Ed’s Comment

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE

Covid-19 has hit us all in a very real and raw way. Between the first case being announced and the lockdown almost three weeks later, the impact of the pandemic reaching South Africa’s shores was more a conjunction of pandemonium and panic. Within weeks, fears of job losses came to fruition and the future of business continuity across the board seemed uncertain.

While we have a long way to go, with lockdown measures still in place to allow for the safe return of South Africa’s citizens to their posts, what we have seen from the MICE industry in particular is the resilience and determination to change the industry narrative for the better. Nowhere was this more evident than in our Special Edition showcasing the industry’s Lockdown Heroes and their innovative offerings during this time.

In this issue of Meetings, in our main feature on page 6, we unpack just how the Covid-19 pandemic has tested the industry and the ways in which this is currently shifting how we live, work and play. We talk to business owners and executives about their experiences and how they are innovating to safeguard the livelihoods of their employees.

Much of the current innovation we are seeing in the business events and tourism sector can be found online, with virtual events and experiences finding favour as the latest means to communicate with audiences. On page 24, we have provided a watertight checklist for bringing together a virtual event and on page 26, we look at virtual events from an attendee’s perspective.

With most of us working from home during this period, it has been an adjustment for both businesses and staff, as they get used to operating as a remote team and functioning as effectively and seamlessly as before. We explore the growing trend towards this on page 18 and also look into how to keep your team focused and motivated.

For many, the global pandemic and lockdown are adversely affecting mental well-being and it is more important than ever that we care for ourselves and each other by having healthy attitudes and positive mindsets. On page 22, we understand what steps we can take to keep ourselves in check and ensure those around us are doing the same.

We are still seeing a steady increase in the rate of new infections, so please do look after yourselves and, where you can, those around you.

NOTE: In my previous Ed’s Comment, I wrote that I was due to take up a post elsewhere. After thorough discussions with the publisher around the current situation faced by our industry, we managed to secure a win-win scenario for all parties, resulting in me remaining in my existing capacity as Editor of Meetings magazine. I look forward to continuing our journey together, facing the various challenges and subsequent successes together, as the united MICE industry we are.

Please feel free to mail me at shanna.jacobsen@3smedia.co.za with yourstories, suggestions and industry news.

Shanna

Managing Editor Shanna Jacobsen (shanna@3smedia.co.za) Digital Editor Pippa Naudé Chief Sub-Editor Tristan Snijders Head of Design Beren Bauermeister Contributors Aloysius Arlando, Gabi Babinszky, Glenton de Kock, Richard Downing, Michelle Hinrichsen, Barbara Larson, Erin Makarius, Greg McManus, Projeni Pather, Jack Smit, Susan Vroman Production & Client Liaison Manager Antois-Leigh Nepgen Group Sales Manager Chilomia Van Wijk Financial Manager Andrew Lobban Bookkeeper Tonya Hebenton Distribution Manager Nomsa Masina Distribution Coordinator Asha Pursotham

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