EDITOR’S COMMENT

What is your legacy?

Legacy, not the soap opera, but the legacy that gives you an opportunity to live for a purpose that’s bigger than yourself, is something we should all strive for.

Business events, speaks to this – be it at a conference, event, incentive or exhibition – every event hosted, leaves some form of legacy.

In this edition, we feature Electra Mining Africa and its 50-year celebration and its legacy.

Wow, 50 years is no mean feat! So much has happened in this show’s lifetime. It is due to its legacy, in many ways, that exhibitors return, and visitors want to visit the show.

The legacy of Electra Mining and other events in our industry are made up by the individuals that have made it a success over the years.

But what is it that keeps a legacy going? I have been thinking about this quite a bit; it might be because I am just getting to that age where I wonder, what is my own purpose and what will my legacy be, professionally and personally.

The mentors that come into our lives leave an impact. This impact could be seen as their legacy, as we keep their memories alive.

I have, over the last 20 years of being in the business events industry, had many mentors. If I think back, they have all shaped me in one way or another. I am still learning; the learning never ends. Contact Publications celebrated 42 years this year. Its founder, the late Godfrey King, was one of my mentors. He immersed himself in the business industry and always said that the magazine was, and still is, very much part of the sector, a journal of records for the industry. That has always stuck with me.

We all have a part to play.

The new entries into the sector, are just as important as the established players. Our cover story this month is the Hilton Garden Inn Umhlanga Arch. This hotel celebrates two years in November and has already begun leaving a legacy in the area.

The business industry certainly has many personalities, be it the venue, client, the organiser, the supplier — all have a role to play. Your relationships with your professional partners speak volumes on what kind of legacy you will leave behind. Integrity, for me, is key; do what you promise, and if you exceed expectations, that is a bonus.

The legacy that business events leave is significant.

Sometimes, this could be through a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, or even ensuring that the events footprint remains green, through sustainability programmes.

There are many ways to ensure legacy, just remember that what you do today is part of your legacy.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com