INDUSTRY VIEWS 2023: we must all develop the local exhibitions and events industry

Lee-Ann Alder shares the vision and plans that EXSA has in store for the year ahead.

Our chairperson, Sibusiso Mncwabe, gave us this quote by Charles Darwin as his message to the industry: “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change.”

Change is constant. EXSA has had to change and adapt to the changing environment.

One of the changes you can expect shortly is our new website. We will let you know as soon as it is up and running, but the focus will be on our members and their work. We are very excited and looking forward to the launch, so watch this space.

EXHIBITIONS INDUSTRY 2.0

“Despite previously unimaginable challenges, we made it to 2023. At times, it sure didn’t feel like we would. 2023 has to be when we all develop the South African exhibition and events industry to be more inclusive, more structured, more cooperative, and more accountable as a role player in the

South African economy as well as our environment,” says Liam Beattie, board director, EXSA.

In line with his vision for the year is EXSA’s continued commitment to sustainable net zero carbon events. Our knowledgeable and passionate panel will be continuing with their project to reduce our carbon footprint and keep everyone in the loop.

Liam is also leading the ongoing Design Fee standardisation project. He and his team made exceptional progress last year and will continue to ensure we are able to enforce the guidelines that have been drawn up.

We are planning to spend much more time with our members in face-to-face engagements, and EXSA Connects sessions. We will send out a diary of events and shows to all our members so you can diarise the dates now before life becomes too hectic again.

Change is constant and EXSA is remaining fluid but stable. We will shift with the change and commit to communicating and continuing the fight for our members’ benefit.