EDITOR’S COMMENT

Are we really ready to face ‘normal’?

Living in the present is something that I’m finding quite difficult at the moment. There is so much on the go — following the pandemic we have all been thrown into a fast-paced existence.

The workdays have become somewhat overwhelming, with the amount of work to be done and, at times, I really just need to take a step away from my laptop, even if it is for a few minutes to regroup.

During Covid, we went through something rather traumatic. At the time, we were all focusing on how to survive and didn’t really have the time to think about emotions.

Now that we are back to ‘normality’, I am wondering if this is at all ‘normal’.

The last few months have been filled with many meetings, events, industry shows and various destination workshops.

To be quite honest, I am finding it difficult to get back into the ‘normal’ frame of mind. Honestly, before I attend any event, I find I have to give myself a quick pep talk to get into the right mindset. Is this just me, or are other people finding this too?

However, once I enter the venue, the hotel, the hall, I find that I am ready to engage and I actually really do enjoy interacting with people, old colleagues and new acquaintances.

I am wondering if organisers should consider adding a pre-event/pre-exhibition/pre-function element to assist guests and delegates?

I would love to hear what your thoughts are — am I overthinking this? Should we just get on with it and eventually we will return to ‘normal’?

Meetings Africa, the South Africa National Convention Bureau’s annual African business events exhibition, took place at the Sandton Convention Centre. Wow, what an awesome show, and on many levels, it was back to what it was pre-Covid. At this event, where I felt very much at home, I really enjoyed reconnecting with the local and African industry. The atmosphere was welcoming and there was a lot of excitement on the floor. From speaking with exhibitors and hosted buyers, a lot of good business was concluded over the two days. Well done to the Meetings Africa team for an outstanding show. The Meetings Africa’s new branding gave the show a fresh new look and feel.

Meetings Africa is also successful because of its location in Sandton, which is a business events hub. From amazing hotels and venues, to its accessibility with the Gautrain as a great option. In this issue, we take a look @Sandton Hotel as a great option to host conferences and events, as well as a few other hotels in Sandton.

As we get back to the business of business events, remember: it is acceptable to be overwhelmed from time to time.

Stay resilient, we are in it together.