42 AAXO introduces new 2024/2025 board at AGM. SITE
43 Site Africa hosts Cape Town event. SAACI
44 Associations: The driving force behind destination success for meetings and events.
EVENT GREENING FORUM
47 A greener, cleaner solution for academic conferences. EXSA
48 EXSA celebrates Global Exhibition Day with AAXO and EGF.
Regulars
DIRECTORY
50 Directory of associations.
MARKET NEWS
52 Eventscase launches EVA, a new virtual assistant via Whatsapp INDEX
52 Index of advertisers and contributors. THE LAST WORD
53 Cultures and cults, what’s behind the buzz word?
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PUBLICATION DETAILS: Business Events Africa June 2024 — Volume 44 No 6 Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year and is published monthly. This magazine is currently only available in digital format.
A little touch of magic
The world we currently live in, is fast-paced, ever-changing, and at times can be unsettling. The business events sector, in all its forms, is able to provide a bit of stability and quite frankly, a little touch of magic.
The exhibition sector provides an annual event calendar, which consumers and trade look forward to. Today, more than ever before, they provide an experiential platform, where you get to experience things firsthand. What I enjoy about the exhibitions I attend, be it consumer or trade, is that it is a wonderful environment to connect, learn and be entertained.
In terms of a trade exhibition, it is a great platform for like-minded individuals to meet old and new contacts, to discover new products and services, and to learn, through industry seminars or conferences, that often run parallel to the show.
Business Events Africa recently interviewed Michael Dehn, from Messe Frankfurt South Africa, and we uncovered what the African market means to this international organisation. We found out a little more about each of the exhibitions that they run in South Africa, and what makes each of them distinctive.
In terms of experiences, incentives are still the most ‘rewarding’.
This month, we celebrate Uwin Iwin and their 30 years of excellence and success.
From humble beginnings, Uwin Iwin has grown into a trusted partner for businesses across various industries, delivering tailored incentive solutions that inspire excellence and drive results. Over the years, they have stayed committed to innovation and excellence, evolving their offerings to meet the changing needs of clients, leveraging innovative technology and industry best practices to deliver impactful incentive programmes. Today, we salute Uwin Win on its 30th anniversary!
Incentives are definitely one of the sectors that always achieves a little touch of magic with its once-in-a-lifetime programmes and rewards.
In this month’s incentive feature, we look at the firsthand account by Lara Wiid, senior account manager, Dragonfly Africa, of the Destination Rally. Wow, what a wild experience!
Hospitality Junxtion Alliance is a full-services Sales & Marketing Representation company.
We dedicate ourselves to promotiong Venues, Hotels, Lodges and Event services through dynamic sales, marketing and networking endeavours.
Definitely worth the read.
Venues play a vital role in incentive experiences, so don’t miss out on the feature about what the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape has on offer.
We also look at international incentive destinations — Kathy Lavery, business development manager, South Africa, euromic shared with Business Events Africa about her MICE FAM trip experience in Scotland.
Lastly, if you are looking for an exclusive incentive idea, look no further than Antarctica. Find out more in this issue on the Ultima Antarctic expeditions.
The business events sector offers industries, trade, consumers, and delegates, some time out from the daily rush… it really does provide ‘a little touch of magic’.
Irene
Email: gomesi@iafrica.com
Image courtesy of Blueberry Hill Hotel, Johannesburg
Credit: Hein Liebetrau
South Africa climbs the meetings rankings
South Africa has improved its global ranking as a business event destination, moving up five spots in the 2023 International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Global Ranking Report. The country remains the number one meeting and conference destination in Africa and the Middle East, according to the 2023 ICCA ranking report.
In 2023, South Africa hosted 98 association meetings and conferences that met the criteria set by the International Congress and Conventions Association (ICCA). These meetings contributed significantly to the South African economy, with a total estimated economic impact of just over R2 billion.
various economic sectors. This is great news for foreign direct investment, export opportunities, and knowledge management and sharing,” Ms Guliwe added.
Business events significantly boost our country’s economic development and growth by generating direct spending and creating jobs, fostering industry innovation and networking, and expanding market opportunities through international exposure. They enhance tourism by attracting delegates from across the globe and improving infrastructure, while also strengthening the country’s global image and cultural exchange. These business events offer professional development for South Africans attending these international conferences, including youth and women from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, fostering future business leaders. Overall, business events are crucial for stimulating economic activity, driving innovation, and promoting long-term economic sustainability.
“For the 2023/2024 Financial Year, the SANCB has sourced and submitted 95 bids for international business events to be hosted in South Africa between 2024 and 2032. The 95 bid submissions have a combined estimated economic value of just over R1.5 billion and can potentially attract 60,040 international and regional delegates to South Africa between 2024 and 2032.
ICCA uses strict criteria for its global rankings, including the requirement that only association conferences are recognised, excluding corporate or governmental meetings and conferences. These conferences must be attended by at least fifty international delegates, last at least two days, and rotate through at least three countries.
Nombulelo Guliwe, chief executive officer of South African Tourism, emphasised the significance of the ranking accolade in enhancing South Africa’s global standing as a prime destination for meetings. This recognition also highlights the country’s progress beyond its pre-Covid performance, showcasing its resilience and growth in the tourism sector.
“South Africa’s ICCA ranking performance illustrates the resilience of the South African
business events industry, which was among the first to be impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and one of the last to reopen. This performance showcases the efforts of the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) and the greater South African industry during the lockdown period to rebuild a pipeline of secure conferences for the country. Numerous international and regional conferences were called off or rescheduled due to the pandemic. Collaboration is vital for bidding on international meetings as it brings together the resources and expertise of various stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive and competitive value proposition. It demonstrates strong local support and commitment, enhancing the attractiveness of the bid,” Ms Guliwe said.
She mentioned that the SANCB collaborates with different provinces and other stakeholders to bid for hosting various meetings on behalf of the country.
“All business events hosted in our country are crucial because they not only contribute to our arrival numbers and our economy, but they also showcase our expertise in the
Thus far, South Africa has won 19 bids, with an estimated economic impact of R85 million and a total of 3,055 delegates. The SANCB has committed R5.7 million through its Bid Support Programme for these secured conferences, which will also contribute to the regional spread of business events and will be hosted in Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Cape Town, Sun City, Parys, Skukuza, and Potchefstroom,” Ms Guliwe said.
Some of the meetings secured for 2024 include: the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics World Congress of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, the XXXII General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Global Telecommunications Conference, and the World One Health Congress.
The ICCA Statistics Report is published every year early in May. Results are tabulated through the reports of ICCA member countries who submit the number of international and regional meetings that they hosted during the preceding calendar year to ICCA.
For more information, please visit www.iccaworld.com
Radisson Hotel Group targets expansion to 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030
This ambitious expansion along with the Group’s recent updates to its South African portfolio underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.
Radisson Hotel Group is proud to announce its goal to reach twenty-five hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current portfolio. This ambitious expansion, along with the Group’s recent updates to its South African portfolio, underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.
Daniel Trappler, senior director of development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, shared insights into the Group’s strategic approach to reach its ambitious goal of twenty-five hotels by 2030, stating: “We are prioritising, through either management or franchise models, conversions for quicker market entry and
exploring strategic collaborations with existing management companies to increase our footprint, which presents the potential introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand to South Africa, an ideal first step for individual hotels with strong service scores which may be considering transitioning to one of our other successful core brands at a later stage. We are also seeking opportunities to expand our upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with our Radisson Collection and art’otel brands, leveraging the city’s strong tourism performance and our successful existing portfolio.”
Radisson Hotel Group has announced significant updates to its portfolio of operating hotels in South Africa, including:
Daniel Trappler, Senior Director of Development, Sub-Sahara Africa, Radisson Hotel Group.
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit pool.
Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit
The debut of its first Safari hotel in South Africa with the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit. In February, Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first Safari hotel and thirteenth hotel in South Africa. This property offers a luxurious safari experience in the heart of South Africa’s wildlife region, with premium amenities and exceptional service. Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit is surrounded by endless destinationimmersing activities.
“Building on the success of our recently opened Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, we plan to expand into safari and leisure regions like the Kruger National Park and the world-renowned Winelands region surrounding Cape Town. Additionally, we are targeting secondary cities displaying strong hotel demand generators such as Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban, and East London, following our successes in Port Elizabeth and Polokwane. In addition, we are also exploring entry into smaller tertiary cities and towns if it aligns with our expansion strategy,” Mr Trappler added.
Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel,
Sandton Johannesburg
The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg, is undergoing a significant renovation, with 60 per cent of the hotel’s rooms completed, enhancing the overall guest experience. This extensive refurbishment features upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks, carefully crafted furniture, and technological
upgrades like smart TVs and conveniently located USB ports. This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, with each floor and corridor renovated to showcase a new level of contemporary luxury.
Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town
The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town has announced its highly-anticipated refurbishment plans, reaffirming its commitment to offering guests world-class furnishings and contemporary interior design. Phase one is set to be completed by September 2024, with public Atrium and bedroom renovations expected in July 2024. An expert team of local and international designers has meticulously reviewed and handpicked the design, artwork, fabrics, and
raw materials, ensuring an enhanced and stylish hospitality experience.
Rebranding of Park Inn Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore
In April, Radisson announced the rebranding of Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore. This rebranding brings the renowned Radisson brand to South Africa’s ‘Mother City’. Following an eight-month renovation, Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore’s120 rooms now boast a fresh and modern decor that creates a relaxing environment for guests, as well as magnificent views of the prominent Table Mountain and the city centre. The hotel now hosts South Africa’s first Filini restaurant, offering fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting. Additionally, the vibrant Harald’s Rooftop Bar & Terrace provides an ideal spot to unwind, with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain and the cityscape, complete with a perfectly positioned plunge pool for a complete rooftop experience.
“These significant updates to our South African portfolio reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the country. Our ongoing growth in the region underscores our position as a leading force in the South African hospitality industry. This is just the beginning of a series of exciting announcements for our South African portfolio and the unmatched experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” concluded Sandra Kneubuhler, country director of sales and district director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.
Radisson Hotel Cape Town foreshore room view.
Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel room.
Uwin Iwin Incentives: Celebrating 30 years of success
For three decades, award-winning provider, Uwin Iwin Incentives has been at the forefront of the incentives industry, shaping the way organisations motivate and reward their employees. Celebrating this significant milestone, it’s a fitting time to reflect on a journey well-travelled, accomplishments achieved, and impact made in driving performance and fostering employee engagement.
Established in 1994, Uwin Iwin set out with a clear mission: to revolutionise the way companies incentivise their teams. From humble beginnings, it has grown into a trusted partner for businesses across various industries, delivering tailored incentive solutions that inspire excellence and drive results. Over the years, staying committed to innovation and excellence. Evolving its offerings to meet the changing needs of clients, leveraging innovative technology and industry best practices to deliver impactful incentive programmes.
Uwin Iwin proudly offers companies an end-to-end incentive solution, encompassing measurement strategies, reward mechanisms, communication campaigns, launch events, travel incentives, and a rewards catalogue. A team of experts consistently delivering results on time and within budget.
David Sand, chief executive officer said: “We are all extremely proud of the incredible relationships we have built with clients over the years. This collaborative spirit has pushed the envelope to design new and improved ways of inspiring and rewarding performance. Being customer-centric has kept us sharp and
ahead of the game.”
Uwin Iwin services
Uwin Iwin Incentives assists organisations in enhancing sales performance, increasing employee engagement, and driving business results through effective incentive programmes. Comprehensive solutions are designed and customised to unlock market potential and boost productivity.
Services Include:
• Consulting Services.
• Recognition & Reward Programmes for employee groups.
• Sales & Channel Sales Incentive Programmes.
• Reward Fulfillment
- Group Incentive Travel for Programme Winners.
- Master Card Reward Partner — Reloadable Kudosh Gift Card.
- Virtual Voucher Mall — featuring 150 High Street retail vouchers.
Technological innovation and milestones
Technology has always been a huge driving force in the Uwin Iwin value proposition to clients. As early as 1999, Uwin Iwin were pioneers in building and using technology to create better client solutions, automated administration, and smarter user experiences. Technology has allowed growth across borders, on the African continent and beyond, bringing a dynamic new reward offering to all active participants in our client programmes.
The cornerstone of our technology journey began with the launch of the first-ever digital Incentive Programme using NetUwin, a proudly South African tech platform, designed and coded by members of the Uwin Iwin team. This groundbreaking initiative not only marked a pivotal moment but disrupted the local and international incentive industry, setting a new benchmark for incentive excellence around the world.
Uwin Iwin South Africa team.
Continuing this technology innovation, NetUwin 1 was introduced in 2001, further enhancing the ability to deliver seamless and customised incentive solutions. In 2006, Uwin Iwin pioneered the implementation of the first card incentive programme, with the Kudosh Card. This is a partnership with Standard Bank and MasterCard that set ablaze a new reward mechanism that has radically altered the incentive landscape. The launch of NU6 in 2008 brought about significant advancements in the technology stack, enabling innovative features such as daily card payouts, this was followed by the introduction of Uwin Iwin’s first mobile phone app in 2013 which provided users with easy access to their incentive rewards and programme information.
2014, saw the introduction of gamification and learning modules into the NU6 platform, empowering employees with valuable knowledge and skills while engaging them in the incentive process. The commitment to digital transformation led to the development of the first virtual card for online usage, offering participants greater flexibility as well as integration of payments into virtual wallets.
Today, the technology keeps evolving, it’s highly customisable and services the needs of sales incentives, channel loyalty programmes, and employee and reward applications. The current development teams are led by Lebohang Mofokeng.
Developing market footprint
Uwin Iwin expanded its global footprint with the opening of offices in key markets such as India, Nigeria, Uganda, and the UK. These strategic expansions, initiated from 2011 to 2013 enabled better service to clients and partners in key developing markets.
South Africa
South African business leader Kele Mogotsi has built an extensive and impressive career in the local industry and has been with Uwin Iwin Incentives since 2012. Kele’s leadership role on the Board and her deep operations expertise in the incentive travel and events part of the business carry a huge revenue portfolio. Her exceptional client relations skills allow her to anticipate and meet client needs with excellence and believes in delivering unparalleled value in every single client interaction and programme implementation. A true expert and professional, her invaluable contributions and ideas will spearhead the team into the next 30 years.
South Africa is home to Uwin Iwin Incentives’ head office, where group finance, operations, marketing, and IT development teams are based. We are proud to be a South African company with a level-1 BBBEE rating.
West Africa
Adeshola Jaiyeola is country director for Nigeria, a seasoned incentive professional and strategic partner with a passion for driving higher incentive business adoption levels in Africa. Adeshola plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the African incentives market and the global economy.
Adeshola has been instrumental in driving business results
for clients across West Africa and the Middle East. Her expertise i sales incentive programmes and employee recognition and rewards has earned her a thought leadership role in the industry. Her recent appointment to the IMA EMEA Board is a testimony to that.
East Africa
The next 30 years
Since 2013, Uwin Iwin has been servicing clients in East Africa, initially in Nairobi Kenya, now more recently through a consolidated office established in Kampala Uganda. Local Entrepreneur and investor Isaac Malindwa heads our East Africa business and Uwin Iwin Uganda. The rapid development of the East African Community comprising Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and Tanzania has set our business aspirations on an equally rapid trajectory in this region.
India
Uwin Iwin India was the first of our international ventures, marking a bold expansion into Bangalore in late 2011 to grow our developing economy footprint. Bengaluru, as it’s now known, is the Silicon Valley of India and the centre of India’s high-tech industries.
Today, the office service’s local Indian clients and acts as a fulfilment partner for two major European and UK-based incentive agencies. Led by country manager, Manohar Padma, who is dedicated to driving service delivery and operational excellence in this region.
Achievements and associations
Uwin Iwin has been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, highlighting excellence and leadership in the industry. Uwin Iwin is very committed to sustainability and was acknowledged with two SITE Crystal Awards for Most Sustainable Incentive Event and Most Outstanding Incentive Travel Event and winning the IMEX Academy Award for Middle East & Africa. In 2022, Uwin Iwin was recognised with the IMA (Incentive Marketing Association) Award for Excellence in Incentive Travel.
In 2023, the African Business Award, awarded Uwin Iwin the top award of ‘Business of the Year’.
Uwin Iwin is an active member of SITE (Society for Travel Incentive Excellence). David Sand was named SITE Global Member of the Year in 2008 and served as SITE Global president in 2013 and is now a past president for life. Proud members of the IMA (Incentive Marketing Association) and research contributors to the IRF (Incentive Research Foundation).
The next 30 years stands on a firm foundation of a business committed to its values, its people, and the developing economies that the business has become specialised in. Africa, India, and the Middle East are economies that will create huge opportunities for the growth of the Uwin Iwin brand going forward and already support businesses that have a Pan-African Footprint and are expanding at a rapid rate across the continent.
Much care and attention are being put into growing the current and future leadership of the business to transition and meet the high-growth vision that it has.
Uwin Iwin’s 30-year journey is a testament to dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence.
“As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of excellence and innovation. With a rich history of pioneering achievements and a steadfast dedication to client satisfaction, we are poised to continue leading the way in the incentives industry for years to come. Here’s to the next 30 years of rewarding excellence and driving success together! Uwin Iwin is a proudly Level 1 BBBEEE transformed business.”
— Kele Mogotsi.
Contact details
Uwin Iwin
Kele Mogotsi
Tel: +27 (0)83 571 7155
Email: Kele@uwiniwin.co.za
Uwin Iwin Board Member — Kele Mogotsi.
The Destination Rally —
a once-in -a-lifetime experience
The Destination Rally is a 29-day programme travelling to seven countries and 24 different locations. The Destination Rally took place in April 2024, after being delayed due to Covid and lockdowns.
By Lara Wiid, senior account manager
The Destination Rally comprised of 25 privately owned vintage cars and a crew of 10 organisers, mechanics and medical support staff, embarking on a 7,666km journey across Southern Africa. We anticipated that this would be quite the adventure, but that was an understatement, to say the least!
The cars were shipped to South Africa in mid-February, from Europe and even as far as New Zealand, but there were some delays due to a shipping re-route, custom issues and bad weather. The cars only arrived at the Table Bay Hotel on 27 April, ready to be dressed in their rally stickers, checked by the mechanics and greeted by their owners.
After a night in Cape Town, the rally officially began with a scenic drive from the city, along the Cape Peninsula, over Sir Lowry’s Pass and the Franschhoek Pass into Franschhoek for the night. Despite being given specific start times each day, many of the drivers decided on their own departure times, based on the speed of their cars or their interests along the way, causing havoc
for the lead logistics vehicle that I was in, whose role it was to advance all lunch events, accommodation and dinners along the way, to ensure that all was setup according to the renowned five-star service level that Destination Rally provides.
From Franschhoek, we headed Northwest through the country to Springbok for a night before our first border crossing into Namibia. All went smoothly at the Namibian border, with the local officials enjoying the cars and Destination Rally merchandise which was handed out along the way. This was the day that we turned off the tarred road for the first time, onto gravel, and one vehicle learned the hard way to adjust their tyre pressure, as well as their speed, after annihilating one of their tires on a perfectly graded road. From Fish River Canyon, the journey continued north into Sossusvlei, where a couple of the cars really struggled with the roads and needed nightly repairs by the team of four mechanics who worked in the heat, dust, by torchlight and with limited supplies in these remote areas, and somehow managed to keep all vehicles up and running and
ready to depart each morning.
From Sossusvlei, the route took us into Swakopmund for a night, where everyone had a bit of a breather, being back in civilisation, as it were.
Continuing North took us through Damaraland and into the Etosha region, where we had the first two night stay-over. Laundry and spa treatments were the order of the day. Most guests took the opportunity to do a game drive in the reserve and to enjoy some time for relaxation after nine solid days of driving. Before we knew it, it was time to hit the road again as we journeyed into the Caprivi Strip, spending a night on the banks of the Okavango River before an early departure the following day to cover enough ground to get to the border and into Botswana, having arranged for all vehicles to park safely at Kasane Airport while guests were collected for their Chobe safari adventure in 4x4s. A sunset cruise on the Chobe River, traditional boma dinner at the lodge and morning game drive in the park were the calm before the storm as the following morning we
of Dragonfly Africa
were taking an ambitious route from Kasane to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe to have lunch at the Grand Dame, The Victoria Falls Hotel, before continuing on through yet another border crossing into Zambia, home for the next two nights.
Having done the borders in this region many times with groups being transferred, I can now fully understand the process behind vehicle changes from one country to the next when going by coach. Getting the people through is easy in comparison to getting the cars through, and this day made our previous border crossings look like a blessing. With only one working computer at the Zambian side, and all vehicle details needing to be registered for their temp import permit, it took close to nine hours for all documentation to be completed. Luckily, after the first four cars got stuck in this process for an hour and a half each, our local agent managed to convince customs to allow the cars to go through, but keep their paperwork there while he continued with the processing.
After two days of respite, with many vehicle repairs in the parking lot and a range of activities, from helicopter flights to white water rafting, to spa treatments, we hit the road again for the long drive from Livingstone to Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. It was a relatively easy border crossing right on the lake, with one of the officials stationed outside and under a tree to stamp paperwork in his ‘office with a view’, and from there it was just two kilometres to the two lodges that we were staying at that evening before boarding the house boats for a night on the lake. After inspection of the two boats that we had confirmed, it was decided to do a complete rooming list overhaul due to the different levels of standard, and we managed to accommodate the full group on the newly refurbished Trader Houseboat. Unfortunately, due to the tight timeline that we had on Kariba, we were not able to go too far before finding a mooring for the afternoon and evening. Several of the guests went out on a safari cruise in the late afternoon as well as a fishing expedition on the lake before dinner, followed by a pop quiz. The following morning, it was all systems go at first light to get the group back to mainland and on the road as soon as possible, due to reports of the drive from Kariba to Harare being tricky with truck traffic and poor road conditions.
It was a long drive indeed and the potholes did a fair amount
of damage to some of the vehicle rims, but all were changed and sorted out in Harare that evening and the following day. An optional lunch stop at Lions Den, with a roadside burger from Saucy Sue’s was a fantastic break in the monotony of the road, and we managed to stock up our depleted supply of biltong in the lead car before reaching the city and hitting traffic for the first time on the trip.
From Harare, we headed east towards the Mozambican border, stopping for lunch at La Rochelle Country House along the way. This was a last-minute booking as our previous lunch location had been so spectacularly poor in communications that they received a vote of no confidence. While taking out some of the scenery from the route at the new lunch spot, we also managed to reduce the kilometres for the day, which was a blessing in disguise to get through a busy, yet efficient border post and onwards to Chimoio before nightfall. Our sweep vehicle pulling the trailer had a late departure from Harare due to technical issues with the trailer, and one of the rally vehicles also had to spend a while in Harare doing a wheel replacement due to damage from the potholes, but overall, everyone made it to Castelo Branco for the night. This was the pit stop before the toughest day of the drive, and while language, service and catering were a challenge in the evening, we were optimally located to make the journey down to Vilanculos the next day, and staying in Chimoio was certainly preferrable to basing ourselves in Zimbabwe and having to do the border crossing and the long drive in one go.
It was an early start, with all expectations that several of the cars would not make it all the way to Vilanculos, and a backup accommodation plan was confirmed for mid-way along the route in case of breakdowns. The quality of the roads are terrible on this stretch, and we had been warned that even the hardiest 4x4’s struggle with the routing. Well, these rally drivers sure demonstrated their skills, with the first vehicles arriving at the mid-way point with an hour to spare before lunch! Slow and careful driving was the order of the day, and every vehicle, including the pre-war models, made it down to Vilanculos before sunset, to enjoy dinner with a view of the Indian Ocean. What a feeling to have crossed the continent from the Atlantic to Indian Ocean with all drivers and most vehicles still in one piece (by then we had lost three vehicles which had needed to be repatriated and replaced by 4x4 rental cars, and those were the only drivers who didn’t manage to cross the finish line in their classic cars).
A two-night island holiday on Bazaruto was in order after the tough roads that we had left behind, and the group enjoyed a variety of relaxing activities, from sunset cruises, fishing, snorkelling and spa treatments, along with a local flavoured dinner on the beach on the second night.
On returning to the mainland, the cars were packed, and we
hit the road again for the drive down to Inhambane for a night, and onwards to Maputo. An evening cocktail function at the Serena Polana gave everyone an excuse to dress in their best and meet some of the local government representatives who came to congratulate them for making it all the way through Mozambique.
Exiting Mozambique into Swaziland was one of our easiest border crossings yet, with friendly officials and no queues at all. From there, it was a scenic drive to our hotel for the night, overlooking the plantation forests, with a BBQ dinner and a slightly strange property that looked as if it had gotten stuck somewhere in the 70s.
Crossing over from Swaziland back into South Africa was another ‘Eurika’ moment as we made it back into our starting country. Another easy border post to get through and then onwards to the bush! Getting to Phinda Private Game Reserve offered everyone an opportunity to submit mountains of laundry again and enjoy some fantastic sightings on safari. One of the Porsches had broken down in Maputo with a clutch issue, and while I thought that this would take them out of the running disappointingly close to the finish line, the mechanics had other ideas and a part was shipped from Johannesburg while the car was trucked from Mozambique. In true bush mechanic style, the team managed to get the vehicle up and running again with a late-night repair in the Phinda workshop and, like magic, it was fit to do the final drive from Phinda down to Durban!
Arriving at the Oyster Box Hotel saw the drivers rewarded with cocktails at the finish line flag, and a mass car wash, and vehicle clean out ensued to prepare the cars for collection the following day so that they could be taken to the port for shipping out. The final dinner was a lively affair, with everyone in a celebratory mood, plenty of wine flowing (including Destination by Journey’s End, an appropriately named local Chardonnay from Cape Town), live entertainment, an awards ceremony for the drivers and singing and dancing until the close of the evening, with departures starting early the following day.
Overall, an incredibly successful rally, with an opportunity for both rally guests and crew to experience the amazing contrasts of southern Africa, bucket list activities, best and worst roads, discombobulating border procedures and spectacular landscapes over 29 days. One for the books, and certainly a programme that I look forward to being a part of again, when they return in 2026!
Spring launch of the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape
A beach experience never looked this good.
Once the weather warms and you must have that next incentive near the beach, ensure it’s at the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape.
When springtime arrives, this Scottburgh icon is set to look better than ever, following a grand refurbishment and relaunch. This new offering for guests will be all-inclusive — an elevated experience poised to put KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast back on the travel map.
Be it families, couples, or corporate groups, the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape ticks all the boxes with its swaying palms and soulful sunsets. But that’s only just the start. All this tropical tranquillity will be spiced up with modern facilities and
included extras, so whatever your mood, whatever you long for, you’re guaranteed to find it here. Read on for a prelude of what’s to come…
Focus on affordability
Local beach incentives should be accessible and easy, without breaking the bank. That’s why the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape will offer flexible holiday packages and payment plans. Being all-inclusive, there’s no need to worry about anything once you hang up the car keys. No frills, no fuss, no hidden costs. Just check in and chill.
Meals and drinks included
It’s not just pizzas and milkshakes. The Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape will offer evolved dining experiences with thematic entertainment for that extra glitz. Rotating menus will cater three meals daily — think international flavours paired with local flair. As for drinks? Those are included too: local beers, spirits, house wine, tea, coffee and soft drinks.
Beach takeover
At the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape, guests are guaranteed a safe and serene beach experience, with a lifeguards-on-duty
Blue Flag-status beach at your doorstep. Expect lounge chairs and umbrellas to be set up for you before your toes touch the sand.
All the things to do
Along with sun-lounging and cocktailsipping, there are plenty of adventures to be had at the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape. At a glance, modern facilities will include a pool area with a water slide, a gym, a private spa, and a multi-court. Whatever-you’re-inthe-mood-for activities include snorkelling, surf lessons, beach yoga, and horse riding to name a few.
Something for the family
Moms and dads kick back and relax. Childcare specialists will be on hand to keep the little ones entertained. Aside from a dedicated games room and teen zone, kids can participate in complimentary holiday programmes year-round.
Giving back to the community
Run by Dream Hotels & Resorts, Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape maintains a strong emphasis on community upliftment across the South Coast region. Your stay directly supports several locally-run initiatives aimed at building a brighter future.
Soon to be one of the KwaZulu-Natal region’s only all-inclusive holiday hotspots, you’ll barely need to lift a finger to enjoy every inch of the Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape.
Whatever your mood, you’ll find it here. Get in touch for more details following our upcoming spring launch.
Dream Hotels & Resorts specialises in destination conferencing experiences across South Africa, offering you an immersive, bespoke solution to suit your needs. From the idyllic bushveld to scenic ocean views, our varied range of destinations cater to all. Each property offers all the essential facilities needed to make your stay both convenient and comfortable.
BOOK WITH US TODAY AND MAKE YOUR CONFERENCE AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER
Email us at conferences@dreamresorts.co.za
Find out more at www.dreamresorts.co.za
Positive cruise season for MSC Splendida in South Africa
MSC Cruises recently concluded its local summer cruise season in South Africa on a high note. During the season, MSC Splendida took just under 121 000 passengers on memorable ocean holidays.
Ross Volk, managing director of MSC Cruises South Africa, said that the company is looking forward to the return of the recently refurbished MSC Musica to local South African shores for the upcoming season. A firm favourite with the local market, the vessel will make its return in November 2024.
“The current trends are looking positive,” Mr Volk explained. “In fact, South Africans are increasingly seeing cruising as the best value proposition for holidaying because it is an all-inclusive price for a unique experience.”
South Africa is one of MSC Cruises’ Top-10 markets by volume. In addition, he said that MSC Cruises is seeing a large increase in passengers coming from across Africa, and even overseas, to cruise from South Africa.
MSC Cruises runs four routes from South African ports. The Durban-to-Mozambique route is the most popular with local tourists, while the Cape Town-to-Walvis Bay route is particularly popular with overseas cruisers. The other two routes are Durban-to-Mauritius and Durban-to-Cape Town.
As mentioned, from 22 November 2024 to 30 March 2025, MSC Musica will be deployed to South African ports for the upcoming 2024/2025 season. The vessel last visited in 2018 and offers more flexibility in accommodating the multiple entertainment options that the South African market prefers. Themed cruises, unique to South Africa, are a
major drawcard.
“Cruising is not just great value, it’s also increasingly being seen as a way to experience destinations in a new way, to get under the skin of the locals, so to speak,” Mr Volk said. “This emphasis on experience is particularly a mark of Generation X and Millennials, who are turning towards cruising in greater numbers.”
The good summer season experienced over the 2023/2024 local cruise season, and the hope that further growth will be experienced in the 2024/2025 season, is good news not just for cruise companies but also for the South African economy as a whole. Around 3.7 per
cent of the country’s gross domestic product in 2023 can be attributed to tourism, which employed 4.7 per cent of the workforce. In all, the Department of Tourism says that the sector contributes R287 billion to the economy.
“Providing goods and services to the cruising market is one huge job creator, but the quest for deeper experiences that reflect local cultures also opens up vast new opportunities for individuals and communities,” Mr Volk concluded. “The expected growth in cruising numbers has the potential to shift the dial on our stubborn unemployment figures by providing entrepreneurs with greater scope.”
“Geein
it laldy” in bonny Scotland…
A MICE Familiarisation trip adventure in the Scottish sunshine with Cashel Travel and euromic.
By Kathy
Scotland — a thrilling and revelatory past, a cornucopia of ancient and ultramodern landmarks, and the enduring legends of bygone kings and queens in whose steps we walked on our journey in this truly magical destination.
Pairing Glasgow with Edinburgh for travel incentives offers a dynamic Scottish experience. While Edinburgh is known for its historic charm and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, Glasgow complements it with vibrant cultural scenes, including its thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore Glasgow’s world-class museums then hop over to Edinburgh to stroll along the picturesque streets of the Old Town or attend one of its many festivals. The proximity of these two cities allows groups to enjoy the best of both worlds, from Edinburgh’s regal elegance to Glasgow’s edgy urban vibe, making it an
enticing option with ‘creative accounting’ to help your budget for incentive travel.
Cashel Travel, United Kingdom and Ireland DMC partner in the euromic portfolio, showcased the best of the best for immersive experiences in Scotland, including a rare sighting of the Aurora Borealis… it’s amazing what reputable DMCs can pull off nowadays…
Cashel Travel and euromic cordially invites you to delve into the handpicked and immersive discovery of Scotland we were lucky enough to experience!
The first stop was Glasgow with a stay at the brand spanking new Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel, a seamless blend of contemporary luxury and Scottish charm. Positioned between Glasgow City Centre and the West End, an ideal base for exploring the city’s renowned shopping and diverse culinary scene.
What’s the first thing to do in Scotland…? Learn to play the bagpipes of course!
After being musically welcomed by a fully kilted-up Scottish bagpiper, we explored the Museum of Piping at The National Piping Centre. It holds three hundred years of piping heritage! We were given a private tour of The Museum of Piping. We then received a full demonstration of the bagpipes from the Bagpiper Host, Brody, along with an opportunity to learn how to play the pipes… it was a blend of difficulty meets hilarity and stomach muscles we didn’t know existed, to say the least.
Lavery, business development manager, South Africa, euromic
Burrell Collection.
Trump Turnberry bagpiper.
Edinburgh Castle. Fine Scottish apparel on display. Rosebank Distillery Falkirk — tasting.
The next stop was a curator tour and lunch at the Burrell Collection. This remarkable collection will take you on a tour of 6,000 years of history. The Collection holds treasures from all over the world. Highlights include one of the most significant collections of Chinese art in the UK and objects from ancient civilisations, including Roman sculpture and Egyptian pottery more than 2,000 years old. There are medieval treasures including stained glass, arms and armour, and over 200 tapestries that rank amongst the finest tapestries anywhere in the world. Entrance is free of charge, so it’s a great optional or leisure activity stop for incentive groups for the culture vultures. A wonderful place truly, as well as world-class ‘scran’ at the fabulous Benugo restaurant.
We headed to dinner with a fabulous
concept… Mharsanta, a Culinary Gem in the Heart of Glasgow.
Mharsanta stands as a beacon of traditional Scottish hospitality and cuisine. This acclaimed restaurant, whose name means ‘merchant’ in Gaelic, is a celebration of Scotland’s rich culinary heritage, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can indulge in authentic flavours crafted with passion and care. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing the finest local ingredients, from succulent Highland beef to fresh seafood from the nearby coasts. Signature dishes include haggis and neeps. The evening saw a tasting menu created to showcase Scotland’s finest produce accompanied by tasting sessions including The Glenlivet, Caorunn Gin, Innis & Gunn, Johnnie Walker & Talisker. We were surrounded by digital screens of
Scotland’s great scenery with master distillers, brewers, and chefs talking through the products they had before them.
The next day, after an educational panoramic tour of Glasgow, we found ourselves castle bound to Craufurdland Castle Estate where we immersed ourselves in the rich history and charm of Laird Simon and Lady Adity with a ‘Meet the Laird & Lunch’ experience. This unique event offered us a delightful combination of personalised interaction, historical insights, and a delicious lunch. The experience began with an exclusive opportunity to meet and greet the current Laird of Craufurdland, over a glass of bubbles, and petting his dogs! We engaged in personal conversations with the Laird, learning about the estate’s intriguing history. This intimate interaction provided a rare
Edinburgh Castle group.
Papple Steading.
Mary King’s Close.
Radisson Edinburgh.
Craufurdland Castle.
glimpse into the life and legacy of a Scottish Laird and their ancestral home with stories, anecdotes, and loads of laughs.
After a brilliant lunch at the castle, it was onward to Ayrshire to the fabulous Trump Turnberry, a luxury hotel and golf resort located on the Ayrshire coast. It is one of the most prestigious and iconic golf destinations in the world. The hotel offers elegant and luxurious guest rooms and suites with stunning views of the Ailsa Craig, Isle of Arran, and the Firth of Clyde. Trump Turnberry is best known for its world-class golf courses. The Ailsa Course and the King Robert the Bruce Championship Course. The Ailsa Course has a rich history and has hosted numerous prestigious golf tournaments, including The Open Championship.
The iconic Turnberry Lighthouse stands near the 9th hole of the Ailsa Course. It serves as a halfway house for golfers and is also available for private dining events. We were lucky enough to enjoy champagne and canapes at the Turnberry Lighthouse in the Scottish sunshine overlooking the seaside. This was truly memorable, followed by the most incredible meal at the hotel’s restaurant. It was here that we witnessed the magical Northern Lights.
The following day, after a sumptuous breakfast, we sampled some of the activities on offer. Clay Pigeon Shooting, testing our aim in the most idyllic sceneries and an entertaining golf clinic at Ailsa Golf Course. A clubhouse lunch was enjoyed at ‘Duel in the Sun’ before our departure with a gin and tonic to whet our wee whistles.
Trump Turnberry also offers horse riding along the beach or through the countryside. Falconry sessions allow guests to engage with majestic birds of prey. Archery, and quad biking provide additional thrills for adventure seekers.
We were on our horses from Turnberry to experience a private ‘Rekindled’ experience at
Rosebank Distillery, a private tour before the distillery was even open to the public. It was a treasure trove of history and flavour, renowned for its triple-distilled Lowland single malt whisky, and, of course, another opportunity for ‘a wee dram’. Established in 1798, it has a storied past marked by periods of closure and revival, most notably reopening in 2017, after being mothballed in 1993. The distillery’s unique whisky profile, characterised by its light, floral notes, owes much to its traditional worm tub condensers and the use of barley malted on site.
On to Edinburgh, we drove to The Radisson Blu Hotel in Edinburgh, an architectural gem nestled on the historic Royal Mile, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hotel seamlessly blends modern amenities with historic charm, as its building incorporates parts of the 16th-century Bailie Fyfe’s House. With 238 rooms, the hotel offers stunning views of iconic landmarks such as
Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat. The hotel’s location also places guests within walking distance of major attractions such as the National Museum of Scotland and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, making it a perfect base for exploring the rich heritage of Scotland’s capital.
We were treated to an exclusive welcome drinks intimate event in the hotel bar — the Itchycoo, before heading off to Fazenda restaurant. This restaurant is known for its churrasco-style dining, where servers bring skewers of grilled meats and carve them tableside for guests. Fazenda Edinburgh is a popular destination for meat lovers and those looking for an interactive dining experience. It is located on George Street in the city centre and ready to host large South African meat-eating groups up for the challenge.
One of the highlights of the trip was a pre-opening tour of the iconic Edinburgh
Bagpiping centre, Glasgow.
Hideout Private Dining, Mharsanta.
DESTINATION:
Castle. The castle receives up to 8,000 visitors per day, so having the castle to ourselves was mind-blowing! Playing a seminal role in Scotland’s extraordinary history and one-time home of Mary Queen of Scots, King Arthur (yes, really!) and King of Scotland, James VI, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most breathtaking and instantly recognisable fortresses in the world today. Crowning the city atop a 340-million-year-old brooding volcanic crag, its fabled chapels, vaults, museums, and very own Scottish Crown Jewels set our imaginations ablaze.
Papple Steading was the next experience, sensitively restored with meticulous attention to detail, Papple Steading is Scotland’s finest 19th-century farm.
After a brief inspection, we found ourselves making our very own skincare products at a Meadow-grown skincare workshop. Seilich products, founded by botanist and nature conservationist Dr. Sally Gouldstone, offer a unique skincare experience rooted in sustainability and
nature’s abundance. They source ingredients from their wildflower meadow in the Lothians of Scotland, where the meadows provide sanctuary for pollinating insects.
Next was a foraging experience where Buck and Birch expert, Rupert taught us how to safely identify and sustainably harvest a variety of plants and fungi available in season for delicious meals and craft drinks. Combining their knowledge and fascination for native ingredients, Buck and Birch create a dining experience for us using only ingredients harvested from the wild. We enjoyed a tasting of their award-winning liqueurs experiencing natural flavours that encapsulate the spirit of nature with some tasty wild nibbles, beautifully presented in a true Scottish setting.
Another special evening followed with a private tour and pre-dinner drinks and dinner at the Georgian House, complete with bagpipes and highland dancers!
Situated in historic Charlotte Square, The Georgian House provides a glimpse of life in
the New Town in the 18th century. The house has been magnificently restored to show a typical Edinburgh New Town house of the late 18th and early 19th century. We were treated to a private tour to see the fine collections of period furniture, porcelain, silver and glass that reflected the lifestyle and the social and economic context of the time.
The trip drew to a close with the final few experiences, an excursion to the Mary King’s Close, a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into life in the city’s past. Named after Mary King, a merchant burgess who lived there in the 17th century, the close is a series of narrow streets and hidden alleyways preserved beneath the Royal Mile. In the 1600s, it was a bustling area, but it was later partially built over, leading to stories of it being haunted. We explored the underground labyrinth, which included preserved rooms, streets, and even remnants of a plague doctor’s dwelling!
The Johnnie Walker Princes Street Experience, in the heart of Edinburgh, takes whisky-loving visitors on a memorable journey through the legendary whisky brand’s nearly 200-year history — and what a journey! Featuring rooftop bars, a live performance area, private dining opportunities and, state-of-the-art immersive tasting rooms — alongside tours and tasting experiences. There’s a lot to see across its eight floors! The breathtaking 1820 Rooftop Bar, with what are probably the best views across the city, is a popular spot for cocktails, whisky tastings, and light bites. This fantastic spot was the farewell lunch setting before jetting off as part of euromic’s hosted buyer group to IMEX Frankfurt.
Rosebank Distillery.
Skincare clinic.
Michael Dehn from Messe Frankfurt SA — sees great potential for Africa
Messe Frankfurt South Africa, a branch of one of Europe’s oldest and most extensive trade fair organisers, boasts a proficient team of personnel in marketing, sales, and operations at its South African branch. Messe Frankfurt is recognised as one of the world’s biggest organisers of trade fairs, congresses, and events, employing over 2,200 staff worldwide.
Since 2017, Messe Frankfurt South Africa has expanded their portfolio from two to eight events in 2024 and remains receptive to new concepts for launching events and partnerships for conferences, exhibitions, and other unique occasions in South Africa.
Messe Frankfurt’s operations span 28 different locations globally, and the South African branch is supported by a proficient team of over 30 staff members equipped with established marketing, sales, and operational expertise.
Messe Frankfurt South Africa is responsible for organising grand events, including Automechanika Johannesburg, Futuroad Expo, Festival of Motoring, boatica Cape Town, AERO South Africa, allfashion sourcing, Hobby-X, and Solar Power Africa.
In an exclusive interview, Michael Dehn, managing director of Messe Frankfurt SA, shared some insights with Business Events Africa
“There is great potential in Africa for Messe Frankfurt. South Africa remains the biggest economy in Africa and has good access points. We are happy with our South
African operation — it is an important location, with great growth potential,” Mr Dehn said.
Mr Dehn said it isn’t only about growth, in fact, when he joined Messe Frankfurt SA, he consolidated the portfolio.
“What is important, is that we first achieve stability and sustainable growth on each show. Furthermore, we want to always achieve exhibitor and visitor satisfaction at all our shows.”
“We are working very hard on ensuring higher satisfaction across the board. Once we have this right we can grow from there.”
Messe Frankfurt recently ran an African roadshow to promote the upcoming Automechanika and their other shows. The roadshow took place in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Rwanda. There is another Roadshow planned for July, in Zambia and Zimbabwe. These countries have important trade relations with South Africa, making them key markets.
Mr Dehn said: “The purpose of these roadshows brings buyers to South Africa and strengthens South African business in the rest of Africa. What is interesting is there are many people in these African countries that have not been to South
Africa before. Part of our role is to promote South Africa and the cities where we host our shows. It is part and parcel of this job.”
Mr Dehn looked at some highlights of the South African trade shows.
He said: “Solar Power Africa in Cape Town is the best-executed show with big growth. It took place from 7-9 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
“Hobby X saw huge visitor growth this year.” It took place from 2-5 May 2024 at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit Johannesburg.
Mr Dehn said it achieved a 32 per cent growth — “I have not seen this kind of growth in my career.”
Michael Dehn, managing director of Messe Frankfurt SA.
“We introduced the Man Cave to this year’s event, and we got a phenomenal response. Furthermore, a group of exhibitors came together to break a Guinness Book Record of the biggest flower wall.
In partnership with Cricut, the target was set at 1,000 rolled flowers. This goal was spectacularly surpassed, with a total of 6,696 rolled paper flowers verified by the Guinness World Records team, officially confirmed the record-breaking achievement.
Mr Dehn said that Hobby X is about the experiences, and is a great platform to launch small businesses. “It is a great show for South Africa as it provides opportunities for small business. You could buy just one machine at Hobby-X, and start a business right away.”
boatica Cape Town takes place from 25-27 October 2024 at the V&A Waterfront. “Its location is ideal, and we target the boat owners, the water sports enthusiasts and boat clubs.”
AERO South Africa takes place from 3-5 July 2024 at Wonderboom National Airport. Mr Dehn said it has a loyal exhibitor following. This show has just ‘taken off’. It is a general aviation event and has all the aviation brands. We work closely with the city of Tshwane on this event.”
Festival of Motoring, takes place from
30 August to 1 September 2024, at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. “The concept is to get consumers in cars. It has a lifestyle and food element too. The core is to get consumers to experience different cars on the track, driven by professional drivers. It has a large reach. Last year we achieved 10,000 test drives in three days. It opens the consumers’ eyes to new cars. It really works. It is the biggest of its kind in Africa. Best of all, there is an 18 per cent intent to purchase within six months.” allfashion sourcing, takes place in Cape Town from 10-12 September 2024 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. It is a business-orientated marketplace for the textile and fashion industry in Africa. “It forms part of a massive network of Messe Frankfurt textile events. Messe Frankfurt has worked with the United Nations Office for Partnerships and the UN Conscious Fashion and Lifestyle Network to accelerate engagement of the textile industry in the Decade of Action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
Automechanika Johannesburg (and Futuroad expo Johannesburg), a co-located event, takes place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre from 19-21 November 2024. Automechanika is South Africa’s leading international trade fair for the automotive service industry
targeting trade visitors from the SubSaharan region, while futuroad expo Johannesburg is the most comprehensive business platform for the truck, bus, and commercial vehicle body sector. “This is a massive show and has the most international participation of eighteen countries. The show also has the support of several industry associations, that run conferences and events during the duration of the event,” Mr Dehn said.
Mr Dehn has over 25 years of trade show experience. Before joining Messe Frankfurt SA he was general manager of Messe Frankfurt India for three years, responsible for over eighteen trade fairs. He worked for Messe Frankfurt Middle East for 16 years, serving as group exhibitions director since 2012 and in charge of the entire exhibition portfolio, including Automechanika Dubai, Beautyworld Middle East, and Intersec. During this time, Mr Dehn also expanded the business in Saudi Arabia by adding four new trade fairs. Before that, he worked as exhibition manager, launching Automechanika Dubai, which became one of the largest and most successful trade fairs in the region under his leadership.
Mr Dehn began his training in 1998 as a dual student at Messe Frankfurt and completed it in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in business management at the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW) in Ravensburg.
Contact information
Messe Frankfurt South Africa (Pty) Ltd
Building 12, The Woodlands Office Park, 20 Woodlands Drive, Woodmead, Sandton, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa
Tel: +27 (0)10 599 6153
Email: info@za.messefrankfurt.com
Website: www.za.messefrankfurt.com
Tribute to Helen Brewer — ‘An icon of our industry’
There
is so much to say about Helen Brewer, and not enough words to describe the impact she had on the MICE Industry, and all the people she encountered.
By Kevin McKee
There were two great passions in Helen’s life, her life partner, Derek King, and the MICE industry with all its forms and faces.
With a career spanning over half a century, her integrity, wealth of knowledge, insight, and drive made her a formidable force. She was always extremely diligent in her research and planning and adamant that she could achieve anything she set her mind to, regardless of any obstacles.
She began her career with the National Development & Management Foundation (NDMF) in 1975, planning conferences for member sector groups, becoming operations manager, managing 40 conferences per annum throughout Southern Africa. She undertook conceptual and logistical management for over 500 conferences, locally and internationally.
In 1985, she established Conpromark Consultants, with Derek, designing, developing, and facilitating courses, both public and in-house for planners and other industry service providers, including conference facility management and marketing, event management and administration, and convention centre design criteria.
Around 1990, Conpromark Consultants grew into The MICE Academy. Focusing on Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Combining the Conpromark stable of courses into substantiated proof of each individual’s ability through scorecards, providing industry professionals with credible evidence of their ability.
Throughout her extensive career, she consulted with many industry professionals and government institutions, as well as being involved in various member associations and professional bodies.
In terms of consultancies, she was involved in detailed indepth surveys for – predominantly – convention centres, in terms of viability and recommended methods of operating. The most notable of these being the upgrade and refurbishment of the Botswana Convention Centre, and the viability of the Cape Town Convention Center for the Rail Commuter Corporation. She was also instrumental in designing the Heritage Conference Centre and its operations strategy.
At ICC Durban, Conpromark was the National Facility Consultants, and Helen was involved in the viability study for the Sandton Convention Centre as well.
Helen initiated the introduction of the international Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Programme in South Africa, with 46 industry professionals qualifying under the MICE Academy’s guidance.
Helen was also appointed in various capacities on boards of member and industry associations, including SAACI (South African Association for the Conference Industry) as a Founding
Committee Member and Chairperson, ICC Durban as a Board Director, SATSA as an Exco member, Executive Chairperson of the Ministerial-led Events and Technical Services Task Team and founding Association Committee Chairperson of the Event Greening Forum (EGF).
Helen was the first-ever recipient of the Women in MICE Lifetime Achievement Award, an honour she was deeply moved by.
In a less public way, Helen was also instrumental in guiding and supporting new businesses and entrepreneurs within and outside of the industry.
With her no-nonsense approach to integrity, business, and strict encouragement, Helen was instrumental in getting many of these enterprises off the ground and many owe their success, not only to their own efforts but also to her encouragement and, often, not-so-gentle, chastisement.
Helen refused to support anyone she didn’t trust or use herself. Her recommendations held weight, and a huge responsibility on the supplier too. You definitely didn’t want to receive an email or call from The Boss Lady asking why you weren’t living up to her expectations!
Her sense of integrity and honesty was unrivalled in the industry and many a CEO, and even government ministers, trembled in their boots a little when Helen came calling.
A passionate, dedicated stalwart of the MICE Industry, you loved or hated her, but she never left without creating an indelible impression.
Helen was a big personality in the industry, there was no other like her — she was well-respected and will be missed in the industry. Her passing will leave a definite void in the sector. Thank you, Helen, for all you did for the industry!
Some comments from Social Media, from all over the world:
• Herkie Du Plessis: “A powerful and influential voice in our industry. She was a true supporter, and her loss will be deeply felt.”
• Stephanie Moss: “May your gentle and fun soul rest in peace, Helen Brewer. You were always a positive energy and I loved your funny and enthusiastic FB comments.”
• Cheryl Mulder Verbruggen: “I'm going to miss our very random, long chats. Helen’s huge contribution to the Tourism Industry cannot be underestimated, and her knowledge, experience, and professionalism will be missed by many. The mutual respect in our relationship was special to me. Sometimes we absolutely agreed on issues and other times we absolutely disagreed. But the goal was always the same — what’s best for the industry? My beautiful little toothpick holder will continue to serve as a reminder of Helen.”
• Georgie Colling: “There are so many passionate industry conversations I remember. But, the most significant ones were with a whiskey over the phone… Your impact on the industry and those around you was profound.”
• Laurinda Da Matta Bow: “With a heart that radiated love, warmth and laughter. You will be truly missed and fondly remembered.”
• Geoff Saner: “Helen’s clarity of what was proper and needed in our industry, her wit and interest in everything around her and in all of us was amazing.”
• Mike Speed: “You made your mark on the Business Tourism sector and can be very proud of your achievements. So sad, you had so much more to give. Thank you for all that you taught me. Going to miss you, my friend.”
• John Arvanitakis: “Helen was a founding member and a great friend and avid supporter of the EGF, and a leading light of inspiration and support for the events industry in South Africa. Her passing is going to leave a huge gap.”
• Tes Proos: “The industry will not be the same without you.”
• Pieter Swart: “Most of the time we scrummed for the same team, and sometimes on opposite sides - but always enjoyed playing the game. I will miss you. Thank you for your life’s work and dedication to this industry. You will be remembered.”
• Mandy Elliott: “Life, as well as the events industry, won’t be the same without you.”
• Corne Engelbrecht: “Although we will miss you, your legacy will live with us forevermore.”
• Kevan Jones: “Always a champion for the events industry, she will be sorely missed.
• Mandy Watson: “Nobody knew more about the MICE industry and loved it more than Helen Brewer. You will be sorely missed.”
• Gill Gibbs & Sue Gannon: “An icon of our industry.”
• Sarah Vernon: “She was an inspiration and a pioneer to all.”
Carmen Rhodes moves up the ranks at Taj Cape Town
Carmen Rhodes has climbed the ranks of the hospitality industry, thanks to her unswerving accent on professionalism and a natural flair for the business; an aptitude born of her warmth and determination to create an unforgettable guest experience –values which are in tune with those of Taj Cape Town.
This is not her first stint with the prestigious hotel, known for its unabashed opulence with a touch of Indian-inspired exoticism. Carmen first joined the group as associate director of sales, corporate, and MICE, in 2018.
She had already built an impressive track record by this time at the Best Western Cape Suites Hotel, where she completed training in all areas of operations, from reception to reservations, food and beverage, and housekeeping. “It was a solid grounding that gave me insight into what happens in all areas of a hotel. As I’ve grown within my career, this has positioned me to offer the best experience,” Carmen mused.
She soon put these skills to work as she began progressing up the ladder, taking on various positions at high-profile establishments in her native Cape Town. She gathered experience in other areas of the industry too, including tourism, and gleaned a glimpse of the international industry when she travelled to London.
After several more years spent in several different roles, Carmen and her family immigrated to Australia, returning to South Africa in 2020. She found that she missed the industry and its exciting dynamics during this time, and was overjoyed when a two-month series of online interviews helped her secure a position as senior sales manager at the Cape Grace. Sadly, this role was cut short by the hotel’s closure due to Covid, but she took
up the mantle once more as group head of sales at Newmark Hotels. During the two years she spent with the company, Carmen helped to open three hotels (The Rockefeller Hotel, The Catalyst Hotel, and The Winchester Hotel) – no small feat, given the beleaguered state of tourism at this time. Carmen’s involvement extended beyond sales to include developing extensive plans for selling these hotels to clients; a task she admits was challenging, but which she embraced with enthusiasm.
Carmen said that the diversity of her 25 years in the industry has helped her build a thorough understanding of how hotel teams fit together to ensure success. Her experience in various areas of the tourism industry has also added a new dimension to her outlook: she has, after all, held posts in areas from travel consultant to site assessor at many leading operators, and maintains strong relationships with these players. “After my journey, working through different roles, I discovered my absolute passion for sales and am thrilled to have taken on the challenge of director of sales at Taj Cape Town,” she commented.
She added that one of her greatest joys is working alongside a team, helping them grow their talent, and then watching them succeed. She’ll have plenty of opportunities to do just this at Taj Cape Town, as the hotel has been on a marked upward trajectory since it refreshed its ground floor last year,
introducing several new venues and experiences to create a venue that’s ideal for fast-paced business meetings and workshops, international visitors exploring the Mother City, romantic rendezvous and celebratory occasions and family get-togethers alike.
“We are so excited to see Carmen come on board. Her special brand of talent and extensive network resonates with Taj Hotels’ ethos, and we are looking forward to seeing how she harnesses this to further entrench our brand on the local and international scene to make more special, memorable experiences for our guests,” said Mark Wernich, cluster general manager Africa at Taj Hotels.
Transforming ‘the stay’ in Africa through experiential travel
As we
commemorated
Africa Day last month, a celebration of continental unity and nation-building, we also revel in the continent’s rich cultural and geographical tapestry.
By Andreas Lackner, vice president, operations, Africa and Indian Ocean, Hilton
I’ve had the privilege of exploring many countries across Africa, experiencing first-hand all that the continent has to offer. During my visits, one thing has been clear, and that is the incredible opportunity for our hotels to immerse guests in the natural and cultural beauty of Africa.
Hilton’s 2024 Global Trends Report, which surveyed more than 10,000 travellers across four generations from around the world, found that cultural travel was a top trend, with 40 per cent of respondents saying that they travel to learn about different cultures and destinations.
It is fantastic to see how our hotels across the continent are bringing these locally inspired experiences to life for our guests. At Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone, for example, guests are invited to indulge in the comfort of urban living while immersing themselves in Botswana’s dynamic cultural landscape. The country’s vibrant offerings, ranging from local markets showcasing exquisite arts and crafts, to authentic village tours highlighting the Setswana culture, provide travellers with unparalleled experiences.
Through its #PushaBW initiative, the hotel is supporting local artists by offering them a platform to exhibit and sell their work, thereby enriching the guest experience and empowering the local community.
Another trend that emerged in our report is a clear interest in having the opportunity to enjoy cuisine from the locale and the region, with over 80 per cent of travellers emphasising the importance of exceptional dining options during their stay.
Across Africa, our hotels continue to deliver world-class culinary experiences that take guests on a journey of global flavours. At Conrad Rabat Arzana, travellers are able to dip into the rich culinary tapestry of Morocco, travelling to the vibrant food markets of the city, which allows them to learn about the secrets of traditional Moroccan dishes, local ingredients, and cooking techniques, for a truly immersive experience.
The hotel also features unique culinary offerings including La Brise Brasserie, where the fresh breeze of the Atlantic meets delicious Moroccan flavours. Meanwhile, Feuillage offers guests a serene tea lounge sanctuary where they can enjoy a selection of premium Moroccan teas, unique coffee blends, and delectable bites.
Beyond cultural and culinary experiences, guests are also shifting their focus towards self-discovery, prioritising exploration, and adventure, with over half of Gen Zs and Millennials carving out more budget for these types of excursions.
Many nature enthusiasts are drawn to Umhlanga, South Africa, where Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch collaborates with the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve to provide guided nature walks that enable hotel guests to enjoy a picnic overlooking the lagoon, see wildflowers and over 200 species of birds. The rise of ‘bleisure’ as a travel trend is also taking shape this year, with travellers extending work trips or leveraging remote work to explore destinations. According to the report, 46 per cent of global full-time and self-employed workers plan to travel for business or bleisure at some point this year.
Guests looking for a fusion of nature, city, and culture while they work remotely can stay at the recently opened Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton, which pairs a contemporary setting with Kenya’s worldrenowned natural landscapes. Travellers can venture on tours to experience the country’s sensational and abundant wildlife. The hotel also integrates nature into its design, with forest views, an outdoor pool, and versatile meeting spaces for those mixing work and play.
Furthermore, travellers can book unique experiences at Hilton Addis Ababa to enjoy the serenity and joy of the Entoto Natural Park with its breathtaking mountain, clear springs, waterfalls, and trails along the mountain ridge. They can also meet with local cultivators to
dive into the history and diversity of one of the best-known exports of Ethiopia, coffee. Those keen to explore the city can opt for jazz music or explore cultural restaurants in the Bole and Kazanchis areas.
Across our portfolio of over 100 properties operating or under development in Africa, we remain committed to providing guests with meaningful travel experiences in this new, golden age of travel.
Who is Andreas Lackner?
Andreas Lackner currently serves as the vice president, operations, Africa & Indian Ocean (A&IO) at Hilton. In this role, Andreas is entrusted with overseeing the operational excellence and strategic direction of Hilton across the continent. The portfolio of properties under his leadership encompasses the acclaimed Hilton brands such as Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton, and future additions.
Accountability in the kitchen at Le Franschhoek
As it seeks to create a healthy balance between its offerings and the environment, Dream Hotels & Resorts (DHR) has turned its attention to the food it serves — and especially how this food is sourced and prepared. On the recent Sustainable Gastronomy Day, DHR’s Le Franschhoek shared its commitment to sustainably delicious food.
In an industry where mass-produced, warehouse-sourced fare dominates, we’re on a mission to promote conscious hospitality,” said Reinhard Visser, operations lead at DHR. “We want to enhance the guest experience and establish an enduring business model that better serves our guests, our communities, the people we employ, and the world around us.”
The journey begins at Le Franschhoek
Taking the lead in DHR’s efforts to establish greater awareness and accountability in the kitchen, is renowned South African chef, Kyle Norris, executive head chef at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa.
In just two years, Chef Kyle has played an integral role in securing Le Franschhoek’s reputation among culinary travellers and ardent food aficionados. Together with Le Franschhoek custodian, Murray Nell, he is helping to reinvigorate the property at all levels.
Walk the grounds today and you’ll find everything from rose bushes to fragrant pear, fig, lemon, and apple trees. There’s even an on-site apiary, where honey is produced. This reflects Chef Kyle’s personal focus on sustainability and his passion for creating cuisine inspired by the garden.
“Sustainability doesn’t have to be daunting,” he added. “It can be exciting, affordable, and fun. Here at Le Franschhoek, we keep it simple, seasonal, and intentional. We pickle and preserve, to avoid waste, and make an effort to seek out and create relationships with local farmers. Overall, a kitchen should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of the larger hospitality ecosystem.”
Creating the right kitchen
Chef Kyle attributed much of Le Franschhoek’s success to the talents of his team.
“I’m fortunate that I’ve had a direct hand in building my own
team of promising individuals,” he explained. Chef Kyle is especially proud of the predominantly female team behind Le Franschhoek’s Sauvage Restaurant — something he notes as a rarity in the culinary arts.
“The industry is far too often deprived of incredible female talent. We want to change that by offering a healthier space for women to build their confidence, hone their skills, and make a name for themselves. When it comes to leadership in the kitchen, being ruthless, and grinding down on people just doesn’t work. It’s a personal lesson which I’ve had to learn the hard way. Having a sense of empathy, and remembering your own humanity is far more effective in creating open communication and building trust.”
Sauvage sous chef Odette Bloem agreed: “I’ve experienced my fair share of toxicity and disrespect in this industry, but I don’t get that here. There is freedom to learn, create, and feel purposeful. Yes, it’s still challenging, and Chef Kyle will hold us accountable for mistakes, but it’s done in a way that builds our resilience instead of being made to feel incompetent.”
A culture of accountability
Looking ahead, Reinhard is committed to transforming DHR’s property kitchens into educational spaces with elevated opportunities for skills and knowledge sharing.
“We’d love to invite Chef Kyle into more of our kitchens elsewhere in the country to collaborate with, encourage, and support our chefs, as many work largely on their own. From the executive chefs to the co-leads and assistants, we want to make things better for those whose livelihoods depend on our success.”
With a significant number of lodges and resorts based in eco-sensitive areas, this approach ties into other DHR priorities, including enhanced waste management, and connecting with
local producers to source organic ingredients. “We’re excited by the prospect of cultivating in-house,” Reinhard added. “Several properties across our group have already established their own vegetable gardens and organic waste disposal systems. There is so much potential.”
Commenting on their overall vision for the future, he concludes by noting the importance of taking greater accountability rather than simply overhauling menus.
“It’s not about perfectionism. It’s about challenging ourselves to look inward, to work with what we have around us, and to establish healthier systems of thinking and doing. We want to bring back a renewed sense of pride, and do our part in rejuvenating South Africa’s culinary landscape so that guests will want to return, and our country’s young talent will be inspired to be a part of it.”
Frank Murangwa –new ICCA regional director for Africa
The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has announced that Frank Murangwa will join the team as Regional Director for Africa. Mr Murangwa replaces Esmaré Steinhöfel, who left ICCA at the end of March 2024.
With more than 15 years of experience in the meetings and events industry, Mr Murangwa brings a wealth of insights and fresh perspectives to the ICCA team. His background includes a wide range of skills ranging from market development and communications to tourism quality assurance and team management. We are excited about the expertise Mr Murangwa will undoubtedly contribute to enhance ICCA’s position in Africa.
“Everyone at ICCA welcomes Frank to the team. His experience and background make him a great fit for the Regional Director role, and we’re excited to have him on board,” said Senthil Gopinath, chief executive officer of ICCA. “The ICCA team is stronger than ever, and we’re thrilled to enhance our presence in Africa’s fast-growing market, with Frank as our ICCA representative in the region.”
Mr Murangwa is currently the director of Destination Marketing at the Rwanda Convention Bureau, where he previously served as the acting chief executive officer. Voted AFRICA’s MICE ICON 2017 by the Street of Gold Foundation, Mr Murangwa has a strong educational background in tourism, as well as significant expertise in developing strategies for tourism destinations.
“I am thrilled to join this exceptional organisation and eager to leverage my skills and experience to drive meaningful impact. I am excited about the challenges and growth opportunities this role presents,” Mr Murangwa said.
Cape Town | George | Knysna | East London | Mpongo Private Game Reserve | Pinetown | Port Edward | Richards Bay | Sani Pass | Scottburgh | Umhlanga | Sandton | Midrand | OR Tambo | Pretoria | White River | Bloemfontein
Ultima Antarctic expeditions announces exclusive 250 seats
In a rare opportunity to explore one of the most untouched landscapes on Earth, Ultima Antarctic Expeditions ( www.ultima-antarcticexpeditions.com) has announced the availability of only 250 seats for its upcoming Antarctic season, beginning in less than five months.
With limited availability, guests depart from Cape Town, South Africa, to inland Antarctica in just 5.5 hours, seamlessly blending two of Earth’s most desirable destinations.
Intrepid explorers can opt for a 7-day Emperor Penguin Expedition or the 24-hour Ultima Day. Of the 250 expedition seats available, the most exclusive are just 100 seats for the ultimate experience: The South Pole and Emperors Expedition Tailor-made Antarctic experiences are also available.
Ultima’s Expeditions include visits to ancient ice walls and ice caves, providing unparalleled experiences to observe penguins in their natural habitat or the pinnacle experience of an expedition to Earth’s geographic South Pole.
Purpose-driven journeys crossfunding scientific research Ultima’s Antarctic Expeditions are not only a giant leap into adventure, but also a
significant footprint in support of ongoing scientific research on the world’s most remote continent.
Each guest taking up one of these limited 250 expedition seats will travel alongside scientists already headed to Antarctica, indirectly offsetting their leisure trip by cross-funding the logistics of ongoing scientific research programmes.
“We see our expeditions as creating future Antarctic Ambassadors, helping to protect and preserve this precious place,” said Riaan Aucamp, chief executive officer of Ultima Antarctic Expeditions.
“Furthermore, every activity is officially permitted, so the types of visits we offer are tightly controlled. All types of waste stemming from such visits are carefully collected and transported back to South Africa,” Mr Aucamp said.
“Visiting Antarctica is more than just a destination — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, like visiting a different planet,
other-worldly. Every one of our expedition guests has returned feeling like a true Antarctic Expeditioner — following in the footsteps of Antarctic heroes. We are deeply proud to offer these unique experiences to people who wish to join the ranks of our authentic explorers,” Mr Aucamp said.
Adventure seekers, unique experience hunters, passionate nature and wildlifeloving photographers, or eco-warriors looking to explore the unknown will need to act fast to secure their place on this expedition, which opens in November 2024. Spaces are expected to fill rapidly.
For bookings and more information, contact our dedicated team of Antarctic travel experts today by emailing connect@ultima-antarcticexpeditions.com
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary journey, while having a positive impact on the world of scientific exploration.
What’s really important for the MICE industry across Africa?
Recent global MICE feedback, provided by luminaries at the recent WTM event in Cape Town, point to a 10 per cent share of the total global MICE market of $1 Trillion. My view is that this is unsubstantiated and probably closer to a third of this.
By Mark Jakins
In a 2024 world characterised by regional warfare, political and sectoral conflicts of interest, yet with a gradual and steady economic climb out from the post-Covid-19 hangovers, the MICE industry is fighting for sustained growth on a number of fronts.
In summary, these are likely characterised as:
• The exodus of skills from this sector into more lucrative, pandemic-proof career choices that pay more. It’s clear that service has suffered, and standards are tapered.
• The big shift to hybrid working models and impact on the need for face-to-face contact and culture re-enforcement by organisations. There is a place for online, but there is no substitute for human contact.
• The traditional shorter lead times and last-minute requests with very tight budgets becoming the norm. ‘I want more for less’.
• A focus on sustainable travel options and corporate social responsibility, with clients concerned about the potential judgement associated with making less sustainable choices, or unethical decisions on locations, extravagance and carbon emissions. It’s no longer cool to be over-the-top.
• Even the habitual request for proposals (RFPs), which prove costly, are timeconsuming and come with long lead times. It’s always going to be subjective!
These are indeed factors that African destinations may find favour with in embracing and making a case for change to local and international decision-makers.
Our travels around Africa over the last 18 months have been interesting, from Namibia to Zanzibar, Malawi to Mauritius, then Kenya to Rwanda — and more, with some interesting observations arising that affect MICE industry attractiveness. We haven’t just attended workshops, but rather walked the streets, visited venues and building sites, immersed ourselves in the local customs and experienced the airports, hotels, taxis, and local restaurants.
The observations, therefore, point to a pragmatic way of securing more support from decision-makers. Local support (or the MC and E in MICE) from local government,
special interest groups, corporates, and events will always be there for each African country, but what are the likely paths to unlock global support?
The drivers of growth could be:
• Appeal to decision-makers in identified target markets to support responsible activities, businesses, and destinations. The call for more MICE professionals to consider new and developmental, socially responsible destinations is a proven strategy for savvy African destinations and their sales and marketing teams — pushing a community cause.
• Show decision-makers that investment into infrastructure at airports, hotels, and roads, as well as surrounding entertainment and cultural attractions, is a reason to take a new look.
• Ensure that the convention bureaux, tourism authorities, and local authorities are prioritising safety and security standards that are communicated clearly to skittish decision-makers from their first-world perches.
• Encourage potential clients to embrace the local, unstructured market opportunities and attractions through tours and building into their convention or incentive schedules as a way of giving back to communities and leaving their footprint as a lasting impression.
• Invest in technology, destination digital presence, and an understanding of AI-powered content distribution to the right decision-makers, to show the world and trade show visitors what real sustainability, local culture, and humanity – as the potential home for the MICE event – looks like. Drone footage, 360° tours, and walkthroughs of nearby attractions always prove a winner. Obviously, this will include picking up the event’s RFPs of the world and reacting
• Send the disciples to the source of business to secure business, there is no substitute for human contact — or encourage the decision-makers to make the journey to Africa and make it an experience. After all, new trends show that most business travellers seek authentic, memorable, and
leisure add-ons to leave with lifelong memories.
• Improve and demonstrate the organisational skill in your establishment, or as a DMC. One of the biggest failures in travelling throughout Africa is the logistics, time management, and airport waiting time or connection management — and ordinary itineraries can turn into nightmares.
• Show that your establishment or destination can hold your own against more traditional destinations in Europe, with respect to comforts, cuisine, technology, experiences, and uniqueness — even if the offering is simpler, yet embracing and genuine. Never has there been a better time to capitalise on global turmoil and sameness, and to persuade MICE decision-makers to explore new frontiers, and the brilliant adoption of warm cultures, sustainable destinations and caring communities that thrive with imperfection.
Mark Jakins writes for us in his private capacity.
Who is Mark Jakins?
He is the Head of Advisory for Valor Hospitality, a global hospitality management company with offices and hospitality locations in the US, UK, Middle East, and Africa. He is also the chief executive officer and founder of Futuredrum, a bespoke business and marketing consultancy.
How green was my valley?
Nostalgia often paints the past in rose-coloured hues, but today’s harsh environmental realities, especially in the events industry, shatter that illusion. Despite initiatives like the NZCE and EGF aiming for sustainability, real, impactful change remains elusive. The ‘green’ materials promoted, such as fabric, still contribute to pollution, and the industry’s attempts at becoming more eco-friendly are often mere facades, hiding the deeper, systemic issues.
True change demands a significant overhaul in materials, design, and logistics, not just superficial tweaks. Transitioning to sustainable materials such as paperfibreboard offers not just environmental benefits, but economic and social ones as well. However, achieving this requires a collective effort and a move away from complacency. The industry and its clients must prioritise genuine sustainability over superficial gestures.
The harsh reality of the events industry
Unlike nostalgic memories, the impact of CO2 emissions and pollution is real and severe. The events industry seems largely oblivious to this fact. Events are often labelled as ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’, but this is usually superficial, as one colleague aptly described it as mere ‘lipstick’.
There are commendable initiatives, such as the NZCE, which sets global standards for change. In South Africa, the EGF is the leading body for greening efforts. Yet, despite these initiatives, real change in expo halls and conference venues is frustratingly slow. Monitoring and managing water, waste, and energy should be standard practices today, not exceptional achievements.
The unseen environmental cost
The real issue lies in the unmeasured aspects: the thousands of tons of materials, structures, staff, transport, manufacturing processes, logistics, and waste are involved in every event. This results in waste, on a cataclysmic scale.
What solutions are we offering our clients?
One of the ‘greenest’ options is fabric. While it’s easier to transport, reuse, and recycle to a limited extent, it’s still polyester, derived from petroleum, ultimately ending up in landfills and degrading into microfibers that permeate our food sources and even our bloodstreams. It’s ‘better’ than other materials, but that’s a low bar. The worst offenders include MDF, chipboard, PST, vinyl, and PVC — materials that are toxic, mostly imported, and destined for
landfills.
Despite the clear documentation of these issues, the majority of events continue to use these materials, wasting resources in logistics, manufacturing, and transportation. While face-to-face interactions and the economic benefits of events are undeniable, achieving these at the expense of ecological degradation is unacceptable.
Real solutions for sustainable change
Although every small effort helps, some are simply trivial in comparison to the larger issues. For instance, saving 100 A4 pages pales in comparison to the environmental impact of 10 cubic meters of MDF used for an expo stand.
Reaching Net Zero is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s closely linked to job creation, economic growth, and financial sustainability. By switching from materials like PST/MDF to paper-fibreboard, we achieve numerous benefits:
• Local purchases boost job creation and the economy.
• Improved logistics and efficiencies reduce energy use by 60 per cent.
• Stand reuse increases tenfold, enhancing both resource and economic value.
• Paper-based boards can be recycled or composted, maintaining a circular process. One ton of recycled paper-based board saves over two cubic metres of landfill space and 17 trees.
Designing smarter for a sustainable future
We need to design smarter. For example, reducing a booth size from 3x3 (9m²) to 2x3 (6m²) makes it 30 per cent more sustainable without losing impact. Applying this logical approach to materials and methods can make real sustainability attainable.
Being ‘better than bad’ is not good enough:
• Importing toxic materials when local alternatives create jobs and growth.
• Employing local staff at remote venues
instead of flying staff long distances.
• Implementing 80-90 per cent sustainable events instead of settling for minimal improvements.
Implement substantial, measurable change. Measure it, brag about it, but don’t greenwash. Transitioning to newer, better materials complements other efforts. Healing our planet requires multifaceted solutions. While recycling plastics is essential, remember that only 15 per cent of polyester is currently recycled, and only 9 per cent of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, with 19 per cent incinerated. Let’s make our events industry ‘valley’ as green as possible — for us and for future generations.
Who is Gary van der Watt?
In 2011, with 21 hands-on years in the interior design/ events industry, Gary realised the huge negative impact our industry has on the earth. In a ‘build and burn’ industry, not only waste, but toxic materials and processes are the ball and chain that are dragging us into a global crisis. Gary is involved in sustainable events, exhibitions and retail solutions that are not only ecologically sound but also impact positively on the socio-economic sustainability of our society. Creativity and ideas are converted into reality. Design actioned into reality and delivered sustainably. ‘’That is my goal, my drive and ambition.” In 2023, he took up a role at Xanita, with the aim of empowering global companies and institutions in designing and creating eco-amazing structures, events, campaigns and retail environments — by engaging with eco-active designers, architects, exhibition builders and brand activists who influence design positively. ‘’Think, plan, design, and always ask questions’’.
By Gary van der Watt, Xanita
Demand growing for ‘unusual’ conferencing experiences
Conferencing is undergoing rapid change as customer expectations for ‘unusual’ experiences transform the sector.
At a meeting of professional conference organisers held recently at The Vineyard Hotel, key roleplayers discussed trends shaping the industry and showcased innovative new conferencing options to delegates.
Belinda Morrison, head of sales for The Vineyard, said conferences are increasingly being shaped by heightened expectations of sustainability, wellness, and innovation.
“Leading conference venues are integrating eco-friendly practices such as energy efficiency systems and waste reduction to meet the growing demand for sustainable meeting options. Wellness is now a core tenet of modern conferencing experiences, with many featuring activities such as meditation, fitness sessions, and health-conscious catering to boost attendee wellbeing.”
The meeting of industry professionals, held
at The Vineyard Hotel at the end of May, included discussions around themes that include: wellness, artistic expression, presentation skills training, and team building. Professional conference organisers in attendance started the day with a grounding and meditation session before moving to the scenic lawns for mentally stimulating team-building exercises.
This was followed by a session about dynamic presentation-building techniques in the TED Talks-style Lounge. The day concluded with afternoon tea and bubbles, and a creative painting activity against the backdrop of stunning views of Table Mountain.
Cape Town continues to be a top meetings destination, with a recent ranking by CVENT placing the city at number five in a list of the top ten meetings destinations in the Middle
East and Africa. The Vineyard Hotel was also listed as one of only three South African hotels in the Top 50 meetings destinations in the region.
Ms Morrison said that one of the key takeouts from the day was the shift away from traditional seating plans, to less formal or mixed seating options. “One of the great ideas shared on the day was that of a conference organiser that had delegates build their own setup from a range of mismatched chairs, stools and sofas. This immediately sparked conversation and engagement at the outset of their event.
“We are excited to invite guests and delegates to enjoy unique and enriching conference experiences. By combining wellness, creativity, and skill development, we aim to provide a memorable and distinctive event for everyone,” she concluded.
The Panari Resort Nyahururu opens as Africa’s first addition to BW Signature Collection®
BWHSM Hotels (BWH) welcomes the Panari Resort as Africa’s first hotel to join its prestigious BW Signature Collection.
Located in Nyahururu, Kenya, the resort’s warm and rustic ambiance provides visitors with a calming oasis amongst Kenya’s famed natural wonders. The Panari Resort is known for its exclusive collection of unique hotels, all distinguished by their originality and individual personas.
Guests will enjoy the resort’s comfortable cottage-style rooms with ornate stone fireplaces and flat-screen televisions. As a nod to the surrounding natural landscape, the cottage designs showcase botanic wallpaper, wooden motifs, and an earth-tone colour palette. Three dining options are available onsite, including the Brown Olive Restaurant, the Silky Oak Bar, and the poolside restaurant. Additional amenities include meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 300 guests, a steam and sauna, a solar-heated indoor pool, a fitness centre, daily yoga, and salon and spa facilities sure to exceed guest expectations.
“As a milestone celebration for the brand, we are thrilled to introduce Panari Resort as a welcome addition to BW Signature Collection,” said Wytze Vandenberg, vice president of International Operations EMEA for BWH.
“With proximity to some of Kenya's best sites and breathtaking views, enticing amenities for all travellers, and stylish guest rooms, the resort has something for everyone.”
The Panari Resort also showcases BWH’s dedication to sustainability. The resort has several on-property sustainability initiatives to help reduce its carbon footprint, including water conservation efforts and solar-powered facilities.
Panari Resort also boasts a newly built Elephant Water Hole at Marmanet Forest as part of its ongoing contributions to sustainable tourism development.
“We are thrilled to join BW Signature Collection,” said Devendra Asher, group general manager of Panari Hotels and Resort.
“This partnership represents a new chapter for our resort, where we can elevate our global visibility and exceed our guests’ expectations. With support and resources from BWH, we are confident that Panari Resort Nyahururu will become the premier choice for travellers seeking a blend of sophistication and authentic experiences.”
Ideally located for nature enthusiasts, Panari Resort is nestled in the heart of Nyahururu, Kenya. It boasts picturesque views of Thomson’s Falls gorge, the Ewaso Nyiro River, and the Marmanet Forest. The drive to the resort offers breathtaking scenery of the Great Rift Valley and guests can experience stopovers at the Equator point. For adventure seekers, the resort is close to the Hippo Pools and Lake Ol’ Bolossat, which is home to more than 185 species of birds and wild animals such as hippos. Guests can also enjoy nature walks, hiking, rhino safaris, or play a round of golf at nearby Nyahururu Sports and Golf Club.
CTICC clinches gold in prestigious global recognition
The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has won gold at the 2024 Eventex Global Awards, in the categories of African Destination: Best African Events Destination and the International Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) Destination.
The CTICC also scooped Silver for the categories of Versatile Venue, which applauds the Centre’s ability to adapt and accommodate a variety of types and sizes of events, as well as People’s Choice Destination, for venues that stand out from the rest and are voted for by the public.
“We are immensely proud of this recognition. The competition is tough, and the standards are high, but these awards show that our convention offering is world-class. Cape Town is a sought-after destination, and it is important that the convention offering is in keeping with the quality that the destination has become famous for,” said Taubie Motlhabane, chief executive officer of the CTICC.
The Eventex Awards is the premier recognition in the events and experiential marketing world, honouring and celebrating innovation, creativity, and effectiveness in the industry. This year, winners were selected from a pool of 1207 submissions, spanning 62 countries and across six continents. This reaffirms that the CTICC can rival top global contenders and emerge victorious.
“Congratulations to the CTICC on your remarkable achievement at the 2024 Eventex Awards. Winning the prestigious titles for Best African Events Destination and International MICE Destination and being named runner-up in the People’s Choice Destination and Versatile Venue categories truly reflects your commitment to creativity, innovation, and effectiveness in the events industry. Thank you for the 20 years of excellence that continues to enhance the allure of the Western Cape as a leading events destination, boosting our economy and supporting thousands of jobs. Here’s to many more years of success,” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger when she congratulated the CTICC team.
“As Mayor, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the CTICC on receiving these prestigious awards. The CTICC's dedication to excellence and innovation in the events industry
has not only elevated our city's profile but has also contributed significantly to our economic and cultural vitality. Here's to many more years of success and collaboration as the CTICC continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in our city,” added Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
“Choosing a destination has become highly competitive. A city’s convention centre is an important part of the tourism value chain, as convention delegates spend time exploring all the city has to offer. A positive convention experience is important and can significantly enhance the overall visitor experience and perception of a destination. The awards and global accolades we receive as a city reinforce our position as a globally leading tourist destination,” said Enver Duminy, chief executive officer of Cape Town Tourism.
“Congratulations to the CTICC for their outstanding recognition at the Eventex Awards, a prestigious accolade in the events and experiential marketing industry. This achievement further establishes the city and province as premier business events destinations, not only in Africa but globally. The significance of business events cannot be overstated; they serve as drivers of economic activity, job creation, and innovation. Moreover, they provide invaluable platforms for industries to showcase their capabilities, exchange ideas, and forge relationships that can lead to lucrative deals and investments. The Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau, powered by Wesgro, successfully secured 30 new bids for the province in the previous financial year (April 2023-March 2024), with an estimated economic impact of R1.029 billion. Therefore, the CTICC's recognition at the Eventex Awards will enhance our ability to attract even more high-profile events in the future,” said Wrenelle Stander, chief executive officer of Wesgro.
The CTICC is renowned for its consistent global acclaim. Over the past three years, it has garnered a multitude of prestigious awards, spanning service excellence, sustainability,
event and exhibition venue, and recognition for its leadership. These accolades not only underscore the CTICC's commitment to excellence but also highlight its pivotal role as a leader in the global events industry.
“We are very blessed to be in an amazing destination, working with exceptional teams and partners. These awards are a testament to the dedication of the men and women who work tirelessly to offer a positive convention experience, regardless of the nature of the event. For me personally, I am immensely proud of my team at the CTICC,” Ms Motlhabane said.
Taubie Motlhabane, Cape Town International Conference Centre CEO.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge celebrates 30 years of excellence
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge proudly announces its upcoming 30 th anniversary, marking three decades of exceptional service and unwavering dedication to hospitality excellence and conservation.
Since its inception on 14 December 1994, the lodge has stood as an emblem of luxury and conservation, captivating travellers from around the globe with its unparalleled experiences in one of Africa’s most iconic destinations.
In its rich history, the lodge has become synonymous with unforgettable experiences, breathtaking views, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. As the lodge prepares to celebrate this milestone anniversary, Ross Kennedy, co-founder and director, reflects on the journey thus far and looks ahead to future endeavours.
“It’s with great pride and gratitude that we celebrate 30 years of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. As we celebrate, we stand at the threshold of an exciting new chapter. We are committed to exploring innovative avenues for development that will not only enhance our guests' experiences but also contribute positively to the local community and the environment in which we operate, and we look forward to unveiling these exciting developments.”
Mr Kennedy added: ”Our success and standing in the marketplace are a testament to the dedication and expertise of our remarkable staff. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and their deep-rooted connection to our vision has
been instrumental in driving our growth and shaping our identity over the past three decades. From the front desk to the kitchen, every member of the team plays a fundamental role in the group’s growth and success.”
In contemplating the lodge’s path, Nigel Frost, managing director, said: “Our thirtieth anniversary is not just a celebration of milestones achieved, but it is also a testament to the resilience, dedication, and passion of everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. Despite the challenges we've faced, we have emerged stronger and more determined than ever to continue our mission of being a catalyst for positive change in the region and a trailblazer in the tourism landscape."
In addition to providing world-class hospitality, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge remains deeply committed to its community and the conservation of the surrounding ecosystem. Through various initiatives and partnerships, including the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit and the Wildlife Conservation Coalition, the Victoria Falls Recycling project, and the Vulture Culture Experience, the lodge continues to make an impact by supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that the beauty of Victoria Falls is preserved for generations to come.
As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is proud to announce key legacy projects currently underway. These include the production of a series of captivating short films and a stunning coffee-table book chronicling the lodge's vibrant history and the people at the centre of it, its commitment to conservation as well as the beauty of Victoria Falls and its surrounds.
Awarded the Best Resort Hotel in Zimbabwe for 25 years in succession by the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents, and recently listed among the Top 10 per cent of hotels around the world in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge has set the standard for luxury hospitality in Zimbabwe and the region. As it embarks on the next chapter of its journey, the lodge remains dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences while preserving the natural wonders that make Victoria Falls truly special.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is the flagship property of the Zimbabwean hospitality group, Africa Albida Tourism. Other properties in the group’s portfolio include Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, Victoria Falls Safari Spa, and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, just 4km from the Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Staff on the lodge’s Buffalo Bar Terrace.
Gearing up for tourism’s resurgence
South Africa’s tourism sector is blossoming. According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Tourism, more than 2.4 million internationals stopped by between January and March 2024, representing a positive increase of 15.4 per cent when compared with the same period last year.
South Africa was a particularly attractive destination for Ghanaians, British citizens, and Americans, whose visitor numbers all saw strong increases. The bulk of tourists (1.8 million) came from Africa, followed by Europe (420,727) and the Americas (118,194). As one of the industry’s leading lights, The Capital Hotels, Apartments, and Resorts is positioning itself to fully capitalise on this new tourism boom and help the South African hospitality industry get back to its pre-pandemic best.
Preserving our place as one of Africa’s travel hotspots
According to the Ministry of Tourism, visitors coming from Ghana and Zimbabwe have seen outstanding travel growth, improving by 249 per cent and 21 per cent, respectively. Travellers from Asian markets increased by 25 per cent, while tourists from the Netherlands and Germany have also increased by just under 10 per cent. To ensure that these guests have memorable stays, The Capital Hotels, Apartments, and Resorts are not just responding to the increased demand but also pioneering solutions that help holiday goers navigate some of the nation’s challenges.
This includes leading the charge in implementing solar energy and water conservation initiatives. The group’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its substantial investments in solar energy, which will soon have 80% of its properties powered by the sun. This initiative is part of a broader multimillion-rand investment
into renewable energy, demonstrating The Capital’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and operational costs while navigating the challenges of load shedding.
Marc Wachsberger, chief executive officer of The Capital Hotels, Apartments, and Resorts said: “Adaptability is the name of the game and what we are increasingly finding is that by being agile in our thinking and planning, we have been able to provide memorable experiences for our guests. Doing that means looking at our current landscape and thinking three steps ahead of that so that our visitors never have to worry about whether a property will have power.”
The grass is greener where you water it
Water scarcity is a growing problem in South Africa that could threaten the growing tourism numbers. Fortunately, there are already initiatives underway to insulate guests from its effects. The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts have invested heavily in state-of-the-art water purification systems for both The Capital Pearls and The Capital Zimbali Resort, ensuring that they adhere to the strictest Blue Drop standards.
“We love a good bit of innovation and our property, The Capital Pearls, proves that. It uses an ‘internal aqueduct’, that acts as a private waterway, ensuring that water circulating within the premises is of the highest quality. This system not only surpasses Blue Drop quality benchmarks
but also demonstrates an out-of-the-box approach to sustainable water distribution,” Mr Wachsberger added.
In a similarly innovative fashion, the property at Zimbali uses a reverse osmosis redundancy system to ensure that The Capital Zimbali Resort guarantees a consistent and purified water supply.
By investing in renewable energy and embracing technology, major players in the hospitality industry can do their part to keep tourism’s purple patch going. In doing so, they will help boost the economy and provide jobs for countless South Africans. By doing its bit, The Capital Hotels, Apartments and Resorts is not just preparing for a brighter future for the tourism industry, they are actively shaping it and the benefits of that will be felt for years to come.
Marc Wachesberger — MD of The Capital Hotels and Apartments.
ANEW Hotels & Resorts wins Green Stand Award at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024
ExpoGuys is proud to announce that the stand designed and built for ANEW Hotels & Resorts has won the Green Stand Award at Africa's Travel Indaba 2024, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in Durban. This award highlights the successful collaboration between ANEW and ExpoGuys, focusing on sustainability in the travel and tourism industry.
ANEW Hotels & Resorts showcased their dedication to sustainability with an eco-friendly stand made from recyclable materials. Partnering with ExpoGuys, known for sustainable exhibition design, the stand utilised repurposed materials from previous installations. The design incorporated lightweight aluminium, LED lighting, lowconsumption flat screens, and modular construction for efficient transportation and reduced carbon emissions.
The ExpoGuys’ approach to exhibition design emphasises recycling and reducing carbon footprints. This stand reflected this ethos by repurposing materials from previous installations. Everything, from furniture to flooring and audio-visual equipment, was creatively reused and enhanced, incorporating lightweight
materials such as aluminium and active recycling initiatives integral to the stand’s design. Throughout construction, waste was minimised, and materials were carefully managed for reuse. LED lighting and a low-consumption flat screen contributed to energy efficiency, while the stand’s modular design, which folds up flat, enabled efficient transportation and assembly, reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, innovative printing techniques enhanced sustainability, with a shift towards fabric printing which means the branding can be reused on ANEW’s future exhibition stands.
In addition to the stand design, ANEW further demonstrated their commitment to sustainability by using eco-friendly takeaway containers, minimising waste in tea and coffee setups, replacing plastic bottles with sustainable alternatives, and utilising QR
codes instead of printed sales booklets. This initiative aligns with ANEW’s Environmental Sustainability Policy, reflecting their commitment to reducing energy and water consumption and minimising waste across their properties.
Jani Mari Swart, public relations manager at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Thank you, ExpoGuys, for your collaboration and innovative approach. We are beyond thrilled with the results and proud of this achievement!”
Patrick Cronning, commercial director of ExpoGuys, shared his enthusiasm: “Sustainability is at the heart of what we do.
Partnering with ANEW Hotels & Resorts to create this stand has been an incredible journey. We are proud to demonstrate that sustainable practices and innovative design can go hand in hand.”
ANEW wins Indaba Green Stand Award.
ANEW Indaba stand 2024.
Register now for the Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass 2024
As tourism stakeholders prepare to converge for the 7 th Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass 2024, this year’s organisers are focusing on equipping businesses on how to monetise their businesses through sustainable revenue generation in MICE. The 7 th and 2024 edition of the Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa on Tuesday, 16 th and Wednesday, 17 th July 2024.
Executives and officials of convention bureaux, tourism departments, tourism boards/authorities, municipalities, tourism development agencies, meeting planners, professional conference organisers, professional event organisers, destination marketing companies, MICE industry suppliers, youth and women in tourism, students, SMEs, entrepreneurs and start-ups in Africa travel and tourism are expected to participate in the Masterclass.
Since its inception in 2018, over 1,500 African industry professionals have participated in this programme. The Masterclass is the only pan-African-focused MICE and business events professional development and training programme in Africa. Designed and delivered annually as a professional development and refresher program by renowned African and international industry practitioners and professionals, strategic partners for the program include BDO, ICCA, the Southern Africa Association for the Conference Industry, UN Tourism, and SITE Africa, and many other partners.
UN Tourism acknowledges that the MICE
sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global tourism industry. The success of any business/MICE destination and organisation is hinged on the competencies of specialist knowledge possessed by its workforce, hence the need for this Masterclass. It is therefore against this background that ATP has designed and is ready to deliver the annual Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass.
Themed, ‘Unlocking optimal economic value and revenues for Africa MICE
Destinations and Businesses’, this year’s diverse and comprehensive Masterclass will be presented by a faculty comprising some of the world’s most experienced leaders and experts in the MICE industry. Some of the speakers include Adele Hartdegen, chief executive officer of Johannesburg Expo Centre; Professor Dimitrios Buhalis, Bournemouth University Business School, UK; Angelique Smith, chief executive officer of Event Synthesis International; Papy Luzala, head of commercial and government affairs, Africa; Nicanor Sabula, chief executive officer, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA); Edward Abankwa, founder and chief executive officer,
Pinnacle Sports and Events Management, UK, and more.
This professional development programme will provide a holistic view of the opportunities for the Africa MICE industry. It will focus on among current issues, trends, and key standards, while providing a tangible approach to leveraging current and future opportunities. It will equip delegates with a clear picture of what the Africa MICE Tourism Industry is (and is not) as well as all the essential practical knowledge and skills delegates need to be successful in their businesses.
Participants will get the opportunity to participate in pre-arranged and on-thespot, one-on-one, business-to-business sessions. Desktop exhibition space is available on a first come, first served basis. Group registration for SMMEs and students is set to benefit from a massive discount offered by the organisers.
To sign up for participation, please contact Ms. Rejoice Chishamba: Email: rejoice@africatourismpartners.com Tel: +27 81 303 7030 You can also click here to register.
Airbus releases latest study
Global aerospace and aviation leader Airbus has released an analysis detailing several key unserved African routes which could provide greater connectivity for travellers, drive economic growth in local economies, and provide a significant boost in revenue for airlines.
The company also highlighted data on Africa from its latest Global Market Forecast (GMF).
Several of the top unserved routes identified in the analysis are concentrated in cities such as Lagos, Cape Town, Nairobi, Dakar, and Douala. Airbus also touched on strategic recommendations to capitalise on the opportunities of a more connected continent as well as Airbus’ capabilities to help realise this potential.
“Despite significant traffic between certain city-pairs, some identified routes still lack regularly scheduled non-stop flights. Factors such as restrictive bilateral air service agreements, economic variables, and challenges with capacity, frequency and operating cost efficiency contribute to these routes remaining unserved,” said Geert Lemaire, market intelligence and
consulting director, Airbus.
“With our capacity to make analyses about route and network development potential in-house, Airbus remains committed to partnering with airlines across Africa to identify optimised fleet solutions in line with network development requirements that further stimulate the continent’s air transport industry growth and improve connectivity for travellers.”
The forecast, meanwhile, predicts a 4.1 per cent growth overall in air traffic over the next 20 years, resulting in an anticipated need for 1,180 new aircraft by 2043. Meanwhile, the continued growth of the aviation sector in Africa is expected to result in a 3.3 per cent real GDP growth on the continent, well above the 2.6 per cent global average. This growth is ratified by
data from Airbus’ Global Services Forecast, which estimates that Africa will need to introduce 15,000 more pilots, 20,000 technicians and 24,000 cabin crew to meet the surge in air travel demand.
To learn more about the untapped opportunities in Africa’s aviation sector, we invite you to read Airbus’ latest analysis on unserved routes here
Building back Exhibitions and Events together!
The founding Associations of the SA Events Council have consistently provided essential information and support on event safety, business relief and venue capacity. Ensure you are ready for business by engaging with your association today.
AAXO Leadership Summit — growing the African exhibition sector
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) Leadership Summit recently took place, on 4 June 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, and was the ultimate platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, bringing together 30 industry-elite speakers and 120 event leaders in attendance, from across South Africa and even as far as Kenya, Zimbabwe, and the UK.
The global landscape of events and exhibitions is rapidly evolving, and AAXO is proud to lead the way in empowering its members with the necessary tools and expertise to effectively sell, market, lead, organise, recruit, and expand their event and exhibition enterprises.
Presented as a showcase of the Global Exhibition Day (GED) festivities on 5 June 2024, a collaboration between three influential industry associations – AAXO, the Event Greening Forum (EGF), and the Exhibition and Event Association of Africa (EXSA) – the Summit highlighted the booming African and South African markets in honour of GED, offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect and engage with the region’s dynamic business landscape. Drawing on a wealth of knowledge and expertise, the AAXO Leadership Summit delivered a wealth of innovative strategies, thought-provoking discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Jabu Zwane, renowned speaker and founder of the Mindset Development Institute, delivered an inspirational keynote address on unleashing leadership potential and navigating economic changes in uncertain times.
Dr. Werner van Zyl, founder of Connectomes Research & Content Development, led a game-changing masterclass on incorporating neuroscience into event design.
The plenary panel brought together industry leaders, including Sthembiso Dlamini, chief executive officer of Gauteng Tourism Authority; Bjorn Hufkie, acting chief convention bureau officer of the South Africa National Convention Bureau; Donnee Kruger, regional manager, TIKZN; Corne Koch, head of Convention Bureau, WESGRO; Doné Louw, manager, Nelson Mandela Bay Convention Bureau and moderator, Prof. Nellie Swart, Associate Professor, UNISA, who shared success stories and strategies for promoting African businesses, driving innovation, and positioning the continent as a global leader.
In addition to these enriching talks, attendees participated in four hands-on workshops, on topics such as sales strategies, sustainable event planning, team building, and media mastery including:
• Driving Business Growth
Sales Strategies for the New World Exhibition Economy led by Sibusiso Msomi, managing director of The Sales
Enablement Company, and moderated by Tracy Gounden, portfolio director at Messe Frankfurt SA.
• Greening Your Exhibitions
Sustainable Strategies for Event Professionals, led by John Arvanitakis, chief executive officer of Chat’r Xperience and chair of the Event Greening Forum, and Neo Mohlatlole of 7 Colors and vice chairperson of the Event Greening Forum, with Errol Bryce, group commercial director of Vuka Group, serving as moderator.
• Building a Winning Team
Coaching and Mentoring for Success led by Slingsby Mda, founder of EstoQuodes, and moderated by Adele Hartdegen, chief executive officer of Dogan Exhibitions and Events.
• Media Mastery
Maximising Your Impact and Message in Interviews and Engagements, led by Brad Kirsten, training course creator and presenter at BradKirsten.com, with Projeni Pather, managing director of Exposure Marketing, serving as moderator.
Piers Bearne of Collingwood Advisory presented, virtually, a fireside chat on global mergers and acquisitions in the event
industry. He featured sneak previews from our 2024 M&A/valuations report which is a must for any business owner looking to sell, scale, or find funding.
An in-depth session on navigating the changing landscape of HR and recruitment, presented by Leigh-Ann Brown of Talent Magnet, offered valuable insights for staying ahead in the competitive MICE industry.
The summit concluded with a think tank focused on the unique challenges and opportunities facing the African event and exhibition industry, moderated by Glenton De Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI, and brought together a diverse panel of experienced commercial and project leads from various event organisers who addressed the obstacles and potential for growth within the African event and exhibition industry. The stimulating discussions and insights gained from the panel laid a solid foundation for future success in the field.
“Looking towards the future of marketing and engagement, it is clear that embracing innovative techniques is key to success. We recognise the vital role that exhibitions and events play in an effective overall strategy, providing economic enablement for the industries and markets we serve. As an industry, it is crucial that we evolve in order to pave the way for sustainable economic growth,” Devi Paulsen-Abbott, chairperson of AAXO said.
Ms Paulsen-Abbot added: “It was an honour to have you as our valuable guests and your presence made this event a resounding success. We are grateful to all the speakers who shared their knowledge and experience with us, making the summit an enriching and informative experience.”
A special thank you goes to our esteemed speakers, moderators, MC, and workshop instructors for their incredible contributions!
AAXO expressed their gratitude to the sponsors and partners: SA Tourism as our institutional partner, Barmotion, Charismatics Staffing, GL Events, Johannesburg Expo Centre, Hypenica, Main Event Catering, MasterDrive, Resource Design, Reg-Now, and Scan Display. Their support and contribution were crucial in making this event a great success.
The culmination of the exhilarating track event hosted by Masterdrive on 5 June at the Johannesburg Expo Centre was a perfect way to top off GED and celebrate the significance of exhibitions as economic enablers, whilst having fun, connecting, and networking!
AAXO introduces new 2024/2025 board at AGM
The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) successfully concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 21 June 2024.
During the meeting, the newly appointed board members, representing a diverse array of companies and expertise, was announced, highlighting AAXO's dedication to fostering collaboration and promoting excellence in the African events industry. The elected board members for 2024/2025, who will continue to advance AAXO’s key priorities and focus areas, are:
Gary Corin’s leadership as chair is expected to strengthen AAXO’s position further and enhance its contributions to the development of specialised exhibitions throughout Africa. With his track record of successful ventures and 27 years of experience at Specialised Exhibitions – where he has held the positions of marketing director, chief operating officer, and now managing director – Mr Corin is well-equipped to support the association’s goals.
Projeni Pather, the former chair and spokesperson of AAXO, will now serve as the association’s vice-chair. As a distinguished keynote speaker and intuitive thought leader who regularly contributes to marketing and exhibition industry media, Projeni is a dynamic force driven by a passion for collaboration, communication, and innovation with an in-depth understanding of the events landscape in Africa.
Serving as treasurer for a second consecutive term, James Bull’s financial expertise and experience will remain vital to maintaining AAXO’s fiscal health and sustainability. His understanding of the
events industry, combined with his financial acumen, will contribute to developing effective strategies for the association’s growth.
Joining the board is Tracy Gounden, business development and portfolio director at Messe Frankfurt South Africa; Adele Hartdegen, chief executive officer at Dogan Events; Joshua Low, vice president for South Africa at dmg events; and Errol Bryce, the group commercial director at VUKA Group.
They are supported by Devi Paulsen-Abbott, immediate past chair; Cornelle du Preez, the venue committee chair; and Anthea Buys, office manager.
The board members, who will begin their roles immediately, are committed to executing vital initiatives like youth development and fostering young talent within the industry. They will persist in tackling essential sustainability challenges, enhancing global recognition for the African events and exhibitions sector, and supporting its growth and evolving needs.
“As the incoming chair, I want to extend my gratitude to our outgoing Chairperson, Devi Paulsen-Abbott. Devi has dedicated many years to improving the status and quality of the exhibition industry, and it is an honour to build upon that foundation and continue the important work of the AAXO Board,” Mr Corin concluded.
Treasurer: James Bull, sales director at Informa Group.
Vice-chair: Projeni Pather, managing director at Exposure Marketing.
Chair: Gary Corin, managing director at Specialised Exhibitions.
Site Africa hosts Cape Town event
Site Africa recently hosted an event at the Pullman Cape Town, dealing with some controversial topics.
Many people are not aware of the ugly underbelly of our industry, with child trafficking occurring in many hotel rooms across the world.
Verona Naidoo of Accor Hotels unpacked this very sensitive and brutal topic during the session. Accor Hotels train their staff at all levels to recognise the red flags and how to handle these situations.
Ms Naidoo is the Accor director of talent management and talent acquisition for Middle
East, Africa and Türkiye.
Motivational speaker Simon Ekin addressed our issues of fear: ‘The art of courage — How to turn fears into possibilities’.
Many of us still suffer from a ‘Covid hangover’. We may be back to business, but under what circumstances? The question is: how do we deal with the pressures and fears?
Willie Williams, director of sales and marketing, presented their new #Pullman Cape Town property and an overview of what
By Tes Proos, president of SITE Africa
is next, by the #Accor group in Southern Africa.
The Site Africa event was entertaining, interactive, and enlightening!
A special thank you to the #SITEGLOBAL foundation for supporting this event, and to #PullmanCapeTown for being such gracious hosts!
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...
Associations: The driving force behind destination success for meetings and events
In the dynamic landscape of the meetings and events industry, destinations are prioritising collaboration with associations to gain a significant competitive edge. Industry representative associations play a pivotal role in enhancing a destination’s appeal, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a seamless experience for event organisers and attendees alike.
By Glenton
One of the key advantages of association collaboration is the ability to pool collective resources and expertise. This was witnessed during the pandemic, when fourteen local industry associations within the meetings, events, arts, and sports sectors collaborated under the banner of the SA Events Council. By combining their strengths, the associations were able to utilise their combined networks too. In driving better engagement with stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, the meetings and events industry’s supply chain can create ecosystems that deliver events that enhance a destination’s appeal. It also ensures that shared expertise is always available with experience-based solutions.
In addition, and even more so now, there is a need to create comprehensive bid proposals that showcase a wide range of facilities, services, and local expertise, making the destination more attractive to event organisers, which in turn drives demand for our country. As an industry, we need to
leverage this core element more in South Africa.
This pooling of resources may extend beyond the bidding process, as associations can coordinate marketing efforts, share best practices, and leverage their collective networks to promote the destination effectively.
Our destination capabilities in hosting large-scale meetings and events are well documented. We have the logistical, accommodation, and venue management capabilities that match many an international destination and are sometimes even better in certain areas. Through collaboration, as associations we have to leverage our members’ combined knowledge and connections to address the future and more importantly, consider how we wish to set our destination apart from the rest.
Many of our local associations, can tap into their deep-rooted relationships with businesses, government agencies, and community organisations, securing support and leveraging local resources to ensure a
seamless event experience.
One of the crucial roles is to advocate for policies and regulations that support the meetings and events industry, within the destination. At the same time, we need to ensure that we have a singular narrative. By working together, we can present a unified voice and lobby for infrastructure improvements, favourable tax policies, and other initiatives that enhance the destinations’ attractiveness for hosting events. These advocacy efforts can have a lasting impact on the destinations’ competitiveness and long-term success.
In the past year, we have seen more cross-promotion and networking opportunities, such as events hosted by one association that are promoted to the members of other associations, expanding
De Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI
the potential audience and attracting more attendees to the destination. This crosspollination of attendees not only benefits the associations themselves, but also generates increased economic activity for the host destination.
The meetings and events industry is a significant driver of economic growth, and associations play a vital role in amplifying this impact. By collaborating to attract more events to a destination, associations contribute to increased visitor spending, job creation, and tax revenue generation. This economic activity can spur new investments, infrastructure development, and overall community growth, creating a virtuous cycle of destination enhancement.
In today’s competitive landscape, destinations pioritising association collaboration will gain a distinct advantage. By leveraging collective resources, addressing logistical challenges, advocating for supportive policies, facilitating crosspromotion, and driving economic impact, associations become the driving force behind a destination’s success in attracting and hosting successful meetings and events.
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A greener, cleaner solution for academic conferences
EPosters (electronic posters) are gaining popularity at academic conferences for several reasons.
The ePosters are easy to navigate, with attendees being able to browse through the content at their own pace and search for content that is of interest them. Organisers can easily add or remove posters as needed, through a modern and engaging display.
To add to this, the ePoster screens are mobile, compact, and user-friendly. Rather than rent a huge space and 400 poster boards, only a few screens are required for more visibility.
Not to mention the environmental impact! Instead of printing posters and then transporting them (in unwieldy cardboard tubes) across the world, they simply submit their PDF or PowerPoint poster via an online portal.
The digital display improves the aesthetic appeal of the conference and greatly increases the efficiency and sustainability of the event.
To summarise:
• ePosters are neater and more efficient in terms of space.
• Delegates can interact with and search for the content they most want to see.
• ePosters can be displayed on any internet-connected screen, and can therefore also be embedded into the conference website or app.
• This means that ePosters can be viewed long after the conference closes.
• Editing ePosters can be done easily and even remotely.
• ePosters are much kinder to the environment.
FAQ
• What hardware do I need on-site?
Any screen that can run a browser and has an internet connection. This can be anything from a cell phone to a tablet to a screenand-laptop, to a touch-screen digital display unit. It depends on your event, your budget, and the space available. Complete flexibility.
• What does the ePoster system actually do?
Firstly, it allows authors to submit their work via an online portal, in either PDF or PPT format (portrait or landscape as you wish). Posters can then be displayed by category, searched by author, keyword, or title, emailed to oneself, and more. The system can be put into automatic rotation mode too.
• Can I still run ‘poster sessions’? Yes, but the method depends on how many posters you have accepted. Authors can simply pull up their ePoster and invite some friends to listen, and this often draws in a small crowd. You can also select the best posters for a dedicated session or two. You will need to allocate time in the programme for this, as you’ve always done for paper posters.
• Where can I position these screens?
Anywhere you like! As long as you have a wifi connection, the system can operate. So, you might like to place a few screens in the exhibition hall, the foyer, and the lunch area.
• How good does the WiFi need to be?
The system downloads the ePosters when they are viewed for the first time. Thereafter they are loaded instantly from the cache. So, we advise that you download all posters before your event starts. Very little bandwidth is used when subsequently viewing posters, so even a weak WiFi connection will suffice.
• Is there a limit to how many eposters can be displayed?
Not at all. For more posters, plan to have more screens, so that everyone gets a chance to view them.
About us
EXSA celebrates Global Exhibition Day with AAXO and EGF
The ninth edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) took place on 5 June 2024 under the theme ‘Exhibitions are catalysts to sustainable futures’. The GED 2024 theme reinforces the role of exhibitions as platforms to bring people together face-to-face to connect, collaborate on global solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and drive progress for economies worldwide.
By Lee-Ann Alder, EXSA Association Manager
The four key messages of GED 2024 resonated with newer and wider audiences as it showcased the universal impact of exhibitions across multiple industries to drive progress, facilitate economic growth, connect people and as a sustainable way of doing business.
In the words of EXSA chairperson, Sibusiso Mncwabe: “Here, in the diverse and dynamic landscape of South Africa, we are privileged to host this gathering — a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to advancing the global exhibition sector. As EXSA, AAXO, and EGF we recognise
the invaluable role that associations play in promoting best practices, fostering collaboration, and driving growth and progress within our industry.”
This year EXSA, AAXO, and EGF joined forces and hosted two Global Exhibition celebrations. The first one was in Cape Town, where we had a festive coffee and muffin session with all our combined members.
The Johannesburg function showcased all the adrenaline junkies among the industry, and everyone enjoyed spinning around the track in modified vehicles, thanks to MasterDrive. The day was made possible with
the assistance of our ever-faithful sponsors: Johannesburg Expo Centre, GL Events, 3,2,1 Productions, Barmotion, Main Events Catering, and MasterDrive. Thanks to SA Tourism for their partnership. Thank you to Expo Guys for EXSA’s banner wall.
All three associations believe in giving back, for a more sustainable future. The industry were asked to donate old banners and lanyards to the Skills Village who transform these items into products that can be sold. The Skills Village donates the profits to those in need.
Thanks to AAXO and EGF for their input
and hard work, with a special mention to Anthea Buys for all she did. Our industry is entwined with the thread of energy, passion, emotion and commitment that runs deep within everyone, and it is celebrations such as this that strengthen those threads.
Thank you again to all who contributed, attended, and got involved, we appreciate you!
DIRECTORY
SOUTHERN AFRICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE CONFERENCE INDUSTRY
EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
Eventscase launches EVA, a new virtual assistant via Whatsapp
It is the first AI in the events industry to be integrated into WhatsApp, the world’s most popular instant messaging app.
EVA (Event Virtual Assistant) is a new functionality developed by Eventscase that facilitates communication and interaction with attendees via WhatsApp. Attendees receive QR codes for badging, along with notifications containing relevant event information, in a WhatsApp chat automatically created on their phones. Additionally, EVA leverages Eventscase’s artificial intelligence capabilities to function as a trained chatbot that understands and responds to attendees’ questions, using natural language. It can recommend content, speakers, and other attendees.
This launch is accompanied by an interactive demo that allows everyone to experience EVA’s functionalities first-hand through a simulated event, faithfully reproducing the attendee’s experience.
Mentxu Sendino, chief marketing officer of Eventscase, stated: “Launching EVA in real events has been crucial, especially for those with specific characteristics and badging requirements. This new AI feature addresses some gaps, enhancing the overall attendee experience.”
EVA aims to establish a direct communication channel with attendees
Index of advertisers and contributors
without the need for downloading a new application. Furthermore, by carrying the QR identifier on WhatsApp, it enhances the speed of access to the event, thereby promoting greater engagement and participation.
EVA, envisioned as a ChatGPT for events, represents an advanced step in Eventscase’s artificial intelligence offerings. This chatbot will continuously learn from the event’s information, enabling it to answer attendees’ questions and recommend sessions and other attendees, based on the profile of the inquirer.
AAXO 40-41,42 aaxo@aaxo.co.za www.aaxo.co.za
Blue Marlin All-Inclusive Seascape 12-13,14 conferences@dreamresorts.co.za http://www.dreamresorts.co.za
Event Greening Forum 47 info@eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za
Dragonfly Africa 10-11 info@dragonfly.co.za www.dragonfly.co.za
EXSA 48-49 exsa@exsa.co.za www.exsa.co.za
Messe Frankfurt SA 20-21,22 info@za.messefrankfurt.com za.messefrankfurt.com
Wes Boshoff, people strategist and cultureneer, looks at what this means for us and how solid culture impacts our organisations.
By Wes Boshoff, founder of Imagine Thinking
So, let’s ask two questions, first what is culture and is it just a buzzword or is this something we should really be focusing on?
Culture has been defined as a complex, multifaceted concept that shapes our identities, behaviours and interactions with people who are like us. When you think about it, culture is what we believe, what we do, how we do it, and why we do it. It’s a system, a set of standards and values that we have adopted and adapted that make us who we are.
Ok, so is this just a buzzword? No, it’s far from just a buzzword, in fact, it’s extremely important that we make it a focus and not just a nice to-have or a corporate box check.
Groups
Since the beginning of time, we’ve found ourselves in different groups, these groups can be seen as people groups, and includes broad grouping such as race, language, gender, religion, age, and even geolocation. In each of these groups, we find differences and similarities that define and refine groups throughout history. The key to understanding that people groups differ from us as we differ from, is not just in the cognitive understanding, but also in the mature approach to understanding which refers to support. We need to be able to stand under others and lift them up. Now, we might completely disagree with the thinking and behaviour of others, so it requires emotional intelligence and tolerance when we find ourselves faced with the reality that we are totally different from others, and they are different from us. This doesn’t mean that we are required to agree with a practice that doesn’t line up with our beliefs and values, but it does require us to respect and make space for people who are not like us!
Cult
When we look at the word cult, it’s been given a bad reputation, but at its root comes from the Latin term ‘cultus’ which means
cultivation, and it is in this word cultivation that lies the key to who we become as a people group, both in and out of an organisation. We need to be cultivators of culture, and not just any culture, but a culture that grows both people and profit… but always people first!
So, what does that mean for us and our people groups… our organisations? The key here is to build a culture ‘before you build a business’. I’m not saying that it’s too late to build a culture if you have already built or are building a business, but what I am suggesting is that, as leadership influencers, we really start making culture development a key area of your brands.
Research
Research has shown us that 63 per cent of companies say that retaining employees is harder than hiring them, 94 per cent of executives and 88 per cent of employees believe that a strong culture is vital to business success and 77 per cent of people consider the company culture before they even apply. In an effective culture, three things happen: people believe, belong, and behave. They believe that what the organisation stands for is worth standing for, that what they say is what they live, and they believe that they have an opportunity to be a part of something that is cause-driven, and that they are there to add value and grow with the organisation. People have a sense of belonging where they can participate in the life of the organisation. Then finally, they behave in such a way that best represents who the people group is, what their values are, and at the same time are ambassadors and custodians of the brand culture.
Each organisation will have a different culture, so I can’t suggest what yours should be, I’ll remind you what an effective culture requires. First and foremost, focus on your people, they are the reason your business exists, and no, it’s not because of your clients, it’s because of your people; without them you have no clients and won’t have a business. Then, follow a set of standards and
not rules, rules are designed to box people in while standards are designed to raise people up. Follow your values passionately, and hold them sacred! Equip your people, and give them opportunities to win. Give them a reason to partner with you, and let them build the vision hand in hand with you. Hire them to do what they are great at and not what you’re good at. Oh, and for the love of all things sacred, stop micromanaging. People are people, not robots; they have feelings and futures that we, as leaders, are part of! Cultivate Culture!
For more information Wes@imaginethinking.co.za or (+27) 082 850 2950.
Who is Wes Boshoff?
Wes Boshoff, founder of Imagine Thinking, is a visionary strategist and Cultureneering expert, transforming organisations through innovative people strategies, leadership development, and facilitated growth. With a passion for unlocking human potential, Wes empowers businesses to thrive through cultural excellence, effective leadership, and sustainable success.
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