Business Events Africa — June 2022 by Contact Publications

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Conferencing Renaissance at

Vol 42 No 6 JUNE 2022

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Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 42 years

CONTENTS

VOL 42 NO 6 JUNE 2022

About the cover

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry

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

in Africa

Vol 42 No 6 JUNE 2022

Conferencing Renaissance at

Cover Feature COVER STORY 6 Conferencing makes a return to Emperors Palace in a big way.

On the pages…

EDITOR’S COMMENT 4 Reconnect, reinvent and reintroduce. NEWS 9 Africa’s Business events sector critical for tourism sector recovery. INCENTIVE CASE STUDY 10 Dragonfly Africa pulls out all the stops. SUPPLIER CASE STUDY 12 Barmotion assists clients to ‘stand out’ at SARAA. GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY 14 100 countries participate in Global Exhibitions Day 2022. 15 AAXO celebrates GED at Gallagher. 16 EXSA celebrates Global Exhibition Day. 18 Exhibitions make a comeback. MARKET NEWS 19 Hilton Africa and Indian Ocean hosts Women in Leadership Conference. IMEX FRANKFURT REPORT 20 Camaraderie, optimism and fortitude mark 20 years of IMEX in Frankfurt. 22 South Africa takes centre stage at IMEX Frankfurt 2022. DESTINATION: SOUTH COAST 24 KZN South Coast — the ‘bleisure’ tourism destination of choice. ANNIVERSARY FEATURE 28 Once a dockyard hotel and now the best address in Cape Town. MARKET NEWS 31 Innovation at the heart of recovery for Africa’s hospitality sector. 32 Calling all young tourism innovators.

After two lean years, corporate events are making their comeback, in a big way, at Emperors Palace. MARKET NEWS 33 Winners announced at the Woman of Stature Global Awards. 34 New Design Summit announced. VENUE NEWS 36 City Lodge Hotel Maputo — ready for business. 38 Accolades for The Maslow’s conference offering. 39 Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City launches high tea. SPOTLIGHT ON SA CHEFS ASSOCIATION 40 SA Chefs reimagined focus is on membership at Hostex 2022. MANAGER PROFILE 42 Sandile Mavuso is shaking things up at Clico Boutique Hotel. INNOVATION PAGE 43 Reintroducing the ‘Lightwall’ by Neworld. 43 Inaugural Global Startup Awards Africa launched. AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE 44 Africa hotel development: it’s Egypt, Morocco, Accor and Marriott. A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE 46 It’s up to us, as an industry, to address SA’s hospitality skills shortage. MARKET NEWS 47 Make connections that matter at Electra Mining Africa 2022. SHOWCASE: BLACK PROFESSIONALS 48 Black-owned wedding exhibition returns.

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

HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa TEL: +27 31 764 6977 FAX: 086 762 1867 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King malcolm@contactpub.co.za EDITOR: Irene Costa gomesi@iafrica.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Vincent Goode vincent@contactpub.co.za DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Jackie Goosen jackie@contactpub.co.za SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Irene Costa +27 (0)82 558 7387 gomesi@iafrica.com PUBLICATION DETAILS: Volume 42 No 6 Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year and is published monthly. Due to Covid-19, the magazine is currently only available in digital format.

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

Association news EVENT GREENING FORUM 49 Easy and effective event greening tips. SITE 50 Good customer service is always in season. AAXO 52 AAXO moving ahead in 2022. SAACI 53 Your health is your wealth.

Regulars 54 Directory. MARKET NEWS 56 South African Tourism appoints Nomasonto Ndlovu as COO. 56 Index of advertisers and contributors. THE LAST WORD 57 The wellness quotient.

Official media partner

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

Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

The keeps spinning will continue to doalbeit so, regardless. The world business events sectorand is currently soaring, with the current standing in all parts of the or industry. have always been Covid-19 regulations of 50 per centphysical venueevents capacity (indoor) 1,000 people, It is fantastic to observe the different geared to the whichever is smaller and 2,000 outdoors 50industry per cent capacity, isor sectors inorour starting up again.whichever European The past few weeks have been amazing. American markets. If smaller. Frankly, I’m not quite sure why these regulations are still being imposed?

hat I do know is that our industry is finally operational, in one form or another and currently a buzz of activity. This makes me happy. I feel that Covid-19 is finally in our rearview mirror, and we can begin to effectively move forward. I have made a pledge to myself that I need to get out of my own head and shake off the Covid-inflicted webs and begin living as I did pre-Covid. Honestly, I am still a little ‘awkward’ in social environments, the only way I can do this is if I get out there more. I suppose I’m just out of practice because it has been a long two years of being behind a screen and in the comfort of my ‘safe home’. The masks also don’t social s we approach thehelp endinofayear, I am setting, as it really adds an Personally, extra barrier. cautiously optimistic. I’m My solution, glass of feeling just a lothold morea upbeat. something or aevents cup ofindustry coffee is and you The business slowly can keep your off, justhibernation. that little emerging from mask an enforced bit longer, to socialise. I am definitely seeing an increase in

I’ve been following industry leaders on social platforms doing what they do best —The be exciting it exhibitions, part isincentives, that we are conferences andopportunities events. The industry has receiving more to engage, been forcontinues so long and all it took as thewaiting industry to reopen. was green light sector from government! Weaare a social and once we get After months of despair, finally there is going, we will overcome, in no time, renewed positivity the industry. with respect to all,indespite all the One small big positive we is that Africa is now challenges are South currently finally off most of the world’s travel red experiencing. lists, thetoUK. Thisincluding is the time reconnect — be it The clients, recent Africa’s Travel with suppliers and and old Tourism industry Summit (ATTS) also as setmaking the scene for colleagues, as well new what is to come. If anything, I getisthe connections along the way. This just feeling that our continent – the continent the beginning. ofOur Africa – is finally realising its own industry has experienced losses strength unity. thesoyears, African over the in past twoOver years, we also need countries haveto always looked other to find a way rebuild whatto we have continents for be tourism andskills business lost. This can through events while, inindustry fact, its association own African development, countries wereand overlooked. engagements supporting each other There ispartnerships, no doubt thatorthere are still a through by just lot of challenges, like airlift, attending an exhibition, an visa event, or restrictions, show, etc. etc. One addressed during Also,oftothe be challenges fair, we aren’t the same ATTS is we thatwere tourism/incentive and people before, I think we have conference/events in the all grown and hadpackages to find ways to past

we, Africans, would like to cater for our own African visitors we should package So, it differently. reinvent ourselves. this offers Over the past few years, industry another opportunity. In a our strange way, leaders done a lot of ourselves talking about we needhave to ‘reintroduce’ to the of airlift within our continent as oneissue another. well the issue of visasDay within Africa for TheasGlobal Exhibition (GED) Africans, hope opportunity that ATTS has a offered a I great forignited industry new chapter, wheretogether; African airlines look members to come both AAXO at new routes and and EXSA hadwithin eventsthe to continent commemorate finally breakcelebration. those barriers which the global Well donehave to hindered travel within Africa. industry both associations for bringing Of course, we would all love to see players together. For more information international delegates and tourists on this awesome day, have a look at our return to our (pages shores but what prevents us GED feature 14-18). from exploring markets within ourin I look forwardnew to many more events continent? The Covid-19 pandemic has the near future, one being the SAACI taught us that we are ableattoSTIAS collaborate Conference taking place a(Stellenbosch lot better if we keep the Institute for Advanced communication streams Western open within our Study) in Stellenbosch, Cape, continent. time is now, Africa is open from 14-15The August 2022. for business I am proudly African! I can’t waitand to meet up again, soon.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

Credit: Hein Hein Liebetrau Liebetrau Credit:

Africa is reinvent open for Reconnect, andbusiness reintroduce

EVENTS BRAND ACTIVATIONS EXPO STANDS ROADSHOWS

Coffee bars, Smoothie bars, Gelato bars, Lolly waffle bars and more

info@barmotion.co.za

0861 937 625

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PAGE STRAP COVER STORY: EMPERORS PALACE

Emperors Palace's Centre Court is ideal for expos, events or gala dinners.

Conferencing makes a return to Emperors Palace in a big way In the wake of Covid-19 there is a renewed energy to kickstart business and adapt to this ‘new normal’ amidst a waning pandemic. Industries are beginning to venture out, and in-person business is beginning to find its footing again, which means the return of events, conferences and expos. Emperors Palace has long been a staple in the conferencing game and – after two lean years – corporate events are making their comeback in a big way.

usiness Events Africa chatted to the sales manager at Emperors Palace (and Peermont), Yugashnee Naicker on the resurgence of conferencing and what to expect this year. Has conferencing picked up this year? Yes, we were surprised by the sudden upturn in bookings for the first quarter of this year. Compared to the same time last year we’ve achieved 78 per cent

6 Business Events Africa June 2022

growth, which is a welcome surprise. It’s been a very heartwarming sight to see our conference areas bustling again. How has conferencing changed since Covid-19? Well, the key point is still maintaining some of the Covid-19 protocols, as the pandemic is not totally over yet. Delegates still have to wear masks indoors for the duration of their conference. We’re still maintaining social distancing in the venues, which results in

Yugashnee Naicker.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

COVER STORY: EMPERORS PAGEPALACE STRAP

The Theodora Boardroom caters to up to 20 delegates.

decreased seating capacity, which means the need for more intimate settings. We also require the presentation of a vaccine certification or a negative covid test when attending larger conferences, which is still limited to 1,000 delegates in a conference venue. So, as you may see, there are still some challenges, but we’ve evolved.

strategy sessions will be thoroughly impressed with Theodora Boardroom. It’s kitted with LCD screens and a fully compatible infrastructure. This is the future of conferencing, no additional cables or devices needed — it’s like driving a Ferrari, simply plug and play. It’s fully tablet-controlled and seats up to 20 delegates.

How has Emperors Palace evolved? We immediately saw the need for hybrid solutions when it came to conferencing, which means embracing technology and the fact that Zoom and Team gatherings have become part of the way we do business. That’s why we built an inhouse broadcast studio (Studio Iris) to offer clients an alternative solution to meeting in-person, but still maintaining a professional product. With Studio Iris, a client is able to host anything from a talk to an awards ceremony and have it streamed to anywhere in the country, or the world. We also introduced a state-of-the-art boardroom, which is equipped with all the bells and whistles. Clients who are looking for an upmarket and tech-savvy location for meetings, conference calls or

Do you think that hybrid conferencing is just a fad, or here to stay? Hybrid conferencing is here to stay, as it gives all delegates an option to attend a meeting or conference if they are not able to attend a physical event. It also saves on travel costs. Why fly up a team from Cape Town when delegates are able to join virtually and be part of the meeting as if they were in the room? It really makes communication more universal and versatile.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

What are your current offerings? Emperors Palace is fully operational again and open 24 hours a day. Our 29 state-of-the-art conference venues still offer the same excellent service backed by all the added extras, including complimentary wi-fi, shuttle transfers

from O.R. Tambo International Airport and complimentary parking for conference delegates. Clients also get a dedicated conference coordinator to manage their event, to give it that personal touch. We have a choice of three-to-five-star hotels to accommodate the conference delegates within the resort. There is also the option of hosting a welcome dinner at our Red Roman Shed or watching the sun set, with sundowners, at our roof-top Olympus Sky Bar. We also understand that budgets may still be tight and that’s why we have a new, tiered conference package option which allows clients to pick an option to suit their needs and pocket. Our team is always available to assist with a quote and may be contacted on sales@peermont.com or 011 928 1903. What are the latest trends in conferencing? Flexibility. The world has changed so much in the last two years and has shown how quickly we are able to evolve. And, as a result, a venue should be able to accommodate both in-person delegates and virtual delegates. Companies are now actively deploying Business Events Africa June 2022 7

PAGE STRAP COVER STORY: EMPERORS PALACE

Big or small, Emperors Palace has a solution.

video and audio-conferencing services for their entire workforce so that they may connect world-wide from venues. The industry is currently looking for fresh event concepts and meetings with meaning, innovation and insight. Delegates are looking at elements inclusive of behavioural science, wellbeing, and a connection to the world at large. In other words, delegates would

like meetings to have a purpose. We understand that and are ready to welcome you back. Fast Facts Emperors Palace conferencing in a nutshell: • 29 state-of-the-art venues. • Able to cater for up to 3,000 delegates.

• Largest venue is Centre Court at 2,698m². • Assembly Room is divisible into six separate rooms. • Studio Iris is a fully-fledged broadcast studio capable of streaming anywhere globally. • Theodora Boardroom is equipped with LCD smartboards and Novoconnect all-in-one display. • Emperors Palace has three on-site hotels. • Located nearby to O.R. Tambo International Airport. For a quote, contact the sales team on sales@peermont.com or 011 928 1903.

Studio Iris allows for live streaming of events.

8 Business Events Africa June 2022

www.businesseventsafrica.com

PAGE STRAP NEWS

Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela.

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, South African Tourism’s chief convention bureau officer.

Business events sector critical for tourism sector recovery “The future for our African continent is bright. It is now time for our country, South Africa, to reclaim our place as an attractive tourism and business events destination.” These were the sentiments of the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela at his post-budget vote industry engagement on Thursday, 26 May 2022.

eld at the Century City Convention Centre in Cape Town, the engagement brought together captains of the business events industry to continue collaborations which will see this sector once again contribute fully to not only the economy but to showcase the work that is being done by the business events sector. The Covid-19 pandemic had an adverse impact on tourism, with the African business events industry declining from 13,6 billion US dollars in 2019 and contracted to 3.1 billion US dollars in 2020. It is anticipated that the region will reach pre-pandemic figures by 2024. “The move by our President to lift the National State of Disaster in April this year allows the tourism sector to once again contribute fully and meaningfully towards the South African economy and towards job creation. The easing of restrictions on gatherings has already shown to have a positive impact on www.businesseventsafrica.com

business events and will provide great reprieve for the South African tourism sector and in turn, the economy,” Mr Mahlalela said. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, South African Tourism’s chief convention bureau officer, emphasised the role of collaborating as a sector as she believes that the business events industry will be the one to reignite the real recovery — and be able to fill up the conference rooms again and bring people to our shores. “The Covid-19 pandemic has made it increasingly important for us as a sector to work together, we will continue to work with the industry to actively seek to develop leads for future business events to ensure that South Africa develops and maintains a bid pipeline for continued growth of the event sector,” Ms Kotze-Nhlapo said. This stakeholder engagement also showcased some of the work that is being done by the business events industry to ensure a sector recovery

which is inclusive. One such project is the RISE project, which is championed by the South African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI), aimed at providing practical events, hospitality, and tourism-related skills training for members of the community who have been placed into a position where they are unable to further their education. The programme allows the participants to gainfully participate in the tourism sector. Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI, said: “This is a project aimed at utilising the business events industry as a catalyst for social upliftment and, in turn, providing capacity building and skills transfer for community growth within the identified rural areas.” Deputy Minister Mahlalela concluded by pledging the government’s continuous commitment to growing the business events industry and is steadfast in its efforts and investment to this sector. Business Events Africa June 2022 9

PAGE MARKET INCENTIVE STRAP NEWS CASE STUDY

Dragonfly Africa pulls out all the stops In this case study, Business Events Africa looks at an incentive programme managed by Dragonfly Africa. By Yolanda Woeke, vice president: sales & marketing, Dragonfly Africa.

he Case Study Client: Financial Insurance Company from all across the United States. The Brief: We want to take our top sales performers to celebrate their contribution to phenomenal sales years over the last couple of fiscal years. We decided to do this in southern and east Africa and choose various locations that will eventually build up to the top tier, doing something more unique and special, etc. The group had an option of pre-extending in either Victoria Falls or Cape Town, but also post extending either in Cape Town or Victoria Falls. And the highlight being Uganda — Gorilla Trekking. Dates: May 2022. Logistics The main group all got together in Cape Town and in Johannesburg where they had their conference portion of this event. Everybody then went to a different game lodge. There were 18 game lodges that we used exclusively, all the same quality, standard and game viewing experience. This was a bit of a challenge, but well overcome with the amazing lodges we have in and around South Africa.

10 Business Events Africa June 2022

Highlights The highlights were the fact that most people would be able to experience a Big Five game drive opportunity at a superb five-star lodge and have the opportunity to either do their own extension to the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, or some time in Cape Town — the most beautiful city in South Africa. Highlights, of course, will always be the food, the service, the quality of the wines and the diversity of the culture and landscapes, also including differentiating accommodations and venues in one trip, where they are able to really experience the best of what the various destinations have to offer. The Outcomes At each one of the destinations, whether it was Cape Town, Johannesburg, the private lodges, Zambia or the VIP group to Uganda, were just so positive. People loved it. It felt as if they were on a true safari and that they were recognised by their peers and the companies where they are employed.

Challenges Challenges always come along, with such a large group movement. The group, in total, was 385 pax, all from the United States. It meant ensuring that the pax get to where they needed to get to, with flights still not consistent because of Covid, staffing issues, etc. But we somehow managed to get everybody together in Cape Town at the right time. Lots of sleepless nights, flight changes, lots of creative thinking, but the best of all, the support from our local teams on the ground were just phenomenal. We probably have the best support systems, teams and hospitality anywhere in the world. I suppose it also goes to show that Dragonfly Africa is still the leading destination management company when it comes to Southern and East Africa. Legacy Our long sustainable motto is that we treat all our suppliers with utmost respect. www.businesseventsafrica.com

INCENTIVE MARKET PAGE CASE STUDY STRAP NEWS

This respect is earned, and once we need to work together, we all work together. It’s a team effort for all of us to make the destinations glow. I have to say that the biggest legacy the clients left behind was visiting the women’s project in Uganda. The project focuses on teaching young ladies and widows with children how to sew, so they can create beautiful pillows, clothing, etc. to sell at a market. It is a superb project and is one of hope and empowerment. The incentive delegates were so excited, and many bought clothing and products from these women, in support of the project. Their beautiful creations and clothing are so vibrant, colourful and something unique for the delegates to take home. One of our guests made a very generous donation to the community and it just uplifted the whole experience in Uganda. It was super exciting to be part of this. Client feedback As always, client feedback included the friendliness of the people, the welcoming spirit, the joy that they have to share, their magnificent country and what it has to offer. The phenomenal cuisine and hospitality; how we get it so right in perceived ‘deepest darkest Africa’. I think a lot of people forget that yes, we are a third world country, but with very much first world infrastructure, logistics, staff and the passion we have for this continent, Africa. We always joke that, as operators, we do it for the love, the passion, and the joy that it brings to each and every client that visits. And the fact that once you have been to Africa, means that you will always, always come back.

Partners We cannot leave out our fantastic partners, from hotel porters to the food and beverage staff, the properties, our coach drivers, the wonderful guides, and to the amazing tenacity of our Dragonfly team, that worked so tirelessly around the clock to make this a huge success. Even with all the additional Covid protocol, etc. this was a huge success. It is our job and duty, as Dragonfly Africa and Green Route Africa, to make sure that southern and east Africa is, and will remain, the top destination for incentives travelling back to this beautiful continent of ours. Incentives are back, travel is back and South Africa and its fellow African countries are must-see destinations. We are here to assist in creating a once-in-a-lifetime incentive travel programme like no other. About Dragonfly Africa Dragonfly Africa Group has been involved in providing a wide range of services across a broad spectrum of tourism for almost 40 years.

Our main business is incoming tourism from all over the world, in the form of individual travellers, groups, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. We operate across 12 countries — South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Mauritius, Seychelles, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda. We are able to produce original and detailed proposals for small, exclusive groups of 20 participants to large groups of 500-1,800 participants or more. When it comes to planning those truly unforgettable itineraries, we, at the Dragonfly Africa Group, believe that everything is possible. From entertainment to adventure, natural wonder, cultural discovery, long roads to lazy days, our expert team of seasoned account managers are always on hand to ensure that your trip is perfectly tailored to meet the requirements of any group and budget. We also provide world-class meetings and conference services, tailor-made to meet your specific requirements. From boardroom brainstorming to action-packed agendas, conventions or strategic breakaway sessions, virtual sessions, hybrid conference hosting and activation. Dragonfly Africa’s leisure division specialises in unique, tailor-made travel programmes for the individual traveller. This could be a once-in-a-lifetime holiday or a pre/post extension of an incentive trip. Contact us www.dragonfly.co.za

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa June 2022 11

PAGE STRAP SUPPLIER CASE STUDY

SAARA Abbvie.

SARAA Boehringer.

SARAA Novartis.

Barmotion assists clients to ‘stand out’ at SARAA Barmotion is more than just a mobile bar company, they offer full turnkey hospitality and branding solutions specifically tailored to your requirements.

lexia Swart, managing director of Barmotion, said: “Our extensive experience and knowledge in the events, marketing and hospitality sector let us understand what’s key to achieving the results you need, and we offer the best in service to our clients. We offer a hands-on approach, taking the time to understand your brand and its values, so that we can meet your brief with a first-class hospitality solution.” She added: “We pride ourselves in being the best in our industry and strive to ensure that we create a memorable first impression for your brand at any event. Our team are certified Barmotion ‘rock stars’ who go above and beyond, and I am very proud of them all.”

need and want throughout the day. It’s the perfect drawcard to attract delegates onto your exhibition stands and boost your brand’s presence,” Ms Swart said. Stands at SARAA 1 Up — Novartis Changed daily, all elements done to match clients theme and brand colours in pink & purple. Client specific branded menus. Day 1 – Milkshakes Day 2 – Milkshakes and pink and purple macaroons Day 3 – Pink and purple candy floss Day 4 – Pink and purple dipped Oreos 1 Up — Sandoz – snack drop off.

The Case Study SARAA (South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association) “Exhibition stands are all about making a splash, attracting visitors to your stand, and keeping them there long enough to fulfil those all-important business objectives. There’s no better way to bring people to your stand and keep them there, than the kind of first-class hospitality we provide. Whether it’s that perfectly made coffee they need when their enthusiasm and energy flags at the end of the day, or a bright, zesty smoothie when the show opens, we know how exhibitions work and what visitors 12 Business Events Africa June 2022

Adcock All snacks had client branding applied. Swirl

machines branded with client logo. Client-specific branded menus. Soft swirl – daily, with assorted snacks. BB — Lilly We colour-matched all elements and did branded sleeves and client-specific branded menus. Day 1 – coffee bar Day 2 – coffee and doughnut holes Day 3 – Coffee and Frappe crush Day 4 – coffee bar Assorted snacks throughout. BB — Abbvie We created branded sleeves for all beverage offerings and client-specific branded menus. Day 1 – Coffee and Raw juice Day 2 – Coffee and health smoothie Day 3 – Coffee and Raw juice Day 4 – Coffee

www.businesseventsafrica.com

SUPPLIER PAGE CASE STUDY STRAP

SARAA Abbvie.

SARAA Janssen.

BB — Janssen Client specific branded menus. Coffee every day with assorted snacks. Boerhinger Client specific branded menus. Coffee bar & cookies Karadon — Pfizer Client specific branded menus. Coffee bar daily Total numbers for servings by Barmotion: Over 2,000 coffees Over 350 raw juice and smoothies Over 400 frappes, shakes and soft swirl Over 500 assorted snacks and confectioneries

Advantages of making use of Barmotion: • Branded hospitality for corporate events is a tool to bring people together for a moment in promoting communication, opening channels and networking. • We have over 12 years’ experience in the events sector. • We are a reliable and professional service. • Industry-leading equipment, with backup units on stand-by. • We use the highest-quality ingredients. • We devise unique event solutions.

SARAA Pfizer.

Conclusion Energise and personalise your events with genuine, brand-centred hospitality from Barmotion. We carefully wrap our cosmopolitan hospitality solutions, from coffee bars to pop-up sushi stands, around your brands. Barmotion understands the importance of making an exceptional first impression — and we take this seriously! Call us today and discover just how good hospitality can be. We love what we do, and we are proud to say that we’re the best. Testimonials “The quality of the hospitality was well received by all attendees. Great touch with the phone charging stands and special thanks to the polite Barmotion staff for keeping us stocked on their really well-made coffees.” – From the Lilly Stand: Natalie Kreusch, Brilliant Branding

“Barmotion is a pleasure to work with and always manages to achieve perfection and nothing is ever too much trouble. Barmotion staff are cheerful and keep the rest of us calm with their warm and caring personality. Barmotion delivers on time with very tight and demanding deadlines and will help source weird and quirky requests from many of our appreciated clientele. Barmotion is a consummate professional company with high quality hospitality products. I always know that everything will be done on time and the end result will be perfect. I can rest assured knowing my event is in the best hands possible.” – Claudia Nunes, 1UP Design Contact details Tel: 0861 937 625 Email: info@barmotion.co.za Website: www.barmotion.co.za

Solutions we offer: • Exhibition hospitality • Product launches • Organisational incentives • Conferences • Wellness days • Corporate & private functions • Roadshows www.businesseventsafrica.com

Providing Mobile Bars & Hospitality Solutions anyJuneEvent Business Eventsfor Africa 2022 & 13 Expo

PAGE MARKET GLOBAL STRAP EXHIBITIONS NEWS DAY

100 countries participate in Global Exhibitions Day 2022 • Global Exhibitions Day (GED) 2022 becomes the single largest day of awareness and advocacy for the exhibition industry ever. • More than 100 countries and regions participated in the day. • Next year’s GED will take place on Wednesday, 7 June 2023.

he seventh edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) took place on 1 June 2022, celebrated and promoted the role of face-to-face business events in driving the global economy. Exhibitions have always played a role in bolstering and growing economic sectors – and this year has been no exception. This year’s GED campaign focused on the irreplaceable value of physical exhibitions and face-to-face business events in creating platforms for economic growth and recovery. It also provided the perfect occasion to catch up, network, and meet new people. As the world moves past the pandemic, the industry is seeing the re-emergence of face-to-face events. Indeed, through global participation both in-person and online, Global Exhibitions Day 2022 reached new audiences, showing the true power and growth of this industry. It demonstrated that everyone in the exhibitions industry – from individuals to businesses and associations – has a role to play in creating professional, educational, and financial opportunities. In the lead up to the day and during, according to UFI’s numbers*, the GED campaign reached more than 800 million people around the world by the

14 Business Events Africa June 2022

campaign online alone – through unique social media and web posts, messages and comments. In Italy, Spain, and Macau, the campaign activated major endorsements from senior government officials and economic and foreign affairs ministers. From conferences and debates, to breakfasts and social gatherings, to group photos and creative videos, and more, tens of thousands celebrated the people and the power of the exhibitions industry. Monica Lee-Müller, 2022 UFI President, said: “It’s been amazing to see so many people participating in this year’s Global Exhibitions Day! GED 2022 has recognised and celebrated the spirit of innovation and resilience across the industry. It’s been a chance to showcase who we are as an industry and the vital role we play. We’ve seen thousands of event professionals across the globe celebrating, expressing their pride at being part of the industry, and reiterating the value of face-to-face events. This is a keystone day for the industry, by raising awareness of our passion, purpose and power! From videos to meetings, from events to social campaigns and more, industry professionals and organisations from more than 100 countries/regions have showcased the tangible impact of

exhibitions on global economies, the intangible value of uniting people from different countries and cultures, and our proactive contribution to sustainability.” Much like the exhibitions and events that the industry hosts, GED 2022 has showcased what the industry can offer, including our ability to tell inspiring stories. Some of the most prominent actions during this year’s GED have been the ‘Voices of the Exhibition Industry’ quote cards, celebration videos and the memorable exhibition moments added on globalexhibitionsday.org. The mission to share the key messages from GED will continue throughout the year, and a date is already in place for next year’s event, on 7 June 2023 – traditionally the first Wednesday in June. Visit globalexhibitionsday.org to see more GED 2022 activities. Thanks to our partner associations supporting #GED2022: AAXO, AEFI, AEO, AFE, AFECA, AFIDA, AMPROFEC, AOCA, AUMA, CAEM, CEFA, CENTREX, CFI, EEAA, EEIA, EFU, EMECA, EXSA, FAIRLINK, FAMAB, HKECIA, ECA, IDFA, IECA, IEIA, IELA, IFES, LECA, MACEOS, MFTA, PCEI, SACEOS/SECB, SCEIA, SISO, TEA, TECA, TFOA, UBRAFE and UNIMEV. www.businesseventsafrica.com

GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS MARKET PAGE STRAP NEWS DAY

AAXO celebrates GED at Gallagher

n Wednesday, June 1, AAXO participated in the seventh Global Exhibitions Day (GED) at the Gallagher Convention Centre. GED is an initiative put together by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. GED takes place

on the first Wednesday of June each year with the aim of increasing the visibility of the exhibition industry regionally as well as on a global scale. AAXO partnered with SA Tourism. The event had two panel discussions. The first: ‘Building back together — Meeting expectations in the new economy.’ This discussion was led by a panel of exhibition organisers. The second panel discussion was: ‘The Art of Exhibiting — How face-to-face seals the deal!’ This was led by a panel of ardent exhibitors. Afterwards, delegates were invited for a VIP Tour — Experience live demos with VIP access to Securex, A-OSH Expo, Facilities Management Expo, FRIGAIR and Firexpo. This was followed by lunch and networking.

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.

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hello@saeventscouncil.org

Business Events Africa June 2022 15

EXSA PAGE NEWS STRAP

Seen in Johannesburg…

EXSA celebrates Global Exhibition Day On 1 June 2022, EXSA celebrated Global Exhibition Day with an afternoon/evening of fun and laughter. Venues, organisers, fellow associations, members, and industry colleagues came together in both Cape Town and Johannesburg simultaneously.

By Lee-Ann Alder, EXSA Association Manager.

articipants were divided into teams of between five and ten people, to participate in a mystery box challenge with a twist. Each team had the same ingredients, which were to be used to make a caramel chocolate creation, with the exception of one added ingredient which differed among the teams. This was either chilli spice, paprika, BBQ, etc. The teams had to incorporate the spice into their desserts. The message behind the mystery box challenge illustrated that life throws us curve balls, and how we choose to deal with them is up to us. We could give up, but we have the ability to make a plan, tackle it with enthusiasm and creativity and get it done. At the EXSA function, all attendees tackled the added ingredient challenge with enthusiasm and the tenacity we have seen grow over the past few years. Whilst the teams were creating 16 Business Events Africa June 2022

some very interesting and innovative concoctions, they were entertained by a group of comedians consisting of David Levinsohn and Chris Forrest in Johannesburg, and Kurt Schoonraad in Cape Town. They were hilarious and kept everyone in stitches throughout the cooking process; some were even brave enough to taste the desserts. Johannesburg was doubly spoilt with the addition of Jacques Lagesse who sang for the guests. As with any function, it is unlikely to take place without the support of valuable sponsors. A huge thanks from EXSA to both GL Events and Inspire Furniture Hire for the use of their venue. Both teams went to much trouble setting everything up, ensuring guests were well hydrated, and for being amazing hosts. No function will ever be complete without Barmotion’s coffees and

smoothies, thank you for always stepping in to sponsor us. Thank you to Brandex and your team for the audio visual, and for judging as well. Technology Partners Sponsored the main prize for the winners in both Cape Town and Johannesburg: a course in Cyber Security — thank you so much. Jacqui Nel and Liam Beattie MC’ed in Cape Town and assisted with all of the organisation for the function. Doug Rix, thank you for the graphics and organising. The EXSA office thanks the board for their enthusiasm, participation and passion for the industry and who are always willing to make events like this so successful. EXSA achieved what we set out to do, which was to rejuvenate everyone’s soul and relieve the stresses that we are now facing as an industry. Thank you to everyone that attended and left with a smile on their face and a spring in their step. www.businesseventsafrica.com

PAGE EXSA STRAP NEWS

Seen in Cape Town…

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EXSA PAGE GLOBAL NEWS STRAP EXHIBITIONS DAY

Production, Johannesburg

Durban

Cape Town

Rosebank, Johannesburg

Exhibitions make a comeback 1 June 2022 marked the seventh annual Global Exhibitions Day. The day was conceived by the Global Association for the Exhibition Industry, also known as UFI, to commemorate and celebrate the exhibition industry for its role in facilitating business opportunities, knowledge sharing and cooperation, and contributing to regional economic and social development.

his year, as the world begins to recover from the damage caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, these benefits are being keenly sought out and exhibitions are making a dramatic comeback. Making up for lost time Justin Hawes, managing director of Scan Display, said: “The South African exhibition calendar would normally see ten large tradeshows in a year. But now, after two years of no exhibitions due to lockdown restrictions, we are seeing a rapid return. Our company has been involved in three large industry tradeshows in the past three weeks alone — Africa’s Travel Indaba, NAMPO, and Mining Indaba.” A global phenomenon Mr Hawes is also the President of IFES, the 18 Business Events Africa June 2022

International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services, and confirms that the growing number of exhibitions being held is not a uniquely South African trend. “IFES members from around the globe have also reported an upswing in the sector, as businesses are eager to get back to the exhibition floor and reap the rewards of face-to-face marketing,” he said. “For us, this reaffirms the power and value of what we do.” In economic terms, this value is significant. UFI’s 2020 ‘Global Economic Impact of Exhibitions’ report reveals that the exhibition industry is directly and indirectly responsible for an estimated $325 billion in business sales annually, as well as $198 billion in GDP impacts, and 3.2 million jobs. It’s harder to quantify the value of the knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities that these shows create, but they are no less

important. “Our sector always said we would play a critical role in helping rebuild economies and industries in the aftermath of Covid-19. And here we are. This made this year’s Global Exhibitions Day truly worth celebrating,” Mr Hawes added. Winds of Change To take advantage of new prospects emerging for the exhibition sector as the world opens, IFES will be holding its 22nd World Summit – aptly titled the ‘Winds of Change’ – in the Netherlands from 15-17 June. As well as a packed programme of rich content, the event promises networking opportunities with colleagues from more than 30 countries. To register, or for more information, go to: www.ifesnet.com/events-all/worldsummit-2022-amsterdam/. www.businesseventsafrica.com

MARKET PAGE STRAP NEWS

Hilton Africa and Indian Ocean hosts Women in Leadership Conference Hilton’s Africa & Indian Ocean (AIO) region recently closed off its three-day Women in Leadership Conference. This event was designed to celebrate and highlight the achievements of women throughout Hilton and female leadership across the group.

he hybrid event was hosted at Hilton Sandton in Johannesburg and streamed online with participants and some speakers joining from three other African hubs, including Tangier (Morocco), Abuja (Nigeria), and the Seychelles. The conference featured a diverse panel of speakers, with keynote addresses by Refilwe Ledwaba, South Africa’s first black female pilot and founder of Girls Fly Programme in Africa, and Dr. Mosima Mabunda, who is the head of Vitality Wellness Discovery. Hellen Lebone, regional HR director for Africa and Indian Ocean, Hilton, said: “The Women in Leadership Conference, hosted under the theme of ‘Bloom Where You are Planted’, aimed to www.businesseventsafrica.com

address issues faced by women in the hospitality industry in this region and inspire a new generation of female leaders. We used this platform to encourage our female leaders to continue pursuing opportunities, driving impact, and growing their careers in their chosen portfolios.” Hilton AIO kicked off its journey of building Women in Leadership in hospitality over five years ago, when they developed a Leadership Diversity Framework that focused on growing their complement of both women and Africans into leadership positions in Hilton hotels across the continent. “Our strategy focused on growing a critical mass of female talent both organically and through attracting external female talent”, continued

Hellen. “We started the journey with no female General Managers operating our hotels. Today, nearly a quarter of the general managers running our hotels are female.” The overall female leadership across Hilton AIO is now standing at 37 per cent, up from 32 per cent just over five years ago. The group’s biggest stride has been made at the Hotel Director level, where they started at 33 per cent in 2016 and are now standing at nearly half (46 per cent). Ms Lebone concluded: “While we have made considerable strides in building women in leadership over the past five years, we remain committed to the goal of improving the gender parity in our hotels across Africa and the Indian Ocean.” Business Events Africa June 2022 19

PAGE IMEX STRAP FRANKFURT REPORT

Camaraderie, optimism and fortitude mark 20 years of IMEX in Frankfurt The first IMEX in Frankfurt since 2019 proved to be a momentous occasion for the global meetings, events and incentive travel industry this week. It was marked by an outpouring of camaraderie, celebration and, most importantly, business.

fter an enforced break of three years due to the pandemic, this IMEX show was always going to feel special. The question was, how special? Feedback from exhibitors and buyers made that abundantly clear. Day one saw Messe Frankfurt land two unexpected contracts, an endorsement of the team’s decision to exhibit on their own stand for the first time in 20 years and to promote their venue more assertively. Daniel Reid, assistant vice president of global sales Europe for Shangri-La Group was delighted with the quality of business leads: “For example, we had six really strong enquiries from big brands for large groups. They include Google, Herbalife and a big telecoms company. 20 Business Events Africa June 2022

Those enquiries span London, Abu Dhabi, Tokyo and Dubai. I’d sum it up as serious business from serious buyers,” he said. Christine Spitzenberg, senior sales manager at Messe Frankfurt, who were exhibiting on their own stand for the first time, said: “This is my 17th IMEX, and the best IMEX in years. My first appointment on Tuesday was a direct enquiry with a new client for a medical congress for 5,500 people with 15,000 sqm of exhibition space for 2028 or 2030.” Similarly positive feedback came from Lourdes Bizarro, meetings and bids manager, Los Cabos Tourism Board: “This is our first IMEX and it’s been fantastic to meet planners and to educate them on Los Cabos, because our destination

Ray Bloom, chairman of the IMEX Group.

Carina Bauer, chief executive officer of the IMEX Group.

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IMEX FRANKFURT PAGE REPORT STRAP

People and Planet Village: Design Challenge.

Cathy Breden, Managing Director of Center for Exhibition Industry Research and CEO of IAEE.

A change in the story Corporate planners attending Exclusively Corporate on Monday 31 May, confirmed that, although some destinations are offering financial incentives of up to 100 Euros per delegate to attract events, buyers’ current top priority is how well that destination has managed Covid. Many agreed that financial incentives are

Show experience — unexpected touches good for the soul Over in Hall 9, IMEX’s focus on an improved show experience was impossible to miss, leaving many attendees gasping ‘wow’ as they entered the hall. A feast for the eyes, with its colourful rainbow road, grassy Central Park surrounded by cabin-style food trucks, trees and abundant live plants, Hall 9 expressed the IMEX team’s commitment to biophilia (our innate human affinity with the natural world). The design team at suppliers, Fair Services, together with IMEX’s inhouse design studio succeeded in making a huge hall feel homely, comforting, accessible and ‘good for the soul.’ Attendees commented on the level of investment and care that had gone into crafting this special space, which included three

branded education theatres, Forest, Ocean and Canyon; the hosted buyer lounge; food court, private ‘nook’ pods, Media Zone and more. For the first time, MPI and ICCA also offered education and a series of hot topic meetups in Hall 9. Speaking after the closing press conference, IMEX Group chief executive officer, Carina Bauer said: “It’s clearly been a great week for our global industry. The show was imbued with a sense of camaraderie and celebration, and it felt good to be back together in the same room — that’s the feeling our industry thrives on and is motivated by. We’ve heard about some huge contracts being signed and masses of business deals being done. All the indicators suggest that 2023 and 2024 are going to be very good years for our industry. However, we can’t deny the challenges of a new business reality — labour shortages, travel disruptions, supply chain issues. However, planners are resourceful, adaptable and determined, by nature. They’ve learned a lot and I sense a strong determination to rebuild, but on new foundations. Equally, suppliers are doing their level best to flex and respond. The future looks bright.”

Education in Hall 9.

Policy Forum — IMEX in Frankfurt.

Meeting and greeting on the show floor.

isn’t famous for business events. We’ve had more than 180 appointments, and pre-IMEX we established alliances with MPI and Site to run events with them to help raise our profile.” Throughout the IMEX education programme, many presentations focused on future trends, current behaviours and changes to ‘industry norms’. Shorter sales cycles; an emphasis on sustainability; niche, highly targeted events plus shorter meetings and events are all forecast, and desired by attendees. Wellness is now front and centre, with a change in the story: an end-to-end duty of care to attendees, including consideration for their mental health, rather than a traditional focus on smoothies for breakfast or morning yoga, although both are expected too.

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helpful (if ethics policies allow) but proof of consistent and ongoing health management is more important, coupled with strong partnership values. IMEX saw an excellent attendance of around 9,000 in the halls, including close to 3,000 buyers, of which the majority were hosted and 2,300 exhibiting companies.

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PAGE IMEX STRAP FRANKFURT REPORT

South Africa takes centre stage at IMEX Frankfurt 2022 While the South African business events industry, like many countries across the world, was hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, South Africa still has a variety of quality-assured business events products and services geared up to host safe events with service excellence.

his is the message that 23 South African exhibitors, led by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, took to the world as they participated at IMEX Frankfurt, Germany. Having started on 31 May and ending on the 2 June at Messe Frankfurt, IMEX is one of the world’s largest global trade exhibitions and it is back, in a physical format, after a two-year absence. “Given the scale and importance of IMEX Frankfurt, it is the ideal platform to provide the most updated information about destination South Africa. We want to reassure our partners from across the world that they can come to South Africa and have safe 22 Business Events Africa June 2022

and successful events. South Africa is a vibrant business events destination. On the back of our rich heritage, natural beauty and our vibrant people, we have an opportunity to reclaim our share of big global events and, of course, international arrivals,” Deputy Minister Mahlalela said. Deputy Minister Mahlalela attended the IMEX Frankfurt Policy Forum on the first day of the trade show. He joined other world leaders as they deliberated on redefining and influencing the future direction of business events, related to policy making and strategic destination management. “Being at IMEX Frankfurt reaffirms our country’s credibility and it cements our

commitment to growing business events even further. As clearly articulated at the Policy Forum, now, more than ever, it is important that events return in physical form as they provide much needed revenue injection and economic boost for the cities and the countries that host these events. A case in point is that Frankfurt would not have as many people from various parts of the world as they do today, had it not been for this trade show [IMEX],” said Deputy Minister Mahlalela. A key component of South Africa’s business events strategy is to ensure that demand is met by adequate, diverse and unique tourism products and services to entice business events delegates www.businesseventsafrica.com

IMEX FRANKFURT PAGE REPORT STRAP

to the country. To this end, various businesses, including tour operators, hotels, provincial and city tourism authorities were amongst the exhibitors at IMEX Frankfurt. Significantly, among them were small tourism businesses, (SMMEs), whose presence at IMEX Frankfurt is being subsidised by the South African government, to give them access to the international market. The South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) strategy is focused on key sectors of the economy as part of the country’s plan to contribute to the economy. Business events are a powerful catalyst for job creation and inclusive economic growth. The key sectors include: agriculture, business process outsourcing, creative studies, life sciences, education, communications technology, manufacturing, medical science, tourism and religion. “As a government, we remain committed to providing meaningful support to the operations of the sector that has seen so much loss,” Deputy Minister Mahlalela said. While at the trade show, the South Africa team, met with highly targeted international hosted buyers with whom www.businesseventsafrica.com

they had pre-scheduled face-to-face meetings, and used their interaction with various stakeholders to obtain market intelligence that will further inform the work that South African Tourism does in marketing the country as a business events destination. “As we optimistically cast our sights to the future, we remain committed to our sector’s recovery. Participating at such trade shows is a part of our efforts to reigniting global demand and, in this regard, we will continue to work with our partners in the public and private sectors,” Deputy Minister Mahlalela concluded. In 2019, IMEX Frankfurt attracted about 3,439 exhibitors from 172 countries, showcasing their products and services to the world’s most influential travel buyers and trade visitors. The global business events industry also commemorated Global Exhibitions Day on 1 June and the South Africa team connected live from Frankfurt to Johannesburg, where the day was celebrated by the greater South African business events sector. Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, chief

convention bureau officer at South African Tourism, said: “Having been at IMEX for the past few days, the importance of business events globally was once again highlighted with a clear message that if we do not continue with physical meetings, then we will not be injecting money into the economies of the various cities and countries. It was so encouraging to hear most of our partners talking positively about South Africa and affirming South Africa’s business events strategy of focusing on key economic sectors.” The South Africa business events strategy is managed by SANCB, a business unit of South African Tourism, launched in 2012. Through the SANCB, South Africa has been represented on various stages at different trade shows, and the team has contributed to the country hosting some of the biggest events, which have brought in billions of Rands to the South African economy. For the past ten years, the team at the SANCB has flown the South African flag with pride, and continue to do so passionately for the African business events industry’s growth, through continued collaboration. Business Events Africa June 2022 23

PAGE TRENDS DESTINATION: STRAP SOUTH COAST

Selborne Golf Estate Exterior. Photo credit: Etrienne Koenig.

KZN South Coast — the ‘bleisure’ tourism destination of choice With world-class venues, outdoor adventures and incredible natural resources, the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is the ultimate destination for the trending ‘bleisure’ — for business and leisure tourism. With businesses looking to reconnect through teambuilding, conferences and retreats, this subtropical paradise is the destination of choice.

ith our year-round sunny climate, quality facilities and unique experiences, the KZN South Coast has established itself as a prime bleisure and business events location,” said Phelisa Mangcu, chief executive officer of Ugu South Coast Tourism (USCT). “One of the key drawcards of ‘The Golf Coast’, as we’re known, are the 11 quality golf courses found here. To further entrench our status, USCT hosted a Golf Coast Virtual Fam Trip, partnering with tourism bodies SATSA, SAT and TKZN to host tour operators in the region.

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“To facilitate the planning of business-focused events, USCT has also compiled the Meeting Planner Guide. This comprehensive guide is a one-stop directory for all business conferences, meetings, teambuilding and accommodation requirements. It includes a detailed list of our existing business events’ venues, teambuilding activities on offer, and all relevant contact information in one simple guide. But beyond this, there are so many reasons we’d like to share as to why businesses should consider the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom’ for their next event.”

Hiking at KwaNzimakwe. Photo credit: Collette Baillie Photography.

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DESTINATION: SOUTH PAGE TRENDS COAST STRAP

There are also numerous charter boats that take visitors out for a close-up ocean experience viewing dolphins and migrating whales. The winter months are a great time to book on the KZN South Coast as the annual Sardine Run makes its appearance, attracting hungry game fish, sharks, whales and overhead birds to ‘The Greatest Shoal on Earth’.

Selborne Golf Estate, Hotel & Spa Located in the beautiful seaside town of Pennington, Selborne is considered one of the country’s premium residential golf estates. Visitors looking to conclude business deals on the greens will enjoy this high-quality course which was designed by the legendary Denis Barker and has hosted several Pro-Ams and the South African Women’s Open. Beyond the well-manicured greens and indigenous forests of the golf course, Selborne boasts conferencing facilities, a restaurant, world-class spa, accommodation and Barker’s Bar.

stocks freshly made macadamia nut and rocket pesto, macadamia nut biscuits and brittle, baked mielie loaf and steamed mielie bread. Finally, there’s a stop at The Curio Shop featuring locally manufactured arts, crafts and other memorabilia. Ocean Adventures There really is so much to ‘sea’ and do on the KZN South Coast! The two Marine Protected Areas – Protea Banks off Shelly Beach and Aliwal Shoal off Umkomaas – boast an abundance of marine life, making them two of the world’s top sites for scuba divers, free divers and snorkelers. For the avid anglers, there’s ample opportunity for spearfishing, deepsea fishing or rock-and-surf fishing.

Anew Resort Ingeli Forest It’s not all about the ocean on the KZN South Coast! The farming town of Harding, set below the majestic Ingeli Mountain range near Kokstad and surrounded by indigenous forests makes for the perfect business retreat. For overnight stays, ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest offers 44 spacious country rooms with great views and amenities. Visitors who would like a teambuilding experience are able to try the local adventures such as mountain biking or hiking through the indigenous forest; quad biking; archery and axe throwing; as well as wining and dining. The resort also has conference venues.

Homestead Eats’ stall at Ubumbalo Homestead. Photo credit: Justin Klusener Photography.

Ubumbano Homestead For a truly unique KZN South Coast experience, visitors can head to this Amandawe-based agricultural cooperative which forms part of the Agri-CULTURE Tours. This smallholding was established by the Zama family in 2017 and has fast become a major supplier of local produce. Visitors are able to enjoy a tour of the farm, learning about the growing techniques and harvesting while sampling fresh produce. There’s also a visit to the Ubumbano Farm Stall which www.businesseventsafrica.com

Scuba diving with sharks at Protea Banks.

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PAGE MARKET DESTINATION: STRAP NEWSSOUTH COAST

Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails If your delegate prefers something a bit more active, then the KZN South Coast’s many hiking and biking trails in natural reserves and farmlands should hit the spot! There is mountain biking, trail running, hiking and 4x4 excursion trails found throughout Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom. The region also forms part of national sports’ contests such as the Joberg2c and KAP Sani2c.

Nyandezulu waterfall. Photo credit: Justin Klusener Photography.

Riding at Rocky Bay Trails. Copyright Daryl Visser.

Breathtaking views at Clearwater Trails.

Adrenalin-enducing activities at KwaXolo Caves. Photo credit: Justin Klusener Photography.

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San Lameer Resort and Golf Estate For another world-class golf course and luxury accommodation, visitors can try San Lameer Hotel. The beautiful but testing 18-hole championship course is located within South Africa’s first golf estate, established in 1973. San Lameer has played host to the South Africa Women’s Open and Masters over the years, as well as the South African Men’s interprovincial. The intimate hotel has 40 rooms and suites for quality accommodation, with a secure beach and exquisite coastal reserve. For non-golfers, there are a myriad of facilities and activities on the estate, including the award-winning Lagoon Spa. San Lameer is also ideal for your next conference or corporate gathering, with various conference options. KwaXolo Caves When it comes to finding a unique outdoor adventure, there’s nothing better than the KwaXolo Caves Adventures. This culturally enriching experience takes visitors into previously inaccessible caves which are adorned with San artwork dating back some 100,000 years! Guides take visitors to the caves using a secure rope-and-rung system affixed to the rock face, with views of the waterfall and gorge along the way. There is also a wonderful picnic site once the spelunking is done. This rural tourism development initiative also supports local communities through job creation and skills’ development while promoting the use of indigenous knowledge. KwaNzimakwe Enjoy an epic KwaZulu-Natal South Coast experience while supporting another rural tourism development initiative in the beautiful local village of KwaNzimakwe. Try a village tour starting at WowZulu www.businesseventsafrica.com

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Welcome Centre where visitors are welcomed by local hosts before starting the guided hike. During the day, there’s an opportunity to view locally made crafts; engage with a local sangoma; visit the organic garden and cattle Kraal; view the Shembe Church and community theatre; and stop by a local tavern. This location is also the site of the KwaNzimakwe MultiTrails which are a great opportunity for outdoor teambuilding in the form of hiking and biking.

Beaver Creek Coffee Estate. Photo credit: Justin Klusener Photography.

Coffee Farms Then there’s the invigorating farmland experience, visiting Beaver Creek Coffee Estate and Mpenjati Coffee, both forming part of the Agri-CULTURE Tours. Beaver Creek is the southernmost coffee estate in the world, boasting three generations of coffee growers. Visitors can enjoy the Crop to Cup walkabout; grab a bite at the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate Café; or go biking on some of the best mountain biking trails. Mpenjati Coffee was established by Leigh and Des Wichmann at their Jericho Farm in Munster with the processing performed at their Larkfield Farm. The couple has begun brewing some of the region’s best coffee blends with visitors welcome to experience the process from plant to cup. Visitors are able to enjoy a tour of the farm to view the pulping, drying, hulling, separating, grading and roasting of the coffee; before heading to the café to sample the produce.

Mpenjati Coffee.

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Selsdon Park Estate Experience the Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom by horse from Selsdon Park Estate in Trafalgar. They cater to everyone from beginners to equestrian experts looking to explore the Lower South Coast on horseback. There are great trails cutting across farmlands, coastal forests and sandy beaches. Nyandezulu For another truly authentic rural experience on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, visitors are able to head to the village of Nyandezulu, with beautiful ocean views. There are guesthouses for those who would like an overnight stay, and local tour guides leading hikes to

Ntantana Mountain, overlooking the 90m Nyandezulu Waterfall. Visitors can engage with the local sangoma, try some home-brewed beverages at the local shebeen, view handmade arts and crafts, and even visit a Shembe Church atop the holy uMdlungwana Mountain. Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre Discover the region’s rich history and local customs at this vibrant heritage centre. Through demonstrations, arts, song and dance, visitors get insight into the origin of the Zulu kingdom; discover the arts of stick fighting and crafting; learn about the ancient tradition of isivivane; and also experience incredible local theatre.

Ntelezi Msani Heritage Centre. Photo credit: Justin Klusener Photography.

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PAGE MARKET ANNIVERSARY STRAP NEWSFEATURE

Once a dockyard hotel and now the best address in Cape Town The start of 2022 has given The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town cause for celebration; not only are bookings steadily increasing as the tourism sector recovers, but it also marks the hotel’s 25th birthday.

un International’s iconic hotel was officially opened by statesman Nelson Mandela on 30 May 1997. Since then, the property has become an icon of elegance and luxury, acquiring a string of local and international accolades over the years for its service excellence and the warmth of its welcome. In 1997 some people questioned why a premium hotel would be built in a gritty working harbour, especially as the V&A Waterfront was a long way from the

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bustling, world-famous destination it is today. Sun International disagreed. “Right from the start, we saw the potential in establishing a world-class hotel in the heart of what we recognised would be a rapidly evolving tourism destination. Today, we are envied for having the best address in Cape Town,” said the company’s chief executive officer, Anthony Leeming. The location also received the blessing of former Sun International chief executive officer Sol Kerzner. The visionary hotel and resort developer was adamant

though – and would not budge – The Table Bay Hotel had to be built at an angle, facing Table Mountain headon. From the opposite angle the hotel offers equally beautiful, unobstructed views across Table Bay, all the way to Robben Island and beyond. V&A Waterfront chief executive officer, David Green said: “Congratulations on this 25th year anniversary milestone. It took the vision and foresight of the founders to create the hotel in the first place and to develop it into one www.businesseventsafrica.com

ANNIVERSARY MARKET PAGE FEATURE STRAP NEWS

of the iconic hotels of Cape Town and South Africa, winning awards and hosting dignitaries and international superstar guests, with excellence.” Speaking about the hotel’s recovery from the pandemic lockdown, The Table Bay Hotel’s General Manager Joanne Selby says, “In 2020, for the first time in our 25-year history we were closed for seven months due to the lockdown, but despite the temporary closure, we were committed to retain as many of our staff as possible and it’s heartening to celebrate our silver anniversary with them.” International travel has picked up from USA, UK and Europe in 2022, with a significant increase in business from other African countries. The Table Bay Hotel embraces international five-star standards but always with a defining local twist. Its offering might be world-class, but the hotel remains authentically South African. “With a history that runs in tandem with our modern era of tourism in Cape Town, The Table Bay Hotel is an iconic presence within Africa’s most-visited attraction, the V&A Waterfront. This prestigious hotel’s decades of welcoming visitors and hosting events has contributed to our success as a global destination over the years, with invaluable skills development for locals who have gained experience at the venue. We anticipate that our shared enthusiasm for world-class hospitality will continue to attract visitors to The Table Bay Hotel and Cape Town,” said Cape Town Tourism chief executive officer, Enver Duminy. The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, Alderman James Vos, also congratulated the hotel, “In its 25 years, The Table Bay Hotel has exemplified the high standards, diversity and innovation of tourism and hospitality in Cape Town. It’s no wonder that the hotel has time and again been voted one of the best luxury hotels in the world.” “The hospitality industry has faced a great many challenges over the years – from the 2008 global financial crisis, to the drought in the Mother City a few years ago and, of course, Covid-19 – but brands such as The Table Bay Hotel weather the storms through hard work and team spirit. I look forward to their continued success in the next 25 years and beyond! As the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, I’m excited about the future of tourism in Cape Town and what it will continue to bring to the communities of www.businesseventsafrica.com

our wonderful city. Through continued partnerships, innovation and hard work, we will take tourism in Cape Town to even greater heights.” Notable past guests are commemorated with a plaque at the base of a bronze statue of Oscar, a real Cape fur seal who, despite never having been a guest in the hotel, remains its most beloved patron. Selby says, “Oscar was a regular visitor to Jetty 2 outside our hotel where he developed an unlikely friendship with a fisherman who would share part of his daily catch with Oscar. Fur seals are the clowns of the sea and that description epitomised Oscar. Staff and guests all loved him, and he still holds a very special place in our hearts. Guests will

see Oscar honoured in many forms from his statue to even our logo.” For staff, the appeal of working at the hotel lies in meeting so many new people. For waitress Liziwe Sobekwa it’s about hearing different languages, “I speak Xhosa, Tswana, Zulu, English and Afrikaans, but there are so many languages in the world and I love to hear guests talk in theirs — and their accents too, it’s like I am travelling the world.” In turn, guests also appreciate staff. US actor Wesley Snipes noted in the guest book, “Excellent staff. A special thank you to Danny Kisten for his professionalism and kindness. Tried to make him an offer he couldn’t refuse but was outbid by Table Mountain.” Business Events Africa June 2022 29

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Celebrity guests who have stayed in one of the 329 stylish rooms and two presidential suites are too numerous to list but include kings and queens such as King Harold and Queen Sonja of Norway, Mohammed V1, King of Morocco and Prince Albert of Monaco. Among the heads of state to visit were former President Nelson Mandela, French President Jacques Chirac and President Barak Obama — first as a Senator, and thereafter when he became President, and even Russian President Vladimir Putin. Included in this stellar lineup are loyal guests who regularly return for visits. Selby says, “One of our guests first visited the hotel with his father in 1997, returning each year with his family, and more recently, with his granddaughter. These people are not just guests, they have become The Table Bay Hotel’s family. But, whether our guests come from near or from far, whether it is their first visit or whether they have returned multiple times, they can all expect to receive a truly warm Cape Town welcome from the team.” Wesley Snipes also said of the hotel, “I would say that The Table Bay Hotel is the perfect complement to the stunning views so abundantly blessed in this country”, while Duff McKagin, the Guns ’n Roses bass guitarist, described the hotel as ‘one of the most hospitable hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure to stay at.’ American singer Stevie Wonder indicated his pleasure by leaving his thumb prints in the hotel’s guest book. Michael Jackson, Michael Schumacher, Sir Tom Jones, Morgan Freeman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Robert de Niro, Steve Tyler, Snoop Dog, Vanilla Ice and Robbie Williams are among the hotel’s many famous guests. Most recently, South Africa’s own Miss Universe Zozibini 30 Business Events Africa June 2022

Tunzi, joined this stellar list of celebrities and is now honoured with her own plaque of fame at Oscar’s statue. Sports stars have also visited. In 2010, the entire Manchester United team were guests, and the hotel even hosted England’s riotous Barmy Army who famously drank the bar dry while celebrating the English cricket team’s win over South Africa in 2016. Just as its nautical architecture reflects its location in the heart of South Africa’s oldest working harbour, so too, the hotel’s interiors continue to echo the rich maritime history of Cape Town, the famous Tavern of the Seas that offered seafarers a safe and warm refuge from the elements. Sun International’s former chief executive officer and its chairman fondly remembered the hotel’s development and its opening. “I remember the opening day very well. We were honoured to have President Mandela perform the official opening ceremony, which marked the culmination of a lengthy and, at times, quite challenging collaboration between the Waterfront Company, Sun International and a professional team drawn locally and

from around the world. Today, twenty-five years later, the Table Bay is well established as one of Cape Town’s and South Africa’s leading hotels, occupying an unrivalled location with the unique capacity to cater for groups and conventions without compromising the quality of personalised service demanded by international and local independent travellers,” said former chief executive officer Peter Bacon. Previous chairman, Buddy Hawton, said, “It was a memorable occasion for all present, as we had President Nelson Mandela as our main guest of honour, accompanied by Mrs Graca Machel. The Table Bay has an advantage due to its location and presence in the Victoria and Alfred precinct. I, together with my late wife, were regular guests at The Table Bay and, having stayed in many top-grade hotels, both locally and internationally, we were in many respects able to broadly measure guest experience. We always departed from The Table Bay with a longing to return, which serves as a barometer of this experience. I wish them all at The Table Bay, every success in the future.”

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Innovation at the heart of recovery for Africa’s hospitality sector The 2022 Hotel & Hospitality Show, organised by dmg events, kicked off on 19 May at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg – the first in-person event of its kind since the pandemic struck the tourism and leisure industry in South Africa. Attended by thousands of leading stakeholders from within the private and public sectors, event speakers hailed innovation as the key to survival within the sector, after an immensely challenging period.

indiwe Sangweni-Siddo, chief operations manager of City Lodge Hotel Group explained the group’s need to sell off hotels outside of South Africa in order to survive the pandemic. However, she added that they had ultimately come out stronger, with food and beverage sales an increasingly important consideration within the sector. Mike Vroom, executive director of Newmark Hotels, agreed that food and beverage sales had become a lifeline for their business. He explained their strategy of partnering with restaurants within their space to bring more people through the doors and generate an income. “Such partnerships have proven beneficial for all parties,” he said, with restaurateurs typically viewing the industry differently and therefore being able to bring a new dynamic to the relationship. “As a result of our different approach to the industry, we have had our strongest 18 months on the food and beverage side,” Mr Vroom said. Marc Wachsberger, managing director of the Capital Hotel Group, added that while collaboration and co-working had become the new operative way for hotels post-Covid, the Capital Hotel Group had chosen to steer away from collaborating with student housing so as not to dilute their core hotel offering. However, he welcomed the boost from local tourism, which he

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said had gone a long way to resurrect the industry. Glenn Stutchbury, operations director of Legacy Hotels and Resorts, encouraged the sector not to overlook country-centric partnerships with a reward system, pointing out that it would be easier than partnering with international rewards systems post-Covid. Restaurant Association of South Africa (RASA) – in collaboration with the Hotel and Hospitality Show – held its annual Rosetta Awards during the three-day event, to recognise eateries, suppliers and personalities committed to service excellence in the sector. “The Rosetta Award is recognition of the highest honours for service excellence and overall contribution to the upliftment of the restaurant industry,” said Wendy Alberts, Chief Executive Officer of RASA. Keynote speaker MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development, Mpho Parks Tau, highlighted the tenacity of the hospitality industry. He added that one positive outcome of the pandemic was the strong relationship that his department had built with key members in the sector, including RASA, as a result. “We are trying our level best to ensure that the economy – not just in Gauteng, but in South Africa as a whole – remains open, in order to mitigate the impact that the hospitality industry has

experienced and may continue to experience in the short- to medium-term,” he explained. He also reiterated the importance of the industry within the local economy due to the substantial number of jobs it supported. Greg Straw, managing director and owner of Waterfall Markets, said that while the pandemic had forced all markets in South Africa to close, he was inspired by how many stall holders had persevered to open their own restaurants. All speakers agreed that while the pandemic had severely impacted the hotel and hospitality industry, a strong recovery for the sector was imminent, with global economies opening and tourism on the rise. “There is no ceiling for what this industry can achieve,” Mr Shaw said. Evan Schiff, portfolio director of Food, Hospitality and Trade at dmg events concluded: “Overall, we are delighted with the response to the 2022 Hotel & Hospitality Show. Considering the severe impacts of lockdown on the sector, to see so many thousands of people attend, and to experience the support of so many restaurants and hotel GMs, really amplifies the importance of providing a platform for the industry to come together and discuss the best route to recovery. We will be focusing our efforts on expanding the sectors represented at the show to better provide resources to the sector in 2023 and beyond.”

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3rd Africa Youth in Tourism Summit- Day 2, Accra-Ghana, 28-30 August 2021.

Calling all young tourism innovators Young innovators have braced themselves for the 4th Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit & Challenge 2022. To be hosted by the Namibia Ministry of Environment, Forest and Tourism (MEFT) and convened by Africa Tourism Partners in collaboration with UNWTO and BDO South Africa, the tourism innovation challenge is an integral pillar of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit. This is scheduled to take place in Windhoek, Namibia from 27 to 29 July 2022.

he 2021 and third edition of the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge was held in Accra, Ghana under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ghana Tourism Authority in collaboration with Africa Tourism Partners, UNWTO and BDO. The event attracted over 200 physical delegates and more than 1,600 online participants from over 38 countries. The Innovation Challenge’s thrust is to empower young African innovators between the ages of 18 and 35 years by facilitating platforms for business partnerships, market access, networking and mentorship platforms and funding solutions from the global marketplace. To date, there has been an overwhelming response, with entries received from several African countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

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Karibu Ayilu, a young innovator from Nigeria, one of the competitors, believes that the annual Youth Challenge encourages the youth to participate in tourism through collaborative work and employment creation. “I entered the youth challenge to become a good tourism ambassador for my country, and the African continent, through innovation. My aim is to promote sustainability and take part in programmes tailored to minimise the the impact of climate change and to contribute toward youth development.” Another young innovator, Rodgers Chiluba from Zambia, also believes that tourism needs to be taken seriously and requires innovative minds to transform the whole value chain in this era and beyond. The Africa Tourism Innovation Challenge is a platform that calls for innovators running innovative and solution-driven projects that go beyond

technology, but are related to the travel and tourism industry, to submit their projects for review and adjudication by an expert panel of judges. Shortlisted innovators are later introduced to industry leaders and potential partners for mentorship and support. The winner of the Africa Tourism Innovation Challenge will receive a seed grant of US$1,000, whilst first and second runners-up receive US$500, among several benefits. The selected top five candidates will be required to present a five minute demo to the judges, for selection of the winner, first and second runners-up, at the Africa Youth in Tourism Innovation Summit and Challenge scheduled for 27-29 July 2022 in Namibia. The Finals of the Innovation Challenge will be held in Botswana on the margins of the annual Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) and Awards to be held from 24 to 26 October 2022. For more information, contact: rejoice@ africatourismpartners.com www.businesseventsafrica.com

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Winners announced at the Woman of Stature Global Awards

Angelique Smith from Event Synthesis, South Africa, won the Woman in Tourism (Hospitality).

The first Woman of Stature Global Awards, powered and hosted by Hadarat Global was held at the beautiful Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai Trade Centre.

he Woman of Stature Awards is a prestigious event that recognises the hard work and passion of female entrepreneurs and businesswomen across different industries, which has now gone global. The event in Dubai was attended by local dignitaries and international guests from all corners of the globe. The Woman of Stature Global Awards, which is to be hosted annually in Dubai, celebrated women in ten different categories, namely: Entrepreneur of The Year, Woman in Construction, Woman in Coaching and Mentoring, Woman in Education, Woman in Engineering, Woman in Healthcare, Woman in Media, Woman in Oil and Gas, Woman in Technology and Woman in Tourism (Hospitality). The overall winner, Charul Jaitly, also the Woman in Technology category winner, is the first Woman of Stature Global recipient. Charul is a serial entrepreneur, endorses fearless and purposeful leadership and an unwavering optimist. She is a founder and managing partner of Ma-titi Group, focusing on people, technology, sustainability, cyber and defense consulting. Her company is on a mission to enable organisations to reach their maximum potential. “Excellence deserves formal recognition, and that is exactly what www.businesseventsafrica.com

took place in Dubai. As the founder and chief executive officer of the Woman of Stature brand, the Foundation and Woman of Stature Awards, I could not have been prouder to stand on a global stage. I am in awe of these remarkable women who were each honoured for the impact they are making in their respective countries and internationally. The Woman of Stature Award is earned and not given. Every woman awarded on the night completed a journey from November 2021. This is a test of their commitment and endurance, to finish what they started. A true test of character and exactly what we look for in a woman of stature,” said Charlotte du Plessis. This being the first ever Woman of Stature Global Award event is a historical moment, thanks to Dr Hawa Charfaray, chief group executive, Hadarat Global, who selected the Woman of Stature Foundation as the Hadarat Global Awards Partner because of the strict, ethical awards adjudication and audited process. The partnership takes the Woman of Stature brand global. The overall winner will be flown to South Africa where she will be the guest of honour at the Woman of Stature South African Awards on 11 March 2023, a prize made possible with the sponsorship by Imperial. The purpose of the awards is to

accelerate the careers and businesses of women and, although many are already prominent players in their respective communities, they have not necessarily fully developed or reached the peak of their success. This award provides many opportunities, gives them access to various platforms, helps them to develop their skills, talents, climb the ladder of success and get further, faster, which they may experience difficulty in doing on their own. Woman of Stature Foundation Global Awards winners: • Entrepreneur of The Year — Mona Sulaiman (United Arab Emirates) • Woman in Construction — Mary Jane Al Mahdi (United Arab Emirates) • Woman in Coaching and Mentoring — Grace Quarshie (Ghana) • Woman in Education — Suzette Salandy (United States of America) • Woman in Engineering — Leela D’Souza (United Arab Emirates) • Woman in Healthcare — Dr. Abi Abraham (United Kingdom) • Woman in Media — Nousheen Mukhtar (United Arab Emirates) • Woman in Oil and Gas — Thandi Ngxongo (South Africa) • Woman in Technology — Charul Chaturvedi Jaitly (United Arab Emirates) • Woman in Tourism (Hospitality) — Angelique Smith (South Africa) Business Events Africa June 2022 33

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Bielle Bellingham.

Nandi Dlepu.

Professor Mugendi K M’Rithaa.

New Design Summit announced Shaking up the industry – in the very best way – is all part of the essential mix for Decorex Africa Reimagined. To add to its trailblazing efforts to reignite architecture and interior design conversations and actions in the post-pandemic world, Decorex Africa has launched an all-new Summit in Cape Town and Joburg, with ASUS as partner.

a k i n g place over one-day-only at each show, these stimulating talks and presentations include dial-shifting insights from local leading personalities and a not-to-bemissed keynote presentation by an international guest speaker. Attendees will earn accredited Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points. But the events are not just for trade professionals — the intellectually curious from all walks of life are invited to benefit from what’s on offer. On Friday, 17 June 2022, Cape Town will play host to the Summit when it

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runs alongside the events and exhibits that comprise the freshly conceived Decorex Cape Town (16-19 June 2022). A ticket to the Summit also unlocks entry to the exhibition. The Summit then migrates to Sandton, Johannesburg, where it takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre on Thursday, 28 July 2022. Again, it is co-located with the show (28-31 July 2022) and a Summit ticket opens up access to Africa’s leading architecture, interior design and decor event. The speaker lineup for both Summits is curated by Decorex Africa’s Bielle

Bellingham, who is “motivated by the potency of art and design as catalysts for change… With a background in art history, publishing, interiors, and experience design, I use patterns to reimagine the future,” she states. Bellingham is a former editor of Elle Decoration SA, and is currently the contributing design editor of House and Leisure magazine in addition to her role as curator of Decorex Africa. Understanding the critical need for the Summits and their place in stimulating creative exchange, the talks are proudly supported by leading global PC brand, www.businesseventsafrica.com

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Chris Reid.

Juliet Kavishe.

ASUS. ASUS has consistently responded to the needs of A+ID professionals with its purpose driven solutions, the most recent example of which is the release of its new ProArt Studiobook that was engineered especially for career creators such as industrial and interior designers. Says RX Africa’s MD Carol Weaving: “We are tremendously satisfied by this clear alignment between our Summit partner and the nature of the event itself. Both aim to speak into a direct need and to enable and enhance creativity!” The summit will focus on Design as a broad discipline across various sectors. The Summit MC Nandi Dlepu is the founder of Mamakashaka and the creative force behind the groundbreaking Feel Good Series and Pantone Sundays. An AFDA graduate, Nandi has worked for some of South Africa’s top agencies and production houses such as Masters & Savant, Tenant McKay, Clearwater and T+W. She is a

sought-after speaker who is well-known as a womxn advocacy activist. We are excited to have the following speakers at the Cape Town Summit: Professor Mugendi K M’Rithaa is a transdisciplinary industrial designer, educator, and researcher presently working at Machakos University in Kenya. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Design, a Master’s degree in Industrial Design, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education and Training, and a Doctorate in Universal Design. He has taught in Kenya, Botswana, Canada, India, Norway, South Africa, Sweden and Uganda. He is passionate about expressions of socially conscious design, and has a special interest in the pivotal role of design thinking in advancing the developmental agenda on the African continent. The architectural partners behind the Wits Art museum, Nina Cohen and Fiona Garson will present jointly. Many of the buildings Cohen and Garson have

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designed are ground-breaking and have been published in prestigious international magazines such as Domus, Detail, Architecture Digest and so on. Cohen and Garson have received numerous awards, including Visi Designer of the Year 2012, an award of excellence from GIFA, and a National Award of Merit from SAIA. Joe Osae-Addo is Principal of Constructs, a design + build firm with offices in Accra, Ghana. His firm synergises architecture, urban planning, landscaping, and building technology into a single unit, combining modern architecture and building techniques into ‘inno-native’™ design solutions that shape contemporary African architecture. He worked for architectural firms in Finland, the United Kingdom and United States before establishing his own practice in Los Angeles, California, where he co-founded the Architecture + Design Museum of Los Angeles. In Ghana, he is Chairman of ArchiAfrika, a platform that initiates and facilitates research into African architecture and promotes socio-cultural development. Chris Reid is a Trend Researcher and Strategist based in Cape Town, South Africa. For over a decade he's presented trend insight to clients both locally and overseas, working both with agencies and as an independent consultant. Approaching the world of trends with equal parts curiosity, insight and scepticism, Chris is fascinated by the things that connect us to each other and our world, and what these connections mean for brands and individuals. Juliet Kavishe is a practising professional interior architect and design educator who has worked on high-end residential homes and commercial and corporate workspaces globally. She is an Executive Board Member and Editor-InChief of the Pan Afrikan Design Institute (PADI) Educational Journal Committee, which is striving to create a Design Journal with a focus on African design and African-focused design education. Juliet is also one of the Directors of the African Institute of the Interior Design Professions (IID), and lectures in Interior Design. For more information about the speakers, schedule and ticketing, please see: https://www.decorex.co.za/ cape-town/en-gb/trade-visitor/ Summitspeakerlineup.html Business Events Africa June 2022 35

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City Lodge Hotel Maputo — ready for business The 25th of May marked Africa Day, and in this spirit, the City Lodge Hotel Group is keen to reintroduce City Lodge Hotel Maputo in Mozambique, which rounds up its southern African expansion into three important neighbouring countries, the other two being the 147-room Town Lodge Windhoek in Namibia (opened October 2017) and 104-room Town Lodge Gaborone in Botswana (opened May 2013). City Lodge Hotel Maputo’s opening in February 2020 was marred by the pandemic and subsequent periods of lockdown, with the hotel having to temporarily suspend services after only a month of being open.

ince the lifting of travel restrictions, and with the vaccination certificate becoming a global document, the hotel has been open for business and a fresh start since March 2021. The property reflects its coastal location and great sea views with an aquatic colour palette in furnishings and artwork, spacious interiors and smart, comfortable rooms. It is the ideal accommodation choice that is close to the airport – 6.5km away – and the Costa do Sol beach, the city centre,

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private hospital, university and academic institutions, business node, entertainment, shopping and cultural hubs. As one of the group’s newest hotels, with 148 rooms, including one suite and five rooms designed to meet the needs of those living with disabilities, the hotel features the latest in design and décor. Rooms feature en suite bathrooms with maxi showers (selected rooms have baths), comfy queen or twin beds, airconditioning, uncapped and free WiFi, television with selected DStv channels,

tea- and coffee-making facilities, large electronic safe, fridge, USB ports on either side of the bed, and a work desk with good lighting and plugs for easy connectivity. There are four boardrooms which have a flexible design to better cater for guests’ specific needs: • Beira boardroom: six pax (boardroom style). • Xai-Xai boardroom: six pax (boardroom style). • Pemba boardroom: 20 pax (cinema www.businesseventsafrica.com

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style) or 6 pax (boardroom style). • Tofo boardroom: 20 pax (cinema style) or 6 pax (boardroom style). • Pemba and Tofo combined: 40 pax (cinema style) or 12 pax (boardroom style). The hotel’s #Cafe restaurant serves a full breakfast, lunch and dinner, incorporating enticing local flavours — the seafood dishes on the menu are a popular draw card. This is the perfect place for guests on business or leisure trips to work from their room at the spacious desk provided or book one of the hotel’s meeting rooms for business interactions, or simply relax in the sundowner bar, take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool and work out in the fitness room. Maputo is an easy drive from Johannesburg via the N4 highway, through Mbombela, and the docking point for international cruise ships that stop at this fascinating port. Some of the sites worth taking the time to experience include: • Maputo Special Reserve, famous for its elephant herds. • Fortaleza of Maputo, one of the oldest structures in the city built in the 1700s. • Maputo Central Railway Station and Museum, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. • Inhaca Island, with a variety of oceanic activities. • Beaches, craft markets, museums, art galleries and botanical gardens. • Exciting and vibrant nightlife and entertainment spots. Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo, chief operating officer of City Lodge Hotel Group, said of this gem on the East Coast of Africa, on the shores of the warm Indian Ocean: “Maputo has long been a popular destination for travellers from South Africa, the continent and the rest of the world. It is close enough to South Africa to self-drive or catch a well-priced flight, and exotic enough to make the ideal getaway or incentive trip with colleagues. We are excited to welcome our guests to this latest addition to our group — our colourful and convivial coastal hotel.” www.businesseventsafrica.com

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Accolades for The Maslow’s conference offering The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) has awarded The Maslow, Sandton Conference Centre, with a four-star grading in the venues category.

he recognition comes as business travel continues to pick up in the wake of the pandemic. “Sandton, which is Johannesburg’s financial powerhouse, is seeing more traffic as people go back to the office,” said Herman Swart, general manager, The Maslow Hotel, Sandton. “Conferencing has begun to pick up, as is the rest of our business, from dinners to special events and private functions such as baby showers, hen parties and weddings.” The Maslow’s efforts of contributing to the sustainability of the tourism industry in South Africa, through its commitment to quality assurance, were recognised by the TGCSA. Sun International’s Maslow Hotel, Sandton boasts 281 rooms and is a multipurpose venue that is ideal for travellers wishing to explore South Africa’s richest square mile, as well as for those needing to conduct business in it. It is also a popular venue with locals, for a power business lunch, to unwind with colleagues

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or friends after work, or to host a wedding and other personal celebrations. The proximity of the hotel to the Gautrain, with its fast track to OR Tambo airport, makes it ideal for travellers. With its state-of-the-art technology, the four-star hotel can satisfy every business traveller’s need, from the productive Wayfarer business lounge to physical and virtual conferencing facilities, 24hour fully inclusive conference packages, Wi-Fi and a top-end luxury spa to massage away the stresses of the day. The Maslow Hotel, Sandton offers plentiful parking and is one of the only hotels in Sandton which has a large,

lush, natural garden. “Our guests step outside, into a peaceful green space with many established trees clustered around our beautiful pool deck. Although the hotel is in a suburban environment there is a sense of open space in which visitors can relax – either in the gardens or overlooking them from the pool, or on the Lacuna Bistro and Bar deck.” This green lung makes The Maslow the central park of Sandton and enables Sun International to also offer additional activities such as events, conferences, banquets, weddings and even picnics, all of which can be held indoors or on the ample lawn, outdoors.

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Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City launches high tea The flagship Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City in Midrand, Johannesburg, has added a high tea experience with a difference to its delicious food and beverage offering.

eaming up with Pongrácz, one of South Africa’s finest Méthode Cap Classiques, executive chef Keegan Maistry and his team of talented chefs have developed a signature selection of sweet and savoury delights that pair perfectly with a glass of bubbly as well as a range of teas and coffees. The first high tea service took place in the Club Lounge on Saturday, 4 June 2022 from 2-4pm, and thereafter is offered on the first and last Saturday of the month. This all-inclusive food and beverage treat, open to 24 people only, costs R465 per person and can be pre-booked on email: cywaterfall.events@clhg.com. The menu offers a modern twist on sweet and savoury food items, while not ignoring teatime favourite savoury bites and sweet treats. Here is an example of some of the items that will be on offer in the Club Lounge: Classics Corner: • Delicate finger sandwiches. • Fresh scones. • Array of tartlets. • Fruit skewers. • Chicken and mushroom vol au vent. Sweet delicacies: • Mini dome cheesecake. • Croquembouche with different flavoured crème. • Macaroons. • Chef’s choice of cake, each slice a surprise. • Mini chocolate log filled with chocolate ganache. • Mini citrus tea cake with nectarine cream. • Madeira cake with flavoured butter. • Creamy tiramisu.

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• Moreish house made truffles with biscuit pieces and pistachio. Savoury snacks: • Vegan tofu and vegetable pinwheels. • Grilled beef, cherry tomato and goat’s cheese bruschetta. • Blini with salmon and cheese mousse. • Mini steamed bun with pork belly and hoisin sauces. • Spicy chicken and guacamole cones. “Our high tea ties in with the overall ambience, décor and clientele of Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City – upmarket, modern and young, keen on quality and a taste of global and signature flavours – and our slogan of ‘designed to impress’. In addition, we run a no-waste kitchen and our high tea sweet snacks will make interesting and delicious use of what’s in season,”

Chef Keegan said. June also sees the introduction of several new winter dishes to the menu at The Protea restaurant and The Highline gourmet lounge. New dishes feature seasonal and warming flavours incorporated into family favourite dishes. Some of the new dishes on The Protea menu include: • Choice of soup du jour (soup of the day) using seasonal produce, mushroom soup, or butternut soup, presented in a self-pour jug that keeps the liquid piping hot, and served with freshly baked cocktail rolls. • Housemade vegan burger, with potato, chickpea and cumin patty, coated in Panko crumbs, caramelised onions, pickle, tomato and lettuce, with choice of regular, Banting or gluten-free bun. • Lamb shank with mashed potatoes, bean and lentil ragout and sautéed baby carrots. The Highline menu will be enhanced with: • The Mega Board encourages sharing and consists of 500g BBQ ribs, two portions chicken wings, six meatballs, loaded fries and fish goujons, served with Keegan’s signature hot stinger sauce. • Spicy fishcakes with herb aioli and coleslaw. • Indulgent loaded fries with Durban masala spice, cheese whizz (rich cheese sauce), jalapeños and cheddar cheese; bacon may be added. The hotel also offers gourmet food and wine pairing evenings, which have been an incredible success to date. There will be six to eight gourmet food and wine pairing evenings held per annum. To find out when the next event will be held, contact: cywaterfall.events@clhg.com. Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City has 164 rooms and four suites; The Protea restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner and The Highline gourmet lounge on the 9th floor, with fantastic views of the city for tapas lunch and dinner; Club Lounge; co-working spaces; conference facilities and boardroom; pool deck; and Skin Renewal Waterfall Aesthetic Clinic. It’s the place to meet, eat, sleep, relax and rejuvenate.

Chef Keegan Maistry.

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PAGE VENUE SPOTLIGHT STRAP NEWS ON SA CHEFS ASSOCIATION

SA Chefs reimagined focus is on membership at Hostex 2022 The SA Chefs Association has always taken its responsibility to its members and the wider cheffing sector seriously — and now, as we glimpse at a brighter future beyond the pandemic, we recognise the need for the association to transform and be more relevant and sustainable in our ‘new normal’. By James Khoza, Sandton Sun executive chef, banqueting and conferencing and Hostex Ambassador.

he Covid pandemic changed how people live and how business operates. The future is about adaptability, agility, and for SA Chefs, we’re now more than ever before being driven by the needs and expectations of our membership. The association’s leadership’s role is to be innovative and strategic forward planners who will grow the membership, even in difficult times, and enable our chefs to be resilient and sustainable. It is with this mindset that we’re approaching the offering and features on our Skillery stand at Hostex 2022. We will be guided by hope and faith in the future and doing what’s right for our membership. SA Chefs’ work begins with 40 Business Events Africa June 2022

membership interests and ends with membership satisfaction — and Hostex 2022 will be our launch pad. SA Chefs reimagined We are reimagining SA Chefs — which is fuelling redesign. We’re embracing a reimagined SA Chefs with three key principles in place — membership, product, revenue and profit. Membership We’re exploring and expanding our understanding of membership choices. Do we position human needs and behaviours at the centre of our innovation process, refining the new insights through experimentation and prototyping? Can we use data science to better understand our

James Khoza.

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membership and their needs and expectations? How do we engage the whole ecosystem of our diverse membership categories in a positive manner for all? We believe that through meticulous attention to SA Chefs’ reinvented operating system, we will deliver a repackaged experience that better serves our membership. Product We’re committed to defining exactly what our product entails and how we work. Do we have a ‘secret ingredient’ that we offer our industry, and if so, what is it? What are we good at? How can we create improved social cohesion in our cheffing community? Revenue and profit To help our members turn behaviours into profitability, we must adopt a startup mindset to recover revenue. To achieve the full value of a redesigned SA Chefs offering, there must be a willingness to reorganise and make sure that transformation happens at scale. This means ‘smashing the iron rice bowl’ and restructuring and realigning the

interests of SA Chefs, incorporating collaboration, communication, and a powerful sense of personal accountability. It also requires greater levels of transparency to mitigate possible apprehension. To be implemented Implementation will entail a strong focus on membership, partners, government, and other industry bodies and individuals who can help to grow the association. We believe that impactful and strategic collaboration will assist the association to turn around more rapidly. At Hostex 2022 The Skillery at Hostex 2022 will deliver an educational edge, aiming to provide solutions to the challenges that the cheffing community has faced through the pandemic. Our focus on membership will reimagine SA Chefs to evolve from traditional ideologies and embrace what is current and real, reawakening South Africa’s culinary giant. Our industry needs to know it can trust its stakeholders, and at Hostex, SA Chefs will assist in instilling confidence so that together with the

industry, we will turn things around. Other features at the Skillery will include: • Space for small businesses to showcase their products and services. • Chef demos by experts representing various membership categories of SA Chefs. • South African cuisine demonstrated by high-level chefs who elevate it to fine dining menus. • Sustainable cuisine, such as plant-based foods, on display. • Ready, steady, cook competitions. • SA Chefs leadership, who will be on hand to meet and greet our membership. • Sustainability that will be addressed through SA Chefs’ Chefs with Compassion initiative. • Leading speakers who will tackle wide-ranging and relevant topics that include entrepreneurship, women in the culinary sector, is a diploma enough for a chef graduate, restaurant operations, digitisation and robotics, South African cuisine, cooking vs management for the post-pandemic chef, is sustainability worth it, price dilemma, surviving future threats to business, and more. See you at the Skillery We look forward to engagement, support, insights and contributions from the wider hospitality, food and drink industry at the Skillery at Hostex. To find out more about Hostex, visit www.hostex.co.za.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa June 2022 41

PAGE PERSONALITY MANAGER STRAP PROFILE PROFILE

Sandile Mavuso is shaking things up at Clico Boutique Hotel There’s a new restaurant manager and mixologist on the iceblock at Clico Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Conferencing who is putting his own spin on the cocktail menu and raising the bar at the vibrant restaurant and venue on Sturdee Avenue in Rosebank.

orn and educated in KwaZuluNatal, Sandile honed his mixology skills over several years at various well-known hotels, but really began shaking things up in the vibrant suburb of Rosebank in Jozi, which is enjoying a reawakening as a food and drinks hotspot. Sandile’s skillset and rise through the mixology ranks was spurred on when he began participating in Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS competitions and workshops. He was able to tap into a range of activities, skills and methods that have allowed him to pour himself into becoming a creative but cost-effective mixologist. An opportunity at Clico presented Sandile with a platform to apply the multitude of skills he has expertly honed over the years to collective use in the

42 Business Events Africa June 2022

multiple areas his role now entails — mixologist, barista, sommelier, restaurant manager and beverage control. His experience at hotels, including the Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani and InterContinental Hotel at OR Tambo, has also provided him with the solid foundation to move his career up a notch. This focused and determined young man said of his future: “I intend to keep learning and studying further, which will empower me to utilise the skills I pick up along the way. My ability to work under pressure has been a huge plus factor and I intend to keep using my initiative to work smart, not hard, in creating an experience for our guests, that they won’t soon forget.” Ask for him by name at Clico, you’ll only need to do it once. Sandile Mavuso’s liquid libations will make sure of that. www.businesseventsafrica.com

INNOVATION MARKET PAGE STRAP NEWS PAGE

Reintroducing the ‘Lightwall’ by Neworld

eworld Exhibitions launched the ‘Lightwall’ at Euroshop in late February 2020, in Dusseldorf. Mike Morris, owner of Neworld Exhibitions said the idea came when a client requested a quotation

for a curved, illuminated, pop-up portable system. To our surprise we soon realised it did not exist. So, we began designing the ‘Lightwall’. “I have to express my appreciation to my late partner, Lesley van

der Spuy, for her enthusiasm and encouragement and to Beert Kuiken from Octanorm for sharing his engineering and technical experience.” “At Euroshop, we were emboldened by the realisation that our product was unique, and further by the interest we received from potential users in over forty countries,” he said. Mr Morris, added: “On returning to Johannesburg we were greeted with Covid-19 international lockdown. This effectively put the brakes on ‘Lightwall’s’ marketing and export potential for almost two years.” However, on a positive, he said: “As we stand today, we have completely redesigned the ‘Lightwall’ structure with consideration to weight, cost and efficiency. ‘Lightwall’ is available in three sizes: single, double and triple. It can be configured into a full circle as well as ‘S’ shapes. It is double-sided and internally illuminated with LED lighting.” This product, ‘Lightwall’ is patent protected and trademarked. ‘Lightwall’s’ impact is truly stunning, making it ideal for exhibitions, indoor events and promotions,” Mr Morris concluded.

the globe, with the aim of finding Africa’s most promising innovators. With the help of 30 country partners, 50 ambassadors and 250 innovation hubs, the

Global Startup Awards Africa found close to 8,000 startups and ecosystem actors from 54 African countries with solutions to addressing 12 of the 17 identified SDGs.

Inaugural Global Startup Awards Africa launched G

lobal Startup Awards Africa regional winners, from across the continent, with world-changing UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)-aligned solutions came together for the first ever at the Global Startup Awards Africa event in Cape Town on 14 and 15 June. Hosted by the Global Innovation Initiative Group (GIIG), the event was a culmination of a six month process of extensive and rigorous research, networking, and collaborations across www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa June 2022 43

PAGE A AFRICAN LOCAL STRAP PERSPECTIVE PERSPECTIVE

Africa hotel development: it’s Egypt, Morocco, Accor and Marriott Just four words are needed to sum up the main findings of this year’s African hotel chain development pipeline survey conducted by W Hospitality Group, in association with the Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF); those words are Egypt, Morocco, Accor and Marriott.

his year’s annual survey, which is widely acknowledged as the industry’s most authoritative source, has, as of Q1 2022, a record 42 global and regional (African) contributors, reporting on a pipeline of hotel development activity totalling around 80,300 rooms in 447 hotels, in 42 of Africa’s 54 countries. Looking first at the number of rooms physically under construction, Morocco and Egypt are ahead of the pack, with 5,577 and 6,142 rooms respectively. They are followed by: Ethiopia, 3,871; Cape Verde, 3,016; Nigeria, 2,544; Kenya, 2,450; Algeria, 2,337; Tunisia, 2,280; South Africa, 1,948 and Senegal, 1,919. In Tunisia, Kenya and Morocco, over ¾ of the pipeline is ‘onsite’, whereas in Egypt, 71 per cent is just at the planning stage, reflecting its relatively ‘young’ pipeline (a lot signed in the last three years). While Nigeria has 45 per cent onsite; eight of the fifteen hotels (with half of the total rooms) that have started construction have stalled, and the sites are closed. The picture changes somewhat when one looks at rooms being planned as well as those under construction. In this approach, Egypt is the star. It doesn’t just lead the country table, with over 21,000 rooms in 85 hotels in development – up 20 per cent on last year – but it is streaking ahead of the pack. It has almost three times the number of new rooms planned as Morocco, and almost four times as Nigeria, which was top of the table for many years. What’s more, with continued signing activity (20 hotels with about 5,250 rooms last year), Egypt now

44 Business Events Africa June 2022

accounts for over 25 per cent of the total hotel development pipeline. Morocco has 7,209 rooms in development, spread across 50 new hotels; Nigeria has 5,619 rooms in 33 hotels, Ethiopia has 5,206 rooms spread across 29 hotels and Cape Verde has 4,639 rooms in 17 hotels. The next five places are taken by Algeria: 3,202 rooms, Kenya: 3,155 rooms, South Africa: 3,133 rooms, Tunisia: 2,918 rooms and Senegal: 2,693 rooms. Notably, four out of the five North African countries are in the top ten; and the top ten countries represent 67 per cent of the total hotels, and 74 per cent of the rooms, in the survey.

While Africa’s hotel development pipeline is at its strongest ever – 80,291 rooms being planned or constructed – the top-line number masks a reduction in Sub-Saharan Africa, where there has been a greater amount of hotel investment in recent years. Of the six sub-Saharan countries in the top 10, only Cape Verde has seen an increase in planned rooms – 33 per cent – whilst the ‘power houses’, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and South Africa have, between them, seen a decline of 29 per cent; Nigeria is down 41 per cent. There are three main reasons for the reduction: fewer new opportunities in the region; opening of some 2,700 rooms in 15 hotels last year, and a pipeline ‘cleansing’ which the hotel chains do periodically to remove various projects which are unlikely to go ahead. Looking at the development activity of the hotel chains, both Accor and Marriott are nearly as dominant as Egypt and Morocco, each representing just over 25 per cent of the entire pipeline! Accor has 20,857 rooms in development, spread over 107 properties; Marriott has 20,248 rooms spread over 103 properties. Hilton, in third place, has around half as many rooms, 10,505 in 55 hotels. Radisson, fourth, has 6,248 rooms in 35 hotels. The next six places are taken by IHG: 3,136 rooms, Barceló: 2,488 rooms, Hyatt: 1,995 rooms, Meliá: 1,743 rooms, Louvre: 1,273 rooms, and Minor: 1,203 rooms. IHG merits comment, due to its growth of over 10 per cent. It signed a deal for four Indigobranded hotels in Egypt, with 650 rooms in total, as www.businesseventsafrica.com

PERSONALITY AFRICAN MANAGER PERSPECTIVE PAGE PROFILE STRAP

well as a 300-room InterContinental hotel in Cairo’s New Capital. Analysis of the number of rooms under construction, as opposed to those merely being planned, changes the hotel chain ranking substantially, because Accor has only 26 per cent of its pipeline onsite, whereas Marriott and Hilton have around 57 per cent and Radisson 85 per cent. This puts Marriott in top spot, Hilton second, Accor third and Radisson fourth. The top ten – combined – have 82 per cent of all the rooms under construction in Africa, and the top four account for fully 66 per cent of the total, up from 58 per cent last year. IHG merits comment, due to its growth of over 10 per cent. It signed a deal for four Indigo-branded hotels in Egypt, with 650 rooms in total, as well as a 300-room InterContinental hotel in Cairo’s New Capital. Analysis of the number of rooms under construction, as opposed to those merely being planned, changes the hotel chain ranking substantially, because Accor has only 26 per cent of its pipeline onsite, whereas Marriott and Hilton have around 57 per cent and Radisson 85 per cent. This puts Marriott in top spot, Hilton second, Accor third and Radisson fourth. The top 10 combined have 82 per cent of all the rooms under construction in Africa, and the top four account for fully 66 per cent of the total, up from 58 per cent last year. Trevor Ward, managing director, W Hospitality Group said: “The chains anticipate that 200 new

www.businesseventsafrica.com

hotels are expected to open this year and next, although their expectations can sometimes be over-optimistic! After a positive trend in 2019, the actualisation of hotel deals (ie. the proportion that

actually opened, compared to what the chains expected to open) was less than 30 per cent in both 2020 and 2021 — however, that was quite understandable, with pandemic travel restrictions killing the demand for hotel rooms.”

Mr Ward continued: “I am not surprised by the slow-down in the number of deals signed in sub-Saharan Africa, as the past couple of years have seen not only the pandemic – making it more difficult to travel and meet new partners – but also less appetite from investors for major markets such as Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Africa. However, what does surprise me is that the majority of investment is going into upscale, upper upscale and luxury hotels, when there is very strong demand across Africa for decent quality, branded budget and midscale hotels.” Matthew Weihs, managing director of The Bench, which organises AHIF, concluded: “While the hospitality industry has just been through the bleakest period in my professional career, it is

fascinating to see that the pandemic has done nothing to dent long-term investor confidence in hospitality. If anything, the savviest financiers have seen it as an opportunity. They have been encouraged by enlightened governments, such as Morocco’s, which have spent $ billions on new infrastructure to incentivise investment in tourism. What’s more, judging by our other conferences this year that have sold out, we are seeing how keen people are to travel again and how valuable it is to meet face-to-face, rather than over a video link. I am confident that when AHIF takes place from 2-4 November, in Taghazout, close to Agadir, we will see the atmosphere buzzing, with highly productive networking and with more deals announced than ever before.” An update to the pipeline development survey, along with in-depth insights, will be presented by Trevor Ward at AHIF. The event is the leading conference of its kind in Africa, connecting business leaders and fuelling investment in tourism projects, infrastructure and hotel development across the continent. Business Events Africa June 2022 45

PAGE A LOCAL STRAP PERSPECTIVE

Who is Garnet Basson?

It’s up to us, as an industry, to address SA’s hospitality skills shortage Despite its status as a country with one of the world’s highest unemployment rates, many industries in South Africa are faced with chronic skills shortages — and the already hard-hit hospitality sector is not immune, for several reasons. By Garnet Basson, chief operating officer at The Capital Hotels and Apartments.

he sector was among the hardesthit during the Covid-19 lockdowns, with many establishments having to close their doors, either temporarily or permanently. Faced with an uncertain future, many of the industry’s skilled workers – its IT staff, marketing leaders, and experienced managers – turned to other industries for employment, and they’ve not come back. Highly portable hospitality-specific skills, like chefs for example, are highly sought after elsewhere in the world too, and the opportunity to work abroad and earn foreign currency is appealing to many South Africans. In turn, our people are valued abroad for their excellent skills and strong work ethic, making us a chosen source market for head-hunters who are seeking the best possible recruits for their clients. Many are willing to go because there’s still uncertainty in the local market as Covid-19 restrictions remain in place in South Africa, despite having been lifted nearly everywhere else in the world. This, along with flight costs soaring and 46 Business Events Africa June 2022

a global increase in the cost of living, adds friction to tourists’ choice of holiday destination, which in turn impacts our inbound tourism stats negatively. While we’re mindful of the reasons that there’s a skills shortage in the South African hospitality sector, we’re not sitting back and waiting for things to change — we’re living the famous words of Mahatma Ghandi, and we’re being the change we want to see. After a Covid-19-led hiatus, we’ve reopened The Capital Hotel’s Hospitality Academy. The Academy offers a range of tailor-made courses that are able to equip anyone wanting to grow in the hospitality industry with the skills they need. While our own colleagues get first option to sign up for the courses, which vary from housekeeping to hotel management, they are open to anyone who would like to acquire the skills they need to grow and succeed in this industry. While our own colleagues get first option to sign up for the courses, which vary from housekeeping to hotel management, they are open to anyone who wants to acquire the skills they

Garnet Basson is the chief operating officer of The Capital Hotels and Apartments. He is responsible for generating revenue and achieving regional goals across all the hotel group’s properties, and manages its more than 1,100 employees. Garnet is married with two children. need to grow and succeed in this industry. In addition to building and growing our own pipeline of talent, we have always focused on nurturing and developing our own people, in line with our inherently entrepreneurial approach to doing business. Doing so has seen many of our colleagues progress through the organisation, learning new skills while they’re working, and then qualifying for opportunities to apply them in promotion positions. This focus on our people has always been part of our ethos, and our strategy – throughout the Covid-19 restrictions – was to find ways to stay operational, so that our people could still earn the income that they were accustomed to. Our combined approach of making skills development possible for those wanting to grow, working with our people to define a clear career path and then walking that journey with them, as well as keeping our peoples’ interests at the top of our ‘to-do’ list, gives us reassurance that The Capital Hotels and Apartments will remain more insulated from the country’s skills shortage than other players in the industry. However, despite convention dictating that we should wish that others wouldn’t emulate our approach, we do actually wish that more hotel groups would invest in their people, and in turn in the industry, so that we build it back into the economic and employment powerhouse that it was, pre-Covid-19. www.businesseventsafrica.com

MARKET PAGE STRAP NEWS

Make connections that matter at Electra Mining Africa 2022 After two years of restrictions, exhibitions and events are now successfully reopening globally and good news for local industry is that Electra Mining Africa will be going ahead as a live in-person event this year. Several other exhibitions have taken place over the last months, with excellent results being reported by all involved.

he exhibition and its lineup of conferences and free-to-attend seminars will be taking place from 5-9 September at the Expo Centre, Nasrec, in Johannesburg. With over 75 per cent of exhibition floor space already sold, exhibitors are eager to get back to the face-to-face environment and to the business and trade opportunities that Electra Mining Africa offers. For the past five decades, Electra Mining Africa has built a strong reputation for its ability to effectively connect people and industries, buyers and sellers. Hundreds of exhibitors are ready to showcase their latest innovations, technology, products and services at Southern Africa’s biggest mining, electrical, automation, manufacturing, power and transport trade exhibition. This year’s event is eagerly being awaited by the collective industries. “We are excited and we are ready. We www.businesseventsafrica.com

have been working hard behind the scenes to deliver a show in 2022 like no other,” said Charlene Hefer, portfolio director at Specialised Exhibitions, a division of Montgomery Group. “For the past year we have been connecting with our partners, integrating latest exhibition trends and technologies, and planning exciting new features to mark the show’s 50th anniversary.” “When it comes to invigorating the South African economy following the effects of the global pandemic, facilitating the right connections will be key,” Ms Hefer noted. “Electra Mining Africa is a trade show that provides the ideal platform for buyers and sellers to connect, for industries to come together, and ultimately, for our country’s growth and development to receive the boost it needs.” Face-to-face interaction has been greatly missed in the exhibitions and events industry. Although online events

and virtual exhibitions filled the void and created an environment where buyers and sellers could engage remotely, these fell short of the in-person, face-to-face experience. “Exhibitions in the modern world remain incredibly relevant,” Ms Hefer explained. “Even with the growth of the digital age, human beings are gregarious and social by nature and they need personal contact. Face-to-face interaction facilitates the building of relationships and trust; live demonstrations engage the senses; and networking and collaboration between industry professionals can take place.” Those interested in exhibiting at Electra Mining Africa 2022 may contact the organisers to discuss options available that suit individual business needs. Exhibiting provides the opportunity for sales and brand exposure, and to network and collaborate with other industry professionals. Business Events Africa June 2022 47

PAGE SHOWCASE: STRAP BLACK PROFESSIONALS

Dr Anna Di Donato.

Unathi Mbonambi.

Black-owned wedding exhibition returns Couples planning their weddings are in for an experience. After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Mzansi Bride Wedding Showcase 2022 is back and promises to be bigger and better.

he black professional wedding supplier exhibition is a curated premier experience, that entails the latest in wedding couture, decor, cuisine, makeup and more; including a fashion show that will be profiling some of SA’s best wedding designers, all blackowned. It is set to take place over three days, from the 1-3 July 2022, at the new female and black-owned establishment, The Fortress Venue in Johannesburg. “This year, the event comes at a time when our wedding professionals have honed their business offerings, identified collaborations and are looking forward to being of service to the brides and grooms looking for the best that the wedding industry has to offer,” said wedding gown designer and cofounder of The Mzansi

48 Business Events Africa June 2022

Bride Collective, Dr Anna Di Donato. The first Mzansi Bride Wedding Showcase made history, by being the first and only wedding expo to specifically highlight black-owned wedding businesses. It took place in June 2019, with 50 black-owned wedding businesses, exhibiting various wedding offerings. The event recorded over 3,000 visitors in attendance, over a period of two days. Since then, the Mzansi Bride Collective has grown in acclaim; and their following has grown exponentially to over 20,000 followers on social media. The Mzansi Bride Collective has provided a platform for couples planning their weddings to find every single product and service they require for their wedding, all under one roof! And the calibre of wedding services and

products offered by the collective is amongst the finest in the industry. This year’s showcase promises to be even bigger and better, with a wider variety of wedding professionals to select from, a wedding dress pop-up sale, delicious food, cake tastings, amazing live performances, and premium lounges for couples to just relax and enjoy the day. The fashion show will also be back by popular demand, showcasing the latest in wedding fashion. The highly anticipated Win-A-Wedding competition is also back, where one lucky couple will walk away with the grand prize of having their wedding sponsored by the Mzansi Bride Collective. Entry to the event will be at a cost of R150 per ticket, each day and the tickets are available on Quicket. www.businesseventsafrica.com

EVENT GREENING PAGEFORUM STRAP

Easy and effective event greening tips After two years in lockdown, we’re all a little rusty on how to create more-sustainable events. Here are some practices that can have a substantial impact on your event’s carbon footprint, making them a good place to focus your attention as you plan for your next live event.

Go Hybrid Sure, we are all tired of engaging with people on screens. But don’t throw away what we learned over the past two years now. If your event could benefit from going hybrid – and removing attendance obstacles like travel, time and cost constraints – then do it.

we’re not saying go all out vegan (unless that is what your audience wants). Work with your catering team to deliver more plant-based options and reduce the amount of meat and dairy on the menu. Also, opt for local, seasonal and organic ingredients wherever you can (in that order of priority).

2. Use a ‘green’ venue The venue (and accommodation) you choose for your event can make or break your sustainability status. When choosing a venue, ask questions such as do they have: • an environmental policy, • onsite renewable energy, • energy efficient fittings, • water-saving fittings, • a robust waste management system, • any other sustainability practices? If you have already chosen a venue, it is still worth asking these questions.

5. Separate waste at source This basically means setting up a bin system that diverts waste into its separate streams from the get-go. For example, getting food waste into bins specifically headed for the compost heap, while recyclables can be collected all together or separately by material type (such as paper, plastic, glass, etc.). Lastly, you’ll need your landfill waste bins. With clever procurement planning, you should be able to keep these bins almost empty.

3. Commit to eco procurement Get lazy and make your suppliers do the greening for you! Your event and business can reap the benefits of your suppliers’ sustainability efforts. By simply committing to use local suppliers and service providers who demonstrate a clear commitment to uplifting people and protecting the environment, you are supporting and benefiting from these efforts. 4. Serve carbon-lite food Yes, we are talking about plant-based food! Controversial much? Possibly. But www.businesseventsafrica.com

6. Hire a professional We are all cost conscious right now but hiring a sustainability consultant will go a long way to helping you create solid sustainability objectives, stick to them, measure their effectiveness, and gain invaluable insights into what you can do better next time. An independent consultant will also be able to measure your event’s carbon footprint and, if you’re going that route, help you find the right project to offset it through. And if you really want to put your money where your mouth is, you could get your event certified.

Save the date! The Event Greening Forum will be holding a ‘Back to Basics of Event Greening’ training webinar on 21 July. It will serve as both an introduction to event greening as well as a refresher for those who are feeling rusty. Sign up to our newsletter for more details about this and other events we are hosting. Simply go to eventgreening.co.za, click on ‘Contact us’ and follow the link to subscribe.

About About the the EGF EGF

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a The Event Greening Forum is a non-profit organisation that(EGF) promotes non-profit organisation promotes sustainability within the that business events sustainability business events sector. It doeswithin this bythe hosting educational sector. does this byand hosting educational sessionsItfor industry lobbying sessions for industry and to lobbying government in an effort implement government in an effort to sustainability principles intoimplement the daily sustainability the daily operations of principles the eventsinto industry. operations of the events industry. The EGF was established through The EGF was established through dedication and support of eight industry dedication support of eight industry associationsand who are recognised as associations who areThe recognised as founding members. founding founding members. The founding members are key industry associations members are key industry associations working together to promote South working together to promote South Africa as a destination for various types Africa as a destination for various types of events. of events.

Want to know more? Want tolike know more? If you would to know more about

If you greening, would likevisit to know more about event event greening, visit wwweventgreening.co.za where you can www.eventgreening.co.za where browse the free resources, sign upyou to the can browse the free resources, monthly newsletter, or contact sign themup to the monthly directly with newsletter, any queries.or contact them directly with any queries. Contact: Contact: Lynn Mcleod Lynn T: 082Mcleod 891 5883 T: 891 5883 E: 082 lynn@eventgreening.co.za E: lynn@eventgreening.co.za

Business Events Africa June 2022 49

PAGENEWS SITE STRAP

Good customer service is always in season After the downturns experienced by the tourism industry due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the rising costs of almost everything, due to inflation, the increased cost of travel, and supply-side shortages, customer service is more important than ever. To make matters even more challenging, there is a shortage of frontline qualified workers around the world and this worker shortage makes good customer service harder than ever to deliver.

o a great extent, travel and tourism industry customers judge the industry by the people who work within it and by the level of customer service offered. Often, we cannot do much about the cost of fuel, but smiles are a free and renewable commodity. Customer service might be the best form of marketing, and often it is not only the most effective, but the least costly. It takes a minimal effort to be nice, to let customers know you care and to provide a bit of extra information that turns a mundane travel experience into a great one. To make sure that we all give that type of customer service, here are a few reminders for anyone who works with the public. 50 Business Events Africa June 2022

• Create a safe, courteous, good image, efficient environment and place your priorities in that specific order. Make good health and physical safety your number one concerns. If your guests are not safe none of the rest really matters. When dealing with issues of safety/security think through where you place desks, how good your signage is, and if your employees are well versed in all safety and security procedures. • No matter what, and no matter how an employee is feeling put courtesy first. Never forget to say thank you and to go out of your way to turn any negative experience into a positive one. From the perspective of the hospitality industry every one of our guests should be a VIP. If

By Dr. Peter Tarlow, Tourism & More. inc.

you do not know the answer to a question, never create an answer, instead find out the correct one and get back to your guest. Remember, there is no problem at your locale that does not impact you and that you do not own. • Appearance matters. Places that are dirty and poorly kept lead to a general let-down of standards and eventually become inefficient. Not only do you want the attraction, hotel or restaurant to appear clean and tidy, but also the same should apply to all employees. How we speak, the tones of our voices and our body language all add to the appearance of the locale. • Be efficient and effective. No one wants to wait while you chat on the telephone; get the job done in a www.businesseventsafrica.com

PAGE SITE STRAP NEWS

timely and efficient manner. Develop standards for how long a procedure ought to take and then develop a plan to make the waiting fun. For example, if long lines plague your locale, what can you do to entertain people while they wait in line? Think through your interior and outside spaces: are you using your tourism geography to your best advantage? • Study the ‘guestology’ of your visitors. Guestology is the science of knowing

whom you are serving and what those people need. Guests in their 20s are different than guests in their 50s. People from specific ethnic and religious groups often have special needs. If your guests come from places where other languages are spoken, do not make them suffer, provide information in their language. • Teamwork is essential to good customer service. Visitors often judge an attraction, hotel, or restaurant, not by the best service but by the worst service. If a fellow employee needs your help, do not wait to be asked, assist immediately. Guests do not care who is in charge of what, they only want their needs met in a courteous and efficient manner. • Work hard at creating a pleasant environment for both employees and guests. If you see trash, teach everyone on the team to pick it up, no matter how hard your day has been, take the time to smile and radiate human warmth. • Set personal standards. All employees should dress in the accepted professional style of the locale. Poorly dressed and groomed employees give the impression that they do not care, and people who do not care do not provide good customer service. In most cases it is most likely best to avoid displaying tattoos, unique body piercing, or the wearing of too

much cologne/perfume. Remember that when working with the public, you want the emphasis to be on the customer/guest and not on you. • Keep employees’ personal religious beliefs out of the workplace. No matter how committed you are to your faith, when in a professional situation it is best to avoid discussing political and religious issues with guests and fellow employees. All too many people do not tolerate opposing views and what may have started as a mere intellectual discussion may often turn into a cultural/religious dispute. Under no circumstances should we ever be disrespectful of another person's religion, culture, race, gender, or nationality. • Become guest-centric. Remember, there isn’t anything that is as important as satisfying your guests. Guests should not have to wait, paperwork can wait. Treat people in the following order, those who are in your presence first, then those on the telephone and – finally – those who are communicating with you via email. Never interrupt a guest to take a phone call. As we continue to learn more about customer service, we are coming to understand that a tourism entity’s success depends on more than a good location and luck, that good service means repeat business and adds greatly to the bottom line.

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...

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Contact

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

Business Events Africa June 2022 51

PAGE STRAP AAXO NEWS

AAXO moving ahead in 2022 The efforts of AAXO’s leadership in navigating the association through the pitfalls of the Covid-pandemic and the resultant devastation of the industry showed an unprecedented level of dedication and commitment by the board.

fter two years of lobbying government to reopen the industry, participation in developing and implementing industry Covid safety guidelines, mounting proof-of-concept events, and unrelenting advocacy, the industry is entering a new phase of recovery and AAXO is ready for it. The results of the vote for the new AAXO board were announced at the AGM on 25 May, with Devi Paulsen-Abbott (dmg Events) taking over the reins as chair, supported by Tiisetso Tau (Synergy) as vice-chair and Mark Anderson (Specialised Exhibitions) as treasurer. Chanelle Hingston (Vuka), Projeni Pather (Exposure Marketing) and Sandra Barrow (Media 10) make up the full complement of the board. Of course, along with the new leadership comes new administrative support. The association is pleased to welcome Anthea Buys on board, as she takes on the role of AAXO office manager. As the industry begins to show dependable signs of recovery and intra-African work increases, the Association also announced the culmination of months of work spent compiling the brand-new Exhibition Portal. This high-quality online exhibitions

industry resource connects exhibition organisers, venues, and suppliers across the African continent - providing a powerful event facilitator for both the African and international exhibition industry. It may not be easy to know where to begin in a new country. It takes research to find a suitable venue, a trustworthy supplier or safe ground travel before an organiser is able to concentrate on putting an event together. The essential African exhibition portal’s reservoir of pre-vetted, reputable exhibition organisers, suppliers, and venues allows industry players to search for the ideal exhibition partner by name, category and/or by country and connect with that perfect exhibition partner in a matter of minutes. The African exhibition portal aims to be truly representative of the growth in Africa. It will strengthen the local industry’s connection with the continent and African cross-country relationships, allowing each to learn from the other and promote best practices. AAXO is offering a free listing for everyone in the industry, with the option of a paid upgrade to add standout features like logos and brochures.

By Devi Paulsen-Abbott, AAXO chairperson.

AAXO-approved members, who have already undergone high-level vetting, qualify for a preferential listing, but this resource is for everyone in the industry, not only AAXO members. The AAXO board has served the greater industry, not only AAXO members, over this turbulent period. Every meeting we had with government and every contact we made during our advocacy efforts brought our industry to the forefront. The value of the exhibition platform is finally being recognised, along with our industry’s contribution to GDP. Much gratitude goes to Projeni, our past Chair, and the outgoing and incoming Board. Their invaluable and selfless contribution of time and effort to our industry has built a strong and collaborative association. We are excited by the prospect of supporting the recovery and the opportunity to develop our sector back better, our theme for the coming year. The Exhibition and Events industry has achieved a great deal over the past two years. The powerful legacy left by the outgoing Board clearly demonstrates the value of the Association to its members and the greater industry.

Let’s grow the exhibition industry by investing in our young professionals.

52 Business Events Africa June 2022

www.businesseventsafrica.com

SAACI PAGE STRAP NEWS

Your health is your wealth The stress of being unable to ply our trade because of the stringent restrictions our industry has experienced, coupled with uncertainty, has taken its toll. By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI.

s many of us have witnessed, since the beginning of 2022, we need all our business leaders to lead the charge back to planning and attending meetings in person. Over the past two years, many of us have worked on keeping ourselves afloat and caring for others, but we have forgotten to take care of ourselves. In addition, our perspective on life, work, and everything else has changed. So, why not change how we look after ourselves and more importantly, our mental health? Event management, by its sheer nature, is deadline-driven, and there is enormous pressure with the expectations we all place on ourselves to deliver an exceptional event for our clients. We have all been there, and we must ask ourselves if our industry is taking better

care of itself and the professionals who make it work? Are we checking in on each other as we slowly see activity picking up? Or have we just settled back into the pre-pandemic default? Setting boundaries that you do not break is a good place to begin. Many have called for less time in front of PCs and phones. Why not find ‘quiet rooms’ and create a ‘no technology jour’; small changes that could make a big difference in standing us in good stead as we build back? These suggestions may also work for delegates at your events, with the idea being to keep people engaged while offering them

the opportunity to stay connected. The pandemic has made us more aware of our mental health and well-being needs. Having these topics as part of the content or offering this to delegates and clients is now almost expected. We must acknowledge that it is okay not to be okay, even when things seem to resemble normality. Burnout is very real, and according to the World Health Organization, it is characterised by feelings of fatigue, cynicism relating to one’s job and decreased efficiency. If you are experiencing these sentiments, perhaps it is time to stop and smell the roses for long enough to appreciate life. This pause for thought helps us see the bigger picture, and sometimes, it is all we need to ground and refocus our energies. As you go about your day being mindful of others, I would like to remind you to afford yourself the same kindness that provides the support needed for your well-being, because this has never counted for as much as it does right now.

THE ASSOCIATION FOR CONFERENCE INDUSTRY LEADERS

CONNECT SAACI unites , supports and educates the business

events industry in southern Africa by creating sustainable environment for business growth

THRIVE Join SAACI and enjoy access to an inspiring network of industry professionals, while giving your business the professional status it needs to attract the attention of business leaders. GROW Become the business events professional you’ve always wanted to be. Access the SAACI Academy and enter a world of inspiration, connections and world-class skills development.

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+27(0)11 880 5883 info@saaci.org

Business Business Events Events Africa Africa October June 2022 2020 53 Learning | Growth | collaboration

Business Events Africa — June 2022

Articles inside

THE LAST WORD

AAXO NEWS

SITE NEWS

EVENT GREENING FORUM

SHOWCASE: BLACK PROFESSIONALS

MARKET NEWS

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

VENUE NEWS

MANAGER PROFILE

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AFRICAN PERSPECTIVE

VENUE NEWS

VENUE NEWS

MARKET NEWS

MARKET NEWS

DESTINATION: SOUTH COAST

ANNIVERSARY FEATURE

MARKET NEWS

IMEX FRANKFURT REPORT

MARKET NEWS

MARKET NEWS

INCENTIVE CASE STUDY

GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY

COVER STORY: EMPERORS PALACE

NEWS

EDITOR’S COMMENT

GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY

GLOBAL EXHIBITIONS DAY

EXSA NEWS