The Event Issue 5 by Film & Event Media

Issue 05 | 2017

A 2017 INDAB 7 EX 201 MARK

INDABA 2017

Welcome to Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Largest Travel Trade Show

NORTH WEST PROVINCE

Great Locations for Your Next Event

e Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, situated in the Cape Winelands, offers luxurious hotel accommodation and a truly unique winelands hotel experience. This luxury Hotel features 79 en-suite, elegantly finished rooms and suites, and two lavish villas. Each boasts breath-taking views over either the towering Franschhoek Mountains, or manicured gardens. Le Franschhoek Hotel is elegantly portrayed in their fine dining eatery. Offering diners an opportunity to indulge in a scrumptious à la Carte menu, this Franschhoek restaurant is complimented by warm service, and picturesque placement. In addition, it is an ideal destination for a team building, corporate function or even a fairy tale wedding, boasting 5 world class conference venues, seating from 20 to 120 delegates.

Email: reservations@ lefranschhoek.co.za • Tel: +27(21)876-8900 • www.lefranschhoek.co.za

CONTENTS

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02.

Have You Registered for the SAACI Congress?

04.

Women’s Healthcare Initiative Launched during World Congress Hosted at CTICC

INDABA 2017 Exhibitors tell us about their previous Indaba experiences, and what they’ll be showcasing in 2017.

08.

A Brand New INDABA for 2017

16.

Tes Proos on Incentive Travel Trends

TES PROOS ON INCENTIVE TRAVEL TRENDS The owner of Crystal Events and Incentives share her wisdom and experience in the resurging incentives industry.

18.

WTM Africa 2017 Highlights

22.

Loselo Segwe, North West Tourism Board CEO, Shares Goals for the Province

24.

Tech Talk: SenseVirtual on Mind-Blowing VR Experiences

28.

AAXO Releases Research Showing Far-Reaching Impact of Exhibitions in SA

SENSE VIRTUAL ON VR SenseVirtual Founder Tyrone Rubin talks about the intersection between virtual reality and event marketing.

30.

North West: A Paradise for Business and Leisure

33.

North West Tourism MEC on Business Opportunities for the Region

38.

The Loeries 2017: What You Need to Know

NORTH WEST PROVINCE

42.

Associations News

This hidden gem province is making bold moves and claiming its share of the business-events market.

44.

Directory of Advertisers

NEWS

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HAVE YOU REGISTERED FOR THE

SAACI CONGRESS? Taking place from the 2nd to the 4th of June in Tshwane.

he SAACI Congress is the only place where event professionals can access education, networking, and collaboration to uplift the South African business events industry. It is the only Congress for Professional Conference Organisers in South Africa. Professional Conference Organisers in South Africa gather once each year at the SAACI Congress to connect with peers, and to meet and do business with suppliers and solution providers. This year, the Congress is taking place in Tshwane from 2 to 4 June at the CSIR International Convention Centre. The three-day programme presents inspirational keynotes, panels and workshops, as well as an innovative social programme including a fun run and a secret sunrise. Participants can expect examples of excellence from across the business-events industry and lots of time

Photographer: Francois Van Vuuren from iFlair Photography. for interaction and high-quality discussion. This annual event is dedicated to bringing event professionals together. We expect to welcome more than 300 participants to this year’s Congress, ranging from first timers to established

practitioners, and everyone will find opportunities for personal and professional growth. Suppliers and solutions providers to the business-events sector mustn’t miss this opportunity to meet with South Africa’s event professionals.

INSPIRING NEW OPPORTUNITIES

IN FRANKFURT IMEX is all about making connections.

lways adapting to change, developing and growing, the show attracts more diverse locations, suppliers and influential buyers each year. This is where you’ll meet up to 15 000 key senior decision-makers – in fact, the connections you’ll make here in just three days will set you up for the rest of the year. In this fast-paced, exciting atmosphere, you’ll discover endless opportunities to network. Indeed, IMEX is geared to helping

The IMEX Awards Gala Dinner © IMEX Group

you talk to the people you need to meet with 200+ networking events, ranging from breakfast briefings to evening functions. This is where valuable, new partnerships are made and old friendships rekindled. The number of special networking events on the show floor is up each year, while the most popular events continue to grow. Take in all the opportunities to meet top-level suppliers, buyers and industry leaders: networking has never been so easy - or fun!

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE

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TSOGO’S SANDTON MILE WORTH ITS WEIGHT IN GOLD

Conveniently situated in the heart of Johannesburg’s economic capital, Tsogo Sun’s Sandton Mile is the richest square mile in Africa and home to four Tsogo Sun properties: Sandton Sun, InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers, Sandton Convention Centre and Garden Court Sandton City.

Garden Court Sandton City

InterContinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers

Sandton Sun

Sandton Convention Centre

he award-winning Sandton Sun hotel offers a choice of 326 spacious and superbly appointed en-suite rooms and suites. The hotel’s San Restaurant is a grand caféstyle eatery where guests can experience fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere with superbly attentive service. The restaurant leads onto the sophisticated San Deck which boasts some of the most spectacular sunset views in the area. San Deck is the perfect place for anything from after work drinks to a romantic proposal. In addition to a number of in-room amenities, Sandton Sun’s guests also enjoy access to the Sandton Sun Spa, located within the hotel, which offers a host of rejuvenating and refreshing treatments; a business centre, a well-equipped fitness centre and a

complimentary Gautrain shuttle service. Across the Skywalk Bridge, another 231 stylish, luxury award-winning rooms await at Intercontinental Johannesburg Sandton Towers. The hotel’s full range of services and amenities include a Club Floor which is a full service business suite ensuring that the requirements of business visitors are met. Hotel amenities include the elegant Atrium restaurant, an outdoor pool, fully-equipped gym, valet parking and concierge services. Sandton Convention Centre offers unlimited potential with over 22 000m² of state-of-the-art meeting, exhibition and special event space. Purpose-built to international standards, the convention centre is able to host meetings, conferences, exhibitions and special events of virtually any size and nature. It offers some of the

most advanced technology available for convention and exhibition centres anywhere in the world. Multiple events can be staged simultaneously on four main levels, and 10 000 visitors can be accommodated at any one time. A team of highly trained staff is on hand to provide support services. Urban design meets affordability at Garden Court Sandton City, ideally suited to the needs of business and leisure guests. Functional urban design, affordable rates and technology combine to create a 444–room city hotel that is informal and relaxed, yet which offers outstanding service and convenience in central Sandton. Guests can enjoy meals at Riffs Bar and Grill, or relax around the sparkling outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a tranquil garden area and patio - restful surroundings which are rare in the heart of the city. The hotel’s two conference rooms can accommodate up to 16 people each. Tsogo Sun’s Sandton Mile truly does meet the needs of both local and international travellers. It is easily accessible in 15 minutes via the rapid rail link Gautrain from OR Tambo International Airport and offers access to over 11 500 parking bays, as well as a myriad of world-class shopping and entertainment options – Sandton City‘s Diamond Walk is directly accessible from Sandton Sun. For more information on the Tsogo Sandton Mile properties, please contact Adriaan Liebetrau on (011) 779 0000 or visit www.tsogosun.com

NEWS

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NEW WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE INITIATIVE

LAUNCHED DURING WORLD CONGRESS HOSTED AT THE CTICC A major new initiative to improve the quality of women’s healthcare was launched at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) World Congress 2017 which was held at the CTICC from the 20th to the 22nd of March 2017.

ore than 2 300 delegates from 77 countries attended the annual event, which is described as the largest of its kind in the world. This year the congress was organised in partnership with the University of Cape Town. The RCOG Centre for Women’s Global Health was launched on the second day of the Congress (the 21st of March), which was also Human Rights Day. It will bring together expertise in clinical knowledge, programme funding and development, health systems, monitoring, evaluation, and research, systematic reviews, innovation, outbreak management, and sustainable development. President of the RCOG, Professor Lesley Regan, said: “The RCOG hopes the centre will become a hub for strategic partnerships of a strong network of world experts in women’s health. Through this network, the RCOG hopes to be able to respond to areas of need in women’s healthcare through gathering evidence to develop best practice and implementing it by developing appropriate training. “While the scale and barriers to effective change vary in different places around the world, problems facing women in developing countries are no different to those in the UK. Women’s human rights need to be addressed globally in order to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. A human rights approach

to women’s healthcare is essential.” The CTICC, in partnership with the Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau, as well as one of the centre’s ambassadors, Dr Peter de Jong, bid for the RCOG World Congress in April 2014 and was successfully awarded the contract to host the event in February 2015. “We are honoured that the RCOG chose the CTICC and Cape Town as its venue and destination to launch such an important global initiative. Providing an environment for international experts to meet and develop solutions to global problems is key to our role as a driver of the knowledge economy. Hosting such

events in Africa also underlines the centre’s role in facilitating greater participation by our local experts in the development of life-changing programmes around the world,” said Julie-May Ellingson, Chief Executive Officer of the CTICC. Professor Regan reiterated the importance of partnerships in the work that it does. “The RCOG has a strong and longstanding partnership with the CTICC, which boasts world-class facilities. The active encouragement of the College’s local member representative committee in South Africa also helped sway the RCOG to bring the event to Cape Town.”

LE FRANSCHHOEK HOTEL & SPA

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LE FRANSCHHOEK HOTEL & SPA

Experience a truly unique event experience in the Cape Winelands.

e Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, situated in the Cape Winelands, offers luxurious hotel ac

the towering Franschhoek Mountains, placement. In addition, it is an ideal and Le a truly unique winelands hotel experience. This luxurycorporate Hotel features 79 en-s or manicured gardens. Franschhoek destination for a team building, finished rooms two lavish villas. Each boasts breath-taking views o Hotel is elegantly portrayed in theirand suites, and function or even a fairytale wedding, towering Franschhoek Mountains,boasting or manicured gardens. Le Franschhoek Hotel is elega ﬁne-dining eatery – Dish Restaurant. ﬁve world-class conference in their fine diningtoeatery. Offeringvenues, diners seating an opportunity indulge in a scrumptious à l Offering diners an opportunity indulge from 20 to 120 delegates. in a scrumptious a la carte menu, this this Franschhoek restaurant is complimented by warm service, and picturesque placeme Franschhoek restaurant is complimented Tel: 021for 876a 8900 In addition, it is an ideal destination team building, corporate function or ev by warm service, and picturesque Email: reservations@lefranschhoek.co.za wedding, boasting 5 world class conference venues, seating from 20 to 120 delegates.

It is an ideal destination for a team building, corporate function or even a fairytale wedding.

Email: reservations@lefranschhoek.co.za • Tel: +27(21)876-8900 • www.lefranschhoe

FEATURE

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A BRAND NEW INDABA FOR 2017

Africa’s leading and most-anticipated travel trade show is underway from 16 to 18 May. Here’s what you can expect at INDABA, from the latest programme highlights to why this year’s exhibitors are attending.

NDABA is Africa’s leading travel show, and one of the continent’s oldest. Taking place at the Inkosi Luthuli International Convention Centre from 16-18 May 2017, it will see more than 7 000 delegates from around the world meet in Durban. The show will have a more streamlined programme and an improved exhibition floor layout to previous years. Its online diary and matchmaking system allows delegates to set up pre-scheduled meetings with buyers or exhibitors – saving time and energy, and giving attendees the best of the event. A new INDABA App will also provide updated information and news at the show. Attendees will be able to explore the full breadth of Africa’s tourism offerings including high-end products at the Tourism Grading Council’s new luxury pavilion. This feature will cater to international buyers looking for premier, five-star offerings destinations on the continent are known for. This year’s focus will be on matching likeminded tourism professionals while helping showcase an eclectic range of products. Speaking at the launch of INDABA 2017, SA Tourism CEO Sisa Ntshona explained that tourism has the potential to be the new ‘gold’ that steers Africa’s economies to new heights. “All signs point to Africa being the next tourism frontier. The continent as a whole reported an 8% surge in international arrivals in 2016, with Sub-Saharan Africa increasing by 11% and South Africa by a massive 13%. Last year, we broke records to reach 10 million international tourists coming to South Africa. These figures far exceed the global increase in international arrivals of 3.9% overall. So Africa is definitely the happening place to be, with vast untapped tourism potential that could buoy the greater African economy and contribute its prosperity.”

What to Expect On the Floor In addition to a new luxury pavilion, the Hidden Gems pavilion will introduce the world’s buyers and visitors to small tourism enterprises from each of South Africa’s nine provinces. Through this, INDABA hopes to encourage a broader range of authentic tourism experiences and tours to the country. The show will host 90 small tourism businesses, both emerging and existing enterprises that are at least 50% black-owned. INDABA is not just a South African showcase, but represents the wider continent as well. 17 African countries are taking part in the exhibition, including Angola, Botswana, the DRC, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Réunion, Seychelles, Senegal, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Buyers will have the chance to meet exhibitors during morning speed marketing sessions. These will take place on all three show days, and exhibitors will be grouped according to themes such as ‘lap of luxury’, ‘scenic outdoors’, and ‘award winners’ before making short presentations on their offerings. This allows buyers to ask questions and learn more about exhibitors – many of whom are small businesses.

Trends and Topics of Conversation As with any expo, INDABA has an exciting industry conference running parallel to the exhibition. A series of topical ‘Conversations’ will take place. These are panel discussions with industry thought leaders aimed at constructively exploring issues related to tourism development in Africa. These include local and international game changers, technology ‘disruptors’, experts and captains of industry exchanging ideas on how to market tourism offerings to

the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) community; how the private and public sectors can join hands to drive inclusive growth; and how Africa’s pioneering arts sector can further enhance the continent’s appeal as a tourist destination. These talks promised to be both inspiring and informative. “We want to get the message across that Africa’s tourism industry is open for business and ripe with possibility,” says Ntshona, “Our continent is a value-for-money destination offering multiple incredible experiences that will take your breath away, from high-end luxury to bush-whacking fun.”

Programme of Events Sunday, 14 May 2017 TIME

EVENT

15:00 – 17:00

Media Durban City Tour

17:00 – 20:00

Media Welcome Event

Monday, 15 May 2017 TIME

EVENT

08:00 – 13:00

INDABA Masterclass

08:30 – 22:00

INDABA Golf Day

13:00 – 14:00

INDABA Masterclass Lunch

Tuesday, 16 May 2017 TIME

EVENT

08:00 – 08:30

Keynote Speaker

08:30 – 10:00

Speed Marketing: Lap of Luxury

10:00 – 18:00

INDABA 2017 Day 1 Exhibition Opens

10:30 – 11:30

Media Conversation #1

12:00 – 13:00

Media Conversation #2

Wednesday, 17 May 2017 TIME

EVENT

08:30 – 10:00

Speed Marketing: Scenic Beauty

10:00 – 18:00

INDABA 2017 Day 1 Exhibition Opens

10:30 – 11:30

Media Conversation #3

12:00 – 13:00

Media Conversation #4

Thursday, 18 May 2017 TIME 08:30 – 10:00 10:00 – 17:30

EVENT Speed Marketing: Award-Winning SA Products INDABA 2017 Day 1 Exhibition Opens

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FEATURE

INDABA EXHIBITORS SPEAK Sarah Bauling | Director: Sales and Marketing | Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris Meet us at: ICC G01 We have attended every single INDABA since inception and the show still proves to be highly beneficial. It is an amazing platform to network and meet new tour operators, plus of course reconnecting with those whom we are currently dealing with. We will be promoting our main business which is hot air balloon safaris! We fly in the Magalies River Valley– just outside of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, as well as Mabula Private Game Reserve and Entabeni Safari Conservancy. Trade shows enable us to continue building relationships with various folk within the industry as well as giving us the opportunity of meeting new suppliers.

Craig D. Drysdale | Head of Global Sales | Thompsons Africa Meet us at: ICC E013 This will be my 21st INDABA. The main objectives for attending for me have always been to: 1. Meet up with our current customers 2. Meet new hosted buyers 3. Networking with the trade First and foremost I am marketing Thompsons Africa as a leading DMC in Southern Africa. Our products range from day tours, transfers to guided journeys. Our target market is global. Exposure to new hosted buyers has always been a key objective of attending INDABA and growing our business.

Thina Litshani | Director | The Avenue Meet us at: ICC A27 INDABA is a continental trade show that allows for us to engage with potential clients and form new partnership outside the country. We are targeting the Hosted Travel Buyers and Association Representatives, seeking contact with local suppliers and to be effectively linked to resources in SA. Shows like INDABA have the potential to link us to clients outside SA, whom we would not easily access without such facilitation.

Lizette Jansen | Chief: Marketing and Tourism | Voortrekker Monument and Nature Reserve Meet us at: DEC1 D44 The Voortrekker Monument (VTM), located in Pretoria, is attending Tourism INDABA 2017 once again, as it is the best tourism marketing platform in Africa to reach both international buyers and tour operators – that is essential in promoting an attraction. We also utilise this opportunity to promote the Blood River Heritage Site in KZN and the heritage sites under management of the Heritage Foundation. Trade shows like INDABA provide exposure for exhibitors to reach and develop new international market segments that not only lead to growth in your business but also in SA’s tourism sector. Ultimately, we all work together towards a common goal – to offer the best visitor experience imaginable.

Chris du Plessis | Owner | Google Street View and VR Services Meet us at: ICC C13 From last year’s experience, showcasing worked, it worked out very well. I got lots of deals to pay for the stand and other expenses – and I hope to make more deals this year. I am selling Google Street View and uploading it on Google Maps to show the property inside out with Street View technology, like walking inside a lodge in 360o. We also sell VR 360 videos to clients’ properties to top it off. All this allows the property to be visible on Google search results and Google Maps, even to make a direct booking from a mobile phone. Shows like INDABA assist me because all my clients are there under one umbrella to set up meetings quickly to sell my services. Networking afterwards at an event makes deals possible. Yes, it’s a great place to be.

FEATURE

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Clint Gielink | Managing Director | Okavango Expeditions Meet us at: ODA02 INDABA in my opinion is the ‘grand old lady’ of the world’s tourism shows. Despite the hiccups over the last few years and the introduction of numerous new trade shows, I am confident that she will ride out the storm. At INDABA we exhibit adventurerelated products from Northern Botswana: • Okavango Expeditions offers fully serviced and participation style mobile safaris lead by an exceptional team of experienced guides • Travel Adventures is a self-drive safari company offering top-of-the-range 4x4 rental vehicles with fabulous back up and support service INDABA has in the last few years been our most productive show as we have found that, despite there being a drop in numbers of buyers, the quality of the buyers have been very good. Trade shows like INDABA are an ideal and very convenient platform to forge new business relationships and are especially convenient for keeping in touch with existing business partners.

Micahel Chideme | City of Harare We are at INDABA for the first time. The decision to attend INDABA was a calculated one because we realised the potential benefits that can be derived from attending, such as getting more tourists and investors to Harare. We are showcasing Harare’s tourism and investment opportunities and the strides we have made in the ease of doing business. Harare has a lot of facilities to host regional and international conferences. Our history speaks for us. We hosted a number of conferences such as CHOGM, NAM, SADC, AU, and a significant number of UN sponsored conferences. Harare is accessible by air, road, and rail, and well connected by internet. Its people are welcoming and friendly. Food is readily available with a wide selection of local, western, and Asian dishes.

Chelsea Pharo | International Sales & Marketing | Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa Meet us at: ICC E03 Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa will be attending the INDABA again this year to meet with our most valued international tour operators and local DMCs. This will give us the opportunity to update them with all the latest product updates. The INDABA has always been a good platform for us to use for networking. We also look forward to writing new business and making new contact with the improved buyer offering promised by INDABA 2017. Our standard Big 5 game reserve offering has expanded dramatically over the last 12 months. We have recently completed our planned refurb of our Standard Cottages. We have recently completed the Spa, and this will be top of mind when meeting with clients; new and existing. Being responsible for our International Sales and Marketing, I get to meet with a lot of buyers internationally that regularly attends trade shows in Africa. The INDABA is one of the most popular shows that international buyers ask about when contemplating which show to attend in Africa.

Richard Grossi | Marketing Manager | SATIB Insurance Brokers Meet us at: ICCG001 SATIB has been a pioneer insurance broker in the tourism and hospitality industry for over 26 years and have had a strong presence at INDABA since the trade show’s inception. Our goal for the 2017 show is to engage with our market and to stand by our reputation as pioneers in the industry by showcasing our ‘Intelligent Insurance’ range. This range consists of: • SATIB Travel Insurance APP • Field guides • Daily Cover • i-Tour + SATIB have coined the phrase ‘Intelligent Insurance’ as each of the above product offerings use technology to facilitate the insurance cover/servicing and claims process.

Trade shows like INDABA are an ideal and very convenient platform to forge new business relationships and are especially convenient for keeping in touch with existing business partners.

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FEATURE

Amona Kadiku | Events Marketing Manager: EMEA | SiteMinder Meet us at: ICC B03 INDABA is the perfect occasion to meet lots of hoteliers and show them our fabulous products. There is huge potential for new business and also great opportunity to liaise with existing customers. SiteMinder’s products include The Channel Manager, the industry’s leading online distribution platform; TheBookingButton, a wholly-branded booking engine for direct bookings via the web, mobile or social; Canvas, the intelligent website creator for independent hoteliers; Prophet, real-time market intelligence solution that takes the guesswork out of pricing rooms; and GDS by SiteMinder, a single-point of entry to a six-figure network of travel agents and the world’s major GDSs.

Hester Steynberg | Owner and Manager | Ganora Guest Farm Meet us at: ICC R08 (part of Cape Hotels/A&E Marketing Stand) I am marketing a Karoo sheep farm experience to guests with guided tours to Bushman rock art, a large private fossil collection and pre-dinosaurs walk, war engravings, and medicinal plant walk. Also to be enjoyed is marked hiking and biking trails, birding, star gazing or just enjoying the tranquillity only the Karoo offers. The small hamlet of Nieu-Bethesda with the Owl House and many artists is only 7km away, while Graaff-Reinet is 60km away.

Rushdi Harper | Managing Director | Wow Cape Town Tours Meet us at: ICC S08 INDABA 2017 will be our 8 th year of attendance, but our first as an exhibitor. Our objective is to meet many hosted buyers from the various countries we target. Our products and services range from the FITs, incentive travel, and conferencing and events industry (MICE). Over the years we have made great contacts with international operators and strengthened existing relationships which will continue for years to come. At INDABA we will also offer a range of Day Tours, which would include a new product targeted at ‘The Muslim Traveller’ encompassing Islamic history in the Cape, Mosques in the Bo-Kaap, and Halaal cuisine with a Muslim tourist guide. Of course, this tour is open to any traveller who wishes to delve into the Cape Islamic culture and may also include a Cooking Safari in the Bo-Kaap.

Natashia Brittion | Marketing Manager | EcoTraining Meet us at: ICC N24 At INDABA, EcoTraining is launching a regional Safari Guide and Nature Training Operation in the Masai Mara in Kenya. Located on the banks of the Mara River, the Mara Training Centre is their base to welcome local and international participants from across East Africa and abroad for a variety of programmes. These will include safari guide, wildlife, research, conservation, community and land management programmes. This centre will enable EcoTraining to extend its reach further into East Africa and the safari lodge training industry. The very first community safari guide training programme is already underway and will be followed by relevant nature courses across similar disciplines as well as deliver courses accredited by the Savory Institute.

FEATURE

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Teena Douglas | Sales and Marketing Manager | Lagoon Beach Hotel and Spa Lagoon Beach Hotel attends trade shows like INDABA to establish a presence. We thereby form part of a powerful platform for meeting new customers, reaching out to our existing clients, and build a more established and reliable brand. We generate lucrative, highly targeted business leads and sales opportunities. We develop and strengthen our brand. Our consistent attendance has been a great investment.

James Robb | International Sales Manager | aha Hotels & Lodges Meet us at: ICC O01 Attending INDABA has always been vital for aha Hotel & Lodges because it is a trade show designed for the Southern Africa tourism community. This trade show attracts the most important international buyers for the region and it gives us a platform to market our diverse portfolio to a whole range of potential international clients.

Fouad Caunhye | Regional Manager: Southern Africa | Emirates Events like INDABA 2017 afford us the opportunity to network with our stakeholders and articulate the Emirates story. It also allows us to empower travellers to discover more about Dubai and Emirates. Our participation, we hope, will create a richer understanding of one of the world’s leading cultural and business hubs – Dubai.

Litha Ncokazi | Founder Managing Member | Art Versatile Meet us at: ELN 00633 I am attending the INDABA because I run a tourist attraction business by the name of Art Versatile from Arcadia, East London. My business offers a very unique tourism product. It is an Art Tour Package comprising interactive creative processes, storytelling, art exhibition walk-about, interaction with resident artist and memorabilia. I believe our product deserves a bigger audience and the attention of a wider target market at this stage. There could not be a better platform than the Tourism INDABA for any small tourism business especially Art Versatile to market its product at this time. There is an undisputed prospect of greater benefit in being at the INDABA where there is an influx of potential buyers and exhibitors who could have an interest, not just on buying our product but also on leveraging Art Versatile’s rare resources and knowledge. The Matchmaking facility on the INDABA website is such a brilliant way to maximise the host of opportunities at the INDABA in terms of setting up appointments with relevant role players in this field. It has helped me set up appointments already with people with whom our products resonate. Tradeshows like the INDABA do help a great deal in the sense that for me being at the INDABA at this point in time, will fit in well with our marketing and brand positioning plans for 2017 especially within the tourism sector. Just like any other business; we would like to expand our market share and increase our gross profit margins this year. We believed therefore that for us to achieve this the INDABA had to be an intrinsic part of our marketing and sales strategy for 2017.

Thato Mothopeng | Managing Director | Ghetto Mentality Entertainment/Soweto Camp Festival Meet us at: ICC A27 As a youth-run company, we aim to grow in the tourism industry and the INDABA is a perfect platform to meet industry leaders, create networks and hopefully land future business. We are selling the Soweto Camp Festival, an annual camping event in Soweto that gives tourists the ultimate Soweto experience, where you can experience most Soweto attractions in one weekend without having to leave the township. The Soweto Camp Festival is a three day camping event that showcases local food, music, tours, and culture all in one weekend under the Soweto night sky.

INDABA is a perfect platform to meet industry leaders, create networks and hopefully land future business. The Soweto Camp Festival is a three day camping event that showcases local food, music, tours, and culture all in one weekend under the Soweto night sky.

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FEATURE

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Paul de Waal | Wetu Meet us at: ICC C14 Wetu at INDABA 2017 is all about nailing our colours to the mast – we’re going global and we’re ready to introduce our brand to the world. We’ve done extremely well in Africa and continue to expand our presence on the continent, and we’re making significant strides in Latin America, Oceania, South East Asia and India. Trade shows help us engage new audiences in person, with opportunities to meet members of the global trade and teach them how Wetu is changing the way the travel industry sells. We’ll be advocating the importance of content in travel, how to manage and showcase it in ways the modern traveller demands to consume it (like iBrochures, interactive itineraries with add-on chat functionality), and how to win back time with better business practices. Most of all, Team Wetu wants to meet the trade, talk, share information, and grow our community.

Madam Belise Kariza | Chief Tourism Officer | Rwanda Development Board Meet us at: DEC2 A26 Rwanda is a green undulating landscape of hills, gardens and tea plantations. It offers tourists a one of a kind journey – home to one third of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas. Rwanda is among only three countries in the world where you can trek to see the majestic gorillas up close – a truly once in a lifetime experience. One third of Africa’s bird species, several species of primates, volcanoes, game reserves, resorts, and islands on the expansive Lake Kivu, graceful dancers, artistic crafts and friendly people are what we are showcasing at INDABA.

Cindy Sheed Walker | CEO – Extraordinary Sales and Marketing | Extraordinary Meet us at: ICC P21 INDABA is a highlight in our marketing calendar and has served us well over the past eight years. We find the show brings a good spread of operators through from across the world and we value the opportunity to showcase the Extraordinary Collection. Our diaries (four delegates) are already full for the three days. We sell the full collection of our properties at the show. Extraordinary finds that there are opportunities to meet with high-end as well as more volume-based operators at this show. It’s an opportunity to engage with our loyal customers and also some new Tour Operators literally on our doorstep, thereby allowing us a larger presence in which we can introduce our various sales teams and properties to them. It’s my 20 th INDABA this year and I still believe the show has a lot to deliver. We are looking forward to it immensely!

Sasha Ella | Group Marketing Manager | The Mantis Collection Meet us at: ICC M09 The Mantis Collection is excited to announce the launch of two Mantis properties this year; the opening of Pearl Valley Hotel on the 1 000ha secure Pearl Valley Golf and Country Estate at Val de Vie, just 45 minutes from Cape Town International Airport, and three beautiful old Georgian buildings on St Helena island that Mantis Collection is restoring, due to open September 2017.

Jeanny Morulane | GM: Marketing | Constitution Hill Visitors to Constitution Hill have the unique opportunity to explore this historical treasure chest – a National Heritage Site consisting of a living museum reciting SA’s journey to democracy; which dawns with the setting of the country’s highest court – the Constitutional Court on its site. Constitution Hill is a unique and prestigious location for meetings, conferences, performance, events, receptions, screenings, parties and product launches. The precinct is premised on unusual spaces, from small former cells where bars yet remain on the windows, to large open areas with the capacity to accommodate hundreds of people. Attendance of the INDABA exposes the exceptional offerings of Constitution Hill, a National Heritage Site to a very relevant audience of the travel trade industry. We will be showcasing the array of offerings by the site which include our signature and new tours; encompassing a wide range of curriculum relevant educational programmes for learners. ConHill is also broadening its existing offerings in relation to the visitor experience and conferencing facilities with the erection of a new visitors’ centre and conferencing facilities ensuring ample capacity for both indoor and outdoor events for the precinct. The lead generation, industry networking and benchmarking opportunities offered by the INDABA are unparalleled.

SPOTLIGHT

TES PROOS ON INCENTIVE

TRAVEL TRENDS

Tes Proos, Head of Crystal Events and Incentives and President of SITE Southern Africa, explores the latest movements and trends in the incentive travel world.

ith over 30 years’ experience in events and corporate hospitality, Crystal Events and Incentives is all about creating unique experiences. They operate in most of Sub-Saharan Africa and have a network of over 130 trusted experts assisting in just about any incentive request. Heading up Team Crystal is the dynamic Tes Proos, who is also the President of the Southern Africa chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence. She chats with the Event about her company, the incentive sector, and how global industry trends impact local companies.

Tell us briefly what Crystal Events does and what kind of trips are in demand? We tailor-make every single incentive programme. We look to the client in terms of their industry: where they’re from, their nationality, the culture of their business, what their budget is and what they want to achieve from the trip. Once we understand that, we can begin to make suggestions for the destination. It’s also dependent on how much time they have to travel. If they have four nights, we might stay in Cape Town because there’s a lot to do and they will get some leisure time as well. If it’s five nights, we could split it into three in Cape Town and two at a game lodge. We look at the client’s needs and what they want to achieve. The programme content is also defined by what the client wants their group to experience. Sometimes it’s purely an incentive trip; others add a teambuilding element. CSR has become important to companies – and there are so many options to explore, whether it’s a personal visit to someone’s home, a hospice, or planting trees.

Who do you partner with to create these experiences?

What trends have immerged in the global inbound incentive sector?

We like to work with likeminded people in terms of service delivery and high standards. Our clients travel with high expectations and most of them are wellseasoned travellers who are used to the best. It’s also about relationships. It’s wonderful to have a working relationship with hotel management, restaurant management, teambuilding companies, venues; this communication is valuable.

Confidence in incentive travel is definitely returning. In the past we found lead times from our source markets became as short as three months. Group size and budgets reduced dramatically, but that is changing and becoming more positive, and lead times are getting longer. This shows companies have more confidence in their sales performance, budgets are increasing, and group size is increasing, which is encouraging. I have found, though, that South Africa is expensive. If we compare ourselves to other European destinations, getting here can breaks budgets, and group programmes are much more costly than our European counterparts. So we need to be careful that we don’t price ourselves out of the incentive game. We’re a long-haul destination and it’s already difficult to get here compared with other countries, we need to keep that in mind.

Do you receive many repeat incentive clients? That really depends. We do find that large corporates will come to SA once and might look at the destination again in four or five years’ time because they like to give their employees alternative experiences. However, I might have an agency based in the UK with ten corporate clients and they could refer all ten of those clients to South Africa. So from a corporate point of view they don’t return very often, unless they look at going to a different location in the country. From an agency point of view as an incentive house, we get many repeat clients.

What is the difference between incentive travel and leisure travel? Incentive travel really should be classified as business travel because it’s a major motivational tool for the employees and the management that participate in these tours. Then while they’re all travelling and having a wonderful experience, some might extend their trip. We always offer, but they are often limited in how much time they can take off work. Occasionally some will stay on, but what they would rather do is come back next year with their family and make a holiday of it. This is where we find our value-add as a destination.

Your business is probably also dependent on the global economic climate. How do you mitigate against international crises? It’s always so hard to predict, but the world’s situations – the Brexits and the Trumps – have all worked in our favour. First of all we have a Dollar and a Euro that have become very strong, so our destination has become more achievable. I also think South Africa has been an incentive destination for the past 20 years so there is confidence in a country where 10-15 years ago we received many security questions. We don’t get that anymore. These days they want to know if they can see lions and elephants. Internationals are excited about the destination, so South Africa has a very positive image in the market at the moment.

Crystal Events and Incentives are all about creating unique experiences. Be it an international conference, your dream vacation, strategic planning meeting or a corporate incentive programme – it will always be an event worth talking about for years to come. With 30 years’ experience in events and corporate hospitality, Team Crystal endeavours to fully explore each client’s individual requirements and ensuring that the proposal meets both the client budget and personal tastes. The team is creative and makes every effort to come up with new and innovative programmes. We operate in most African countries including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Seychelles as well as Tanzania and Zanzibar. Globally, we have a network of more than 130 trusted experts who assist us in making your dreams come true. Experiences are what it’s all about and Crystal Events & Incentives will ensure that your clients, management and staff alike, depart with a sense of achievement from each of our programmes. Whatever your unique requirement may be – Team Crystal will manage the smallest detail of the programme for you – giving you peace of mind and the time to give your guests the attention they deserve. We are a proud winner of the 2014 Site Crystal Awards for Best Motivational Programme, Middle East & Africa.

Tes Proos (South Africa) T +27 (0) 21 551 3305 M +27 (0) 84 682 7676 E tes@crystalevents.co.za W www.crystalevents.co.za

SPOTLIGHT

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WTM AFRICA 2017 HIGHLIGHTS

TM Africa 2017 was the most successful yet with buyers in attendance from 45 countries, with over 8 000 pre-scheduled appointments confirmed and an increase in exhibitors from 2016. Key and emerging source markets were represented in buyers and travel professionals from 58 countries, including the Americas, Asia Pacific and Middle

Eastern regions including countries such as United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Australia, China, India, Brazil, Canada and Argentina. “We confidently believe that WTM Africa 2017 has built on the business generated at WTM Africa in previous years, with feedback from buyers and exhibitors alike that WTM Africa 2017 has been the best yet!” says Chardonnay Marchesi, General Manager of Africa Travel Week.

Jeanné Schmulian, Marketing Manager of Quiver Tree Apartments, says: “Disney World doesn’t have anything on this. We had an amazing show, loved the vibe and enjoyed the positive energy from each of the buyers we met with. We see WTM Africa as a great platform to help us in growing the Quiver Tree Stellenbosch brand in the future.” In addition, the exciting inclusion of the 9th E-Tourism Africa Summit at WTM

SPOTLIGHT

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Africa 2017 featured world-renowned experts on travel technology. In an overflowing venue, the E-Tourism Africa Summit demonstrated to travel trade how best to face the challenges of working in a travel market that is more dynamic and self controlled than ever, with technology enabling clients to research, plan and book travel in more ways, and marketing increasingly relying on the way travellers create and share content. The growing potential of pink travel, focused specifically on gay and lesbian travellers, was detailed in a session hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Gay & Lesbian Tourism Association. This session showcased a strategy that contributes to socio-economic change, whilst opening up an extraordinary African tourism destination to a powerful global LGBT market hungry for new travel experiences. This emerging market for Africa will see even more focus at WTM Africa 2018. Once again, WTM Africa 2017 was delighted to partner with the City of Cape Town. The continued support of the city is a key factor in the success of the show, and the involvement of the City of Cape Town is testament to the importance of WTM Africa 2017 within the tourism landscape. WTM Africa 2018 will take place in Cape Town from 18 - 20 April 2018. Keep an eye on our website at wtmafrica.com for those details in coming weeks.

We had an amazing show, loved the vibe and enjoyed the positive energy from each of the buyers we met with.

African Responsible Tourism Award Winners Revealed on the second day of WTM Africa 2017, were the winners for the auspicious African Responsible Tourism Awards. The champions of responsible tourism in Africa were announced as follows: • •

•

• • • • All images © WTM Africa

Overall Winners - Blood Lions and Coffee Shack Best Accommodation for Social Inclusion supported by Better Tourism Africa: Gold winner: Coffee Shack Backpackers (South Africa) Silver: The Backpack (South Africa) Silver: Wilderness Safaris Damaraland Camp (Namibia) Best for Engaging People & Culture supported by Transfrontier Parks Destinations Gold: Ilha Blue Island Safaris (Mozambique) Silver: Maboneng Arts (South Africa) Best for Habitat & Species Conservation supported by Cape Nature Gold: All Out Africa (Swaziland) Silver: Wildlife ACT (South Africa) Best Partnership for Poverty Reduction supported by Africa Ignite Gold winner: Isibindi African Lodges Silver winner: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge Best Responsible Event supported by BulkSMS Gold winner: MTN Bushfire (Swaziland) Silver: Tour de Tuli (Botswana, South Africa & Zimbabwe) Best Responsible Tourism Campaign supported by Cape Town Pass Gold: Blood Lions (South Africa) Best Tour Operator for Impact in Urban Areas supported by Marine Dynamics: Gold winner: Uthando (South Africa)

CONSTITUTION HILL

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CONSTITUTION HILL Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy. The site is a former prison and military fort that bears testament to South Africa’s turbulent past and, today, is home to the country’s Constitutional Court, which endorses the rights of all citizens.

here is perhaps no other site of incarceration in South Africa that imprisoned the sheer number of world-renowned men and women as those held within the walls of Constitution Hill’s Old Fort, Women’s Jail and Number Four. Nelson Mandela. Mahatma Gandhi. Joe Slovo. Albertina Sisulu. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Fatima Meer. They all served time here. But the precinct also conﬁned tens of thousands of ordinary people during its 100-year history: men and women of all races, creeds, ages and political agendas; children too; the everyman and the elite. In this way, the history of every South African lives here. Constitution Hill is a human-rights precinct and a world-class heritage tourist attraction incorporating cultural, historical, artistic, educational and recreational spaces that celebrate South Africa’s ability to negotiate a peaceful, miraculous democracy out of bloody oppression. It is located between the Braamfontein and Hillbrow precincts in Johannesburg and retains important national and international heritage buildings. Constitution Hill is a place of perspective. It enables us to memorialise the past, imagine the future, and understand our place in the present. It is not just a heritage site – or a museum in which heritage is housed – but a vantage point that grants a view across time and space. Constitution Hill has a history dating to 1893, when the doors to the Old Fort ﬁrst opened as a prison for white men and later, briefly, as a military fort. In the early 20th century, additional sections were added to the site, including a section for black male prisoners, known as Number Four, a Women’s Jail and an Awaiting Trial Block. After South Africa become a democracy in 1994, the precinct

was renamed Constitution Hill and a historic decision was taken to locate the Constitutional Court on the premises. Johannesburg’s Constitution Hill remembers the horrors of the past, and yet embraces the promises of the future, marrying them with the reality of the present. It is home to the Constitutional Court, the birthplace of our democracy and protector of our human rights. With its four lookout towers, the Old Fort was once a place of fear and hopelessness. Built by the Transvaal government in 1899 as a bulwark to protect the city against the advancing British during the AngloBoer War, it was converted in 1904 into a jail that for most of the century would house a variety of prisoners of all races. The precinct also offers competitively priced unique conferencing facilities accommodating up to 120 pax. These are set in the backdrop of the well-preserved prison buildings. Conferences, functions and

meetings can be held here with full catering facilities. The site also incorporates an on-site restaurant for those signiﬁcant gatherings of a more personal or group nature.

Best time to visit Constitution Hill is open from Monday to Sunday from 9am – 5pm.

Events • •

4 May 2017 Ubulungiswa/Justice exhibition 1 June 2017 Basha Uhuru Freedom Fest

Contact Constitution Hill Visitor Centre Tel: +27 (0)11 381 3100 Email: info@constitutionhill.org.za

SIZE DOES MATTER

Big.

Spaces

Better.

Options

Best.

Experiences

It’s It’s been been said said that that size size doesn’t doesn’t matter, matter,but but when when itit comes comes to to creating creating extraordinary extraordinary experiences experiences for for your your guests, guests, That’s why why we we recently recently expanded expanded the the CTICC CTICC with with the the sole sole aim aim of of delegates delegates or or attendees, attendees,we we have have to to disagree. disagree. That’s giving giving our our clients clients and and guests guests more… more…

More More space. space.More More flexibility. flexibility.More More award-winning award-winning cuisine. cuisine.More More attention attention to to detail. detail.More More convenience. convenience. More More breathtaking breathtaking views. views.More More parking. parking.More More facilities. facilities. All All of of which which give give you you more more opportunity opportunity to to transform transform your your meeting, meeting,event, event,conference conference or or show show into into aa truly truly extraordinary extraordinary experience experience..

To To discover discover the the massive massive positive positive impact impact our our bigger bigger and and better better convention convention centre centre can can have have on on your your brand brand or or business, business, contact contact the the CTICC CTICC today today on on +27 +27 21 21 410 410 5000 5000 or or email email sales@cticc.co.za sales@cticc.co.za

NORTH WEST DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

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NORTH WEST TOURISM BOARD

Loselo Segwe, CEO of the North West Tourism Board, shares the organisation’s strategies for repositioning the province as a go-to destination for tourism, conferencing and events.

Loselo Segwe, CEO of the North West Tourism Board

What are your marketing strategies for the North West in the next 3-5 years? We are marketing the province as a destination and are developing various destination routes for tourists. As such, we will not be marketing isolated heritage sites, hotels or institutions that may be attractive, but to rather splice the region into various routes. We seek to partner with key industry stakeholders like associations, big hotels, small players, tour operators and travel agents. At INDABA, we will conclude a joint marketing agreement with Tourvest. We will also be concluding an agreement with SA Express on air link strategy. We have also entered into discussions with Free State province because we share one heritage site – the Vredefort Dome: they have 30% of the site within their borders and we have 70%. We want to do a joint marketing campaign around the Vredefort Dome. We will be talking to

Limpopo about our game parks, and we are in tentative discussions with Gauteng province around the Cradle of Humankind. We have already signed an MOU with the University of North West to digitise our sites and map out routes. We’re working quite closely with SATSA to develop our tour operators, and there are 10 already in training, and we have started engaging ASATA for travel agencies, something we hope to conclude by August or September. Internationally, India and China are our focus, and we have been in talks with a corporate marketing agency in Asia. By the end of May we should have valuable data on almost all Asian tourism markets and we can begin to understand how to formulate packages that will bring them to the North West province.

Tell us about some of your education initiatives. The North West Tourism Board runs two hotel schools in the province. Our output in terms of students is 90% placement in hospitality institutions. We recently commissioned research to find out how our students are performing in the sector. We went to 20 luxury four-star and five-star hotels operating in the sector and we got a rating of 80% satisfaction. We then went further to try and understand what happened to the balance so that we know exactly how to improve in this academic year. In 2018, we will do another survey to find out whether we have closed the gap.

What areas are you promoting or developing for tourism, and why should people visit? I’ve mentioned the Vredefort Dome, and there is the Dr Ruth Mompati district, which has a number of hidden gems like Taung – a World Heritage Site. There is Small Haven and Taung Dam and we will be clustering those three

to package culture, adventure and wildlife into a marketable route. In the Mahikeng region we have Groot Mariko, the Dinokana Liberation Route which will be developed at a later stage, and an Anglo Boer War site in the district. Other hidden gems are the K9 Breeding and Training Centre just outside Rustenburg, an unknown historic museum in Kraaipan, and the Barberspan Bird Sanctuary where we will develop bird viewing routes. In the east we have the Pilanesberg and Madikwe game reserves where you can see the Big 5 in one day. In the west is an abundance of fauna and flora, and for leisure we have Sun City and Hartebeespoort; for gaming and fishing we have Barberspan and Taung Dam. We also have two dams in Mahikeng, historic sites, and capture sites. Along the N12 is a treasure route, which connects the North West, Northern Cape and Gauteng.

What venues and events are you marketing in 2017? Sun City is ideal for conferences. It has recently undergone a massive revamp and it can compete with any ICC in the country in terms of seating and bed capacity. In Potchefstroom we have the NWU Sport Centre. We are concluding a joint marketing agreement with Sun City and developing an event strategy. At this stage we’re looking at the SAMAs, for Hartebeespoort we’re looking at Mrs Africa, we’re also considering Rumble in the Jungle at Sun City, the SATMAs, and we are in negotiations to host an international off-road race to be held in the Dr Ruth Mopati district as a build up for Dakar.

BUSINESS & EVENTS TOURISM

NORTH WEST More than just Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing & Events Benefit from our outstanding service, stylish environment and excellent meeting, incentive and conference facilities. Meet in the North West Province of South Africa! Even though there is strong regional and international competition, the business tourism sector within the North West Province of South Africa has grown substantially during recent years. In this regard, the aim of the North West Tourism Board is to position the province as a unique, desirable and feasible destination for meetings, incentives and conferences. Most successful business owners and managers are aware of the fact that a big factor determining the success of any workshop, incentive or conference is the location in which it is held. But which country club to go to for the yearly golf day, what to do for the next team building exercise, and which venue should host this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual seminar? We advise that you come to the Province of the North West, where a multitude of venues are available to meet your every business tourism need. The North West prides itself on being one of the most ideal business tourism locations in South Africa and invites you and your business to explore the vast possibilities on offer in our remarkable province.

TECH TALK

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SENSEVIRTUAL

ON ALL THINGS VIRTUAL REALITY IN EVENT MARKETING SenseVirtual Founder Tyrone Rubin talks about the intersection between virtual reality and event marketing.

irtual reality has hit the ground running in South Africa, with more and more brands using this unique and immersive medium to create engaging and unforgettable experiences for their customers and potential business partners alike. SenseVirtual is one of a handful of companies at the forefront of this innovative technology. They have a strong understanding of virtual reality and 360° ﬁlmmaking, as well as the many ways in which this technology can be used to market products and enhance events. SenseVirtual offers services from conceptualisation to creation of full 3D VR and VR ﬁlmed 360° content – creating everything from immersive VR marketing

activations for clients and custommade VR content for events, to a 360° tour of the V&A Waterfront and a VR real estate app that allows you to view properties, yes you guessed it, virtually. According to Tyrone, the types of virtual reality systems on the market today are a far cry from the likes of the VR systems in the past. “High-end VR systems are now completely immersive with high-level Pixar-like graphics and are completely interactive, allowing users to move around and interact in a VR world. There are many ways in which to use this technology – there is no limit to the experiences that brands and companies are now able to create. High-end VR experiences are mind-blowing when

using a high-end headset with controllers; the user is guaranteed to be completely immersed into another world. Being present in an experience in this way is one of the drawcards that ensures people always come back for more,” says Tyrone. The essence of an event is its ability to create a lasting impression on the user. Using virtual reality content at events, expos and activations is the perfect ﬁ t because as Tyrone points out “VR is becoming the most coveted showcase at any expo or event. Everyone loves it! It’s a current and a must-have entertainment experience. Our stand at an event a while ago was the most coveted. It was a brand activation at CTICC; we had a VR rocket space station!”

TECH TALK

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When asked about other VR projects

technology that leaves you wanting more

he has been involved in, he says, “We have

would be expensive. But surprisingly, it

created a tour of the human body for GE:

won’t break your bank account. Not only

with a VR headset you will be transported

is this a fantastic marketing tool, but it is

inside the human body. One of VR’s many applications is an entertainment piece, for example, being immersed in the Adidas Orlando Pirates 360° Experience. Another application for VR is a more functional one, such as a VR training experience which SenseVirtual created for Shell.” SenseVirtual is also creating experiences in the tourism sector that could easily see results from the use of this technology. The power of virtual reality can be used in any sphere. SenseVirtual has a dedicated division called EventsVirtual to better service the events industry by providing all necessary VR equipment needed for events. Through EventsVirtual they have worked with the likes of Dell, Sanlam, WPP, General Electric, Google, Adidas, Electrolux, Barclays, and Shell. One would think that this kind of highquality, highly immersive and engaging

now at a stage where the process is similar to creating corporate videos. “So far, much of the content we’ve done has been 360° tours and one-day shoots. When it becomes an imagination piece with more CG is where it gets a bit more complex. There are two basic ways in which to create VR content: through 360° videos which are stitched together and can be uploaded as promotional content to the likes of YouTube and Facebook, and the world of computer generated imagery or animation. The end results in high-end VR – when you put on the headset, any experience is possible.” This, he adds, is what makes SenseVirtual the Pixar of Africa. For more information on what this inspiring company can do to change the way people see your business, visit www.sensevirtual.com or

www.eventsvirtual.com.

Recent VR Event Projects • • • • • • • • • • • •

Adidas Orlando Pirates Virtual Reality Experience Electrolux Virtual Reality Experience GE Virtual Reality Experience Rise And Barclays Virtual Reality Showcase Wpp Stream And Google VR Demonstration Dell Digital Transformation VR Experience Sanlam Top 100 Executives Virtual Reality Showcase Universal Healthcare Virtual Reality Space Experience Miway Virtual Reality Event Barclays Virtual Reality Event V&A Waterfront 360° VR Tour Virtual Reality Training Workshops and Courses

THE CRADLE OF HUMANKIND

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CRADLE OF HUMANKIND

WORLD HERITAGE SITE The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site will showcase some amazing experiences at South Africa’s Tourism Indaba 2017.

etween 16 and 18 May 2017, visitors will get an opportunity to ﬁnd out more about some wellknown, established products as well as some new and exciting ones which will make a visit to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site irresistible. Gauteng’s only World Heritage Site is located only 45 kilometres to the northwest of Johannesburg. The site offers a rare and captivating journey through time at the remarkable Interpretation Centre Complex of Maropeng and Sterkfontein. The area has a fabulous range of culinary fare including the Black Horse Brewery and Restaurant. People who are after an exciting outdoor experience without losing some of their creature comforts will enjoy Glamping at Koesterfontein near Magaliesburg. Sibani Lodge offers a luxurious stay in a small, pristine nature reserve. These are some of the over 400 products in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. There’s a whole lot of living where human life ﬁrst began. Visit our stand at Tourism Indaba 2017 stand number: ICCA27

There’s a whole lot of living where human life ﬁrst began.

Faircity Hotels offers a selection of conference facilities in Gauteng. With attention to detail and experienced empathetic staff to assist companies in organising a conferencing event, delegates will be motivated and pampered from the moment they arrive. All Faircity Hotelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; conference venues are air conditioned and equipped to host both half day and full day functions. Conferences that run over two or more days, allow delegates to enjoy our selection of three and four star accommodation. Conference venue packages are available and include a variety of meals, depending on the length of the conference.

FAIRCITY Quatermain Hotel Morningside, Sandton - 011 290 0900

FAIRCITY Mapungubwe Hotel Johannesburg, Marshalltown - 011 429 2600

Faircity Hotels and Apartments is a young, innovative and vibrant hotel group with hotels, conference venues and serviced apartments which form Faircityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary service offering. FAIRCITY Falstaff Hotel Morningside, Sandton - 011 784 8580

FAIRCITY Roodevallei Hotel Pretoria - 012 845 5000

www.faircity.co.za

SPOTLIGHT

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AAXO RELEASES

INDUSTRY RESEARCH The Association for African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) released ground-breaking industry-ﬁrst research into the economic impact of the exhibition industry in South Africa.

AXO commissioned the study to assess the impact of the exhibition industry on the South African economy and on the tourism industry. The study, conducted by Grant Thornton between August 2015 and February 2016, undertook to fully understand the exhibition industry, the opportunities it presents for business and its economic impact. The results demonstrate the undeniable power of exhibitions in promoting trade. Carol Weaving, Chairperson of AAXO, welcomed the media and industry colleagues with information about AAXO and its extensive membership network spanning across Africa. She further gave a short overview of exhibition opportunities in Africa - a topic which garnered quite a bit of interest. Gillian Saunders, esteemed Deputy CEO of the Grant Thornton Johannesburg ofﬁce, presented the South African ﬁgures on behalf of AAXO:

Key economic contributions to the country As expected, the study confirmed a number of key economic benefits that exhibitions provide and their overall contributions towards the economy. Additionally, the industry is also a major contributor to the national agenda and is instrumental in addressing some of the social challenges faced in South Africa. The findings showed an impressive contribution as follows: The estimated total income from direct, indirect and induced income over the period totalled a remarkable R75-billion. Direct spend alone accounted for R24.4-billion of the total spend. The number of jobs created over the period of the study totalled just under 153 000.

Total salaries paid to employees in the industry were approximately R13.5-billion. The approximate contribution to government coffers via taxes amounted R3.3-billion.

Impact of exhibitions on tourism Not only do exhibitions have an impact on local business but the study revealed its contribution to tourism while visitors to the country also conﬁrmed the value of exhibitions on their businesses. Financial contributions were in excess of R23-billion through the one million visitors attracted into the country and this accounted for a third of the industry’s total contribution to GDP. Tourism from exhibitions also helped sustain an estimated 47 000 jobs.

Other ﬁndings Compared to the last study done in 2006, the number of exhibitors showed signiﬁcant growth from 120 to 180, largely driven by a doubling of trade exhibitions by 2015. In contrast, the study also revealed that the industry still lags behind in transformation against national benchmarks. This is a

focus area for AAXO whose mission it is to transform the industry. An important trend is the emergence of smaller and more niche targeted exhibitions to deal with the complex and varied needs of South African society. The exhibition industry is a competitive market. International players in the market and the rise of African organisers fosters growth in the industry. “The exhibitions industry is a very competitive market, which is giving way to organisers becoming increasingly professional and skilled. That’s what makes AAXO so great, is that they offer organisers the ability to upskill, formalise and professionalise, which benefits both the industry and the larger economy,” explains Deputy CEO at Grant Thornton, Gillian Saunders. “Exhibitions not only benefit member organisations but also prove to have far reaching economic benefits for the country as a whole”, concluded Carol Weaving, Chairperson of AAXO. “Other than giving exhibitors an opportunity to have face-to-face time with their target market, the study showed that there are spill-over benefits towards a whole array of industries.”

Not only do exhibitions have an impact on local business but the study revealed its contribution to tourism while visitors to the country also conﬁrmed the value of exhibitions on their businesses.

CMY

THE VOICE OF CREDIBILITY & PROFESSIONALISM aaxo FOR EXHIBITION ORGANISERS THE EXHIBITION INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTES

r74.4BN

TO THE SOUTH AFRICAN ECONOMY

DIRECT SPEND PORTION :

r24.4BN “Our engagement in AAXO has been tremendous. We have an industry body that understands our successes and challenges. We can work together in unity to develop the exhibitions industry in South Africa. We are committed to the journey that AAXO has embarked on, and will support it and other member companies, when and how we can.” - Spintelligent (Pty) Ltd

80%

AAXO MEMBERS ACCOUNT FOR OVER 80% OF THE ORGANISING

MEMBER SHOWS AUDITED BY ABC TO VERIFY VISITOR NUMBERS

What our members say “AAXO furnished us with a unique opportunity for open engagement and knowledge sharing between professional exhibition organisers, and provided us with interesting and valuable industry updates.” - Hypenica (Pty) Ltd

ESTIMATED CONTRIBITION TO NATIONAL TAXES

r3,3 BILLION TOURISM IMPACT

r23 BILLION

47 000 SUSTAINED JOBS AND 1 MILLION VISITORS “AAXO has enabled us to offer our exhibitors valuable exhibition training which has made all the difference to their stand build, pre-expo preparation, marketing and on-the-floor customer engagement.” -Exposure Marketing and Communications AAXO APPROVED

100%

LOOK OUT FOR THE AAXO APPROVED BADGE eXHIBITION

For more information or to become a member please contact Pat Lofstedt on +27 (0)11 549 8300 or pat@aaxo.co.za or visit our website www.aaxo.co.za To inspire growth and change in the exhibition industry. Providing cutting edge solutions to industry challenges, providing training on trends and technology for Exhibitors and Organisers, and upholding world class industry standards.

Taking AAXO to Africa & bringing Africa to AAXO

BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY

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Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Province, South Africa © flowcomm (via Flickr.com)

NORTH WEST: SA’S HIDDEN GEM

A province that’s often called the playground for Gauteng, the North West is coming into its own, with a range of high-end tourism offerings and conferencing amenities to match.

he North West Province is a veritable destination for all things tourism. This little known region of South Africa is big on game, big on agriculture, and is a melting pot of culture thanks to its mining and touristic endeavours. Not only is it home to Africa’s playground – Sun City Resort – but 70% of the of SA’s World Heritage Sites, the Vredefort Dome, lies within its borders. Taung Fossil Site, part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, is also located here. This and many other activities, from zip-lining and cableways to white-water rafting and game experiences are found in the North West. The North West is a gateway to the SADC region, ideally positioning it for investment and bringing high-level conferences and

entertainment to the region. Some of the events hosted in the North West include the Loeries in former years, the South African Music Awards, and in 2017 the prestigious South African Traditional Music Awards will also be hosted here. Aside from Sin City, other beautiful meeting venues include the Bakubung Bush Lodge, the Maritane Bush Lodge, the 5-star Tau Game Lodge and venue spaces for small, medium and large conferences in towns like Brits, Broederstroon and Mmabatho. Both the Pilanesberg and Madikwe Game Reserves are located within the province, while a number of tourism routes and attractions are popular with tourists. Some of these include the Taung Heritage Route, The Magalies Meander, Nirox Sculpture Park, and the Lesedi Cultural Village.

Not only is it home to Africa’s playground – Sun City Resort – but 70% of the of SA’s World Heritage Sites, the Vredefort Dome, lies within its borders. Taung Fossil Site, part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, is also located here.

BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY

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Ann Villa

Key Venues: Ann Villa A gorgeous venue near the N12 Treasure Route in Klerksdorp, Ann Villa Guest House provides 16 guest rooms around two courtyards in New-Victorian style. It offers a confortable conference room for up to 52 delegates theatre style, and is ideal for corporate functions and executive meetings. www.annvilla.co.za

Ann Villa VENUE

CINEMA

CLASSROOM

Conference Room

BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY

Sun City

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Sun City

Sun City is easily the most famous holiday resort in South Africa, offering a world to explore within its walls – safaris, casinos, watersports, spa treatments, adventure activities and more. In addition to its many leisure options, it has six venues with various types of accommodation, and two world-class golf courses designed by the legendary Gary Player. It can host up to 6 000 guests for executive meetings, conferences and exhibitions, and also offers a host of teambuilding options. www.suninternational.com/sun-city

VENUE

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Kings Ballroom

1540

858

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The Superbowl

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1 250

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Warriors Hall

840

480

280

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Incentive Travel Products The North West has an abundance of incentive travel offerings within its borders. Aside from some of the most riveting game experiences in South Africa in the Pilanesberg and Madikwe Reserves, the region is also known for its adventure and water sports. One of the most popular tour operators is the Harties Cableway with incredible panoramic views of the Magaliesberg mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam. The venue also offers conferencing and special function options and can host up to 5 000 on the property. “The North West is the adventure playground of Gauteng. The Cableway is a worldclass facility and was recently revamped and reopened. We have 360 degree views and we look into three different provinces from the top – and it attracts people to the

The Royal Baths at Sun City © www.xaviersaerphotography.com town, too,” says Ian Gunn, Group Marketing Manager of the Aerial Cableway. On the dam is the Harties Boat Company, which can host up to 100 on their cruises for special functions and incentive trips. These two companies work in tandem offering unique incentive packages to planners.

Direct Flights with SA Express: SA Express is a domestic and regional airline that has been operating for 23 years. The carrier started flying to North West in 2015. Currently, SA Express is the only carrier that connects Pilanesberg Airport to OR Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport on Mondays and Fridays. They have grown their operations to include Mahikeng, with direct flights between OR Tambo International Airport and Mahikeng Airport on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

Climate

Access The North West is well-connected to the rest of the country, with a number of airports in their main tourism regions: Pilanesberg, Rustenburg, Potchefstroom, and Mmabatho International Airport in Mahikeng.

Contacts

The North West enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round, with afternoon rain showers in summer and chilly nights in winter.

Currency South African Rand (ZAR)

US Dollar (USD)

Euro (EUR)

Chinese Yuan

3.96

3.67

27.30

North West Tourism Board Head Office: 14 Tillard Street, Kelgor House, Office No 2, Ground Floor, Mahikeng Tel: +27(0)18 381 7341 Email: info@tourismnorthwest.co.za Web: www.tourismnorthwest.co.za North West Department of Tourism Head Office: 2nd Floor, West Wing, Garona Building, University Frive, Mmabatho, 2735 Tel: +27(0)18 388 2081 Email: info@nwpg.gov.za Web: www.nwpg.gov.za/Tourism

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NORTH WEST DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

NORTH WEST TOURISM MEC ON OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE REGION

The MEC for the Department of Tourism in the North West Province, Madam Desbo Mohono, shares her insights into the region’s tourism opportunities and marketing strategies.

What are the government’s goals for promoting tourism in the province? We have adopted five pillars for our growth strategy, two of which are key for the tourism sector. The first is called ACT, which stands for Agriculture, Culture and Tourism. We are rich in agricultural offerings, and we also have a very rich culture. We are the only province where you will find a Xhosa tribe, the Hlubi, in their traditional villages. The next pillar is VTSD, which stands for Villages, Townships and Small Dorpies. Since the dawn of democracy, the chunk of tourism money has gone to big cities –Rustenburg, Pochefstroom, Klerksdorp – but development is necessary for rural areas. We want investors to come and capitalise from our villages, so we first need to create infrastructure in these villages to attract investments. As a result, we’ve looked at how we can introduce the hidden gems in our villages to tourists.

What unique attractions and hidden gems can we find in the North West? Many people know that the Anglo-Boer war started in this country, but what they don’t know is that the first bullet was shot in a village called Kraaipan. We have a museum there, and we have a rich history no one knows about. Also in Mahikeng, we have a museum and hidden tunnel built underground that needs to be transformed into a tourism attraction. The North West occupies 70% of the Vredefort Dome, and even the dome itself is in the North West. The Taung skull that is held at Maropeng was originally

found in our province in Taung – hence the name. So the department of rural environment and agricultural development is working on transforming the area and making it market ready. In Mpumalanga, they talk about God’s Window. In the North West, we talk about the Sliding Door. When you are standing on a mountain, your eye will run across the view like a sliding door and you will even see the Northern Cape. In Taung there is also Small Haven, a place with great potential. In this area is a mountain spring and water cascade. It’s a beautiful spot that can be developed for picnics and family holidays; jobs can be created and revenue can be made for the municipality.

What strategies do you have in place for growing tourism to the region? We have about three strategies and we believe in thinking outside the box. The North West is the springboard to the SADC region as it borders a number of Southern African countries. We are always seeking investment in this region because SADC countries will automatically tap into the province. We are marketing a number of local events as well. Hartebeespoort companies are working on finalising the programme of an event called Mrs Africa, set to take place in Buffelspoort. Another region in the North West is Dr Ruth Mompati, known as the Texas of South Africa – with the best beef in the country. Here we have our very own Bray July where horses are raced in the dust and people sleep

in caravans and tents for the duration of the event. During the hunting season from May to August there is no accommodation in this region because it attracts hunters from around the world. The SAMAs will also be hosted in North West next month, and that event brings many tourists to the region. Our own festival takes place in December, called Mahika Mahikeng. We have taught our tour operators how to package their tours so that visitors spend as much time in the North West as possible. Our industry is still not yet transformed and we want to offer much more in the way of integrated offerings between tourism hubs and rural areas. Homesteads and B&Bs are also being developed to allow for more upliftment in the community. We have negotiated SA Express flights from Pilanesberg and Mahikeng to Cape Town and Johannesburg so it’s easier to access the region. The airport is also being upgraded to support cargo. You can probably see all of the Big 5 at Madikwe within a day, and we have more than 20 lodges within the park, many of which are community based and owned. We also have one of the best sporting universities in Potchefstroom where Caster Semenya was schooled. Finally, we are also helping our SMMEs with tourism grading and market exposure. It’s not an easy journey, but we are moving in the right direction.

NORTH WEST DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

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MEC DESBO MOHONO MEC Desbo Mohono encourages Meetings Africa Buyers to consider the province for hosting their events.

ojanala District - Fifteen international Meetings Africa buyers flocked to the North West Province to embark on a two-day fact-finding mission dubbed the Post Meetings Africa Tour, which was aimed at accessing the capacity of the province with regard to hosting meetings and conferences for international clients. This tour was also aimed at selling the tourist attraction aspect to the buyers and present to them what they can expect when they bring their clients to the North West Province. The buyers were welcomed by the North West MEC for Tourism Desbo Mohono at a Boma Dinner held at the Wallow in Sun City, where during her welcome address, she encouraged them to consider the North West Province when hosting their meetings and conferences in South Africa. Mohono told the Meetings Africa buyers that her province is proud to sell experiences that are unique. “We are proud to host esteemed guests like yourselves, we hope you have a great experience and that you enjoyed

Desbo Mohono, the MEC for the Department of Tourism

I was very impressed by some of the establishments this province has to offer. My highlight was having dinner with the Tourism MEC, and also Sun City really impressed me, but more than anything, the people here are very welcoming, friendly and also easy to talk to.

your tour thus far. As the MEC charged with the mandate of ensuring that we have more tourists coming into the province, I encourage you to consider our province when you want to host your meetings and conferences. We have the capacity in terms of facilities and we also have a rich sense of culture and heritage and overwhelming natural resources”, Mohono said. She added that it was a pity that these buyers were visiting for just two days, as she expressed that she would have loved them to stay longer and experience the province a little more. “I wish you could have stayed longer and experienced our culture and heritage, seen how the natives of this land live their everyday ordinary lives, and also seen some of our highly rated game parks where you are guaranteed to see at least four of the Big Five”, Mohono added. Sharon Fleary from Ontario in Canada said that she was very impressed and will consider coming back to the North West Province either to do business or just for a holiday with her family. “I was very impressed by some of the establishments this province has to offer. My highlight was having dinner with the Tourism MEC, and also Sun City really impressed me, but more than anything, the people here are very welcoming, friendly and also easy to talk to”, said Fleary.

Kagiso Legobe of Kay2ZeeGee Tours was the tour operator for the two-day tour, he said that post Meetings Africa tours are important as they create a chance for buyers to experience and see some the tourism and hospitality in real life and not from a brochure. “We can market our products as much we can using brochures and other means, but we also need to create some kind of real feel experience for these buyers so that when they go back to their respective countries, they are able to package things they have felt and experienced themselves”, said Legobe. The two day tour started at the Lesedi Cultural Village then proceeded to the Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort, then the Harties Horse Riding Experience. In the evening the guests were hosted for a Boma Dinner by the MEC, accommodated at the Palace of the Lost City where they had a morning game drive at the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. They were also treated to a tour of Sun City Resorts and a tour of Royal Marang Hotel where the buyers were able to get a firsthand experience of what these establishments can offer.

Fun and adventure are just around the corner...

DESTINATION NORTH WEST GET IN TOUCH:

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We Fly North West! Discovering the best of Bokone Bophirima is now only a flight away. As an airline of choice to North West Province, we now oďŹ&#x20AC;er weekly flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Pilanesberg, and from Johannesburg to Mahikeng, all at your convenience. Because We Fly for You.

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Visit www.flyexpress.aero for domestic flights to Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, East London, Kimberley, Hoedspruit, George, Johannesburg, Mahikeng, Pilanesberg, Richards Bay, Cape Town, Durban and regional flights to Lubumbashi, Gaborone, Walvis Bay, Lusaka and Harare.

SPOTLIGHT

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THE LOERIES 2017 Where your dodgy browser history won’t be judged, but your work will.

A good current example is The Next Rembrandt, where data modelling and algorithms were used to create a believable painting precisely in the style of the great Dutch Master.

CMY

New categories in 2017 Design for Digital A new category in Communication Design, that recognises the important role that design has in digital media. • Any digital platform can be entered here, for the jury to consider the innovation in graphic design on the platform. • Examples include animation, motion graphic and still design – websites, mobile, interactive applications, publication design.

Data-Driven Campaign This new category in Digital & Interactive, recognises the creative use of data to shape campaign strategy, inform execution, profile audiences, and adapt to campaign performance and engagement metrics. A good current example is The Next Rembrandt, where data modelling and algorithms were used to create a believable painting precisely in the style of the great Dutch Master.

The Facebook Challenge As part of Facebook’s support of young creatives, this Student Category focuses on the use of mobile media to promote a socially relevant cause. Check the category info for details.

•

Changes to Categories and the Entry System The Loeries categories are constantly reviewed and updated to mirror the changes in our media landscape. Please be sure to review all the categories to determine where to enter your work. • From 2017, no live media can be entered, including URLs. Websites, YouTube content and similar must be entered as either video walk-throughs or static jpegs. • Significant category changes have been made in the “Digital & Interactive” category. Be aware that digital media can be entered in the following

• •

categories: Media Innovation; TV, Film & Video; and Design for Digital Media. Please remember to double check entry rules - all work Made for the Region or Made by the Region is eligible, and all Craft work for eligible work can be entered, irrespective of whether or not the craft person is from the region. Check the full rules for details. Overview videos for entries must be limited to two minutes. When submitting multiple elements of a campaign into various categories, it is vital that the entry is described appropriately for each category. Check the “Preparation Guidelines” to ensure your media is entered correctly. A reminder that all Non-English entries must come with English translations and/or subtitles.

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IT&CM CHINA

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IT&CM CHINA 2017 INSIGHTS Knowledge building and education has continually been on the forefront of the IT&CM China programme, and reviews by delegates indicate this to be among the year’s high points.

ssociation Buyers found the four dedicated Association Days Forum topics on challenging times for association meetings; global vs local trends; second wave cities; and a how-to on selecting the right destination; relevant and on-point. Association buyer, Paul Zhai, Marketing Executive for The Centre for Association Leadership (ASAE), “Attending the association day forums at IT&CM China provided solutions from an event organiser perspective and insights on how to deal with international issues. I aim to meet more associations that organise international events to understand how domestic associations run events with the same global standards.” Association delegate and speaker, Ella Zhou, Deputy General Manager, Spring International, “As an association professional, being at events like IT&CM China allows me to garner precise information about a destination’s convention capacity as well as assess the compatibility of our association’s event

agenda to the economic priorities of its government. Finding new partners and collaborators is also a big plus.” IT&CM China’s keynote speaker and moderator, GainingEdge’s CEO Gary Grimmer 3-part MICE Clinic under the campfire knowledge sessions were especially created to inspire the industry to elevate and achieve higher performance levels. Grimmer, “We’re happy to be able to give helpful advice to the attendees at IT&CM China this year in terms of how to be more successful at trade shows and how to make convention bureaus more successful for those who are considering to do so. In addition, we’ve planned a campfire session on the topic of convention centre development because we know that plenty of delegates are considering this and they will get how-to advice on the various things they will need to consider.” Further, with over 14 000 business appointments concluded and fulfilling networking goals achieved over two

days, satisfaction level of IT&CM China 2017 delegates are at an all-time high. International Exhibitor, Lily Su, Deputy Executive Director, MEET TAIWAN, “2017’s IT&CM China has allowed us meet more targeted buyers from the Asia region, the profile that we have been aiming for. MEET TAIWAN is glad to be a part of the show this year.” Domestic Exhibitor, Tina Gan, M.I.C.E. Department, Hangzhou Tourism Commission, “We are delighted to be able to leverage on the IT&CM China post-show tour opportunity to draw international buyers to Hangzhou with the support of the organisers who helped us reach out to a targeted group of buyers. We hope that through this familiarisation trip, buyers will get to benefit from the resources that Hangzhou can offer to their next event. Charley Sun, Project Manager, Merisis Consulting Company, “As a meeting planner, being able to discover new destinations and hotel venues here enable me to achieve my planning objectives for the next year or the next six months. I also learnt new trends, new deals and the kind of government support that the various destinations can provide.” Grahame Cox, General Manager, Savage Communications, “IT&CM China is probably the only exhibition in China that you can find so many experts right across the MICE space. For a journalist this means that we can get first-hand information from the experts and it is the only exhibition that can give you that resource.”

CMY

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ASSOCIATIONS NEWS

Phumulani Hlatshwayo EXSA General Manager

ANNOUNCEMENT AND INVITATION FOR THE EXSA 2017 CONFERENCE Forbes says that customer experience is the “cumulative impact of multiple touch points” over the course of a customer’s interaction with an organisation. Some companies are known to segment the customer experience into interactions through the web and social media, while others define human interaction such as over-the-phone customer service or face-to-face retail service as the customer experience It is no longer about just the product or the price of that product that your business offers, but rather it is all about the customer experience. Customers are rewarding business and people who offer and deliver the best customer service at every touch point throughout their dealings with your organisation. To exceed customer expectations, you and your people need to seek to consistently improve on your

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understanding of your customer needs in order to gain that competitive edge. The EXSA 2017 Conference is not just about creating those positive touch points throughout your business, but it also includes those unseen elements that make dealing with your organisation an absolute pleasure for a company. The conference programme will highlight the following essentials to support your pathway to success • Strategy • Skill • Service To all designers – it is time to put on your creative hat and submit your idea for the EXSA Conference Logo Competition. Visit www.exsa.co.za for more details. Conference registrations opened on 24 April, so keep an eye out for further communication from us so you don’t miss out on this exciting EXSA event! See you all in July at Askari Game Lodge.

IACC AND MPI FORM GLOBAL ALLIANCE The International Association of Conference Centres and Meeting Professionals International have announced a five-year global partnership for the mutual benefit of their members. The two associations will share event and learning platforms, including education delivered at annual conferences, regional events, and online as well as research initiatives. “The leadership teams at MPI and IACC have been collaborating on several successful initiatives over the last two years, and now seems the perfect time to bring all this great work together under one strategy to allow us to seize more opportunities and provide more for our respective members. Just as MPI is passionate about designing great meeting experiences, IACC is passionate about venues delivering an exceptional meetings experience. It’s the perfect marriage,” says Mark Cooper, CEO of IACC. One new project slated to roll out in 2017 will entail MPI conferences streamed live to IACC venues, where MPI members can come together, learn and experience valuable networking. The venues will all be IACC certified and capable of delivering a quality event with live streaming of content, supported by IACC member staff. MPI’s 2017 World Education Congress (WEC), which takes place June 19-22 in Las Vegas, will be the first conference featured.

ASSOCIATIONS NEWS

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The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers is excited to announce that Basel has won the bid to host the 50th IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly. The announcement was made during the recent Annual Meeting in Dubai. It will take place at the Congress Center Basel, from 14-17 February 2019. The Swiss bid was organised by IAPCO members Congrex Switzerland and MCI Group with support from the Government of the Canton BaselStadt, the Swiss Convention and Incentive Bureau, the Basel Tourism and Convention Bureau, the Congress Center Basel and the Municipality of Montreux and Montreux Riviera for the Council Meeting prior to the Annual Meeting. IAPCO has a strong legacy in Switzerland having organised the “Wolfsberg” IAPCO Annual Seminars in this destination for over 40 years. This is only the second time the Annual Meeting will take place in Switzerland, the first being in 1988 in Zurich. The recent Dubai Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Dubai was the highest recorded attendance for a meeting outside of Europe, with 115 delegates from over 30 countries. Cementing its position as an up and coming convention and incentive destination, Japan won the bid to host the 49th Annual Meeting in 2018.

Rudi Van Der Vyver Chief Executive Officer at SAACI

DATA IS CRUCIAL Historically, our industry has not had a reliable and updated source of industry and sector data. This is a scary reality, as one then can’t help but question what we have based our strategic decision making on. Was this done on internal data only, a gut feel or worst, no methodology at all? Data and it’s benefits in understanding an industry and clients is not a new concept at all. Predictive data modelling and big data are also not completely new concepts, but for the business-events industry, it appears no real focus and effort has ever been placed on these. The benefits of these concepts have been proven in industries like retail and financial services, to name a few. The

benefits in terms of increased ability to make strategic business decisions have been clearly measured and I do believe it’s time for the business-events industry to rapidly catch up on lost time. As SAACI, one of our strategies will be the establishment of a data gathering process and, in partnership with other associations who share this vision, we will start with strategic analysis to provide our members with massive additional benefits which will translate into a greater industry efficiency and international competitiveness. I believe that accurate data is only second to your people as the most valuable organisational resource.

IAPCO CELEBRATES 50 YEARS IN BASEL

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS

ADVERTISERS AAXO PAGE 28 - 29 T. +27 11 549 8300 E. info@aaxo.co.za W. www.aaxo.co.za

ITB Asia PAGE 41 T. +65 6635 1188 E. siti.banding@itb-asia.com W. www.itb-asia.com

Ann Villa Guest House PAGE 31 T. +27 83 504 2820 E. info@annvilla.co.za W. www.annvilla.co.za

Le Franschhoek INSIDE FRONT COVER, 06 T. +27 21 876 8900 E. banqueting@lefranschhoek.co.za W. www.lefranschhoek.co.za

Cape Town International Convention Centre PAGE 21 T. +27 21 410 5000 E. sales@cticc.co.za W. www.cticc.co.za

Loeries PAGE 38 - 39 T. +27 11 772 1220 E. info@loeries.com W. www.loeries.com

Constitution Hill PAGE 20 T. +27 11 381 3100 E. info@constitutionhill.org.za W. www.constitutionhill.org.za Cradle of Humankind OUTSIDE BACK COVER, 26 T. +27 11 085 2500 E. Kgomotso.Phoofolo@gauteng.gov.za W. www.cradleofhumankind.co.za

Markex INSERT T. +27 11 835 1565 E. info@markex.co.za W. www.markex.co.za North West Province OUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 33 - 35 T. +27 71 367 5236 E. poiho@nwpg.gov.za W. www.tourismnorthwest.co.za

Crystal Events PAGE 17 T. +27 84 682 7676 E. tes@crystalevents.co.za W. www.crystalevents.co.za

North West Tourism Authority PAGE 22 - 23 T. +27 73 283 9552 E. mpho@tourismnorthwest.co.za W. www.tourismnorthwest.co.za

EXSA PAGE 42 T. +27 11 805 7272 E. info@exsa.co.za W. www.exsa.co.za

Powerhouse PAGE 13 T. +27 11 794 3989 E. Printing@powerhouseplc.co.za W. www.powerhouseplc.co.za

Expo Centre PAGE 07 T. +27 11 494 1920 E. info@expocentre.co.za W. www.expocentre.co.za

SAACI PAGE 02, 43 T. +27 11 880 5883 E. info@saaci.org W. www.saaci.org

Expo Guys PAGE 11 T. +27 11 433 3260 E. info@expoguys.co.za W. www.expoguys.co.za

Sandton Convention Centre PAGE 03 T. +27 11 779 0000 E. scc.info@tsogosun.com W. www.sandtonconvention.com

Faircity PAGE 27 T. +27 11 429 2600 E. info@faircity.co.za W. www.faircity.co.za

Sense Virtual PAGE 24 - 25 T. +27 61 407 5576 E. tyrone@sensevirtual.com W. www.sensevirtual.com

Fly SA Express PAGE 36 - 37 T. +27 11 978 9900 E. dnkosi@flyexpress.aero W. www.flyexpress.aero

Spier PAGE 15 T. +27 21 809 1125 E. info@spier.co.za W. www.spier.co.za

Inspire Furniture PAGE 05 T. +27 76 644 0271 E. chad@inspirefurniture.co.za W. www.inspirefurniture.co.za

The Exhibitionist INSIDE BACK COVER T. +27 11 794 4478 E. jen@theexhibitionist.co.za W. www.theexhibitionist.co.za

IT & CM China PAGE 40 T. +65 6395 7575 E. cheryl.kah@ttgasia.com W. www.itcma.com

World Travel Market Africa PAGE 18 - 19 T. +27 11 549 8310 E. wtmafrica.helpline@thebereed.co.za W. www.africa.wtm.com

CONTACTS Cover Image: Courtesy of North West Province Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@filmeventmedia.co.za Editor in Chief: Katie Reynolds-Da Silva katie@filmeventmedia.co.za Head of Design: Sheree Steenkamp sheree@filmeventmedia.co.za Writer: Kim Crowie kim@filmeventmedia.co.za Special Projects Designer / Illustrator: Lauren Smith lauren@filmeventmedia.co.za Business Manager: Coleen Tapson coleen@filmeventmedia.co.za Brand Manager: Redoh Kimmie redoh@filmeventmedia.co.za Brand Manager: Jerome Dyson jerome@filmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffic Manager: Natasha O’Connor natasha@filmeventmedia.co.za Data Capturer: Ricky Ortell info@filmeventmedia.co.za 57 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village, Claremont, 7708, Cape Town, South Africa Tel: +27 21 674 0646

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