MAKING THE MOST OF IT

Despite the challenges of this year, I am inspired and encouraged by the phenomenal achievements and strides the business events industry has made to ensure its survival.

During 2020, we have had to get comfortable with the only constant being change. We have dug deep to ensure our offerings are positioned to deliver exceptional value to our clients, and we have come together in a way that we haven’t before. From this collaborative drive, we have seen the birth of the South Africa Events Council (SAEC) – a body that is comprised of 14 industry associations and speaks with one voice by encompassing collective challenges and objectives. SAEC was also a key participant at the Restart Expo held at the end of November, which hosted many of the exhibition industry’s key role-players and suppliers. You can read about this fantastic showcase on page 30.

SHAPING THE FUTURE During the course of the year, and in particular during the pandemic, we have seen how important data is in ensuring we are informed of the latest developments in the current, rapidly shifting landscape. This highlights the need for us to take stock of our own contribution towards this, which we see in our data (page 10) and research features (page 12). I would also like to urge our readers to take the African Perspectives on the MICE Industry survey and get in touch with us to help drive this within your network. Typically, in each November/December edition of the magazine, we explore some of the trends we can look forward to in our industry during the upcoming year. This issue of the magazine is no different, and one of the most interesting insights we are seeing is how we connect with our audiences. Read this notto-be-missed article on page 16, together with our social media feature on page 18, to understand how best to engage with your audiences.

As a facilitator of the Women in MICE Mentorship Programme, I have had the personal pleasure and privilege of connecting with each of our phenomenal candidates who have come together to grow their skills in being able to deliver mentorship meaningfully and support each other on this journey. On page 28, we share their take on what it means to be a mentor and leader, and why this is more relevant than ever.

A THANK-YOU Before we wrap up for the year and all have a well-deserved break during the holidays, I would like to take a moment to thank our readers for their support in 2020 – we could not have done what we do without you! We have endured significant hardship during this year that has seen many lose beloved family members and friends, and a lack of revenue has compromised the wellbeing of countless others.

In 2021, may we continue to stand strong and brave in the face of adversity. Let’s celebrate one another’s as well as our collective achievements and, when the chips are down, let’s do what we can to extend our support where it is needed.

Wishing you a safe and blessed holiday period. I look forward to seeing you all in 2021!