EXSA NEWS

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.

Participants 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 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.

Seen in Cape Town…