendar. Raise your game at SAACI 2018 - through learning, networking and communication. This congress brings together professionals from a variety of conference industry sectors including conference and event organisers, events management companies, service providers and industry stakeholders representing government, venues, destinations and more.

CONGRESS DETAILS When: 29 - 31 July 2018 Where: Misty Hills Conference Centre Johannesburg Host: Southern Africa Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI)

SAACI is focused on raising the bar in the business events industry across all member interactions and in so creating true, tangible value to our members and the greater industry in Southern Africa. Don’t miss out on this two-day congress packed with inspirational keynotes, expert panel discussions, innovative networking opportunities, fun social programmes and a lot of new, fresh ideas.

For more info contact: RIPCORD PROMOTIONS: TEL: 011 482 2835 INFO@SAACICONGRESS.ORG OR SAACI2018@RIPCORD.ZA.COM OR SAACI HEAD OFFICE: TEL: 011 880 5883 | INFO@SAACI.ORG

www.saacicongress.org

Where Africa’s Leaders Meet EMPERORS PALACE, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

THE GRAND PALM, GABORONE, BOTSWANA

UMODZI PARK, LILONGWE, MALAWI

PROUDLY EXHIBITING AT INDABA 2018 STAND NO. ICCG22

Three World-Class Hotel and Convention Resorts Whether it’s a global conference, international summit or multi-lingual symposium, Peermont proudly offers three exceptional convention resort choices with unrivalled facilities and service. Emperors Palace, situated next to O. R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa; The Grand Palm Resort in Gaborone, Botswana and Umodzi Park in Lilongwe, Malawi. Catering for delegates from 8 to 3000 in multiple, well-appointed venues with accompanying luxury accommodation, the finest quality cuisine, state-of the-art technical abilities, superior business services and a dedicated security detail. Choose Peermont, where quality is guaranteed and customised solutions are effortless. PEERMONT INTERNATIONAL SALES: Tel: +27 (0)11 928 1479 | E-mail: intsales@peermont.com PEERMONT CENTRAL RESERVATIONS: Tel: +27 (0)11 928 1928 | E-mail: intres@peermont.com

RELAXING STAYS. EXCITING TIMES.

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EMPERORS PALACE in Johannesburg, GRACELAND in Secunda, UMFOLOZI in Empangeni, RIO in Klerksdorp, KHORONI in Thohoyandou, FRONTIER INN in Bethlehem, MMABATHO PALMS in Mafikeng, THABA MOSHATE in Burgersfort, UMODZI PARK, BICC and THE PRESIDENT WALMONT HOTEL in Lilongwe, Malawi, THE GRAND PALM, GICC and THE MONDIOR HOTEL in Gaborone, and THE METCOURT HOTEL in Francistown, Botswana.

Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 38 years

CONTENTS

VOL 38 NO 4 APRIL 2018

Special Features 16 JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE HOSTS 124TH ANNUAL RAND SHOW

About the cover Durban ICC continues to soar The Durban International Convention Centre has double reason for celebration. Not only has the city’s jewel in the crown again achieved profitable financial results for the past year, it has also received a clean audit.

For many South Africans, Easter is synonymous with the Rand Show and nothing quite signals this much-anticipated long weekend like the food stalls, entertainment, shopping and activities all in one place. Last year the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec had over 200 000 people walk through its gates for the Rand Show, while this year event organisers estimated an attendance of the same.

18 26° SOUTH: NOT THE AVERAGE BUSH HOTEL 26° South is so much more than an African bush hotel and conference venue. It’s a destination. A place where delegates can leave the hustle and bustle behind. Chill out, tune in or live it up. A unique blend of urban Jozi culture and the serenity of the African bush. A kaleidoscope of extrasensory delights for both business and leisure. It’s an experience called Afro Boho-Chic.

20 PREMIER HOTEL MIDRAND: OFFERING THE BEST IN BLEISURE With South Africans having to tighten their belts due to the VAT increase, it’s not surprising that a survey conducted by a local corporate travel agency has found that 50 per cent of business travellers who add a leisure component to their trips, do so as a way to have a holiday while saving money.

Destination feature | Victoria Falls

The authority on meetings, exhibitions, special events and incentives management

Published by the proprietor Contact Publications (Pty) Ltd (Reg No. 1981/011920/07)

23 aha boasts leading business events venue in Zambia

24 The Kingdom at Victoria Falls: Find the magic of Great Zimbabwe

Regular Features

HEAD OFFICE PHYSICAL ADDRESS: Suite 1, Fields Shopping Centre, Old Main Road, Kloof 3610 HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa TEL: +27 31 764 6977 FAX: 086 762 1867 PUBLISHER: Godfrey King gk@contactpub.co.za

4 Editor’s comment.

psychology of customisation in experience design. 5 News: Five exhibition companies 39 Preview: Be part of Africa’s to sponsor industry research. rising tourism story at Africa’s 10 Personality profile: Philip Travel Indaba 2018. Zietsman. 40 SAACI news. 15 Meet sommelier 41 AAXO news. Boitumelo. 42 EXSA news. 22 Cultural experiences: Conferencing with a cultural flair. 43 SITE news. 44 Index of advertisers. 26 Tech & AV: There’s a ‘bright bunch’ at Gearhouse. 45 Calendar. 36 TGCSA update: Grading Council 46 Directory & associations of introduces new discounts. interest to the industry. 38 A local perspective: The 48 The last word.

Company highlights 28 Stand Out Exhibitions takes stands to new heights. 30 ATKV Resorts: contributing to a greater purpose. 32 Inspire Furniture: Meet the Inspire Furniture team. 34 Creative Event Solutions: A unique alternative to your event.

Market News 44

J ames Khoza elected president of SA Chefs Association.

South African National Convention Bureau

Business Events Africa, in collaboration with the South Africa National Convention Bureau, continues to delve into ‘beyond tourism’ and its far reaching impact, as we seek to measure not just the immediate tourism benefits of business events but the longer lasting social legacies as well. In this supplement we take a closer look at the South African Society of Travel Medicine biennial congresses, and Dr Garth Brink shares his insights.

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King malcolm@contactpub.co.za EDITOR: Irene Costa gomesi@iafrica.com PRODUCTION & DESIGN EDITOR: Hayley Mendelow hayley@contactpub.co.za DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Jackie Goosen jackie@contactpub.co.za SALES REPRESENTATIVES: Pierre Grobler | +27 (0)82 900 4026 pierre@businesseventsafrica.com Colleen McCann | +27 (0)72 148 1657 colleen@businesseventsafrica.com Ruth Baldwin | +27 (0)72 897 6752 ruth@businesseventsafrica.co.za PUBLICATION DETAILS: Volume 38 No 4 Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year and is published monthly, with the Yearbook in June. Printed by

, a division of Novus Holdings

52 Mahogany Road, Westmead www.paarlmedia.co.za ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RATE: R680 which includes postage, packaging and VAT. Rates for addresses outside South Africa can be obtained on application to the Subscription Department.

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

Integrity | Intelligence | Innovation | Sustainability

Official media partner

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

@bizeventsafrica

Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa

Business Events Africa

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Editor’s comment

Business events Credit: Hein Liebetrau

A win-win for all

he business events industry is so much more than just planning an event. Over the years I have discovered so many dimensions to this industry. The fundamentals remain its people and the relationships we forge. The different aspects of the sector is what makes it intriguing and most importantly, vital in all industries, in one way or another. In the most basic terms, business events is about bringing people together be it at a congress, or an exhibition, or incentive or event. What excites me most about this is that when people come together, things happen and business events makes it possible. It is a win-win for all. Delegates gain knowledge and new connections; the country Annually the gains economic benefits and more importantly, spin-offs international business from the congress or exhibition. These spin-offs can lead events industry supports to community upliftment, while improving the country’s on average some knowledge economy. For the last three issues Business Events Africa, in 252 000 direct and collaboration with the South Africa National Convention indirect job equivalents Bureau, has delved into in South Africa, and the ‘beyond tourism’ impact of business events. contributes (in total) over These supplements are just the start. There is still to GDP annually in so much more to learn. South Africa. In this supplement we take a closer look at the SASTM (South African Society of Travel Medicine) biennial congresses and how it rotates on the African continent and what its ‘beyond tourism’ impact has been on the host destination. What I enjoy most about our sector is that it is constantly evolving, though some things stay the same, we are always moving forward. We never stop learning. This sector is made of many diverse individuals, ever changing products and services, and worldclass venues, all making a difference. Our diversity is a strength that I think we sometimes take for granted. We can’t all be the same but when we work together we can be great and this has been proven time and time again by the successes of the congresses, exhibitions, incentives and events hosted on our shores. In this edition of Business Events Africa we explore this diversity by looking at various elements of our sector while remaining connected. The business events industry is just – so much more!

R115 billion

4 Business Events Africa April 2018

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com www.businesseventsafrica.com

News

Five exhibition companies to sponsor industry research Five South African exhibition suppliers have committed to sponsor research into the use of wood and wood products in exhibitions, with a specific focus on how much of this material is used, how it is disposed of as waste, and how it can be used more responsibly.

his move, of a few companies funding a project for the greater good of the industry, is unprecedented, and indicative of a growing conviction among business that more needs to be done to promote responsible practices within the industry. The five companies are: African Graphix, bluCube, Inspire Furniture Rentals, New World and Scan Display. Gill Gibbs, one of the directors and owners of bluCube, said: “We have to ensure that any negative effects of what we do are minimised, and that behaviours that positively impact the environment are emphasised. Quid quo pro. In the context of our industry and timber, our mantra is ‘Reduce, Re-use, Recycle’. We cannot maintain our quality of life as human beings, the diversity of life on earth or its ecosystems, unless we embrace sustainability.’’ Leruo Sandamela, director at African Graphix, agrees with this mindset, and

said, “African Graphix believes in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals issued by the United Nations to transform our world, and has pledged to strive to achieve these goals. We want to be part of the movement that will build a better future for the world.” The research was initiated by non-profit organisation, The Event Greening Forum (EGF), after its committee members noticed a trend towards more custom exhibition stands being commissioned. These stands are generally made from MDF board (which is derived from wood), are single use and end up in landfill. The EGF’s primary objective is to promote sustainability within the business events industry, and it sees research and knowledge as the foundation to being able to advise best practice alternatives. The research will also include findings on what creative solutions, both locally and overseas, the industry has innovated to minimise wood waste.

Out of a number of proposals, the University of Pretoria was chosen to conduct the research. To cover the cost, the EGF invited the industry to sponsor the research. Six sponsorships of R10 000 each were proposed. “With five sponsorship spots already being taken, one still remains should any company be interested. All sponsors will be acknowledged for their financial support in the published research. Chad Botha, the founder of Inspire Furniture Rentals and recently nominated EGF treasurer, added: “I believe that it is important for all of us to give back and make the world a better place for everyone. “We need to consider our future generations and ensure that we do whatever we can to do this. Every bit of input, no matter how small or big, will contribute to this, and Inspire Furniture wants to be able to look back and know that we contributed to a better world.”

This move, of a few companies funding a project for the greater good of the industry, is unprecedented, and indicative of a growing conviction among business that more needs to be done to promote responsible practices within the industry.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa April 2018 5

Cover story | Durban xxx ICC

DURBAN ICC

continues to soar

The Durban International Convention Centre has double reason for celebration. Not only has the city’s jewel in the crown again achieved profitable financial results for the past year, it has also received a clean audit.

espite a challenging economic climate and highly competitive marketplace, the award-winning convention centre grew its revenue from R162 million to R172 million. Equally notable is that the Durban ICC has been given a clean, unqualified audit by the Auditor General, thus bolstering public confidence in the sound financial management of Africa’s world-renowned convention venue. 6 Business Events Africa April 2018

Lindiwe Rakharebe, Durban ICC chief executive officer, said: “During the 2017 financial year, the Durban ICC produced another impressive financial and macro-economic performance. “We are also extremely proud to have received our fourth consecutive clean, unqualified audit from the AuditorGeneral of South Africa this past year.

“It serves as a shining example of our uncompromising commitment to good governance and transparency in all our financial dealings,” she said. The Durban ICC is once again pleased to present a solid set of financial results for the year ended 30 June 2017.

In 2017, the company showed a 30 per cent year-on-year growth in profits and was able to contribute over R4.9 billion to South Africa’s GDP. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Cover story | Durban ICC

Cost control was a key element of the company’s strategy for the year with the resultant effect that operating expenditure (excluding depreciation) was R5 million below budget. The adjustment for impairments increased from R24 million to R32 million mainly due to a decrease in the R207 risk free rate which increased the estimated present value of future cash flows. Depreciation for the year was R7 million below budget resulting from a change in the estimated useful life of assets that have been maintained in suitable condition past their economic useful life date.

Overall, the net profit after taxation increased from R33 million to R43 million. During the year, the shareholder’s loan of R226 million was converted to equity and classified as such in the annual financial statements. The increase in net profit as well as the conversion of the shareholder’s loan has resulted in the net asset value of the company increasing from R199 million to R469 million. Scott Langley, Durban ICC Marketing, sales and events director, said: “We were very proud of the continued growth the company achieved in this past year. Leveraging off our focused sales and marketing drive, we saw a 38 per cent year-on-year growth in the number of events hosted by the Durban ICC and managed to grow our overall revenue figures by seven per cent. This figure surpassed the prior year’s performance by R11 million and was a remarkable achievement in the tough economic climate we traded in. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Macro-economic contribution Since its inception, the Durban ICC has operated as a catalyst for economic development. In order to properly quantify the influence which the centre has on the local and national economies, an independent Economic Impact Study has been commissioned each year since 2007. This past year, Grant Thornton South Africa was appointed to conduct the independent study for the company. The 2017 Economic Impact Report reveals that the centre has continued to deliver effectively on its primary mandate and made a significant contribution to economy on a local, provincial and national level. The over-arching impact for the City is the wealth created as a result of the delegates’ expenditure whilst attending the events secured by the Durban ICC. In order to quantify the region’s financial

benefit, the expenditure derived from all visitor activity in the relevant economic sectors must be calculated. The report calculates the contribution made in a number of key economic indicators including the overall contribution to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product, contribution to KwaZulu-Natal’s Gross Geographic Product, and the impact this had on job creation. In addition, the study reports on the flow to government taxes, net foreign exchange earnings and the contribution to low-income households. The projected value of each of these identified economic indicators is listed in the table, as well as the centre’s cumulative contribution over the past eleven years.

KEY MACRO-ECONOMIC INDICATOR

2017

CUMULATIVE TOTAL (2007 – 2017)

Contribution to South Africa’s GDP

R 4.9 billion

R 34.4 billion

Contribution to KwaZulu-Natal’s GGP

R 4.8 billion

R 32.6 billion

Foreign exchange earnings

R 739 million

R 5.7 billion

Tax revenue generated

R 278 million

R 2.7 billion

Total delegate and visitor days

1 353 410 days

15 million days

Jobs created (direct and indirect)

11 024

93 122

“It was also very encouraging that the centre continued to receive accolades in this past financial year. The Vison 2030 Award, the “World Travel Award for Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference centre” and being

the only convention centre in Africa to be rated in the World’s Top 15 centres at the AIPC Apex Awards were all testament to our hard work in delivering service excellence to our clients,” Mr Langley added. Business Events Africa April 2018 7

Cover story | Durban ICC

Contribution to employment From an employment perspective, a total of 11 024 people were employed as a result of the Durban ICC’s activities. In 2017, 7 991 people were employed directly and a further 3 033 people were employed indirectly as a result of events hosted at the centre. The total annual payroll for these jobs amounts to R882 million. It is projected that the expenditure generated by the centre created and sustained approximately 10 285 jobs in the KZN economy in 2017. (7 536 direct and 2 749 indirect jobs).

Viewed cumulatively over the past ten years, the centre is responsible for creating and sustaining over 93 000 jobs.

Other macroeconomic benefits During the past year, the Durban ICC also made other significant contributions in the following economic areas:

Contribution to provincial and national economies The 2017 report reveals that during the past fiscal year, the centre contributed R4,912,589,953 to South Africa’s GDP, exceeding the target of R4.5 billion by 9.2 per cent. The majority of this contribution directly benefited the KwaZulu-Natal gross geographic product during the year to the tune of R4,763,818,544. The Durban ICC’s contribution to the country’s GDP over the past eleven years has exceeded R34 billion. This is an amazing achievement considering it does not include the centre’s contribution in the first nine years of its operation, which was not quantified at the time.

Contribution to SA's GDP and KZN's GGP 2017 (R'Billion)

4.5 4.0 3.5 3.0

Target GDP Contribution

KZN GGP Contribution

It is projected that the Durban ICC contributed R1 billion to indirect household income in 2017.

Actual GDP Contribution

Tax revenue generation A total of R278 million in tax revenue was generated by the Durban ICC in 2017. Since 2007, activities associated with the Durban ICC have cumulatively contributed R2.7 billion to government taxes.

Foreign exchange earnings The Durban ICC makes an important contribution to foreign exchange earnings by attracting international delegates and tourists to the country. The foreign exchange earnings totalled R739 million in 2017 and brings the cumulative total of net foreign exchange earnings to R5.8 billion since 2007.

Impact on the tourism industry Apart from the foreign exchange revenue mentioned above, the Durban ICC makes a significant contribution to the tourism industry by attracting international delegates to South Africa. It is estimated that an additional 878 916 hotel room-nights were generated as a result of the centre’s activities in 2016. The main beneficiaries of the additional room-nights spent in the country are the accommodation, food and beverage, and retail sub-sectors. +27 (31) 360 1000 sales@icc.co.za

8 Business Events Africa April 2018

www.icc.co.za

www.businesseventsafrica.com

turning business into pleasure The Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau is an independent body dedicated to promoting and marketing the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many business tourism facilities, capabilities and assets, both nationally and internationally. As such, we are perfectly equipped to help plan delegatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; itineraries and provide marketing collateral while offering relevant on-site event support and assisting meeting planners to create a unique experience. Committed to transforming Durban and KwaZulu-Natal into South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier meetings,

incentives, conventions and exhibitions destination, we can provide organisers, planners and business tourists with the latest information and unbiased advice. Whether you require assistance with planning and organising your conference in Durban or anywhere in KwaZulu-Natal, information on accommodation and places of interest or simply want to provide feedback on your experience to an independent source, the Durban KwaZuluNatal Convention Bureau is your first port of call.

PO Box 2516, Durban, 4000, South Africa Tel: +27 31 366 7577/80 Email: conventions@durbankzncb.co.za www.durbankzncb.co.za

World Travel Awards 2014, 2015, 2017

Integrity | Intelligence | Innovation | Sustainability

Personality profile

Philip Zietsman

Never ‘lost in translation’ “If you love it, just do it. But be prepared for hardship en route, which is no excuse for giving up,” said Philip Zietsman, managing director of Folio-Online and Folio Translation Consultants.

“I

was born in Cape Town and grew up in Gansbaai, where I went to school before I was packed off to complete my schooling in Stellenbosch, after which I attended the University of Stellenbosch, doing a BA, BA Hons and MA. “I started Folio Translation Consultants in December 1988. At first only doing translations in a couple of languages, we have over the years grown to cover the full spectrum of language services (translations, editing, proofreading, transcriptions, voice-overs, voice direction, copywriting, localisation, interpreting and SEO) in well over 100 languages, specialising in African languages for clients both local and international. “To be able to operate successfully in the language industry requires total command of at least two languages, combined with specialised tertiary education in language services. The luxury of working with educated and qualified people makes my work a pleasure. And dealing with linguistically gifted people (who think nothing of correcting your grammar as you speak) is interesting, to say the very least,” Mr Zietsman said.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in this sector? The impact of very sophisticated computer assisted translation software (CAT tools) and the looming pressure of machine translations.

Were you always involved in this sector? My love of languages has dictated my career path since completing my studies (Afrikaans/Dutch, English & French) at Stellenbosch University, after which I worked as a lecturer in Afrikaans and Dutch literature at the University of the Western Cape. From there I branched out into freelance Afrikaans copywriting and translating in the advertising industry, before starting my own translation agency. 10 Business Events Africa April 2018

What role does your family play in your life? I specialise in

What type of holiday would you avoid at all costs?

friendship rather than family.

Backpacking.

What would you change in your life if you could when looking back? I would certainly

If you could be anyone for the day who would you be and why? Myself with more patience.

have started my business at a much younger age.

What is your favourite city?

Do you have any hobbies? Does obsessive reading qualify as a hobby?

Do you play any sports? I used to play tennis and squash, but going to gym is as much as I can manage nowadays.

Growing up in the Western Cape, Cape Town was always “our” city. I don’t consider any other city on earth as “mine”.

What is your favourite book, film, TV programme? Different

Reading, drinking and dining with friends, taking walks and going to gym.

books, films, TV programmes impressed and influenced me at different times of my life. Currently I’m focusing on German literature from the 1920s and 1930s, and spend many happy hours watching the plethora of riveting new television series on offer.

What is your secret to success?

How do you relax? Listening to

I am territorial and treat my business as a vital extension of myself. I encourage my staff to develop in ways that suit their differing personalities. I embrace innovation and am not threatened by the superior knowledge of others. I love what I do.

beautiful music, reading a great novel or history book.

What do you do for leisure?

What has been your biggest challenge in this sector? Convincing clients to pay for language services. “Hey, it’s only words, what are you charging me for?”

What is your favourite food? A variety of tapas-like dishes served over many hours, washed down with several bottles of good white wine.

What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done? Starting my own business, with no money and no business skills whatsoever.

What is your pet hate?

Who is your role model? My

When people, on hearing what I do, expect me to be able to speak at least 500 languages.

parents are my constant role models, because they led by example, instilling in me a healthy sense of self, without which I may not have survived.

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why? I travel once a year and have seen truly beautiful places. Europe remains my favourite destination.

What is your dream for the future? For myself, good health. For the world, wisdom and the actual application of it. www.businesseventsafrica.com

THE CASE STUDY

Beyond tourism Business Events Africa, in collaboration with the South Africa National Convention Bureau, continues to delve into â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;beyond tourismâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and its far-reaching impact, as we seek to measure not just the immediate tourism benefits of business events, but the longer lasting social legacies as well.

THE TIME TO RISE IS NOW, JOIN US. For destination expertise and convention planning support, contact the South Africa National Convention Bureau. T: +27 (0)11 895 3000 | E: convention@southafrica.net | W: www.businessevents.southafrica.net

SANCB | Beyond tourism

The SASTM case study In this supplement we take a closer look at the South African Society of Travel Medicine biennial congresses, and Dr Garth Brink* shares his insights.

r Brinks has convened the biennial Congresses of the South African Society of Travel Medicine in 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 and in 2016 the 7th Regional Congress of the ISTM held in conjunction with the SASTM . “I became involved in the South African Society of Travel Medicine, being president

What is SASTM and when did it start? The South African Society of Travel Medicine (SASTM) was formed in 2000 and is a non-profit organisation. Its main focus is to provide ongoing education and knowledge exchange for its members thereby ensuring that travellers and expatriates are provided with the correct information relating to reducing the risk of illness whilst away and on return.

for four years from 2004, and am currently the project manager.”

The 2016 SASTM conference The last conference was held in Port Elizabeth in September 2016. SASTM was fortunate to be able to host, with this conference, the regional conference of the International Society of Travel Medicine.

It attracted 200 delegates (and an additional 30 members of the pharmaceutical industry), the majority of delegates being from South Africa. There were international delegates from the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and from Africa – totalling 40 delegates.

The SASTM Congress SASTM Congresses were held from 2006, initially on an annual basis. From 2008 the Congresses were then moved to every second year. As health care providers involved in advising travellers, it is essential that we have knowledge of different travel destinations, but seldom do we have the opportunity of visiting these destinations so first-hand experience is limited. In 2007, it was decided to hold the first rotational conference in Zanzibar, which was an experience that is unlikely to be forgotten by those who attended. The benefits of holding a congress outside South Africa include an experience of a difference for the delegates as well as attracting more delegates from Africa itself. Interaction and networking with such delegates provides excellent exchange of information that can only benefit the traveller to minimise the health risks whilst travelling and at the destination. The further aim is to have the conference be more affordable for delegates from Africa. The congress in 2020 will be held outside South Africa, with Rwanda a strong contender for the hosting of this event.

12 Business Events Africa April 2018

* Dr Garth Brink is a

graduate of the University of Pretoria. He has been a family physician in private general practice in Durban from 1972 and also runs a Travel Medicine Clinic within the practice. He is a past-president of SASTM and the current project manager.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

SANCB | Beyond tourism

WHAT WERE THE CONGRESSES OUTCOMES?

Knowledge exchange Local delegates were exposed to key researchers in the field of travel medicine, an opportunity that they would not have had unless they can afford attending a congress overseas. This knowledge exchange though works both ways, as it provides a similar opportunity for the international delegates to be exposed to South African expertise and knowledge which likewise they would not have gleaned at an international congress elsewhere.

SANCB’s involvement The History

Local upliftment It provides an opportunity for involving the local community (we involved the Ray Mhlaba Centre) and exposing all delegates to their work – a crucial aspect of responsible tourism and support of local community.

Research development The forging of new relationships leads to unrivalled opportunity for research and development of common interests which has an impact worldwide.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

SASTM wanted to secure the 2014 ISTM Regional Conference in Cape Town, so it presented a bid to the ISTM Board in 2009. Unfortunately, we were unsuccessful and lost the bid to Singapore. SASTM realised that the Regional Congresses were not allocated according to a bid process but more on what the then President decided. It was felt that there would be no point in submitting further bids to the ISTM. I have a long-standing relationship with the Durban ICC and KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, as I was the convenor of the World Organisation of Family Doctors First World Rural Medical Congress in 1997 and the main World Congress in 2001. SASTM planned to host the 2014 Conference in Durban and wanted to attract the international delegate to Durban. Merryl Fairfoot (now with the SANCB), at that stage working for KwaZulu-Natal Tourism, found out about the Congress came to see me. During our discussion the history of the failed bid was presented and mention was made that we were wanting to attract delegates to the Durban Congress. We wanted to promote the Congress at the ISTM regional Singapore Congress and she offered assistance. Accordingly, SASTM was able to secure a booth at the Congress. This presence created even greater awareness about SASTM and the then president of the ISTM approached SASTM with the request that the 2016 Regional Congress is held in South Africa in conjunction with the SASTM Congress.

Delegate boosting This assisted us enormously for, as a small society, we do not have available funds to embark upon delegate boosting. We were able to secure a booth at the International Congress of the ISTM in Quebec in 2015 and the Regional Congress in Kathmandu in 2016 neither of which would have been possible without the grant from the SANCB.

Funding for the congress A certain amount was secured by the SANCB for the opening ceremony of the SASTM Congress.

Funding for future congresses Our relationship with the SANCB continues and we have been provided with grants for the 2018 Congress and we are looking at obtaining further grants for meetings to be held in 2019. This raises the profile, not only of SASTM, but of South Africa as well.

Meetings Africa The other benefit of interaction with the SANCB has been the introduction to Meetings Africa, where we are able access numerous service providers in the hospitality and conferencing industry. This affords us an unrivalled opportunity to interact with those that can provide that which SASTM requires for its conferences and other activities – not only in South Africa but in Africa as well.

Business Events Africa April 2018 13

SANCB | Beyond tourism

THE ‘BEYOND TOURISM’ IMPACT FROM THE SASTM CONGRESS 1

AFSAE’s involvement The first African Society of Association Executives (AfSAE) meeting that SASTM had a presence was in 2017, and it was an unforgettable experience. AfSAE is an incredible forum for an association. It provides opportunity to identify with other associations and to learn from others and the presenters that which is required to keep the association relevant and move with the times. SASTM has benefited tremendously from its involvement with AfSAE. Direction is given as to issues relating to associations, the running thereof, and generally creating greater enthusiasm to ensure that the association is keeping up with the rapidly changing micro and macro environment so as to remain at the leading edge for its members.

The second benefit, and equally important, is meeting with other Associations. SASTM has been exploring hosting a Congress in Rwanda, and through AfSAE we were put in contact with the ICASA 2019 organiser – this Congress will be held in Rwanda. As a result of this, there is the distinct possibility that the SASTM Congress will run conjointly with the ICASA meeting – thereby reducing our operational costs – which will no doubt allow us the luxury of hosting a Congress in Rwanda. This would not have occurred had we not been part of AfSAE.

Message from Jeffers Miruka, president of AfSAE In Africa, we now fully acknowledge that there is more to events, relative to beyond tourism benefits. ongresses promote destinations. C They build the host country’s reputation by building awareness and presenting a favourable image to the visitors, against what appears mostly in the media. Conferences spur trade and investment

by creating partnerships and research collaborations through academic works. Meetings help participants to establish networks when they meet face-to-face. Conferences disseminate knowledge transfer as practitioners apply newly gained insights to enhance their professional practice, growth, and many more benefits.

“Africa has the potential to be the ideal backdrop and the next frontier for congresses and meetings, thanks to its growing business events infrastructure, ease of connectivity, a developing healthcare cluster, rich history and natural beauty. Many from around the world have started to realise this significant development in the continent; hence many business events are now heading to Africa. The case of South Africa amplifies this when you look at the ICCA statistics.” – Jeffers Miruka, president of AfSAE 14 Business Events Africa April 2018

The exchange of knowledge.

Sharing of information and developing new projects, research activities. 2

The launch of the Pan African Travel Medicine Group which will see the start of the initiative to provide expertise to others in Africa who are involved in travel medicine and allied disciplines. 3

Exposure of African and local delegates to opinion leaders.

Networking with the pharmaceutical and allied industry. 5

It will showcase the expertise that exists within South Africa, creating greater exposure for both South Africa and SASTM.

It sets standards for conferencing.

For this to help, African countries are investing in Convention Bureaus, modernising the existing convention centres and building new ones, increasing the number of bed capacity, dealing with existential threats and improving their infrastructure. This is geared towards making Africa a destination of choice for future congresses.

“This conference will strengthen and encourage those involved in travel medicine to critically examine that which is being done, provide a forum on travel medicine education in Africa, work closely with pharmacists in addressing malaria prevention in travellers, as well as the incredible opportunity for networking.” – Dr Garth Brink

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Sommelier

Meet Boitumelo Emperors Palace’s very own sommelier As the concept of craft beers and spirits continue to grow in popularity and tasting bars pop up all over the country, people are becoming increasingly aware of what to expect from a really good glass of wine. That being said, understanding and recommending wine remains a timeless art and skill that requires a good measure of skill, experience and passion to master. ambassador from Cape Wine presented a guest lecture on the basics of wine pairings, and that really got me interested. I was fascinated by the fact that wine could be such a complex subject and that encouraged me to learn more about wine. I decided to cut my in-service course short and head to Cape Town, where I planned to visit every wine farm I could and learn the culture and science of wine.

oitumelo Maphela is the resident sommelier of Aurelia’s Restaurant, a five-star wining and dining restaurant in Emperors Palace, which is located next to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, and the first full-time wine expert to join the hotel. She is also one of a few women in Johannesburg holding her own in what was once a male-dominated industry.

What did you have to study? Along with my hospitality management qualification, I took a sommeliers course recognised and facilitated by Cape Wine Academy. The course is highly comprehensive and opens your eyes to so many concepts, from the basics of wine pairing to wine-making and the study of international wines.

When did you join the Emperors Palace team? I joined

Do you have to be certified to be a sommelier? Yes, I am

Emperors Palace in May 2017, after working in various five-star hospitality environments in Sandton and Hyde Park.

registered with the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA).

Tell us a little more about yourself... I’m an adventurous spirit, particularly when it comes to food and, of course, wine. So, I like to spend my time outside of work checking out food markets and enjoying new foodie experiences, whether it’s with friends or on my own. I also try to travel, even if it’s just a quick trip across the country, and I reserve Sundays for church no matter what.

How did you become a sommelier? In the second year of my hospitality management studies, an www.businesseventsafrica.com

Do you prefer local or international wine? I have to say that French Chardonnay is incredible and one of my favourite wines, but when it comes to reds, I honestly believe that South Africa can compete with the best of the best around the world.

What’s your favourite food and wine pairing? My favourite pairing (and the most precise pairing you can get) is seafood paired with a white wine. The silky, fruity, buttery note you get from the wine

balances perfectly with the acidity of the lemon sauces usually found in seafood dishes. Personally, I prefer a wooded Chardonnay, which is a wine that has been fermented in French oak barrels for a certain amount of time. I think it pairs excellently with seafood dishes.

Why aren’t there more female sommeliers in the business? Women sommeliers are few and far between in Johannesburg, but there are quite a few women holding sommelier positions in Cape Town – arguably the country’s wine hub. The reason I think it was rare to find women sommeliers in the past is probably because you would have to do quite a bit of heavy lifting and perhaps restaurant owners thought this meant hiring extra hands to help, but thankfully that’s changing.

What do you feel you will bring to Aurelia’s? Being the first

sommelier at the restaurant, I intend to engage with guests and help them select the perfect wine for their meals. Dining shouldn’t be a rushed, routine affair, but a memorable experience for diners. I want guests to walk out the restaurant feeling totally satisfied, and maybe even having learned something about wine. I also want to increase wine sales for the restaurant in comparison to the years before I was employed at Aurelia’s. Try the recently launched African-inspired fine-dining menu at Aurelia’s Restaurant paired with a bottle of fine South African wine expertly chosen by Boitumelo herself. Business Events Africa April 2018 15

Destination feature | Johannesburg

Johannesburg Expo Centre hosts

124th

annual Rand Show

For many South Africans, Easter is synonymous with the Rand Show and nothing quite signals this much anticipated long weekend like the food stalls, entertainment, shopping and activities all in one place.

quick but lesser known fact about the Rand Show is that it has been around for over a century, 124 years to be precise. As one of the most successful consumer expos, the Rand Show really has stood the test of time, but what’s the secret? Last year the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec had over 200 000 people walk through its gates for the Rand

One of the biggest drawcards remains the SANDF stand. Visitors get a front row seat to the men and women in camo who showcase their different careers and skills in the Defence Force

16 Business Events Africa April 2018

Show while this year event organisers estimated an attendance of the same. Bella Geldenhuis, operations manager of the Rand Show said: “The secret lies in the consistency and value of the experience together with new and exciting activities year on year, with something for everyone. “One of the biggest drawcards remains the SANDF stand. Visitors get a front row seat to the men and women in camo who showcase their different careers and skills in the Defence Force.” “It’s not something you get to see every day. They execute a full capability simulated battle. The Rand show is the only place outside of Arms Forces day where you’ll see as big a

capability demonstration. The Poaching Unit from the Kruger National Park were also on site to show the public just how critical horses and dogs are in the fight against poaching. Where else will you catch a rare sighting of the Rooivalk helicopter or hear the Gripen fighter jets? These are the kinds of iconic South African experiences we want people to have,” Ms Geldenhuis said. Of course, everyone has their favourite part of the show because it caters to all ages, interests and appetites, from delicious food stalls, home decor, clothing, cars and bikes to boats. For petrol heads and sports fans, the Rand Show hits all the right spots. From drifting in a Chevy Lumina, to taking to the skies in a helicopter ride, and flexing muscles by playing beach tennis and football, show goers were kept entertained for hours. Furthermore, as much as there’s plenty of fun to be had, there was also a strong educational element to this event for children from the animal farm to the bird show. The Rand Show is an iconic activity on the South African calendar and a clear winner for all who attend. Next year the rand show will celebrate its 125th year anniversary, and Ms Geldenhuis said it promises to be one for the books, with a spectacular opening lined up from the SANDF, which they’re already working on as we speak! www.businesseventsafrica.com

Destination feature | Johannesburg

26° south

Not the average bush hotel

26° South is so much more than an African bush hotel and conference venue. It’s a destination. A place where delegates can leave the hustle and bustle behind. Chill out, tune in or live it up. A unique blend of urban Jozi culture and the serenity of the African bush. A kaleidoscope of extrasensory delights for both business and leisure. It’s an experience that we call Afro Boho-Chic.

26°

South is situated in Muldersdrift, on what is set to become the largest conservation area in Gauteng. It also boasts easy access to popular and breathtaking attractions such as The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens and The Lion Park. Just because 26° South is in the bush, it doesn’t mean that delegates have to skimp on creature comforts. Lara Visagie, sales and marketing director, said: “We pride ourselves on our creative, quirky and spacious luxury rooms and luxury suites which have redefined African bush accommodation with a modern and refreshing twist.” “Each of our 72 luxury rooms and four spacious luxury suites have been meticulously designed to offer guests the ultimate bush-boho experience.”

18 Business Events Africa April 2018

“Looking for something more than the usual conference experience? You’ve come to the right place. 26° South caters for all conferences, big or small, through our wide range of eclectic and vibrant conference spaces. “After all, our business is minding your business. Simply take your pick from one of our seven conference facilities and leave the rest up to us. We’re on it.” 26° South’s standard conference package includes the following: • A dedicated conference host. •S creens. •P rinting, photocopying and fax facilities. •F lip charts, whiteboards and the necessary markers. So, why not step off the beaten path and get the job done in a setting that is as serene as it is inspiring. Having a larger than life event? Well, then the banqueting hall (150 people) or

outside deck (200 people) might be just the thing. Like they say, go big, or go home. 26° South has something for everyone in a uniquely innovative way – a bushboho style. But it’s not the average bush hotel. It’s a destination led by eclectic design, people-centricity, the beauty of nature and excellence.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

tune in & chill out

with our weekend 24HR conference package! R2210 per person | R1675 per person sharing

Package is inclusive of: Complimentary venue hire | Luxurious accommodation | breakfast | lunch | dinner | 3 tea & coffee breaks | complimentary R250 drinks voucher. Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: Valid until 31 December 2018. Promotion valid for a minimum of 15 delegates. Pre-payment essential. Promotion is valid on weekends only. Subject to availabity.

info@26dsouth.co.za

Beyers Naude Drive, Zwartkops, Muldersdrift, Gauteng

www.26dsouth.co.za

Destination feature | Johannesburg

Premier Hotel Midrand

Offering the best in bleisure With South Africans having to tighten their belts due to the VAT increase, it’s not surprising that a survey conducted by a local corporate travel agency has found that 50 per cent of business travellers who add a leisure component to their trips, do so as a way to have a holiday while saving money.

ith Midrand being located at the heart of the country’s economic capital, Tony Rubin, General Manager at Premier Hotel Midrand, has noted an increase in the combination of bleisure travel amongst guests. “While the VAT increase may play a part in this, I believe that it is largely due to our ability to offer guests the best in both business and leisure.” He explains that the centrally located property, situated only 24 km from OR Tambo International Airport, is equipped with four conference facilities capable of seating up to 280 delegates. “We also provide free Wi-Fi, a business centre and in-room work stations to ensure that corporate travellers can get their work done in comfort during their stay.” “Because all work and no play make for a dull time away, guests can take advantage of an array of activities and attractions both on- and off-site,” adds Rubin.

20 Business Events Africa April 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Destination feature | Johannesburg

With the survey revealing that 91.3 per cent of bleisure travellers choose to use their down time to visit nearby bars and restaurants, the hotel is the ideal accommodation option since it has its own restaurant and is situated just 6 km from the Mall of Africa, which offers a variety of eateries to suit a wide range of tastes. Over 85 per cent of bleisure travellers opt to explore the sights of the cities where they stay and, with

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Premier Hotel Midrand offering a free shuttle service within a 10 km radius of the property, guests can enjoy attractions like Liliesleaf Farm & Museum, Nizamiye Mosque, Lory Park and The Barnyard Theatre Rivonia. Of course, no visit to Midrand is complete without watching motor racing at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit & International Convention Centre. Visiting a nearby destination is a popular pursuit among 69.05 per cent of

bleisure travellers. As Midrand is halfway between Pretoria and Johannesburg, Premier Hotel Midrand is a must-stay spot for bleisure travellers wanting to see popular sights in these cities like the Apartheid Museum, Maboneng Precinct, the Union Buildings and the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. “With offerings like these, we aim to ensure that our bleisure guests arrive as business travellers, but leave as holidaymakers,” concludes Rubin.

Business Events Africa April 2018 21

Cultural experience | Johannesburg

aha Lesedi

Conferencing with a cultural flair aha Lesedi is tucked in the heart of the African bushveld amidst the rocky hills within the Cradle of Humankind. It is located just an hour from Johannesburg and just 30 km away from O.R Tambo International Airport.

he cultural village showcases the fascinating traditional cultures and traditions of the people of Africa. Guests are invited to observe the African way of life, where they’ll discover more about the cultures of the Zulu, Xhosa, Bapedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes who live according to the tribal customs and traditions of their ancestors. The accommodation is vibrantly decorated to depict the tribe’s heritage with some interesting facts of each tribal homestead detailed. It offers modern touches and comfort featuring rooms with ensuite bathrooms, decorated with wooden furniture and carpeted floors. aha Lesedi offers a cultural tour around the village to the homesteads presenting interesting insights on the different cultures. To start off the excursion, guests are escorted to the Ndebele village for a brief welcome by the residents, followed by an electrifying display of African dancing at the Ingoma dance boma. A traditional African feast awaits the guests at the three-tiered Nyama Choma restaurant, which means Great African feast.

The 200-seater restaurant comfortably accommodates its guests in authentic scenery with vibrant decors. The perfect place to quench the thirst of the African heat is at Ma Thabeleng’s Shebeen, which serves refreshing drinks and mouth-watering light traditional African-inspired shebeen lunches, and the Funduzi Bar offers traditional drinks such as Mamba Juice. aha Lesedi’s African-themed team building activities add an exciting and unique touch, making it an ideal venue for corporate outings, accommodating up to 300 delegates depending on style arrangement. aha Lesedi offers a variety of conference venues to suit any occasion, with each venue presenting its very own African flair. The construction of a new dance amphitheatre offers a more enhanced cultural experience. This spacious 20.4 m amphitheatre can be utilised for a variety of events including dance performances, theatre productions, comedy shows, launches and small functions. The high tech stage lighting illuminates the stage area perfectly. In

addition, the external outside area is ideal for small exhibitions, cocktails, coffee breaks and outdoor presentations. The state-of-the-art Moringa Conference Centre can host a maximum of 300 delegates in cinema style seating, 220 in school room style and 180 in u-shape or banquet style. A maximum of 220 can also be accommodated in cocktail set up. The Tswana Letsatsi is an outdoor style venue and can accommodated 150 guests in banquet style and 180 in cocktail set up. The evening gala functions are coordinated seamlessly at the Gaditshwene venue, which accommodates 90 guests in cinema style seating, 70 in school room seating and 60 can be accommodated in u-shape style and 70 in banquet style. Offering a more relaxed and informal setting is the North African Nile Room, a small venue with little tables, cushions on the floor where delegates can indulge in serious talk while enjoying some hookah. Relish Africa’s warm hospitality through, song, dance and food at aha Lesedi and experience the true essence of Ubuntu.

LESEDI

CONFERENCING WITH A CULTURAL FLAIR Unique African team building activities make aha Lesedi an ideal venue for corporate outings accommodating up to 300 delegates.

FOR BOOKINGS CONTACT US: +27 82 524 4549 / +27 71 507 1447 | enquiries@lesedi.com | www.aha.co.za/lesedi 22 Business Events Africa April 2018 www.businesseventsafrica.com

Destination feature | Victoria Falls

aha boasts leading business events venue in Zambia aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa Zambia presents the renowned state of the art Victoria Falls Conference Centre. The Victoria Falls Conference Centre is only 10 km from Victoria Falls and is recognised as one of the leading business events venue in Zambia.

eaturing East African inspired designs and themes, the stateof-the-art conference centre exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere. Conference facilitators can utilise the spacious reception area which easily converts into a meet and greet area, in addition the exclusive boardroom facility that can comfortably accommodate a maximum of 12 guests. Several breakaway rooms are also available. The luxurious thatched, glass complex centre blends in flawlessly with its surrounds. The conference centre boasts cutting edge technology, airconditioning, broadband Internet and Wi-Fi which is available to all delegates. After a hectic day of training and deliberations, delegates can unwind on the dance floor which has staging and mood lighting. This centre is aptly suited to host any type of event or group function, whether it is a conference, teambuilding, banquet or a wedding.

There’s an additional spacious 140 m2 outside patio area under a Bedouin tent which is flexible for any type of event and can host up to 160 seated guests, with its unique setting overlooking Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and witnessing the wildlife roam, especially elephants. Another great hosting space is the open air Boma and amphitheatre venue with its onsite kitchen and a bar where traditional cuisine experiences and performances by local talent can be enjoyed. On site catering is provided, offering delegates mouth-watering cuisine. For extra convenience and comfort, guests can enjoy the award-winning aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa. The hotel boasts 77 rooms, all ensuite. One of the most unique features about the hotel is that all rooms are river-facing ensuring guests wake up to incredible sights of the expansive river each morning, witnessing the extraordinary views that once captivated

The Victoria Falls Conference Centre caters for a range of conference seating formats.

Larger groups can be arranged in cinema style seating accommodating up to 250 delegates. Banquet style seating can accommodate approximately 176 delegates (max 180 without a dance floor, max 150 with a dance floor). Boardroom style seating can accommodate a minimum of 20 delegates and a max of 150, and conventional style seating to accommodate 170 delegates. Schoolroom style seating can host a max of 160 delegates with top-table seating for three whereas smaller groups can be accommodated through single u-shape seating for 60 delegates and double u-shape seating for a maximum of 120 delegates. David Livingstone, the intrepid explorer and missionary who was the first European to set eyes on the Falls. Delicious cuisine ranging from Indian, European, Mediterranean, African and Afro-Arabian can be enjoyed at the The Kalai Restaurant. The restaurant is the ideal place for wine connoisseurs with its extensive collection of South African and International wines, as well as a range of unique cocktails created by expert bar butlers.

CONFERENCING on the zambezi river An exhilarating African adventure with panoramic views.

FOR BOOKINGS CONTACT US: + 260 21332 4601 | lodge@dlslandspa.com | www.aha.co.za/david-livingstone

Destination feature | Victoria Falls

The Kingdom at Victoria Falls

Find the magic of Great Zimbabwe The Kingdom at Victoria Falls is so much more than just a place where one can go to rest after a day of exploring. It’s about an experience, an adventure and most of all about immersing oneself in what is really a tribute to Africa’s ancient allure in the beautiful Zimbabwe, walking distance from the entrance to The Victoria Falls.

he great domes, pillars and bridges over The Kingdom at Victoria Falls’ many water features, make this hotel resemble the style of “Great Zimbabwe”, the once mighty capital of the ancient Shona Kingdom. But while it may look like the city of a lost civilisation, the hotel has all the luxurious comforts and modern facilities one may desire. It is also conveniently centrally located, which gives delegates access to many of Victoria Falls’ activities, restaurants and bars and shops. So whether the delegates wish to go on an elephant-back safari, take a helicopter ride over The Falls or grab something delicious to eat, one can do so easily from The Kingdom at Victoria Falls. The hotel also has its own entertainment centre, a casino, numerous fast food outlets and a selection of shops, making it the perfect base-camp after a day out in Zimbabwe.

to relax and de-stress, while gazing over the hotel’s lake and water features. Not the organised type? The Adventure Connection at the hotel can assist in booking any last-minute activities, and after an action-packed morning the delegates can stop in at the Safari Health and Beauty Spa. Then, step out for the evening at one of the hotel’s selection of restaurants or four bars, one of which is pool-side and perfect for a romantic evening. Delegates can also visit The Great Enclosure, an indoor entertainment area within the resort which offers a variety of shops, restaurants and other facilities. The Kingdom at Victoria Falls has everything a delegate needs to make any conference, incentive or event memorable, and it doesn’t hurt that it’s walking distance from one of the seven natural wonders of the world either.

MODERN LUXURY

The small resort town, Victoria Falls has made itself a name as the adventure capital of Southern Africa, and it’s no surprise that travellers from around the globe have flocked to bungee jump over The Falls, canoe down the Zambezi and swim in the Devil’s Pool. Wildlife lovers will be ecstatic to know that there are some spectacular wildlife areas in close proximity to Victoria Falls, including The Zambezi National Park, and Chobe and Hwange National Parks, so delegates won’t have to go too far to see the Big Five.

Each of the hotel’s 294 rooms has a view, whether they are facing the tranquil manmade lake on the hotel’s inner perimeter or looking out over the stunning bush on its outer perimeter. Rooms are classicallydecorated in warm colours with finishes that give them a unique Zimbabwean twist. Every room has air conditioning, which is a welcome relief from the scorching African heat in the summer months, and a heater to warm up in the cold ones. Many of the rooms also feature balconies, which serve as the perfect space in which 24 Business Events Africa April 2018

A TREASURE TROVE OF ADVENTURE

The Victoria Falls rain forest is an absolutely stunning sight to behold. Delegates will get wet, so may want to wear a rain jacket, or perhaps rather dance in it. Wait for a full moon, and witness the lunar rainbow over the spray of Victoria Falls. If the delegates have a strong heart and a thirst for adrenaline, then a dip in Devils Pool on Livingstone Island is what they’re looking for. A tamer adventure, but one that is no less awe-inspiring, is to go on an elephant back safari and experience Africa’s largest mammal’s sunrise and sunset routine as they wander through the bush. Take a trip back in time on a Historical Bridge Tour with Georges Imbault, the chief construction engineer of the historical bridge that brought two countries together. There are also plenty of popular activities to enjoy. Take to the sky on the Flight of Angels, a helicopter ride in which delegates can experience a breathtakingly different perspective of the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls. Or get the delegates’ hearts pumping with a ride on a high wire over the Zambezi Gorge, or a zip line over the Zambezi River. Delegates can have a scrumptious meal at The Boma, where guests can indulge in a selection of traditional African food followed by interactive drumming and African entertainment, suitable for all ages. Whether delegates want to explore local culture, get an adrenaline fix, see beautiful African wildlife or shop the days away, one can do it all here and afterwards return to the ultimate base camp, The Kingdom at Victoria Falls. www.businesseventsafrica.com

A StAy to RemembeR Zimbabwe, home to diverse cultures and superior service, offers guests a memorable stay. At the mighty Victoria Falls - one of the seven natural wonders of the world - there is so much to explore and enjoy!

Elephant Hills Resort

The Kingdom at Victoria Falls

• 276 Rooms • 5 minute drive from the Victoria Falls, and a 20 minute drive from Victoria Falls International Airport • Conference facilities for up to 500 delegates

• 294 Rooms • Within walking distance of the Victoria Falls • Conference facilities for up to 130 delegates

Bookings & Enquiries Tel: +27 11 8066888 / Fax: +27 11 8066899 / Email: hotels@legacyhotels.com

www.LegacyHotels.com

Technology & AV

There’s a ‘bright bunch’

at Gearhouse

The Gearhouse Group of Companies has made significant investments in the latest lighting technology over the start of 2018.

t’s crucial for us as the largest technical supplier in South Africa to make this sort of regular CAPEX outlay. It keeps our capabilities ahead of the pack” said Peter Abrahamse, lighting workshop manager for the Johannesburg Branch. “So far, we have taken delivery of 460 brand new lighting fixtures and seven new desks, which have immediately been deployed around the country. We split the purchase between the Gearhouse South Africa and INHOUSE Venue Technical Management branches according to their specific requirements.” Adrian Skinner, Johannesburg lighting operations manager, added: “The fixture purchases for this year

were mostly rider-driven. We had to consider the individual needs of a very diverse spread of client and event types as well as the particular characteristics of our regional lighting needs. “The Western Cape region, for example, tends to prefer a more compact product suited to venues with less headroom, while the Johannesburg region prefers the shutter functionality and brightness output of a larger unit like the BMFLs. The KwaZulu-Natal market is primarily looking for ease of use and reliability.” The team cherry-picked items across the Robe, Phillips, MA Lighting and Martin stables; buying 48 Robe BMFL Blades, 48 Robe LEDBeam 150’s, 48 Robe Spiiders,

48 Phillips Varilite VLZs and 7 MA Dot 2 Consoles through local distributor DWR Distribution. A further 192 Martin Rush Pars, 48 Quantum Washes and 28 Quantum Profiles were purchased through Electrosonic, which holds the Martin Professional agency in South Africa. Stuart Andrews, branch operations manager, said that each fixture has attributes that make it the ‘favourite’ for a specific application or market sector. “The BMFLs are currently the highest discharge light output in the Johannesburg lighting arsenal, coupled with the fastest shutters in the game and high-speed precision movement while the VLZs offer unparalleled

Peter Abrahamse, Stuart Andrews, Andile Msimang, Adrian Skinner, Robert Grobler and Bernard Harris take delivery of the MA Desks and Spiiders.

26 Business Events Africa April 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Technology & AV

brightness for an LED profile and both have phenomenal shutter versatility, which makes them ideal for corporates, theatre use and concerts,” says Stuart. The compact size and intensity of the Quantum Profiles and Robe Spiiders have made them a winner in the Cape Town market for quite some time already, and the new units are supplementary to the Cape Town branch’s existing Quantum and Robe 600 stockholding. Andrew Gleave, CTN lighting operations manager, said: “This highoutput LED fixture has great onboard effects for everything from the rock and roll stages to high-profile corporates but also lends itself to TV work due to its colour mixing and even field of light and low power consumption.” “The multi-functional, diminutive Spiiders are a notch brighter than the Robe 600 which they will replace in the Durban branch and offer superior control on channel programming” added Goodman Nyoka, who heads up the lighting division in the Durban branch. Mr Skinner continued: “The Rush Pars have a fantastic zoom function and

extraordinary reliability which make them solid workhorses, and they are really valued for that. The LEDBeam 150s also provides great eye candy in a compact housing. And let’s face it, designers cannot ever have enough quality beam

Adrian Skinner, Bill Lawford and Peter Abrahamse take delivery of the BMFL Blades.

light, so they are also always in demand.” Sounds like we have a lot of happy customers here and looks like Gearhouse is set to shine brightly in 2018.

Market news

STAND OUT EXHIBITIONS

Takes a stand to new heights “Stand Out Exhibitions was born out of my desire to do things differently. My aim is to provide a service that drastically differentiates your business from the competition,” said Dylan Solomon, founder and managing director of the company.

tand Out Exhibitions started on 1 August 2017, but officially began operations from 1 December 2017. Mr Solomon said: “We want our clients to stand out and be different, hence the name Stand Out Exhibitions. “The company was founded and is owner-run by myself. I started in the exhibition industry in 2000 and have 18 years’ experience. I have won two personal EXSA (Exhibition and Event Association of South Africa) awards for outstanding service. “Stand Out Exhibitions was born out of my desire to do things differently, with values that focus on excellent client relationships, quality products, and outstanding service,” Mr Solomon said. He said: “Our main market is the exhibitors who find themselves in between

28 Business Events Africa April 2018

the shell-scheme stands and big-budget design stands. I offer a unique service to this market, who I believe has not been fully serviced in the past. Big companies’ budgets are becoming smaller, and smaller companies need to stand out at exhibitions. It is at this crossroad that we provide a unique service, which needs out-of-the-box thinking.” “Why Stand Out Exhibitions is different is because we are not just about building exhibition stands or providing infrastructure; we aim to partner with our clients and use our knowledge of the exhibition industry to equip our clients with the best possible experience and outcome while exhibiting. “We do this through our value-added service, which is our own application where exhibitors can use our technology

to collect and qualify leads at their exhibition stand. This assists our clients to get a measurable return on their investment while exhibiting.” Stand Out Exhibitions is based in Modderfontein, Johannesburg, and with its network of suppliers can service clients countrywide. He concluded: “The gap in the market is the exhibitors and organisers of the smaller businesses, or bigger businesses who need to watch their costs. This market has, I believe, been overlooked, and not given a service that provides something different, while understanding budget constraints. “These are often smaller businesses who need a service provider who cares and is interested in helping them achieve their goals and objectives.”

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business events with a fresh approach We understand how important your business event is to you. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we offer uniquely South African solutions that you and your delegates can benefit from. Take your business events to the fun level at an ATKV Resort with the following business options: Meetings We offer packages and services that prevent the boredom from kicking in. By combining business and fun, we ensure that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not all work and no play. Incentives We offer luxury incentive packages that will give you the right tools to motivate and reward employees for their achievements. Conferences Our unique conference packages ensure that your delegates can focus on business and pleasure to keep them alert and engaged. Events Get event packages that ensure a memorable event including the peace of mind that our skilled staff are making sure everything runs smoothly. Contact Us Minister Kganyago Manager â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Business Events Marketing T: 011 919 9056 | M: 079 513 8708 E: ministerk@atkv.org.za W: www.atkvresorts.co.za/Conferences

Company highlight | ATKV Resorts

ATKV Resorts

contributing to a greater purpose “The business events industry in South Africa is experiencing a total paradigm shift,” said Minister Kganyago, manager: business events marketing of ATKV Resorts.

nly the companies that are prepared to face the changes required in this exciting era will survive. Flexibility and adaptability will be the order of the day for those seeking to make meaningful contributions within the business events space. “It goes without saying that more and more business events visitors will be seeking total full experiences when doing business. This will force business organisations to collaborate in order to compete with other local and international markets. With business events, the sum of the whole is greater than its equal parts,” he added.

ATKV Resorts provides the full business events package Mr Kganyago said: “ATKV Resorts has the ideal solution: seven unrivalled resorts situated nationwide amidst a host of cultural treasures, heritage sites and other exciting attractions available at affordable rates.

“Safe, secure and superbly situated, these premium resorts are the ideal venue to make your conference a working success, or holiday a memory of a lifetime. “Unrivalled natural beauty contributes to clear thinking, innovative solutions and unmatched achievement. “Many of our facilities boast spacious, well-equipped conference venues that can accommodate up to 800 delegates. The success of your conference is only a call away.” Mr Kganyago, a young Pedi man born in Limpopo, is driving ATKV Resorts transformation into the business events arena. He is passionate about marketing and is currently studying for a Masters Degree in Communication. “Business events is one of the pivotal economic tourism drivers in South Africa, and we would like to be part of that success story. We undoubtedly have unique products to offer within this space. Our venues, all in very strategic

parts of the country, are scenic, tranquil and simply conducive for any event. “The business events space gives ATKV Resorts an opportunity to contribute to a greater purpose. We see our venues as playing a significant role in the outcomes and objectives of the various groups that come to the resort. “We curate an environment we believe will influence the type of outcomes business groups are looking for whenever they convene at our venues,” Mr Kganyago added. In conclusion, he said: “We strive to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the trends in the industry. Delegates who come to our resorts enjoy experiential conferencing. We always apply a fresh approach on how we do things. At the end of the day, we want delegates to go home with meaningful and memorable experiences.”

LOCATION: Magaliesburg, North West. ACCOMMODATION: 800 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: five rooms and one hall. IDEAL FOR: events and incentives.

ATKV Klein-Kariba resort in one of the Waterberg’s most beautiful kloofs. This top-class resort offers a wide range of accommodation options with true bushveld hospitality. At the adventure centre, larger school, student or church groups can make use of Klein-Kariba’s facilities at a reduced rate. With various activities, recreational facilities and amenities such as a restaurant, fast-food restaurant and a well-stocked shop, there is no such thing as boredom at ATKV Klein-Kariba.

ATKV Resorts BUFFELSPOORT

KLEIN-KARIBA Buffelspoort resort is situated less than an hour from both Pretoria and Johannesburg, and is just a stone’s throw from the world-renowned Sun City. With a variety of self-catering accommodation and recreational facilities and activities, a restaurant, a fast-food section and a well-equipped shop, Buffelspoort provides the ideal base to explore the wealth of tourist attractions in the area. 30 Business Events Africa April 2018

Just outside Bela-Bela, some 90 minutes from Johannesburg and an hour’s drive from Pretoria, lies the inviting

LOCATION: Bela Bela, Limpopo. ACCOMMODATION: 500 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: three rooms and one hall. IDEAL FOR: meetings, incentives, conferences and events. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Company highlight | ATKV Resorts

LOCATION: Rawsonville, Worcester, Western Cape. ACCOMMODATION: 800 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: three breakaway venues and five hall venues. IDEAL FOR: meetings, incentives, conferences and events.

NATALIA

HARTENBOS ATKV Natalia beach resort can be found just 40 km south of Durban – a tropical paradise with balmy, blissful weather all year round. Accommodation options include spacious and comfortable selfcatering apartments in various sizes, and a lush green caravan park with top-class facilities.

LOCATION: Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal. ACCOMMODATION: 700 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: five rooms and one hall. IDEAL FOR: meetings and events. Ends

EILAND SPA

LOCATION: Durban South Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. ACCOMMODATION: 300 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: two rooms and one hall. IDEAL FOR: meetings and events.

ATKV Hartenbos is situated along the world-famous Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, some 8 km from Mossel Bay and 40 km from George airport. Boasting conference facilities that can accommodate groups of up to 1 000 delegates, ATKV Hartenbos is also the perfect choice for an inspirational conference. The venue boasts a new lifestyle centre called Hartenbos Seafront.

Ends

GOUDINI SPA

LOCATION: Hartenbos, Mosselbaai, Western Cape. ACCOMMODATION: 1 000 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: two rooms and one event venue. IDEAL FOR: meetings, incentives, conferences and events. Ends

DRAKENSVILLE

Only an hour from Cape Town, in the heart of the Boland Mountains, you’ll find ATKV Goudini Spa resort with its healing mineral baths and more fun activities than you’ll ever be able to fit into one holiday. ATKV Goudini Spa’s range of selfcatering holiday accommodation, entertainment and recreational facilities will meet absolutely everyone’s needs, from the free-spirited to the fussy. Activities on the resort include an array of natural hot pools, hot supertube, tennis and volleyball court, games room and picturesque nature walks. The resort boasts excellent conference facilities, which can accommodate up to 800 conference delegates. www.businesseventsafrica.com

and offers access to numerous tourist attractions in the vicinity. The resort has a variety of accommodation, adventure activities and recreational facilities, plus a restaurant, fast-food restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop.

On the southern banks of the Letaba River, only 68 km east of Tzaneen in the Limpopo province, lies ATKV Eiland Spa in the heart of the Hans Merensky Nature Reserve. Eiland Spa, with its year-round warm, sunny weather and diverse natural beauty, is one of the most popular resorts in South Africa. With its variety of self-catering accommodation, recreational facilities and activities, restaurant and healing hydro spa, ATKV Eiland Spa is the ideal place for the entire family to come and relax. The serene tranquillity and peaceful silence of the bushveld surroundings create the ideal atmosphere for positive and imaginative business planning and team building. LOCATION: Letsitele, Limpopo. ACCOMMODATION: 250 delegates. CONFERENCE ROOMS: three rooms and one hall. IDEAL FOR: meetings.

Just over three hours’ drive from Johannesburg and Bloemfontein, and about two-and-a-half hours from Durban, you will find the ATKV Drakensville holiday resort near the foothills of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre, a world heritage site. ATKV Drakensville, with its breathtaking views, is surrounded by historical landmarks

Central bookings +27 11 919 9092 oordedigitaal@atkv.org.za www.atkvresorts.co.za Business Events Africa April 2018 31

Company highlight | Inspire Furniture

Meet the

Inspire Furniture team Inspire Furniture Rental strives to be the best in its field – furniture rentals. The company was started in 2014 with the aim to be the best specialist furniture rental company. Chad Botha

Director and Co-Founder Age: 51 What is your passion? New ventures, socialising and meeting new people and travelling. How long have you been in the sector? Rentals and events for 25 years, furniture rentals for 15 years. Why Inspire? We are very passionate about people, service delivery and being the best at what we do. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Blowup loungers as they are easy to transport, great to sit and sleep on and a lot of fun. Most important they were my entrance back into the industry when I was down and out.

Gibson Karimakuenda Branch Manager Age 32

What is your passion? Running the site (setting up or breakdown of event or exhibition). How long have you been in the sector? 11 years. Why Inspire? Because we deliver the best quality and best service. What is your favorite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Brown deep-button chesterfield and brown deepbutton wingback because it makes me feel like a king.

32 Business Events Africa April 2018

Theo Botha

Vengai Chabikwa

National Manager Age: 50 What is your passion? To create the WOW factor for my internal and external clients. Work satisfaction and to ensure that I have happy clients is also my passion. How long have you been in the sector? 28 years. Why Inspire? We strive to make life easier for our clients by maintaining industry-leading standards. We are committed to honesty and professionalism. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Zavier bar stool, it is one of the most versatile bar stools and has satisfied our clients with its capability to fit into almost any setting for functions, events or exhibitions every time. Be it with a back rest, wooden seat, half back rest, whichever colour, it always works.

Operations Manager Age: 35

What is your passion? Striving to run my own Inspire branch in one of the SA cities. How long have you been in the sector? Four years. Why Inspire? It’s one of the companies that doesn’t look at a worker and leave him/her at the same position, they give their workers chances to grow . The good example is myself, I was a driver when I joined [this family] and they believe in me that I can run operations. Today I can proudly stand here and say we are the best. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Never had a specific favourite piece of furniture at Inspire. I love all the furniture we have, its different. One can actually tell which furniture belongs to Inspire in a venue with five suppliers. Our quality is the best.

Prudence N Masango Rental Sales Consultant Age: 34

What is your passion? I am passionate about meeting people and interacting with them. I love to socialise, and I remain in touch with my contacts all the time. How long have you been in the sector? It will be my third this year with Inspire. Why Inspire? I understood that this company was on its way up when I started in this industry. The word of mouth that was spreading about the great opportunities offered, and I very much wanted to be part of this growing business. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? It’s the Ontario double-seater – its comfortable and my feet can touch the ground whilst sitting. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Company highlight | Inspire Furniture

Amber Rose Van Der Walt

Val Mwanandimai Reservations Manager Age: 39

Position Reservations/ Consultant Age 23 What is your passion? My passion is this industry: the busyness, the people I deal with, as well as children and cooking are my biggest passions. How long have you been in the sector? For roughly three years (1.5 years at Inspire). Why Inspire? Why Inspire, because we are busy. I love the run around, I love the variety we can offer the customer. Our customers love this variety, as well as the quantity, therefore we never have to turn clients away. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? My favourite piece of furniture is the big bubble lounger.

How long have you been in the sector? About 10 years. Why Inspire? I had an amazing mentor: Chad not only taught me how to think out of the box, but how to completely destroy and burn down the box. Working with him is an adventure. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Definitely, the Galaxy lounger. It’s a statement piece, like nothing I have seen before, and the look on clients’ faces the first time they see it is priceless!

Manager Age 43

What is your passion? Making everybody laugh and smile – at least one person a day, staff and customers. How long have you been in the sector? 15 years Why Inspire? I have been working for Chad from the beginning and have a lot of respect for him and his vision. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? The Lunar. I have slept at the office a few times when working late, and the Lunar is the best lounger to sleep on.

Chantal Tait Granny Mahada

Godfrey Tumelo Lebogo

Rental Sales Consultant

Age: 24

What is your passion? I want to learn new things on a daily basis.

Key Account Manager Age: 38 years What is your passion? I am so passionate about what I do, and I love and enjoy it very much. How long have you been in the sector? Eight years in this industry. Why Inspire? Inspire is like my home. Team work is amazing, communication always.

How long have you been in the sector? Three years. Why Inspire? Because we learn new things every day and meet different people. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Zavier café chair because it easy to set up, and I like the look of it.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

What is your passion? Helping people.

Costa van Zyl

What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Pallet furniture, because you can set it up anywhere. Outside and inside as well.

Sales Consultant Age: 29 Years old What is your passion? I love making people happy. I love to see my clients happy. How long have you been in the sector? I have worked in the events industry for 10 years. Why Inspire? Inspire Furniture is the best in the industry. We take pride in what we do, and we supply quality furniture. We are always there to assist our clients day and night. We go the extra mile. What is your favourite Inspire piece of furniture and why? Barcelona singleseater. It’s simple yet classy and unusual. Business Events Africa April 2018 33

Company highlight | Creative Event Solutions

Creative Event Solutions

A unique alternative to your event “Creative Event Solutions provides unique alternatives to the current offerings in the market,” said Paul van der Riet, managing director of Creative Event Solutions.

ur structures are eye catching yet have incredible strength to weight ratio’s. TUV certification provides peace of mind. Offering new and exciting benefits on structures and furniture like temporary removable branding and modular concepts, allows clients to be more creative than ever before. “So too on furniture from flat pack event specific furniture that does not compromise on quality and strength to inflatable domes and furniture that offer extreme low logistics and manpower. “Brand and event managers are now in a position to offer their clients a fresh look and feel,” Mr van der Riet said.

Core Event Structures was founded in 2014 with the main focus on new and innovative event products. All our products must conform to at least three of five advantages. Low logistics, brand friendly, modular ability, visually stimulating and low manpower. 34 Business Events Africa April 2018

• TUV certified up to 100 km winds • No tension cables needed • Modular advantage, the ability to connect various sizes. • Temporary branding option for rentals

Ts & Cs · I n order to ensure better

efficiencies during the peak season, payment must be received within 72 hours of your job. Stock will only be picked once payment is received. We cannot guarantee timeous deliveries if payment is made after 72 hours (3 days). A 100% cancellation fee will apply to all jobs cancelled within 72 hours.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Company highlight | Creative Event Solutions

In 2017, Chad Botha from Inspire Furniture, who saw the potential in the uniqueness of the product, purchased 50% of the company, Core Event Structures. It has now been rebranded as Creative

Event Solutions.

TGCSA update

Grading Council introduces new discounts On 1 February 2018, South African Tourism introduced new discounts for grading. Establishments can now save up to 90 per cent on the cost of grading, and are able to receive all the benefits of being star-graded, thanks to changes made to the Tourism Grading Support Programme.

ourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) have been and will continue to administer this programme, and introduce attractive new discounts to bring new players into the system while incentivising existing members to maintain their grading status. The programme was introduced by the National Department of Tourism in

2015 to encourage more accommodation establishments and venues to become graded, while empowering emerging players and accelerating the transformation of the sector. The TGCSA allocates star gradings to establishments based on their service offerings, providing local and international visitors with an

FAQ Who will qualify for the discounted grading?

All establishments who meet the qualifying criteria can access the discount either at point of initial application or upon renewal of membership.

Do I have to courier the tax clearance certificate to the TGCSA? The tax clearance certificate has to be uploaded online as part of a new application or renewal application for all establishments who want to access the discount.

Do I have to comply with all conditions of the discount in order to qualify? Yes, all conditions are mandatory to qualify for the discount.

When do the discounts commence? All discounts will be applied effective 1 February 2018 for new and renewal membership applications.

36 Business Events Africa April 2018

internationally benchmarked assurance of quality. The pilot phase of the programme, which forms part of the department’s Tourism Incentive Programme, offered rebates on the grading assessment fees paid to the TGCSA. The rebate system has now been replaced by an upfront discount on assessment fees as part of the TGCSA’s improved online grading application process. The changes mean that graded establishments can save up to 90 per cent of their membership fees for a period of three years if they meet programme criteria (such as tax and BBBEE compliance), and are Tourism Levy South Africa (TOMSA) members. The one per cent TOMSA levy collected by accommodation and meetings establishments is used to augment South African Tourism’s annual budget allocation to market South Africa.

What happens if I have not yet paid my invoice? Will you apply the discount before I make payment? All discounts will be applied effective 1 February 2018 for new and renewal membership applications that meet the qualifying criteria.

What happens if I don’t meet some or all the conditions for the discount? Establishments must meet all the requirements in order to qualify for the discounted grading fee. Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in the standard membership fees being applicable. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Page strap

Grow your business, earn your stars and get up to 90% off. Visit www.tourismgrading.co.za

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa April 2018 37

A local perspective

The psychology of customisation in experience design By Tamlynne Wilton, chief ideas officer, idna

Henry Ford once said of the Ford Model T: “You can have any colour you want, as long as it’s black”. Fast forward 100 odd years and consumers can now choose from a variety of different makes, models and colours.

reakfast options are endless – I am personally fond of shaking up my breakfast regime. You can drive to your next meeting or order an Uber. You can attend a meeting in person or connect with clients via Skype. The bottom line is - we are spoilt for choice. We expect options that suit our individual preferences. Unfortunately, brands who continue to adopt a one size fits all approach will crash

Who is Tamlynne Wilton? Tamlynne has a degree in psychology from the University of the Witwatersrand and has more than 17 years of experience in the conference and association industry, both locally and internationally, having worked on some of South Africa’s largest conferences and campaigns. Through her studies, she developed a keen interest in neuropsychology and the impact that the brain has on consumer behaviour. She is the founder and chief ideas officer of idna (pronounced idea-NA) a strategic marketing agency. Her background in psychology gives her a deep understanding of the human mind and how it impacts the decisions we make. She believes that events provide a powerful platform to inspire audiences and effect change, and combines her knowledge of psychology, marketing and sociology to create touchpoints that are truly unforgettable.

38 Business Events Africa April 2018

and burn. In order to understand why, you first need to understand that the human brain is emotional. Driven by ego and the gratification of the “self“, it really is all about “me“. This one size fits all approach doesn’t make “me” feel important. In fact, it feels like you bought a bunch of average T-shirts on sale and have given me one of them (lucky me), even though 1) it isn’t my size and 2) it makes me look like the Oros man – orange really isn’t my colour. You’re wondering why I‘m not grateful for this amazing gift, but all I’m thinking is “meh”. When it comes to attending an event, I want an experience that has been curated with my specific preferences and needs in mind. A study into whether customisation impacts advertising effectiveness (Laura Bright, Journal of Marketing Communications, 2012); found that humans prefer personalisation, because it quenches our desire for control. Even if this sense of control is an illusion, it’s still powerful, and can have a positive effect on your psyche. The study goes on to say that people who believe that they are in control of their life choices tend to be healthier psychologically and more successful.

How does this apply to an event experience? With the power of personalisation in mind, we are partnering with one of our clients, the Green Building Council SA on their annual Convention to try out something new. Titled “Choose Your Own Adventure”, delegates will have more control over their convention experience. From past experience, we know that some delegates attend conventions for networking purposes and aren’t interested in sessions at all. It begs the question, why should they pay the same amount as those who want to enjoy the full experience? Delegates to the Green Building

Convention will be able to design their own convention. They have the choice. We are taking it one step further. The way you learn at events should be tailored too. We are applying the psychology of learning to further enhance the experience. Take Kate, for example. She works at a bank and learns best with facts and figures. She requires structured notes and case studies to truly absorb information. Thabiso, on the other hand, is an architect and has a ‘big picture’ visual learning style. He gets horribly bored with too much detail and speakers who cater to Kate’s preferred learning style will trigger the inevitable “kill me now” tweet.

How do we engage all our delegates with their unique learning preferences in mind? It’s impossible to cater to each individual person, but what we can do is conduct online generic assessments to sort delegates according to the main learning styles. From there we can make recommendations as to which sessions would be beneficial to specific individuals and the delegate then has the choice. By tailoring the experience to our delegates, we are not only ensuring value for money, but we are also ensuring a truly unforgettable learning experience. The power of personalisation is therefore undeniable, and is relevant across all sectors. Not only do delegates feel important, but it also allows them to exercise agency, giving them ultimate control over how they choose to interact with your brand. Cookie cutter experiences just don’t cut it anymore, so by making your event more personal, you buy loyalty. Black is fabulously classic, but if our delegates want purple, pink, green, brown or yellow, we need to be ready to dip our brush in any colour they want! www.businesseventsafrica.com

Africa’s Travel Indaba preview

Be part of Africa’s rising tourism story at

Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018 A treasure chest of small “gems” offering the modern traveller unforgettable African experiences, plus plush luxury establishments that redefine the meaning of five-star travel – that’s just a taste of the variety that’s on offer at this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba, which will shine a spotlight on the continent’s finest tourism products and services from 8 to 10 May 2018.

he 2018 edition of the continent’s largest and longest-running travel showcase, brought to you by South African Tourism, is expected to see about 7 000 exhibitors, travel buyers, journalists and tourism industry professionals converging on the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. There, they will explore the vast array of opportunities being offered by the rapidly growing African tourism economy, which is riding high after recording an 8 per cent average growth in international arrivals in 2017. The three jam-packed tradeshow days will be preceded by a day of workshops and talks on 7 May 2018, known as the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay). This year, there will also be a special focus on Nelson Mandela to mark the centenary of the global icon’s birth. With this year’s theme of Africa’s Stories, Your Success echoing South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s inspiring “send me” call to action, Africa’s Travel Indaba is gearing up for another lively trade show with a refreshed look and feel and a renewed impetus to grow tourism sustainably on the continent, said South African Tourism’s chief executive officer, Sisa Ntshona. “The modern traveller is looking for a

www.businesseventsafrica.com

travel experience that is distinctive and authentic, and travel in Africa offers exactly that: an unforgettable experience that leaves you with stories to tell. It is these real, incredible African stories that inspire our continent’s world-class tourism products and drive their business forward,” Mr Ntshona, elaborated on the theme. “The world is increasingly looking to Africa as a vibrant continent where they can shape lasting travel memories. These are the stories we want to amplify at our continent’s premier tourism trade show in 2018. We want the African tourism economy to help write the story of Africa’s prosperity. We want the world to be moved by Africa.” The exhibition has undergone a complete brand transformation, launched at last year’s show. Mr Ntshona said that the new look for Africa’s Travel Indaba was not just about updating and modernising the brand; it was also designed to refresh the trade show and maximise business success for participants over the three days of the exhibition. “The Indaba was originally a typical exhibition show, with a few presentations and events scheduled in between, but we have now developed a more robust African conference, workshop and event schedule for this year’s event,” Mr Ntshona explained.

“This will provide the latest insights and intelligence to help businesses to not only buy and sell travel, but also to inspire them to innovate and take advantage of global trends and opportunities arising from the fourth industrial revolution.” According to Mr Ntshona, participants have many enhancements to look forward to at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2018, including an impressive speaker line-up of African thought leaders, 45 new first-time exhibiting small businesses (in addition to the 90 “Hidden Gems” from across South Africa), and a celebration of the centenary of Nelson Mandela’s birth. Africa’s Travel Indaba comes hot on the heels of South African Tourism’s Meetings Africa trade show. The exhibition recently concluded its 13th edition at the Sandon Convention Centre, attracting some 3 000 global and African delegates to explore Africa as a business events destination. “Each year we learn more and push ourselves a bit further when we organise and manage these continental trade platforms. This year, we are going all out to find ways to support the African tourism industry to achieve doubledigit growth,” Mr Ntshona said. Exhibitors, buyers and members of the media are invited to register now and be part of Africa’s tourism success story by visiting www.indaba-southafrica.co.za.

Business Events Africa April 2018 39

SAACI news

The value of experiences and storytelling By Rudi Van Der Vyver, chief executive officer of SAACI

We are constantly faced with reinventing ourselves, our companies, our industry and the way we think and approach the architecture and design of a business event. We need to do this, not only to remain relevant in this fast paced and ever-changing landscape of business events but also to provide value to our clients through increasing return on investment.

his ROI is however measured and achieved through various forms and avenues, but all of this starts with the professionalism of the event organiser/planner (whether this is an internal or external role). Bringing the above introduction back to the value of experiences and storytelling, again we point out that as the professional we need to fully understand the objective of the business event. We need to have a firm grasp on the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s short and long-term objectives not only for the specific event but also what the post event objectives are as these must be part of the architecture and design of the short-term event in order to create a

lasting effect with positive residual spin offs from this initial client investment. We have seen over the years the value that experiential marketing creates and the ROI this achieves over traditional marketing efforts. This same trend is seen in training interventions, meetings and conferences alike. By creating a valued and memorable experience we see interaction and engagement increaseÂ exponentially. We encourage delegates/attendees to be involved, share knowledge and ideas and move away from a setting where people are being spoken at to a setting where ideas are shared, and innovation is encouraged. This in itself doubles the ROI of any business event interaction.

To add onto the creation of experiences we need to focus on the design of our content programme. Storytelling creates relatable content, and in the same manner as a mentor teaches and imparts knowledge from real life experience, we see this effect with speakers at a businessÂ event. Lastly, the entire architecture/design of the business event should tell its own story. There should be a flow to the event that puts the objectives of the event front and centre in a relatable manner. This is a concept we at SAACI utilise for our own events as well as our annual congress and this concept is also followed by our international partner associations like PCMA and the Event Industry Council.

AAXO news

B2B: the one-on-one platform that delivers instant results By Carol Weaving, chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)

Social media marketing has been a focus for global brands for several years now. But as this field evolves into an art form, marketers are starting to look for better ways to personalise their messaging and product experience, encourage one-on-one engagement and better analyse customer sentiment.

o achieve personalised interaction and get real-time market feedback, you could expand your social media teams, invest in better analytics software, or you could simply invest in the time-honoured method of engaging with customers: the exhibition. Expos, trade fairs and B2B events tick all the boxes social media teams are busily trying to tick, especially when it comes to B2B engagement: • B2B events conveniently target and consolidate the right market, without extensive social media influencer research. With targeted B2B events, the market comes to you. • They offer hours – even days – of engagement opportunities. Unlike social media, B2B exhibitions give brands and customers an opportunity

to ask questions, get personalised answers and dig deeper into the brand benefits immediately. •B 2B events secure a willing audience. No spamming, cold calling or unwanted connection requests: B2B event attendees are there because they want to be, and they’re keen to learn about your brand and products. • T hey deliver immediate market sentiment feedback. Many startups and new products use B2B events as an ideal beta launch platform – gauging market response and getting input to help them refine their offerings. •B 2B events offer the perfect ‘peg’ for social media marketing and PR efforts. Participation in a key event offers any number of opportunities for an integrated communications campaign.

While there’s no doubt that social media will play an increasingly important role in PR and marketing, it’s worth remembering that some of the main KPIs marketing teams are trying to get out of social media are already easily available through B2B events. As part of AAXO’s ongoing commitment to exhibition training facilitation, the creation of networking opportunities and to enhance the knowledge and opportunities that expo participation presents, AAXO will host exhibition training sessions at MADEX 2018, ‘ the ultimate marketing, advertising, design, social media and all that good stuff expo’, to be staged at the Sandton Convention Centre from 6-7 June.

EXSA news

EXSA announces its new board It is with great pleasure that we announce the new board members of EXSA. 2018 is certainly going to bring not only new faces, but fresh input and strategies for EXSA, and these are very exciting times. By Gill Gibbs, EXSA ExCo

hen the new board holds its first meeting since its appointment, board orientation will take place. This will provides us with a unique forum for our association to help new board members to understand the roles and responsibilities that are expected of them. A solid foundation ensures success and a sound board orientation yields better than best practice and performance. We will also share essential information that our new trustees are required to know, and we will utilise the opportunity to bring our new members up to date about where we are today and what our goals are for the future. We will be briefing our board members on the state of play of the key initiatives and issues that the board will be dealing with in 2018 and beyond. In this way, we not only attend to the fundamentals, but we also allow room for creativity, new strategies, and innovative thinking. Doug Rix, EXSA ExCo, said: ‘’The collective approach of the new board is relevant, innovative, collaborative and engaging. We encourage partnering

up, balancing the tasks and the required planning through interest groups and subcommittees, drafting assistance from our members whilst highlighting and evoking the principles of good governance and shaping our culture.’’ EXSA is a passionate and committed platform that helps members of the industry connect, engage, learn and grow. This is achieved through promoting the unique marketing benefits offered by exhibitions and events and raising the profile of our members, who include venues, agencies, designers and design houses and suppliers. Mr Rix said: “The EXSA landscape is changing and evolving, and we encourage our members and prospective members to jump on board.” Information, assistance, guidance, research, data collection, mentorship, good governance and training are our

key objectives at EXSA, and we have the unique opportunity of packaging these as a key value proposition to our members. EXSA will develop its strategic alliances nationally & internationally with memberships and reciprocity agreements that are in place with AAXO, IFES, UFI, ESSA, IAEE. There are also intriguing and viable future agreements earmarked with key stakeholders in the industry that will be penned. Our calendar for 2018 includes industry networking opportunities, events, the annual EXSA-llence in Industry Awards, the annual EXSA conference and our new and innovative EXSA Meets. As active and dedicated EXSA and industry members, we will write the narrative whilst we rethink the fundamentals, take new and viable risks and allow the new EXSA to write its place in the story.

SITE news

Site Southern Africa launches youth seminars By Peter-John Mitrovich, president of Site Southern Africa

The first quarter of 2018 is wrapped, and South Africa has had an eventful three months.

ITE Southern Africa is a collective of members, all with a mutual interest in the world of incentives and meetings. It is through feedback and networking with our members that we as an association are able to identify the pitfalls, challenges and successes of our industry. Some key matters in our industry in the past three months have been the water concerns in the Western Cape, the recent listeriosis scare and, of course, the 1 April VAT increase. Indeed, these are all matters that require our attention, and have created many debates. We as trade remain resilient to manage each individual concern. However, one fact that is more frequently making noise in our trade is the shortage of skilled professionals, and more specifically the growth of youth in our trade. SITE Southern Africa acknowledges this concern, and we have introduced

the SITE Southern Africa Youth Seminars. The aim with these seminars is to engage our current membership, and also the youth interested in pursuing careers in the world of meeting and incentives, to better understand the opportunities within these fields. In each seminar, SITE Southern Africa invite a sequence of trade professionals to each provide an overview of what they do, and how their trade dovetails into the world of meetings or incentives. The following fields are addressed in each seminar: accommodation, destination management, convention bureaus, exhibitions, venues, event planners, audio visual and staging, catering, destination marketing and more. Providing an overview to student attendees opens a broader perspective on opportunities in our industry. The next seminar will be hosted in Cape Town on 3 May 2018.

Please spread the word amongst your staff or any students you may know, and invite them to attend. If Cape Town is not convenient, we shall be having similar seminars in Durban and Johannesburg later in 2018. For more information, please email our secretary at info@sitesouthernafrica.com. As SITE, our aim is incentive travel excellence, achieved with support and the collaboration of our members and trade. We welcome your support.

What we’re all about: motivational experiences Why we do it? Business results! 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. Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who seek the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary experiences. That organisation is Site...

Contact

Email: info@sitesouthernafrica.com www.sitesouthernafrica.com www.siteglobal.com

Market news

James Khoza elected president of SA Chefs Association

ames Khoza, executive chef of Tsogo Sun’s Sandton Convention Centre, has been elected the first South African born and trained president of the SA Chefs Association since its inception 44 years ago, in an election of anonymous votes cast by the association’s nearly 10 000 members across South Africa. Mr Khoza has been serving as vice president of the association in a joint Competitions portfolio. Mr Khoza said he is deeply humbled and honoured to take on this new role, which he describes as

educational and overwhelming. “I now carry the hopes and aspirations of many chefs and I look forward to continuing the association’s ongoing work of uniting all chefs. SA Chefs is home to all chefs and no one must feel excluded. “I aim to further the association’s work in building a space for development, in ensuring equal opportunity, in improving standards in the industry through training and mentorship, and to working with industry stakeholders to set and maintain the highest level of culinary excellence, growth and development of young chefs and professionalism.”

Mr Khoza has a passion for education and has been gratified by Tsogo Sun’s focus on training and development. During his tenure with Tsogo Sun, both at Sandton Sun and Sandton Convention Centre, he has worked closely with many young learnership students and trainee chefs, personally mentoring them. “I believe that we have a vitally important role to play with the chefs who are starting out – they are our legacy and have the potential to make a difference in our industry in a country that has so much to offer by way of unique ideas and skills.”

Advertisers’ index

April 2018 Vol 38 No 4 ADVERTISER

PAGE EMAIL

WEBSITE

AAXO

aaxo@aaxo.co.za

www.aaxo.co.za

aha Hotels & Lodges

22-23

cro@aha.co.za

www.aha.co.za

Ardmor Hospitality – 26° South

18-19

info@26dsouth.co.za

www.26dsouth.co.za

ATKV Resorts

29-31

oordedigitaal@atkv.org.za

www.atkvresorts.co.za

Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre

OBC

reservations@birchwoodhotel.co.za

www.birchwoodhotel.co.za

Creative Event Structures

34-35

paul@cevents.co.za/ chad@cevents.co.za

www.cevents.co.za

Durban International Convention Centre

OFC, 6-8 sales@icc.co.za

www.icc.co.za

Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau

conventions@durbankzncb.co.za

www.durbankzncb.co.za

Expo Centre Johannesburg

16,17

info@expocentre.co.za

www.expocentre.co.za

EXSA

exsa@exsa.co.za

www.exsa.co.za

Folio Translation Consultants

pziets@folio-online.co.za

www.folio-online.co.za

Gearhouse Group of Companies

26,27

jhb@gearhouse.co.za/ cpt@gearhouse. www.gearhouse.co.za co.za/ dbn@gearhouse.co.za

Inspire Furniture Rentals

32,33

info@inspirefurniture.co.za

www.inspirefurniture.co.za

Legacy Hotels and Resorts

24,25

hotels@legacyhotels.com

www.legacyhotels.com

Peermont Global

reservations@peermont.com

www.peermont.com

Premier Hotel Midrand

20-21

info@premierhotels.co.za

www.premierhotels.co.za

SAACI

IFC, 40

info@saaci.co.za

www.saaci.co.za

SITE

info@sitesouthernafrica.com

www.sitesouthernafrica.com

South African Tourism

11-14

convention@southafrica.net

www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Tourism Grading Council of South Africa

36,37

feedback@tourismgrading.co.za

www.tourismgrading.co.za

44 Business Events Africa April 2018

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Calendar

Conferences, workshops and exhibitions of interest to the conference, exhibition and special events market For free entries in this calendar, please supply information to editorial@businesseventsafrica.com LOCAL 2018 18-20 APRIL: WTM Africa 2018 Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town More information: Thebe Reed Exhibitions Tel: +27 (0)11 549 8300 Email: info@thebereed.co.za 19-20 APRIL: ibtm africa Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre Tel: +27 (0)11 549 8300 Email: ibtmafrica.helpline@thebereed.co.za www.ibtmafrica.com

8-10 MAY: INDABA. Venue: Durban International Convention Centre Tel: +27 (0)11 467 5011 Email: indaba@indaba-southafrica.co.za www.indaba-southafrica.co.za 23-25 JULY: SATSA 2018 Conference Venue: The Boardwalk Hotel, Port Elizabeth Email: conference@satsa.co.za www.satsa.com/satsa-2018-conference 29-31 JULY: SAACI Congress 2018 Venue: Misty Hills in Muldersdrift,

Johannesburg. For more info contact: Ripcord Promotions Tel: +27 (0)11 482 2835 Email: info@saacicongress.org or saaci2018@ripcord.za.com Or SAACI Head Office Tel: +27 (0)11 880 5883 Email: info@saaci.orgwww.saaci. eventsair.com/saaci-2018-congress/ saaci2018/Site/Register www.saacicongress.org

INTERNATIONAL: 2018 Tel: +31 20 398 1961

11- 13 APRIL 2018: ICCA Iberian Chapter Annual Meeting Venue: Granada, Spain www.iccaworld.org/evps/evitem. cfm?id=700

More information: ICCA Netherlands. Tel: +31 20 398 1902

15-17 MAY: IMEX in Frankfurt Venue: Halle 8, Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt | www.imex-frankfurt.com 4 - 6 JUNE 2018: FIEXPO Latin America | Venue: Santiago de Chile, Chile | www.fiexpolatinoamerica.com

15-18 APRIL: ICCA Congress Venue: Sydney, Australia Tel: +61 (0) 2 9254 5000 Email: info@icca2018sydney.com www.icca2018sydney.com 13-15 MAY: Association Expert Seminar | Venue: Frankfurt am Main, Germany. More information: ICCA Netherlands.

16-18 OCTOBER: IMEX America Venue: Sands Expo, Las Vegas, USA www.imexamerica.com

27 - 28 JUNE 2018: The Meetings Show Venue: London, United Kingdom www.themeetingsshow.com

31 OCTOBER-3 NOVEMBER: 85th Congress of the UFI | Venue: Expoforum, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation | www.ufi.org/ufievent/85th-ufi-globalcongress

29 JUNE-1 JULY: ICCA Association Meetings Programme. Venue: Fukuoka, Japan.

11-14 NOVEMBER: 57th ICCA Congress Venue: Dubai, UAE | Tel: +31203981902 www.iccaworld.org

TEL: +27 11 452 1115 FAX: +27 11 452 3609 WEBSITE: www.plaslope.com EMAIL: glenda.aereboe@plaslope.com

TAMPER EVIDENT SECURITY BAGS

• Debasafe® Tamper Evident Security Bags are used whenever tamper-evident movement is critical. • We manufacture to order and assist in tailor-made solutions to suit your security needs. • A comprehensive range of security features are standard on the bags and additional features can be added. • The sealing strip is used for exacting demands with a heat indicator displaying attempts to tamper. • Tampering by means of cold, heat, solvents, liquids & manipulation is clearly visible. • Bags can be customised according to customer’s requirements with exclusive numbering & bar-coding. • Bags are manufactured in either transparent or opaque LDPE film, in various grades to meet specific requirements.

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The bags are used for the safe movement of: • Government Departments • Foreign Exchange • Confidential Documents (Examinations, Elections, Passports, Visas etc.) • High Value Items (Diamonds, Precious Metals, Forensic Evidence, Cellphones, Computer Equipment) • Cash (Banks & Cash-in-Transit companies)

Business Events Africa April 2018 45