EXSA NEWS

Rise up to rebuild South Africa

Once upon a time, we knew how it felt to operate in and be an integral part of the vibrant, exciting and ever-changing exhibition industry.

By Gill Gibbs, chairperson of EXSA.

Nowadays, we have been starkly reminded of how it feels to go through exceptionally trying times in our country, notwithstanding the peaks and troughs of a pandemic. The impact is widespread and there have been waves of fear and trepidation and it has touched the spirits, lives and livelihoods of everyone in some way, shape or form.

As an industry association that has served its industry community for 41 years, the recent events have left us feeling upset and devastated and yet there is hope – seen in the agility, rapid mobilisation and response from nationwide communities – that has spurred us on to rise up through what we are best known for throughout the world — our resilience, adaptability and our gees (spirit).

Despite an industry decimated, we continue to give, sacrifice and assist where we are able to and our industry is standing proud; to know and be associated with such selfless individuals — we salute all of you and we are grateful for you.

So too, have various communities and seemingly unlikely heroes rallied to jump in and assist, especially in the worst affected areas.

With such destruction as could be seen in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng, Operation Cleanup was a huge task.

Now, it is imperative that Operation Rebuild is initiated.

Our effective decisions and actions now, will impact and contribute towards rebuilding South Africa and rebirth is certainly what is required.