EDITOR’S COMMENT

Keep the faith

As we head into election season, isn’t it interesting to see how, all of a sudden, we observe people working on the roadside, cutting the grass, cleaning up the public spaces, and fixing potholes, in record time? Could there be an election on the horizon?

I just find it amusing, while at the same time, not really. Where were these people during the past four years?

The business events industry, always shows up — even during Covid, with all the restrictions, our sector continued as best it could.

We often talk about the resilience of the South African people, but I really believe that the business events sector is one of the most resilient industries in our country today.

Daily, I see the commitment and grit the industry players have. No matter what challenge arises, we always seem to rise to the occasion, and make things happen — most of the time, behind the scenes. How, is this possible?

Notably, our industry understands how to deliver, even in the most challenging situations. They never give up.

The reason is that they have made the most incredible connections and when it is necessary, they come together through these partnerships to ensure the success of a conference, an exhibition, or even an incentive.

Recently, I began thinking about the Win as One campaign that the South Africa National Convention Bureau launched a few years ago.

This campaign reflected the essence of our sector — we can’t win bids on our own. We can only win if we work together.

The Win as One campaign is even more relevant today, post Covid.

The underlying message is – if you win – the industry wins too. It has a greater impact than we realise.

The collaboration in order to ‘Win’, is what makes our industry unique.

As for the country, our government could learn a lot from our sector! Government should be about the greater good, for the country and its people, and not how to win for the sake of winning by making empty promises.

We are Team SA — not only as an industry, but as citizens of South Africa.

So, don’t forget to vote on 29 May — every vote counts.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com