Business Events Africa - Vol 43 No 01 - January 2023

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 43 No 1 JANUARY 2023

Exceptional

KwaZulu-Natal

Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 43 years

CONTENTSVOL 43 NO 1

JANUARY 2023

The authority on meetings,

exhibitions, special events and

incentives management

Cover Feature

COVER STORY

10 KwaZulu-Natal — a majestic business

events destination.

On the pages…

EDITOR’S COMMENT

4 Be the beacon of light.

SUSTAINABILITY

5 IFES fast-tracking sustainability solutions.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2023

6 SA Tourism invests in the continent’s

business events sector.

KWAZULU-NATAL

14 Premier Hotels & Resorts continues its

expansion.

16 Sibaya comes of age.

17 Introducing ANEW Resort Vulintaba.

TRAVEL TRENDS

18 2023 travel bucket-list ideas.

TECHNOLOGY TRENDS

20 Technology Trends for 2023.

CONFERENCES

21 Energy to shape the economic future of

Africa’s automation and manufacturing

industries.

CHEF’S PROFILE

22 Experience Dario de Angeli’s

culinary magic.

About the cover

The Durban KwaZulu-Natal

Convention Bureau closed off 2022

on a high and positive note and

ushered in 2023 with a number of

bids won, up until 2030.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

23 Time to travel again and attend in-person.

VENUE NEWS

24 Hospitality fast-forward: growth and new

developments at Steenberg.

25 Hotels retain allure despite growth of

short-term rentals.

26 International gastronomic society

recognises Table Bay Hotel.

27 Radisson Hotel Group opens first Zambian

resort.

28 Extraordinary reveals a new destination.

MARKET NEWS

30 Register for 5 th Africa Youth in Tourism

Innovation Summit and Challenge 2023.

31 Registration open for WTM Africa 2023.

Association news

EVENT GREENING FORUM

32 The PCO Alliance Network and the

Event Greening Forum join hands.

SAACI

33 Use a broader eco-system.

SITE

34 Reviewing some of the travel and tourism

industry’s basic principles.

EXSA

36 2023 — the year.

AAXO

37 2023 — growing Africa’s thriving

exhibition industry.

Regulars

38 Directory.

MARKET NEWS

40 Ozzy Nel is appointed to the board of

SA Harvest.

THE LAST WORD

41 The business’ biggest asset is its people.

Published by the proprietor

Contact Publications (Pty) Ltd

Official Journal of the Southern

Africa Chapter of the Society for

Incentive Travel Excellence

(Reg No. 1981/011920/07)

HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS:

PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

Official media partner

TEL: +27 31 764 6977

FAX: 086 762 1867

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King

malcolm@contactpub.co.za

EDITOR: Irene Costa

gomesi@iafrica.com

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Vincent Goode

vincent@contactpub.co.za

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER:

Jackie Goosen

jackie@contactpub.co.za

SALES REPRESENTATIVE:

Irene Costa

+27 (0)82 558 7387

gomesi@iafrica.com

PUBLICATION DETAILS:

Volume 43 No 1

Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year

and is published monthly. This magazine is

currently only available in digital format.

Official journal of the

Exhibition & Event Association

of Southern Africa

10


EDITOR’S COMMENT

Be the beacon of light

The business events industry has started the year on a high, with business picking up to

almost pre-covid numbers.

Recently, I’ve heard many stories from

industry people about their experience

during Covid. It just feels so surreal that

during this most difficult and unpredictable time,

with no control, we still found some light in what

can only be described as one of the darkest times,

especially for the business events industry, which

came to a complete stop. It is almost as if people

need to talk about it, to affirm we survived a

pandemic.

The beacon of light was its people, always ready

to make a plan and work together. Virtual

meetings became the norm, and replaced our

face-to-face meetings, conferences, exhibitions

and events.

Yet, there was something missing, which resulted

in us having so many Zooms, MS Team meetings

and webinars.

What was missing? The human connection. The

one thing we all discovered, no matter what

industry we are in — is that we all need

face-to-face engagement.

They say we need to learn from our past, and

certainly this was a big learning curve. During this

time, at first, we were all in denial, then we moved

into anger and despair, and once we passed that

stage, we began finding new, positive ways of

keeping busy and making a living. It wasn’t all

bad; many of us refreshed our current skills, while

others learnt new skills, and some even moved out

of our sector to continue surviving. The key — we

kept connected, one way or another with

colleagues, industry partners, and clients, and one

thing is for certain, we came out stronger,

together.

So where am I going with this?

We are currently experiencing another kind of

‘darkness’ – loadshedding has certainly become a

central talking point in our lives, we are all

scrambling at the moment, looking to find

solutions to what can be seen as one of the

biggest challenges our country has ever faced.

However, take a step back and think about

where we have come from. We are still here,

stronger than before.

It is another hurdle that we can overcome.

Our sector is very innovative and I have no doubt

that there are some new power solutions coming

out from within our own sector. Here is another

opportunity for suppliers.

I’ve said this many times before, I believe our

biggest asset remains our resilient people, our

relationships and partnerships.

Whatever challenge that comes, if we work

together, we can ensure we emerge stronger.

We have a beautiful country. Even through the

darkness, our people remain our beacon of light.

Meetings Africa 2023 is taking place at

the end of February, it remains my favourite

regional business events show. Being at the

show, always makes me feel like I’m at a big

family reunion. After the difficult years we

have had, I’m sure it will bring much needed

positivity to our country and continent.

Become the beacon of hope.

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

Credit: Hein Liebetrau


SUSTAINABILITY

IFES fast-tracking sustainability solutions

The EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive adopted on 21 April 2022 increases the pressure,

stipulating that all large companies will be required to publish a sustainability report from 2023 with

other listed companies following suit in 2026. The future of the events and exhibitions industry depends on

compliance and strong alignment with the Parisian agreement.

Known for their stance as thought

leaders and early adopters, the

International Federation for

Exhibition and Events Services (IFES)

has been focused on this issue for some

time, with an internal Sustainability

Committee advising and driving

compliance. They have now devised a

training partnership with consultants

Arnold Clemens of 2bdifferent and

Beatrice Eastham of Green Evénements

to fast-track training for IFES members.

2bdifferent has experience working

with organisations from the events,

sports, trade fair and congress

industry, and Green Evénements has

assisted many companies on their

way to ISO 20121, including stand

designers and manufacturers.

While the approaches are slightly

different, both sustainability specialists

offer the assessment of individual

company needs and the understanding

and implementation of sustainable

management systems. The aim is to

achieve ISO 20121 certification whilst

embedding a culture of sustainability

within participating companies. This

fast-tracking programme demonstrates

a genuine commitment to continuously

improve towards sustainability.

Together with the Federal Association

of the Events Industry, IFES is driving

the uptake of this essential preparation

and is pleased to announce that the

first round of training began with

2beDifferent on 8 December 2022, with

8 members participating and further

training commitments are underway.

ISO 20121 training will take place on

stipulated days monthly, including the

assessment of individual needs and

process implementation, reaching final

audit and certification nine months later.

Jörg Zeissig, co-chair IFES Sustainability

Committee and co-chair of the Net-

Zero-Carbon Events Initiative said:

“Sustainability is one of the drivers of

the next generation — our future clients.

The industry needs to understand this

as an obligation and to drive a change of

perspective, also by heart. Sustainability

will be THE license to operate our future

business in the event industry, no matter

where we stand in the value chain.

Sustainable solutions are no add-ons to

our usual course of actions, it will become

standard. We need to step forward.”

To learn more about IFES, find us

on the web at www.ifesnet.org.

Building back Exhibitions and Events together!

The founding Associations of the SA Events Council have consistently provided essential information and support on event

safety, business relief and venue capacity. Ensure you are ready for business by engaging with your association today.

hello@saeventscouncil.org

PAGE NEWS MEETINGS STRAPAFRICA 2023

SA Tourism invests in the

continent’s business events sector

Excitement is building up as the global business events industry is counting down to the 2023

edition of Meetings Africa. This year, more excitement surrounds the show, as it comes with

double benefits. The conference and meetings industry will reap rewards not only from Meetings

Africa, but also from the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) Summit, which

will precede the Meetings Africa conference.

Meetings Africa, a gathering of

Africa’s various stakeholders in the

business event sector, will be held at

the Sandton Convention Centre,

Johannesburg, South Africa, from 27 February to

1 March 2023. It is set to buzz with conversations

while business deals are being clinched.

Speaking at the Meetings Africa 2023 media

launch, South African Tourism acting chief

executive officer, Themba Khumalo said: “The

entire global tourism sector has been through a

really rough time in the last two years due to the

Covid-19 pandemic but we are back with a

renewed energy and we are motivated to build and

grow our sector to pre-pandemic levels and

beyond. Meetings Africa aims to contribute to

helping African business events players restart

and grow. We want to create opportunities for

Africa’s business events sector so that we can all

grow back more vital than ever before. Our new

look represents this new injection of energy and is

6 Business Events Africa January 2023


MEETINGS AFRICA PAGE STRAP NEWS 2023

Themba Khumalo, acting chief executive

officer of SA Tourism.

an emphasis on the importance that we place on

connections.”

Stressing that Meetings Africa’s single objective

is to contribute to Africa’s economic success and

be part of the continent’s growth story, Mr

Khumalo said that South African Tourism seeks to

use Meetings Africa as “a tool to forge even more

partnerships, by offering various opportunities to

businesses on the continent to meet face-to-face

with the most influential buyers in the world.”

Meetings Africa boasts a global, hosted buyer

programme that ensures optimal interaction

between buyers and exhibitors. In addition to this,

South African Tourism has partnered with all nine

provinces to host Meetings Africa familiarisation

pre and post tours for hosted buyers and media to

experience South Africa’s business events

facilities and establishments.

In keeping with the spirit of renewed energy, this

year’s Meetings Africa will, for the first time, host

the International Association of Convention

Centres (AIPC) Summit. This Africa chapter of the

AIPC Summit was born out of a partnership

between the South Africa National Convention

Bureau (SANCB), a business unit of South African

Tourism and the AIPC.

Mr Khumalo said the Summit is critical for the

continent, to ensure that Africa’s conferencing

facilities are on par with those from the rest of

the world.

“This summit will help African venues

to benchmark themselves against the

global standards, to brand and position

themselves based on what people

are looking for in an internationally

recognised venue,” Mr Khumalo said.

To date, 275 buyers representing 45 countries

have been approved to participate at Meetings

Africa 2023, with almost 450 applications being

vetted. A total of 305 exhibitors representing 15

www.businesseventsafrica.com Business Events Africa January 2023 7

PAGE NEWS MEETINGS STRAPAFRICA 2023

African countries are currently registered to

showcase their wares this year. Various Small

Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) will also

be at Meetings Africa, in the development zone.

“Transformation, inclusive economic growth and

accelerating job creation are all central to all the

work we do at South African Tourism. Providing

our small businesses and entrepreneurs an

opportunity to also interact and engage with

hosted buyers is very important because we are

serious about harnessing business opportunities

both within the African continent and globally,” Mr

Khumalo added.

Some favourite events that have, over the years,

contributed to the hallmark of this Pan African

business events trade show will also return this

year. Meetings Africa will be preceded by the

Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay)

on 27 February, with the official opening of the

trade show taking place on 28 February. There will

also be a variety of business-driven talks and

discussions. This year’s Meetings Africa will also

convey the African spirit through music, arts and

crafts stalls; a variety of culinary offerings and will

be a showcase of various cultures from all the

African countries exhibiting at the trade show.

In addition to the launch of the trade show, Mr

Khumalo also announced the latest tourism

performance numbers highlighting that tourism is

a critical contributor to the economy. Cumulative

arrivals for the January to November 2022 period

increased by 151.9 per cent to reach 5 million

arrivals over the same period in 2021. Arrivals in

November 2022 were 565,758.

The biggest region in terms of real numbers was

African arrivals, with a 126.1 per cent increase in

arrivals when compared with January to

November 2021. The total number of arrivals from

Europe in this period of 2022 was 778,222. Arrivals

from the Americas increased by 227 per cent and

represented 285,446 arrivals. Over these eleven

months, 2022 has performed better than 2021 but

it is still not at the 2019 levels.

On the domestic front, overnight trips from

January to November 2022 reached 29.8 million

trips, 139.4 per cent over the same period in 2021.

Total domestic expenditure was R84.2 billion, a

172.4 per cent increase over 2021, and was

driven by holiday trips having accounted for 44.3

per cent of total expenditure. Domestic day trips

recorded a 173.0 per cent increase or 160.6

million. Day trips spend also showed a

phenomenal increase of 174.8 per cent to reach

148.6 billion.

“We remain optimistic for the year ahead, both

from a business events and leisure tourism

perspective and we will continue to use our

strategic platforms such as Meetings Africa and

Africa’s Travel Indaba in May to promote our

country and, in so doing, contribute to business

success and growth,” Mr Khumalo concluded.



UNLOCKING AFRICA’S SUCCESS

THROUGH QUALITY CONNECTIONS

www.meetingsafrica.co.za

EXHIBITION- 28.02/01.03

BONDAY- 27.02

SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

PAGE COVER STRAP STORY: KWAZULU-NATAL

KwaZulu-Natal — a majestic

business events destination

The Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau (KZNCB) closed off 2022 on a high and positive note

and ushered in 2023 with a number of bids won, up until 2030.

Sonto Mayise, general manager:

convention bureau of Durban

KwaZulu-Natal Convention

Bureau, said: “In 2022, the

KZNCB, together with industry partners

staged over 26 business events. The

estimated economic impact generated

in 2022 stands at around R2.2-billion

for the province of KwaZulu-Natal.”

Ms Mayise said: For 2023, there are

currently over 30 business events on the

events calendar, which will welcome over

30,000 local and international delegates,

thus translating into over R390-million

in estimated economic impact.

At the end of 2022, Durban was

voted as Africa's Leading Meetings

and Conference Destination, at

the 29 th World Travel Awards.

Ms Mayise said: “This award globally

recognised as the most prestigious

honours in travel and tourism, and the

province's victory in these awards is

the ultimate industry accolade. This

honour recognises our organisation's

commitment to excellence, which put our

province on the global map and created

a positive image for our destination.”

“This win further cemented the

province’s place among the leading

destinations for business meetings and

conferences in Africa,” she added.

Ms Mayise, continued: “It is also worth

mentioning that, during the quarter

ending in September 2022, of which it

was a difficult period in KwaZulu-Natal,

due to floods and other challenges,

however KZN led as a host province

Sonto Mayise, general manager – convention

bureau of Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention

Bureau.

for MICE travel, which is a testament

that business events can play a

meaningful role in economic recovery

and growing the economy of the region.”

KwaZulu-Natal will continue to use

business events as a key sector to

grow the economy of the province.



COVER STORY: KWAZULU-NATAL

PAGE STRAP

Looking ahead

Ms Mayise shared some of the

business event trends to be

mindful of in 2023 and beyond:

“Business events trends have been

impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic,

it is expected that hybrid and virtual

events will continue to be popular in 2023

and beyond, as many companies and

organisations have realised the benefits

of these formats, such as cost savings

and increased accessibility. Additionally,

many attendees have become more

comfortable with virtual events, and

may prefer them over in-person events

in the future with many events shifting

to virtual or hybrid formats to adhere

to social distancing guidelines.

“There has also been an increase in the

use of technology, such as virtual reality

and artificial intelligence, to enhance

the event experience. Additionally,

there has been a rise in the popularity

of sustainable and socially responsible

events. As the pandemic continues, it

is likely that hybrid and virtual events

will become more prevalent, and that

technology will continue to play a larger

role in the events industry,” she said.

Ms Mayise added: “Technology will

also continue to play a large role in

business events, as companies and

organisations look to enhance the virtual

and hybrid event experience. Virtual and

augmented reality, live streaming, and

interactive online platforms will become

more prevalent in the events industry.

“Sustainability and social responsibility

will also continue to be important trends

in the business events industry.

Companies and organisations will be

expected to take steps to minimise the

environmental impact of their events and

to promote social and economic

inclusion.

“Another trend that is expected

to continue is the emphasis on

personalised experiences. Companies

and organisations will look to create

tailored experiences for attendees based

on their interests and needs,” she said.

Ms Mayise, added: “Finally, data-driven

decision making will also be important

in the business events industry, as

companies and organisations will

look to use data to understand the

impact of their events and to make

better-informed decisions about event

planning and execution. However, that

all being said, it is important to note

that face-to-face events have returned

in full swing as people want to have

that human interaction, as physical

meetings helps to build trust and develop

strong, lasting business relationships.

“As we continue with transformational

travel, the KZNCB will continue to push

and extend the ‘experience economy’

even further. Transformational travel

proposes offering highly memorable,

authentic experiences while connecting

people with a deeper meaning that

leads to personal growth and/or

self-actualisation. The concept of

transformational travel connects and

incorporates concepts of wellness,

sustainability, community and

personal fulfilment through social

responsibility programmes,” she said.

Ms Mayise added: “To sum it all up,

many of today’s incentive travellers


PAGE COVER STRAP STORY: KWAZULU-NATAL

desire more than fun-in-the-sun with a

piña colada in hand. Whether it’s a large

or a small meeting, we will continue

encouraging our partners and associations

to have some sort of CSR programme,

to have some kind of positive impact

when they come to the province of

KwaZulu-Natal. Indeed, we are seeing

a huge trend in both sustainability as

well as give-back components and, as

the Convention Bureau, we would like

to encourage our partners and event

owners to include this programme in their

conference and incentive programmes

when hosting in KwaZulu-Natal. This

will be a long-lasting legacy for the

destination as we rebuild together.”

“SMME and youth opportunities are

also growing in the business events

space in KwaZulu-Natal, noting though

that the growth is slower than expected

because of several challenges including

the fact that as the Convention Bureau,

we do not own the events, we depend

on the event owners and associations

to deliver on this mandate.”

“Creating an environment of inclusivity

is not just about making sure that there

is compliance, but the geographic spread

is in the economic development of the

various districts of KwaZulu-Natal.

This is also not happening at the speed

we would like it to happen because of

factors like accessibility and availability

of suitable venues. However, there has

been some growth in hosting events

in various districts of KwaZulu-Natal,

outside of Durban,” Ms Mayise said.

In growing the business events in the

province of KwaZulu-Natal, the convention

bureau has partnered with various

private and public sector partners as we

build and capacitate business events

professionals and SMMEs around the

province, for them to be able to be major

players in the business events space.

The province of KwaZulu-Natal is excited

with the future major events that are

planned for the Province of KwaZulu-

Natal for the year 2023 and beyond, as

the team has been hard at work lobbying

for these major events to be hosted in

the beautiful province of KwaZulu-Natal.

“The convention bureau is responsible

to bid for business events nationally

and internationally. Part of this includes

researching potential events that will

contribute substantially to the KwaZulu-

Natal economy, and contribute towards the

transformation of the province’s business

events sector,” Ms Mayise concluded.




PAGE STRAP

Exceptional KwaZulu-Natal

The Zulu Kingdom, through the

Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention

Bureau, provides a hub for business

events to bring about tourism growth

and socio-economic development.

Across the province, a host of conference

and events facilities are set against

the backdrop of majestic mountains,

sun-kissed beaches or bush retreats.

The convention bureau, supported

by the Department of Economic

Development, Tourism & Environmental

Affairs and eThekwini Municipality,

has successfully hosted over 120

significant business events since 2013.

Venues

KwaZulu-Natal has state-of-the-art

convention centres and meetings venues

across the province. Inkosi Albert Luthuli

International Convention Centre is the

flagship host of these events, boasting

the largest area of column-free, flatfloor,

multipurpose space in Africa.

Conference or event facilities are also

provided by Olive Convention Centre,

Tsogo Sun, through Southern Sun

Elangeni & Maharani, Zimbali Fairmont,

Coastlands Hotel as well as the Greyville

Conference Centre, Moses Mabhida

Stadium, Royal Show Grounds,

Champagne Sports Resort, Alpine Heath,

Mfolozi Conference Centre and many

others.

Post events

When work is done, a few hours’ drive

from Durban, the majestic and serene

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park World

Heritage Site beckons. See the

hinterland’s big five or visit iSimangaliso

Wetland Park, another World Heritage

Site, to experience the coast’s rich

marine life.

For those in search of insight into the

history of the Zulu Kingdom, the province

features a number of battle sites, including

the site of Cetshwayo’s epic triumph of

Isandlwana or visit Mandela’s capture

site in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

KwaZulu-Natal also offers seaside

golf courses featuring lush, tropical

vegetation and championship courses

rich in tradition and history – making

for a true golfer’s paradise.

Durban, the busiest port in Southern

Africa, has commenced constructing a

R200-million cruise terminal, which will

host world-class facilities to augment its

already-booming cruise ship tourism

offering.

With regular flights from Johannesburg

and Cape Town, and a growing list of

direct international flights, including

Durban to London, KwaZulu-Natal is

becoming more accessible to the world.

Promoting business events

The Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention

Bureau is mandated to promote business

events services into the province of

KwaZulu-Natal and the metropolitan area

of Durban. The Zulu Kingdom, through the

Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau,

provides a hub for business events to bring

about tourism growth and socio-economic

development. Across the province, a host

of conference and events facilities are set

against the backdrop of majestic

mountains, sun-kissed beaches or bush

retreats and it is a home to two world

heritage sites.

Durban KwaZulu-

Natal Convention

Bureau assists

with the

following:

• Bid documents.

• Bid presentations.

• Promotional materials.

• Educational trips and site

inspections.

• Supplier information and

quotations.

• Social programmes.

• Pre and post tours and incentive

packages.

• Assistance with congress bids.

• Convention publicity and delegate

boosting.

• Destination displays and promotion.

• Information kits and welcome

packs for delegates.

• Shuttle services; and

• Identification of professional

conference organiser (PCO)

services.

Contact info

Address:

29 Signal Road, Point, Durban, 4001

Email: sonto@zulu.org.za

Tel: 031 366 7580

Web: www.zulu.org.za


PAGE COVER KWAZULU-NATAL

STRAP STORY: KWAZULU-NATAL

Premier Hotels & Resorts

continues its expansion

Premier Hotels & Resorts continued its national expansion with two new additions to its

impressive and ever-growing portfolio.

Last year’s challenging circumstances

have driven its appetite to breathe life

back into the South African hospitality

and tourism industries and these major

investments reaffirm its commitment to the

sector.

Located on the same sprawling property,

but each boasting complete privacy and its

own unique charm, is the four-star Premier

Hotel Umhlanga boasting unrivalled views

of the Indian Ocean and the three-star

Premier Splendid Inn Umhlanga. Along

with an impressive all-in-one conference

centre complex, it’s situated in the affluent

Umhlanga Ridge, a flourishing commercial

and business district just north of Durban.

Its decision to invest in Umhlanga, even during

difficult times, is a testament to its confidence

in South Africa’s ability to recover economically.

The Umhlanga project will position the

Premier Group as a firm favourite amongst

holidaymakers as well as corporate, government

and international clientele — as they strive to

secure a hotel presence in every major city.

A hospitality haven for discerning travellers,

the Premier Hotel Umhlanga boasts 127

beautifully-appointed hotel rooms, a 120-seater

restaurant and bar, swimming pool and secure

underground parking. Conference delegates

will have access to a flexible, fully subdivisible

centre with three conference rooms

configurable to one large 300-capacity venue

and a magnificent open-air timber viewing deck

for breakaways or smaller get-togethers.

For those looking for more budget-friendly

comforts, the urban-styled, modern and

contemporary three-star Premier Splendid

Inn Umhlanga offers guests 62 deluxe

king, queen or twin rooms all with modern

amenities, including flat-screen TVs and tea/

coffee stations and a 50-seater restaurant.

Guests in this 7-floor hotel also have access

to the outside elevated pool and deck and

the state-of-the-art conference facilities

afforded to Premier Hotel Umhlanga guests.

Travellers are invited to use the two hotels as

a comfortable and convenient base to attend

or host meetings and conferences, conduct

business and even explore the area. The

Gateway Theatre of Shopping, several top golf

courses and the King Shaka International Airport

are all easily accessible from both hotels.

It also made significant renovations to two

resort offerings, returning Premier Resort

Cutty Sark in Scottburgh on the KwaZulu-

Natal coast to its former glory, that’s situated

on the beachfront, set amid 14 acres of

beautifully manicured grounds, unspoiled

indigenous vegetation, and 180-degree

sea views, with the grassy embankments

leading to golden, sandy beaches.

It encompassed a complete refurbishment

of all 59 sea-facing rooms, adding a further 39

rooms and upgrading furnishings and decor.

The resort is a completely reimagined mecca

for holiday makers, leisure seekers, conference

groups and diving enthusiasts, with a dive

school that specialises in the world-renowned

Aliwal Shoal diving experience nearby, along

with Scuba Xcursion Dive Centre onsite offering

various ocean activities for adventure-seekers.

It now boasts a new swimming pool,

outdoor terrace with spectacular views,

cocktail pool deck experience, with direct

access to the swimming beach — as well as

upgraded bars, restaurants and pizza oven,

new facades, extensive upgrades to the

dining room, foyer and reception areas.

The Premier Hotel The Richards, situated

in Richard Bay, is uniquely positioned in the

exclusive suburb of Meerensee. This property

is undergoing a renovation this year.

It’s perfect for breaks where you want

to get out of the city, yet still enjoy easy

access to it when needed. The hotel boasts

135 comfortable rooms as well as stateof-the-art

conference amenities.




PAGE STRAP

LOOKING TO HOST

A MEMORABLE CONFERENCE IN 2023?

PREMIER HOTELS & RESORTS

ARE STANDING BY TO ASSIST YOU.

HOW ABOUT:

DURBAN'S ONLY PENTHOUSE CONFERENCE VENUE

AT PREMIER HOTEL UMHLANGA.

OR

A COUNTRY SETTING IN THE HEART OF SANDTON

AT PREMIER HOTEL QUATERMAIN SANDTON.

OR

THE ICONIC EAST LONDON INTERNATIONAL

CONVENTION CENTRE (EL ICC) TO NAME BUT A FEW.

BOOK TODAY

info@premierhotels.co.za

Western Cape: Premier Hotel Cape Town,

Premier Resort The Moorings, Premier Express Inn George

Eastern Cape: Premier Hotel EL ICC, Premier Hotel Regent,

Premier Resort Mpongo Private Game Reserve,

East London International Convention Centre (ELICC)

Kwazulu-Natal: Premier Splendid Inn Port Edward,

Premier Splendid Inn Pinetown, Premier Resort Cutty Sark,

Premier Hotel The Richards, Premier Splendid Inn Bayshore,

Premier Resort Sani Pass, Premier Hotel Umhlanga,

Premier Splendid Inn Umhlanga

Gauteng: Premier Hotel Midrand, Premier Hotel Pretoria,

Premier Hotel Falstaff, Premier Hotel Quatermain,

Premier Hotel Roodevalley

Mpumalanga: Premier Hotel The Winkler

Free State: Premier Splendid Inn Bloemfontein


PAGE KWAZULU-NATAL

STRAP

Virath Gobrie, Sibaya’s General Manager, pictured with his executive team and the Sibaya dancers at Sibaya’s 18th Birthday Celebration.

Sibaya comes of age

Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom celebrates with renovations and jackpot winners.

Top KwaZulu-Natal holiday destination Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom has come of

age and celebrated its 18 th birthday on 1 December 2022, with infrastructure upgrades, winners

and cake.

Located close to King Shaka

International Airport, the Sun

International property offers

a perfect blend of relaxation and

inspiration, with its unique Zuluinspired

architecture, surrounded

by lush green hills and picturesque

views of the Indian Ocean.

Billed as ‘The Kingdom of Winners’,

Sibaya continues to develop and grow

future leaders within the gaming and

hospitality industry, and also contributes

significantly to the provincial fiscus, and

is a key contributor to the local economy.

“Together with the Sibaya Community

Trust, close to R300-million has been

ploughed back into community projects

and welfare since we opened our doors,”

said Virath Gobrie, general manager.

Mr Gobrie said the Casino and

Entertainment Kingdom continued to

deliver in all facets of the business. “We

are a distinctly African casino which

provides a unique and exciting gaming

and entertainment experience. We are

passionate about our business, deliver

exceptional customer service and

recognise our people that contribute

to the success of this organisation.

Our valuable employees are treated

with respect, our customers are

immensely valued, our stakeholders

continuously engaged, and shareholders

are rewarded for their investment.”

To continue being a destination of

choice, Sibaya has done upgrades

to the casino and has planned a

refurbishment of the Sibaya Lodge

and the Royal Sibaya Hotel.

All third-floor rooms in the

Sibaya Lodge and all 36 rooms

at the Royal Sibaya Hotel will be

renovated, while the casino’s Salon

Privé will enjoy a soft refurb.

“As we celebrate our birthday, we

also reflect over the years – including

the most trying times as a result of

the pandemic – with a tremendous

sense of pride and accomplishment

and look forward to an even brighter

future,” Mr Gobrie said.



KWAZULU-NATAL

PAGE STRAP

Introducing ANEW Resort Vulintaba

In a period of continuous growth, a leading hotel asset management company, ANEW Hotels &

Resorts, is proud to announce the addition of ANEW Resort Vulintaba, Newcastle to its portfolio.

This is the group’s fifteenth property, having recently added ANEW Hotel Green Point and ANEW

Hotel Roodepoort to its growing portfolio.

With an expansive tract of

breathtaking landscape,

Vulintaba is situated in

Newcastle, in the northwest corner

of the KwaZulu-Natal province,

along the Ncandu River. Nestled in a

dramatic, picturesque amphitheatre

at the foothills of the Drakensberg

Mountains, this is the perfect escape

for those desiring a break from

the hustle and bustle of city life.

Vulintaba, when translated, means

‘open the mountains’ in Zulu. This

property boasts 69 modern rooms

with patios and breathtaking views,

conference facilities, a golf course, and

a wedding chapel. Additional facilities

include a restaurant, free private

parking, a playground for children,

and an outdoor swimming pool.

Visitors can also enjoy access to

free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

ANEW Resort Vulintaba is officially

the twelfth property added to ANEW

Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio since

the global pandemic surfaced in

March 2020, proving their vision and

commitment to growing the brand.

Alan Campbell, sales and marketing

director at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, said:

“Newcastle is KwaZulu-Natal’s thirdbiggest

city — it even has its own small

airport. This impressive property, located

on a lifestyle estate, includes a spa and

has a massive conferencing facility

accommodating up to 800 people.”

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy mountain

biking and trail running on the property.

“The hotel overlooks a stunning 18-

hole golf course with a Drakensberg

backdrop. We plan to upgrade the kids’

facilities and the long-term goal for

this property is to accommodate larger

events. This is truly an undiscovered

gem,” Mr Campbell said.


PAGE SPECIAL TRAVEL STRAP TRENDS FEATURE

2023 travel bucket-list ideas

South African travel is world-renowned for its diverse experiences on offer, from the rugged terrains in

mountainous Venda district to silky-smooth Kalahari Desert landscapes in the Northern Cape for 4x4

enthusiasts, to unrivalled breathtaking sceneries with their biodiversity throughout Mzansi. Add to that

art, music and cultural festivals and you have a travel smorgasbord that sets South Africa apart from

other countries.

M

ake 2023 the year you live

out the travel dreams on

your bucket list. Go out

and enjoy life with these

travel bucket-list ideas for 2023:

Backpacking is a smart option

One of the best ways to experience

multiple destinations in one outing

is to forget your inhibitions and live

out of a backpack for a few days.

Tshepo Matlou, head of marketing

and communications at online booking

platform Jurni, said, “Backpacking is

when you travel carrying your belongings

for the whole trip in a backpack, while

sleeping at a hostel type of setting

and exploring different activities in the

surrounding area. So, the difference

between this activity and hiking is that

this involves a car – normally not yours

– transporting you from one place to

another. Some hostel settings, where

you pay overnight, have areas where you

can pitch a tent for the full experience.”

According to international backpacking

review blog, brokebackpacker.com,

“South Africa has a great backpacker

culture that caters to budget

travellers. In South Africa, hostels are

called backpackers. Most of these

backpacker hostels have campsites,

as well as dorm rooms and private

rooms to cater to every budget. In

particular, Cape Town has some of

the best hostels in South Africa.”

Staycations in the city offer an

immersive cultural experience

One of the key factors to consider

when booking your accommodation

is location. How easy is it to explore

the city you’re in without much effort?

Very easy, it would seem. Hoteliers

from the Radisson Hotel Group South

Africa reveal that you could experience

the best that South Africa’s cities

have to offer in just one block.

Consider Joburg’s artbeat, better

known as Rosebank, for example, which

is undeniably the biggest art district

in the region. The neighbourhood has

the highest concentration of major

art galleries all centred within walking

distance of each other, and plenty of

public art to enjoy too. In Rosebank,

art is not only found in galleries but

is breathed into the architecture of

most luxury hotels. Radisson RED

Rosebank, located just ten kilometres



TRAVEL PAGE TRENDS STRAP

Tshepo Matlou.

Carly de Jong.

Anton Gillis.

from the hustle and bustle of exciting

Johannesburg, is filled with bold designs

and locally-inspired African decor.

Carly de Jong, curator at Radisson RED

Rosebank, said: “Guests can enjoy being

in the heart of Joburg’s most walkable

art hub with a number of awe-inspiring

galleries a mere 10-minute stroll away.

Most notable is Keyes Art Mile, an

impressive contemporary development

on Keyes Avenue that celebrates local

art and design as well as fine food.

Keyes Art Mile’s main building, The

Trumpet, is home to the innovative

TMRW Gallery, Joburg’s first gallery

dedicated to digital art, and Banele

Khoza’s Bkhz gallery, which focuses

especially on promoting young and

upcoming artists. The vast atrium at its

centre is curated as a pop-up exhibition

space and upstairs you’ll find a cluster

of slick restaurants and bars, and chic

cafés open out onto a street flanked by

wild olive trees. Further adding to the

many art attractions in this dedicated

art precinct are the major contemporary

art galleries Circa and Everard. There

is no shortage of awe-inspiring art, and

nothing is perhaps more inspiring than

the traditional handmade crafts, sold by

local artisans at The Rosebank Arts and

Craft Market at Rosebank Mall. There

are more than 100 different stalls selling

the biggest collection of handmade

items ranging from beaded sculptures

and carved masks to hand-woven

baskets and ceramics. Most traders

are able to make custom designs,

and everyone is more than happy to

bargain over prices. Our hotel is also

in close proximity to trendy eateries,

corporate headquarters and Rosebank’s

three shopping centres, allowing

our visitors to switch effortlessly

between business and pleasure.”

Safaris are suitable for every season

The beach has often been a destination

of choice for families during summer,

but destinations such as the Kruger

National Park are beginning to see

their fair share of bookings for all

seasons. Not only that, but the stays are

switching from short stays to longer,

more leisurely ones. Safari holidays

are both relaxing and instructive, with

days punctuated by early morning and

dusk game drives, each of which offers

a completely different perspective of

the bush. Enjoying a morning coffee or

sipping sundowners overlooking a dam,

a waterhole, or the African savannah

transports visitors to somewhere

completely outside their everyday lives.

In between, days can be as lazy or active

as guests choose, and accommodation

providers are adapting in order to offer

guests a home away from home.

“If you are looking for an extended

holiday that will provide you and your

family with a great escape from the

pressures of everyday life, areas such

as the Kruger National Park are certainly

something to consider,” said Anton

Gillis, chief executive officer of Kruger

Gate Hotel. “Here, not only do families

receive prolonged exposure to stressreducing

natural environments, but it

can be a learning experience for the

children too as they get to engage with

the wildlife of the Kruger National Park.”

Venture outside of South Africa

As South Africans, we often think of

international travel as going to Europe,

Asia, America, etc. We don’t often look

to our own stunning continent for

things to do and places to see. There

are amazing places to see throughout

Africa and sometimes it’s just a short

drive away. Namibia, for example, is

a 15-hour drive from Cape Town —

relatively easy to do if you split it up.

Johannesburg to Maputo, Mozambique

is an even shorter drive at six hours,

while the drive from the City of Gold to

Botswana takes around five hours.

Be smart with your flight choices

With all these wonderful places ready to

welcome you, you’ll need to get there,

whether by car or on a flight. If you’re

flying, there are some great tools

available to help you find the bestpriced

flights to get you to that bucketlist

destination, like Cheapflights.co.za

which compares flight prices so you

can choose the one that suits your

timing and budget. A great tip to keep in

your back pocket is that the day and

time you fly can also affect the price.

For example, flying on a Monday tends

to give you the cheapest flight prices of

the week, whereas a Sunday flight is the

most expensive. And flying very early or

late in the day can give you better

prices too.


PAGE MARKET TECHNOLOGY STRAP NEWSTRENDS

Technology

trends for 2023

The events industry is constantly evolving, and technology

plays a big role in shaping the way events are planned, executed

and experienced. As we look towards 2023, there are several

technology trends that are expected to have a significant impact on

the events industry.

By Mike Lysko, chief executive officer and founder of Flock.

These include Artificial Intelligence

(AI), robotics, 5G networks,

personalised experiences, Internet

of Things (IoT), blockchain, Virtual

Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR),

and contactless check-in systems.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics

AI and robotics are already being used

in the events industry to automate tasks

and improve efficiency. For example, AIpowered

chatbots can be used to assist

with registration and ticketing, while robots

can be used to help with setup and tear

down. In 2023, we can expect to see even

more advanced AI and robotics being

used at events, such as AI-powered event

planning and management tools, and

robots that can interact with attendees.

2. 5G networks

5G networks will bring faster internet speeds

and more reliable connections, enabling new

technologies such as VR and AR to be used

at events. With 5G, attendees will be able to

experience VR and AR in real-time, creating

more immersive and engaging experiences.

For example, attendees at a conference could

use AR to view interactive 3D models of the

products and services being showcased.

3. Personalised experiences

With the rise of IoT and big data, events can

now be tailored to individual attendees, creating

a more personalised and enjoyable experience.

For example, RFID-enabled wristbands can

be used to track attendee movements and

preferences, allowing event organisers to

create customised experiences based on their

interests. In 2023, we can expect to see even

more personalised experiences, such as VR and

AR experiences tailored to individual attendees.

4. Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT technology will continue to play a big

role in the events industry, with more devices

and sensors being connected to the internet.

This will allow for more accurate data

collection and analysis, which can be used to

improve the event experience. For example,

using IoT-enabled sensors in event venues

can help organisers to better understand

attendee behaviour and preferences,

and make adjustments accordingly.

5. Blockchain

Blockchain technology is already being

used in the events industry to create

secure and transparent ticketing systems.

In 2023, we can expect to see even more

applications of blockchain at events, such

as secure voting systems and supply chain

management. For example, a voting system

based on blockchain technology could be

used to ensure that all votes are recorded

and counted accurately and transparently.

6. Virtual Reality (VR) and

Augmented Reality (AR)

VR and AR technologies will continue

to evolve and will be used more in the

events industry. From entertainment and

gaming to education, healthcare, retail and

industrial training, these technologies will

change the way we interact with the world.

For example, at a product launch event,

attendees can use VR headsets to experience

the product in a virtual environment

before it is released to the market.

7. Contactless check-in systems

With the emphasis on hygiene and safety, we

can expect to see more contactless checkin

systems being used at events. This can

include facial recognition, QR codes, and

Who is Mike Lysko?

Mike is the chief executive officer and

founder of Flock, an online eventing

platform that makes it easy to build

websites, mobile apps and engagement

tools — without any previous coding

experience. He has been an entrepreneur

from a young age and established his first

events business whilst obtaining a BCom

Degree. Mike has experience in all areas

of business, having managed multiple

teams across operations, business

development and sales, software

development, marketing and customer

support. He founded Flock in 2013, which

has assisted over 400 customers across

36 countries, in numerous industries

including IT, finance, tourism and

pharmaceutical, amongst others. Mike

loves events and technology, but when he

is not at his desk, you can find him at his

turntables mixing and producing music

or hiking and discovering new trails.

NFC technology. These systems can help

to reduce crowding, minimise contact, and

improve the overall safety of the event.

In conclusion, 2023 is shaping up to be

a year of rapid technological change. AI

and Robotics, 5G networks, personalised

experiences, IoT, blockchain, VR, AR, and

contactless check-in systems will be major

trends shaping the technology landscape

in the events industry. It’s important

for event organisers to stay informed

about these trends and to be prepared

to adapt to the changes that they will

bring, in order to create events that will

be remembered for years to come.



A LOCAL CONFERENCES

PERSPECTIVE

PAGE STRAP

Energy to shape the economic future of Africa’s

automation and manufacturing industries

The importance of energy security in shaping South Africa’s economic future is a key focus at the Africa

Automation and Technology Fair (AATF), the continent’s most comprehensive and focused automation

platform. Taking place 9-11 May 2023 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec), South Africa,

it will co-locate with Future Manufacturing Africa (FMA), a new trade show dedicated to the full

manufacturing value chain for the African continent.

Ahost of esteemed industry experts have

been lined up to present at the events’

dedicated conference, AATF Connect

which will be initiated by Gwede Mantashe, from

the Department of Energy. They include: South

African television presenter and moderator,

Derek Watts, energy analyst, Chris Yelland, Dilley

Naidoo CEO – Madala & Associates, and Dhevan

Pillay – South African Energy Conservation.

Although President Ramaphosa has said

that Eskom is taking active steps to add new

generation capacity to the grid on an urgent

basis, a key focus of AATF Connect will be to

seek real answers to the many difficult questions

being asked about the measures the government

has identified to address the energy crisis.

The procurement of new

generation capacity

As an immediate measure, Eskom will buy

surplus capacity from existing independent

power producers (IPPs), mines and other

private entities which generate excess power,

while 2,600 MW of capacity has been procured

through Bid Window 5 of the Renewable Energy

IPP Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), which

should add capacity to the grid from early 2024.

Eskom will also look to buy power from

neighbouring countries with excess electricity

capacity, such as Zambia and Botswana,

through the Southern African Power Pool,

and aims to construct its first solar and

battery storage projects at Komati, Majuba,

Lethabo and several other power stations.

“On paper, the measures for new generation

capacity look positive, but there are still

many gaps to be filled as to how these

processes will roll out on a practical level,”

said Chris Yelland, Managing Director at EE

Business Intelligence, and energy analyst.

Easing of distributed generation

regulations and new legislation

After removing the licensing requirement

for generation projects up to 100 MW in

June 2021, President Ramaphosa has now

announced the complete removal of the

licensing requirement for embedded generation,

to incentivise further private investment in

electricity generation and reduce the lead

times to commence construction of projects.

“The terms ‘self-generation’, ‘embedded

generation’ and ‘distributed generation’ at

domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural

and utility applications are understood

differently in these contexts,” Mr Yelland said.

“There are also questions about transitional

arrangements for those projects above

the 100 MW threshold that are already in

motion, and how these will be impacted.”

Incentivising investment in rooftop

solar through feed-in tariffs

The government has acknowledged the potential

for households and businesses to install rooftop

solar solutions and to connect this power to the

grid. To incentivise greater uptake of rooftop

solar, Eskom and municipalities will need to

develop rules and a pricing structure, known

as ‘feed-in tariffs’, for residential, commercial

and industrial installations on their networks.

This means that those who have installed

solar panels in their homes or businesses

will be able to sell surplus power to Eskom

or municipalities. However, there are some

complexities here, argues Yelland, as most

of these installations occur within Eskom

and municipal distribution systems rather

than Eskom’s transmission systems.

Improving the performance of

Eskom’s existing power stations

To address the red tape around buying spares

and equipment to effect critical repairs at

power stations, Eskom’s budget for critical

maintenance will be increased over the

next 12 months. But, if Eskom relies on

emergency procurement procedures (which

allows deviation from the mandatory tender

requirements to buy spares and equipment

on an urgent basis), Yelland says this could

open up the process to abuse and has the

potential to be a vehicle for corruption and

looting of this increased budget allocation.

Philip Woods, Events Director: Business

and Technology at RX Africa says: “We

understand that delegates at the AATF and

FMA are after real, honest discussions and

debates about the burning issues that are

impacting business today, as well as the

future economic growth of our country and

continent. We look forward to bringing together

the automation and manufacturing industry’s

major players with energy leaders to tackle

the major issues affecting progress and

transformation, and we are confident that the

event will be of great benefit to all involved.”

Registration for both the AATF and FMA

opens at the end of January 2023. For

more information, please visit https://www.

africaautomationfair.com/en-gb.html.


PAGE CHEF’S STRAP PROFILE

Experience Dario de Angeli’s culinary magic

Dario de Angeli, 50, general manager and executive chef at Clico Boutique Restaurant, Hotel &

Conferencing, is renowned for the magical culinary experiences at Cube Kitchen and Est Est Alea.

Dario has introduced his new and

exciting lunch and dinner menus

at Clico Restaurant which will

undoubtedly ‘wow’ the discerning diner.

Dario’s 30 years plus experience in

the hotel, restaurant and hospitality

industry both locally and internationally,

will take Clico to new heights.

His sound knowledge and

understanding of implementing a full

spectrum of management solutions,

running a small, medium and large

production will elevate an already

award-winning experience at Clico. He

may even include some dishes from

his sell-out cookbook on the menu.

Dario said: “I have cooked in

deserts and five-star establishments,

catered for celebrity functions

and advised and assisted in the

development of numerous brands.”

“I have judged for Eat Out Magazine

Awards and San Pellegrino Restaurant

Top 50 Awards in my travels to

67 countries. Luckily, I still know

the difference between Barolo and

Burgundy, Islay and The Highlands

and I am so ready to take on this new

challenge with great gusto,” he said.

Dario was born in Zimbabwe and

moved to South Africa in 1980

and matriculated from Queens

High School in Johannesburg.

“I was always exposed to the industry

as my dad ran hotels and country clubs

for most of my young life. I suppose

by default I developed an interest in

the industry from that,” Dario said.

“I began my career at a small pizzeria

called Melo’s in Waverley as a trainee

manager but found myself more

interested in the kitchen than front

of house so started teaching myself

to cook there in my spare time.”

“After two years at Melo’s, I started at

a coffee shop in Sandton as a kitchen

manager. From there I moved to The

Riviera International Hotel and then

onto my first real head chef job at a

place in Norwood called Lichfield’s.

Then took up positions at La Lampara

and Soho Square Café until finally

opening my first restaurant – Yum

and then Cube Tasting Kitchen.”

Dario said: “I have been consulting

the last few years developing a pizza

concept and a heat-and-eat range of

vegan food, amongst other things.”

“Clico offers me the freedom to evolve

the product and property,” he said.

Opened in 2006, Clico Boutique

Hotel is situated in the tranquil, leafy

and upmarket suburb of Rosebank in

Johannesburg. Clico was established

by Jeanette Schwegman, who

wanted to cater for travel-weary

and discerning guests. Poised to

accommodate corporate guests as

well as leisure seeking tourists, this

70-year-old Cape Dutch building is

an engaging mix of old and new.

Clico’s conference facility is unique,

diverse and ideal for smaller and more

intimate events and conferences, fitted

with the best and latest AV equipment

and featuring sliding doors that open

onto the garden, with an outside

patio area for drinks and canapés.

Looking at trends, he said: “In the

workplace less staff, lower salaries and

greater expectation from companies

of their employees. In food, there is

a large movement towards plantbased

eating, particularly in Europe,

USA and Australia, with Israel leading

the way. I have also noticed a move

away from the ‘fine dining’ fancy,

molecular, expensive food to more

simple food with a hero ingredient.”

On the challenges, he said: “The

increased costs of operation is a

problem, with additional fuel bills,

ingredients and general operating

costs. Unfortunately this means

we are not able to adequately

charge for our services.”

Dario is not married and has

a son. For leisure he enjoys

anything golf related.

His advice to newcomers aspiring

to become an executive chef is:

“Surround yourself with good people

and keep your admin up to date.”

What is your signature dish?

Salt-cured duck breast, pomegranate

gel, textures of peanut and

sunflower shoot salad.

What has remained constant

in this industry?

The number of armchair critics.

What is your favourite beverage?

Whiskey – from Islay.

What is your favourite food?

Penne aglio olio con pepperoncini.

What is your pet hate?

Armchair critics.

What is your great love?

Travel.

Are you adventurous?

I have sky dived, scuba dived, raced

BMX and am pretty much up for

anything that gets the heart rate up. But

the thing I enjoy doing most is landing in

a new city with no reservations, no map

and no clue, and finding out the city by

experiencing it by feel. For example,

the time I went to Pamplona for the

running of the bulls — arrived with no

clue and spent the first night in a free

campsite with Romanian gypsies!



INDUSTRY MARKET PAGE INSIGHT STRAP NEWS

Time to travel again and attend in-person

It is hard to believe that at the beginning of 2022 predictions for the business events sector

remained uncertain and unstable, yet towards the end of 2022 the environment was once again

thriving, with the industry on a notable upward trajectory.

By Wrenelle Stander, chief executive officer of Wesgro.

The past year was characterised

by flexibility within the eventing

environment — a key component

contributing towards the recovery

of the sector. A key challenge for

event organisers was encouraging

delegates to embrace travel again,

and to attend in-person meetings

— forcing the sector to become

innovative with the event experience.

Hybrid formats remain a critical

component, resulting in the industry

acquiring new skills to meet the

digital demand, and expanding the

supply chain product offering in its

wake. Despite the pent-up demand

for conferences, meetings, incentives

and trade exhibitions, the industry is

faced with a critical shortage of skills

as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

With events globally reclaiming

their importance as a key economic

contributor for tourism growth,

as we proceed into the new year,

the importance of responsible

and sustainable event practices is

going to be what sets us apart as

a leading meetings destination.

Environmentally and socially

sustainable practices are cited

across the destination in conference

venues. To benefit both society and

the environment as a whole, service

providers are assisting clients to

plan ‘greener’ events to create

positive impact in the destination.

In 2023, Wesgro’s Cape Town and

Western Cape Convention Bureau will

be placing a larger focus on attracting

more meetings into the destination

from across Africa, to build on our

reputation as a knowledge hub and a

destination where great minds meet

on the continent. With direct routes

and increased frequencies operational

from key African countries, delegates

can now enjoy increased connectivity

to Cape Town International Airport.

Overcoming barriers to visa

applications will remain a key priority in

2023 and will be pertinent when bidding

for large global business events.

Bringing together key industry players

from across the globe to engage

around trending topics creates a

positive spin off, not only for the local

knowledge economy, but also for trade

and investment into a destination.

Wesgro has a sharp focus on

technology, destination marketing

efforts and partnerships to explore

how delegates, who are now global

citizens, can be connected with an

extended audience when travelling to a

destination to attend a conference.


PAGE VENUE STRAP NEWS

Hospitality fast-forward: growth and

new developments at Steenberg

Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens, world-class wine routes,

rich, layered history, and outstanding accommodations flanked by

an exquisite coastline are a few draw cards that lend Cape Town the

uniqueness responsible for attracting millions of travellers every

year and making the multi-billion Rand tourism industry a key

contributor to South Africa’s economy.

Over the last two years, hard

lockdowns and travel bans put

tremendous strain on many

sectors, with tourism and hospitality

being among the hardest hit. According

to Stats SA, the total number of travellers

(arrivals and departures) decreased by a

staggering 71 per cent between 2019 and

2020. For six months, from April to

September 2020, South Africa did not

receive any visitors.

Fast-forward to today, and the

tourism sector is making an impressive

recovery. During Tourism month last

September, Tourism Minister Lindiwe

Sisulu announced that there had been

an increase of over 100 per cent in

trips in the first six months of 2022,

compared to the same period last year.

We spoke to several members of the

Steenberg Hospitality team, including

Byron Hunkin, financial manager; Neilen

Tolmay, marketing and international

sales manager and Catherine

Schulze, managing director, to chat

about the 2023 growth projections

and how Steenberg Hospitality is

harnessing demand and contributing

to rebuilding the tourism industry.

Mr Hunkin has his finger firmly on the

pulse of all things financial. He indicated

that while significant growth has been

reported, the industry is not quite back to

‘normal’. The impact of the war in Ukraine

is one factor among a host that has added

to the global economic instability during

the Covid-19 recovery and has prolonged

the recuperation period for tourism.

However, Mr Hunkin remains positive

regarding the industry’s future as air travel

increases, and we continue to see regular

additions to flights and destinations.

“All signs point towards the fact that

the world is hungry for travel, and South

Africa remains a popular destination

for our traditional key European and US

markets as well as the Nordic and Benelux

markets,” Mr Hunkin commented.

Ms Schulze echoed Mr Hunkin’s

optimistic sentiments. “Our industry

is always affected by what is going

on globally, and one cannot ignore

that there is currently significant

unsettlement across the world, the

ripple effects of which are far-reaching.

However, I believe that approaching

the future with positivity, while

remaining flexible and versatile is the

only way forward,” Ms Schulze said.

Fuelled by the aftermath of Covid-19,

travelling habits and how we spend

money are changing. Projections

towards full recovery, and ultimately,

success in the hospitality industry will

depend on whether businesses can

harness demand through strategic and

structural adaptation, which is pivotal

to staying relevant in the industry.

Steenberg Hospitality has invested in

expanding its contribution and has taken

every possible opportunity to enhance

the spaces that guests enjoy. They have

changed their representation company

in Europe and the UK to have a more

focused approach, which has yielded

greater returns, as well as developed a

larger scope of events from conference

packages to occasion offerings for

their local visitors. Post Covid-19,

Steenberg Hospitality also secured the

services of a new PR agency which

has aided in building more coordinated,

strategic media partnerships.

While these adaptations have positively

affected their capacity for more visitors,

created demand, and improved returns,

Ms Schulze said it would be remiss not

to acknowledge the power of a wellstructured,

coordinated, and determined

team who have made Steenberg

Hospitality’s recovery possible and which

should never be underestimated.

“Like numerous other industries, we

battled during a time of significant

hardship. Many people had to make

considerable sacrifices, but there was

light at the end of the tunnel, and we

are experiencing that now, thanks to a

team of loyal, credible people across

all departments who are adept at

adapting, enjoy being challenged, and

are true custodians of our business

and brand,” Ms Schulze concluded,

stating that, “Steenberg Hospitality

cares about the greater community

and providing economic opportunity,

which is crucial to bringing the industry

back in full force for both travellers and

hospitality industry workers to enjoy.”



VENUE PAGE STRAP NEWS

Hotels retain allure despite growth

of short-term rentals

The short-term rental market is booming as many individuals hop onto the passive-income-potential

train and seek to capitalise on the resurgence of travel. Homes, apartments, and other accommodation

facilities are popping up everywhere, supporting the forecast that the global short-term rental market

will grow by US$168.4bn between 2021 and 2026.

As much as these spaces have their

pros and benefits, hotels retain an

allure that keeps travellers booking

into them to enjoy the hotel experience.

Location

Hotels often have prime locations, in or

near city centres, or close to attractions,

making access easy and stress-free for

visitors. “For individuals travelling for

business, a hotel situated in the city or

close to where they are doing business

makes getting to and from the office

much easier,” said Danny Bryer of Kruger

Gate Hotel. “The hotel can often be

quite central, allowing easy access to

transport and being a central point for

business meetings. For those travelling

for leisure, hotels are often strategically

located near major attractions. The

Kruger Gate Hotel, for example, is

located a mere 500m from the Paul

Kruger Gate, which is a prominent

gateway into the Kruger National Park.”

Bleisure opportunities

For business travellers, hotels are more

practical when it comes to combining

work and leisure activities on a trip.

“The fact that hotels often have

conferencing facilities on site, as

well as amenities for relaxation

and health – like a pool, spa, and

in-house gym – makes them ideal

for travellers looking to combine

business and leisure,” Mr Bryer said.

“Kruger Gate Hotel has four fullyequipped

conferencing rooms, as well

as free WiFi and spaces that have been

designed to support productivity. Pair

that with an on-site restaurant, two

pools, gym, family activities, and of

course our game drives, and travellers

have everything they need in one

place to get work done in a peaceful

environment, then extend their stay and

enjoy the relaxing on-site facilities as

well as the unforgettable experience

of the Kruger National Park.”

Trust

Established hotels come with an

automatic level of trust from their

patrons. “When you stay at a hotel,”

Mr Bryer said, “you know that certain

levels of amenities, service, quality

and security have to be met for a

hotel to operate and receive certain

accreditations. Reviews are also

easier to come by, as is connection

to the hotel’s activities, staff, and

day-to-day operations, through

its social media channels.”

With a short-term rental, trust is a little

harder to establish as these facilities

are often one-offs. They don’t have

the backing of a bigger brand or hotel

group, that gives guests peace-ofmind

in terms of what to expect at an

associated hotel. Smaller establishments

are often run by individuals who use

them to generate passive income,

and don’t have any formal hospitality

training. This means that they may be

unfamiliar with certain service levels

and amenity expectations of a patron.

Safety

Hotels have a number of safety

protocols and services in place to

ensure that guests are kept, and also

feel, safe. “All of our guest rooms have

safety deposit boxes where guests can

keep valuable items should they wish

to,” Mr Bryer said. “Across the broader

hotel, we have very strict safety and

security measures and procedures in

place, especially being on the borders of

the Kruger National Park. It’s important

to us that our guests feel like they

can interact with and be immersed in

the full experience of the Park, while

feeling completely safe. Things like

having electric fencing around the

whole property, strict entry control, and

procedures to manage wildlife such

as monkeys that enter the property,

are all part of delivering a full but safe

guest experience. And while out on

game drives, it’s important that guests

know they are in the hands of trained,

experienced and knowledgeable rangers

and field guides, so they can enjoy their

wildlife experience fully while having

peace-of-mind that they are safe.”

Be treated like a VIP guest

One of the best things about going to

a hotel is that you are treated like gold

and have hotel staff on hand should you

need anything. “A getaway means that

you should literally be able to get away

from the demands and responsibilities

of everyday life,” Mr Bryer said.

“And if this is the experience you

are looking for, then staying in an

independent self-catering apartment

won’t really give you that and often, you

have to do a bug clean-up at the end

of your stay. Hotels have staff who are

trained to look after you, from cooking

amazing food for you at mealtimes,

to bringing you cocktails on the deck

while you watch the elephants play

in the pools of water. Your stay at a

hotel should make you feel completely

relieved of the responsibilities of

‘adulting’, and feel like you can just let

go of all your worries and enjoy the

good things in life,” he concluded.



Barbara Smith Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Bailli, Siba Mtongana, Francois

Ferreira, Bailli Délégaté Afrique du Sud.

Barbara Smith Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Bailli, Wesli Jacobs, executive

chef at The Palace, Francois Ferreira, Bailli Délégaté Afrique du Sud.

International gastronomic

society recognises Table

Bay Hotel

The world's oldest international gastronomic society, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, founded in Paris in

1248 and devoted to preserving the pleasures of the table, has bestowed further honours on Sun

International’s Table Bay hotel.

At a dinner held at the five-star V&A

Waterfront hotel in November

2022, general manager Joanne

Selby was promoted from Chef de Table

to Maître Hotelier and presented with

the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs

bronze Blazon.

Offered only to the finest restaurateurs

and hoteliers, the Blazon signifies

excellence in food and service and

can be displayed inside or outside

the hotel. The plaque remains the

exclusive property of the Chaîne des

Rôtisseurs and the privilege of using

it is limited to those who continue

membership and their high standards.

Food and beverage manager, Marc

Weber and previous executive chef,

Wesli Jacobs, who recently moved to

Sun City, were inducted as professional

members. “We are also honoured that

Chef Siba Mtongana, of Table Bay’s

eponymous restaurant, was inducted

as a professional member,” said Ms

Selby. “This recognition from such a

global powerhouse as the Chaîne is

testament to the efforts of our team to

continuously provide food and beverage

options at an exceptional level.”

With nearly 21,000 members,

the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an

International Association of Gastronomy

now established in over 75 countries

bringing together enthusiasts who share

the same values of quality, fine dining,

the encouragement of the culinary

arts and the pleasures of the table.

“The distinctive character of our

association is to bring together

amateurs and professionals, from

all over the world, whether they are

hoteliers, restaurateurs, executive chefs

or sommeliers, in the appreciation of

fine cuisine,” said Barbara Smith, Chaîne

des Rôtisseurs Acting Bailli du Cap.




Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone Resort — Pool.

Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya, Livingstone Resort — River Cruiser

Restaurant.

Radisson Hotel Group opens

first Zambian resort

Radisson Hotel Group is delighted to announce the opening of Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya

Livingstone Resort, Zambia. Nestled on the banks of the Zambezi River, the resort is the Group’s first

safari resort in Africa and first resort in Zambia, and is a key step towards its goal of reaching 150

hotels in operation and under development in Africa by 2025.

Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya

Livingstone Resort is ideally

located near the Mosi-oa-Tunya

National Park, two kilometres south of

the historic city of Livingstone, and four

kilometres northwest of the famous

Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural

wonders of the world and a celebrated

UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort

has been constructed and will operate

with the greatest respect to one of the

world’s largest waterfalls and habitat for

several unique species of plants and

animals. The building has obtained a

prestigious EDGE green building

certification because of the hotel’s 20

per cent increase in energy efficiency,

water reduction, and use of sustainable

building materials, compared to other

similar properties in the region. The

resort has signed the UNESCO

Sustainable Tourism Pledge, aligned

with Radisson Hotel Group’s award

winning and globally recognised

Responsible Business programme.

Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya,

Livingstone Resort, Zambia features

200-rooms, luxurious suites, and

villas, many with unparalleled views of

the Zambezi River. Guests can enjoy

the resort’s bespoke all-day dining

restaurant and sip their favourite

drink at the resort’s Shungu Bar and

Lounge, the viewing deck, or the pool

bar overlooking the Zambezi River.

The resort offers a fitness centre,

spa, and swimming pools for those

looking to stay active or cool off with

a relaxing dip. The outdoor boma

and firepit allow guests to make the

most of the African evenings and

gorgeous sunsets. The hotel is an

ideal setting for events and meetings,

with its ballroom of over 500sqm,

boardrooms, and meeting rooms,

perfect for leisure and business use.

Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya

Livingstone Resort offers visitors the

opportunity to immerse themselves

in a unique river cruise and off-theriver

adventure excursions, from

Victoria Falls bridge activities to

helicopter rides, water rafting, canoeing,

game drives, and many more.

Shaun Wheeler, general manager

of Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya

Livingstone Resort, Zambia, said: “I am

thrilled to lead the team as we open this

magnificent property which allows us

to offer visitors memorable moments

and exciting experiences such as

discovering one of the Seven Wonders

of the world (The Victoria Falls), which

is a short distance from the hotel.”

“Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya

Livingstone Resort, Zambia represents

a unique destination for our guests to

discover and explore,” says Tim Cordon,

Chief Commercial Officer, Middle East

& Africa, Radisson Hotel Group. “The

expansion of our presence in Zambia

demonstrates our belief in the country’s

potential. This hotel is our second

property in Zambia, following the

opening of Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka,

with a third hotel, Park Inn by Radisson

Lusaka, Longacres, due to open in 2023.”

With the health and safety of

guests and team members as its top

priority, Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-

Tunya Livingstone Resort, Zambia is

implementing the Radisson Hotels

Safety Protocol programme. The

in-depth cleanliness and disinfection

protocols were developed in partnership

with SGS, the world’s leading inspection,

verification, testing and certification

company, and are designed to ensure

guest safety and peace of mind

from check-in to check-out.



Extraordinary reveals

a new destination

Extraordinary, an esteemed collection of luxury lodges and hotels in Southern Africa, is delighted

to introduce the world-class luxury hotel, Angels View by HoyoHoyo, in Mpumalanga. The hotel is

located 5km from the picturesque village of Graskop.

Angels View is a family-owned

hotel, headed by respected

‘tourism warriors’, Dr and Mrs

Khoza, both with three decades’

experience in the industry. The hotel

offers a luxury product with a multimarket

target, ideal for both leisure and

business travellers looking for

accommodation in close proximity to

the renowned Kruger National Park,

Panorama Route and the many

wonders of the province named after

the Rising Sun. The Kruger

Mpumalanga International Airport

allows convenient access for domestic

and international tourists.

Born from a deep love of Mpumalanga

and inspired by the beauty of God’s

Window, Dr Reuel Khoza and his

wife Mumsy Khoza (nee Thaledi), a

well-known family from Acornhoek,

felt driven to create a legacy in this

incredible space that straddles the

escarpment. Bringing this legacy to

life has been a passion project for the

family, with a great deal of thought

and detail going into it. Strong family

ties are evident in the names of

each individual suite, all named after

significant Khoza and Thaledi clan

members. The fine dining restaurant

deemed ‘Mumsy’s’ (honouring Mrs

Mumsy Khoza), pays homage to the

matriarch’s passion for food and family.

The hotel’s design

Culturally aligned and inspired by

Shangaan styles, the interior design

company Donald Nxumalo Interior

Design has embraced traditional motifs

right through to the Xibelani lights that

are featured across the hotel. Donald

Nxumalo of Donald Nxumalo Interior

Design is remarkably talented, with a

knack for combining sophistication,

African influence, urban chic and intuition

to create something exceptional. He is

considered amongst the ‘A-list’ of local

designers, able to chart new territories

with his unique design language. In

recent years, Mr Nxumalo has graced

the covers of ELLE Decoration and

Conde Nast House and Garden — a

testament to his creativity and success.

Joining forces with Extraordinary

Extraordinary provides a holistic

management service to Angels View

as of November 2022, following its

official opening. Ms. Kate Davidson,

spokesperson for Extraordinary said:

“We are delighted with the addition of

this luxury hotel to our collection. Angels

View is in a prime position and will add

immeasurable value to our group. The

area is perfect for both our leisure and




corporate markets, and Extraordinary

have had a long and very rewarding

partnership with this imminent family

to position us for maximum success.”

Dr Khoza has expressed confidence in

Extraordinary and has pointed out that

the values of the group are aligned with

his own, providing the foundation for

a fruitful relationship going forward:

“We are looking forward to the

prospect of engaging with Extraordinary

to scale the heights of success.”

The hotel’s construction

Construction for Angels View

commenced in 2016, with a local

architecture firm, GJ Architects,

spearheading the project.

The conceptualisation of the

environmentally-inspired Earth Grotto

suites, positioned along the edge

of the magnificent Drakensberg

escarpment came about as a result of a

collaboration with architect, Peter Rich.

Mr Rich is based in Johannesburg and

is known for his exceptional contribution

to indigenous African architecture,

cultural significance and the integration

of a building’s construction with

the environment. His design of the

interpretation centre at Mapungubwe

was declared the Building of the Year at

the World Architecture Festival in 2009.

Accommodation options and facilities

Angels View boasts a myriad

accommodation options, from the

contemporary-styled superior and

luxury panorama rooms to the

ten Earth Grotto suites, the fourbedroom

Khoza House and two

one-bedroom suites complete with

mini kitchens and private balconies.

The hotel facilities include a Grande

pool deck, viewing decks, spa,

gymnasium, library and plenty of

lounge space in which to relax and

soak up the unique setting. A trendsetting

glass bar area, known as Café

Ahe, completes the experience.

Weddings, events, and modern

conferencing are the order of the

day, and the facilities are truly

show-stopping. Guests are spoilt

for choice when planning their big

day or event, whether choosing the

spectacular Amphitheatre, glass

marquees or a more traditional modern

conference venue complete with

the most up-to-date technology.

AHE is a destination restaurant on

the estate which caters perfectly to

tour groups and leisure visitors, in a

charming setting with spectacular

views across the Lowveld.

Nearby attractions include the

Graskop Glass elevator, God’s Window,

Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River

Canyon and historic Pilgrim’s Rest.


PAGE MARKET STRAP NEWS

Register for 5 th Africa Youth

in Tourism Innovation Summit

and Challenge 2023

Africa Tourism Partners wish all its partners, stakeholders and the entire global travel and tourism

community a happy and fulfilling new year ahead.

This year’s edition of Africa Youth

in Tourism Innovation Summit

(www.youthtourismsummit.com)

is scheduled for 31 May to 2 June 2023

in Namibia. Registration and entries for

the Summit as well as Tourism

Innovation Challenge 2023 are open.

The Innovation Challenge is open to

African youth and entrepreneurs below

the age of 35.

The Innovation Challenge is an

exclusive platform being provided to

innovative African youth in travel and

tourism looking for funding, partnership

and mentorship opportunities to

present their projects to the global

marketplace in order to find the

required support for their programmes.

Each nomination or entry should

clearly indicate the project vision,

uniqueness, authenticity and rationale.

In addition, it requires evidence

of the innovation in the travel and

tourism or related industry in Africa.

Sustainability, the impact of the project,

timelines, and the support required

are some of the key factors to be

included in the entry submission.

The summit is a continental platform

for youth innovation in tourism, travel,

hospitality, aviation, academia, and all

related industries. The summit aims

to assist the youth to connect and

engage, learn and grow. Undoubtedly,

it has grown and increased impact and

popularity over the past four years.

This is evidenced by the increasing

interest from stakeholders across the

globe and the number of participants

and entries received for the Youth

Innovation Challenge each year.

For the year 2023 and to date,

registrations have been received

from over 22 countries following

the announcement and opening of

registrations for the summit and

entries for 2023 Innovation Challenge.

The Challenge has been running

from 8 December 2022 and closes

on 28 February 2023. Shortlisted

project promoters will be informed

on 15 March 2023 and the top three

will be announced on 2 June 2023

at the Summit in Namibia. Youth,

startups and entrepreneurs involved

in special travel, tourism, hospitality

and aviation technological innovation

are encouraged to enter the challenge

early to avoid disappointment.

For both registration and challenge

entry, kindly visit

www.youthtourismsummit.com. For

more information about partnership,

sponsorship, registration and enquiries,

please contact Ms. Rejoice Chishamba:

Email: rejoice@africatourismpartners.

com

Tel: +27 (0) 11 318 1741 /

+27 (0) 81 303 7030.



MARKET PAGE STRAP NEWS

AFRICA

03 – 05 April 2023

Registration open for

WTM Africa 2023

• Registration is open for WTM Africa 2023 from 3-5 April at the CTICC

• Entry is free and includes access to Africa Travel Week’s bolt-on events running concurrently

• The three-day programme includes content workshops, networking opportunities and evening

functions

Africa Travel Week is calling on the

inbound and outbound African

travel community to attend WTM

Africa 2023 from 3-5 April at the Cape

Town International Convention Centre

(CTICC).

“Registration is already open for

exhibitors, hosted buyers, Buyers’

Club members, the media, and travel

trade professionals,” said Megan

De Jager, portfolio director: travel,

tourism & RX Africa marketing.

Held annually as part of Africa Travel

Week, the three-day event will see

international and pan-African industry

professionals connect under one roof to

conduct business and continue recovery

efforts for Africa’s tourism industry.

“As the leading B2B trade exhibition for

Africa’s inbound and outbound markets,

we’ve been hard at work ensuring this

year’s show exceeds expectations. If

you’re looking to expand your business,

reconnect with your travel and tourism

counterparts and get up to speed on the

latest product developments and market

trends, WTM Africa is the place to be.”

Along with a proven mix of prescheduled

appointments and live

networking opportunities, the show

programme promises to excite and

inspire with informative content

sessions led by industry experts from

around the globe, such as Professor

Harold Goodwin, Naledi Khabo, LoAnn

Halden and Kojo Bentum-Williams.

Guests at WTM Africa 2023 can also

register to attend its various bolton

events running concurrently at

the CTICC at no extra charge. These

include International Business Market

Africa, EQUAL Africa powered by

IGLTA, Travel Tech, Sports and Events

Tourism Exchange (SETE) and the Africa

Tourism Investment Summit (ATIS).

“As much as WTM Africa attracts

those heavy-hitting high-profile brands,

it also acts as a springboard for smaller

tourism SMMEs. So, if you’re eager to

bump elbows with the industry’s experts

and get a foot in the door, this is your

chance,” Ms De Jager concluded.

Registration for WTM Africa 2023

is free and easy at: www.wtm.com/

africa/en-gb/enquire.html.


PAGE EVENT STRAP GREENING FORUM

The PCO Alliance Network and the

Event Greening Forum join hands

The PCO Alliance Network and Event Greening Forum (EGF)

are proud to announce their new partnership which will see them

working together to promote greater sustainability within the

local conference industry.

Improving the sustainability of

business events is the primary

purpose driving the EGF, while the

PCO Alliance is committed to setting

and maintaining the highest standards

in the event management sector

— standards which now require the

inclusion of sustainability.

Morwesi Ramonyai, chairperson

of the EGF, said: “The PCO Alliance

is a significant stakeholder in the

events business eco-system and it

was very strategic that the EGF align

with them. It was also timely in this

period of recovery from the Covid-19

pandemic, when we must act more

intentionally to respond to the bigger

epidemic of the climate crisis. As such,

we need all hands-on-deck, and the

agreement paves a way for the EGF

to influence and support the greening

of the conferencing industry much

more practically than we have before.

“I'm personally pleased that

we’ve joined hands and consider

this one of the biggest successes

coming out of the 2022 year.”

Ellen Oosthuizen, chairperson of the

PCO Alliance, added: “The PCO Alliance

Network is a well-respected group of

like-minded professional conference

organisers (event managers) who are

dedicated to improving our industry

and support the associations where

possible to create a better, greener and

healthier environment when working

with different venues and suppliers.

This has become more important after

the Covid-19 pandemic and we are

privileged to take hands with the Event

Greening Forum to support them and

use our influence in the hospitality

industry to foster a greener conference

industry. It is an important milestone,

and we are proud of being associated

with the EGF.”

Through the partnership, the PCO

Alliance is now an associate member

of the EGF and joins ranks with ten

other associate members, namely:

AAXO, EXSA, FEDHASA, IFEA Africa,

SAACI, SANCB, SA Roadies, SATSA, The

MICE Academy, and TPSA powered by

SACIA.

About the PCO Alliance

The PCO Alliance Network was founded in 2005 at

a time when there were few opportunities where

PCO’s (professional conference organisers) could

effectively network with one another. Since then,

it has established itself to become a recognised

professional alliance by the majority of hotel

groups, independent hotels and venues and

affiliated event suppliers.

Membership is by invitation only and limited to no

more than 30 PCOs, creating a select group who

are bound by a professional code of conduct and

ethics.

For more information, please visit

www.pcoalliance.co.za.

About the EGF

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a non-profit

organisation that promotes sustainability within

the business events sector. It does this by

hosting educational sessions for industry and

lobbying government in an effort to implement

sustainability principles into the daily operations

of the events industry.

The EGF was established through dedication and

support of eight industry associations who are

recognised as founding members. The founding

members are key industry associations working

together to promote South Africa as a destination

for various types of events.

Want to know more?

If you would like to know more about event

greening, visit www.eventgreening.co.za where

you can browse the free resources, sign up to the

monthly newsletter, or contact them directly with

any queries.

Contact: Lynn Mcleod

T: 082 891 5883

Ellen Oosthuizen.

E: lynn@eventgreening.co.za



SAACI PAGE STRAP NEWS

Use a broader eco-system

The calendar of 2023 may present us with an opportunity to expand our eco-system as we look to

build on the momentum of the third and fourth quarter of 2022. The business environment these past

years has ensured that we evaluated our business model.

By Glenton De Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI.

We all agree that there is no viable

business model without a

paying customer somewhere in

the equation. Our industry is one that we

either make money from selling

something within a business model that

resembles a cluster of suppliers or

selling something between these

clusters of suppliers, exhibitors, and

delegates.

We might call our clusters exhibitors

and attendees or delegates and

sponsors, but we all know that events

are complex melting pots of interlinked

clusters of companies and people, with

slightly different goals and objectives.

The year ahead may be one that

we all expand on this concept of

understanding, whether someone is

paying for a product which helps them

in their cluster or helps them access

another cluster. This is helpful in defining

the business models which we may

all expand on in 2023, by identifying

where we may increase revenue or

return on investment for our clients.

So, we consider how we work

within the following frameworks:

• An exhibition is primarily a between

cluster linkage — one cluster of

companies (exhibitors or sellers) pays

to solve a problem they have in

accessing another cluster of

companies (buyers).

• A conference is primarily an in-cluster

linkage — a member of a cluster pays

to attend a conference because it

solves a knowledge problem they have.

• A research or data business is primarily

an in-cluster linkage because a

member of a cluster pays for

information which helps them solve a

problem in their own business.

• One-to-one models are a between

cluster linkage — one cluster is

valuable enough to another cluster

that, as well as paying to access the

cluster, they are willing to compensate

the other cluster for their time (e.g.

hosted buyer).

• Content businesses are typically

between cluster linkages — they

provide relevant information that

readers of a cluster are interested in,

paid for by advertisers who include

their message either in or around the

content.

The pandemic has led to organisers

exploring new business models, creating

new digital offers, and accelerating

the roll out of one-to-one models.

With all the recent challengers, we

acknowledge that our industry will

continue to offer solutions for the world’s

pressing problems; the challenges for us

is how we grow our eco-system or

clusters in ensuring that we maintain a

socio-economic growth path in 2023 for

all in the business events industry.

THE ASSOCIATION

FOR CONFERENCE

INDUSTRY LEADERS

CONNECT SAACI unites , supports and educates the business

events industry in southern Africa by creating sustainable environment

for business growth

THRIVE Join SAACI and enjoy access to an inspiring

network of industry professionals, while giving your business the

professional status it needs to attract the attention of business leaders.

GROW Become the business events professional you’ve always

wanted to be. Access the SAACI Academy and enter a world of inspiration,

connections and world-class skills development.

Visit our online community: +27(0)11 880 5883

www.saaci.org

info@saaci.org


www.saacicongress.org

www.saaci-academy.org

Business Events Africa Learning January October | Growth 2023 2020 | collaboration

33

PAGE SITE VENUE NEWS STRAP NEWS

Reviewing some of the travel and

tourism industry’s basic principles

The past year, 2022, was the first year since the great pandemic. Although there were continual

Covid-19 challenges for the most part, tourism returned to its pre-Covid-19 days: planes and hotels

were full, we saw long lines at attractions and people began to speak about over-tourism instead of too

little tourism. That does not mean that the past year was without

challenges nor the new year will be smooth sailing.

By Dr Peter Tarlow, Tourism & More. inc.

The new year, 2023, will require that

the travel and tourism industry and

its professionals will have to face

both on-going challenges and new

challenges. Travel and tourism cannot be

separated from the world context in which it

operates. Be that context political states of

war, or one of health issues or of economic

undulations, what occurs throughout the

world touches every aspect of tourism.

The year 2022 saw a boom in the tourism

industry. After what seemed to be eternal

lockdowns, the public was eager to travel.

This boom caused a decline in customer

service and multiple price rises. Although no

one can predict the future, it would appear

that tourism and travel professionals

will have to deal with issues such as:

• Tourism and travel labour shortages

• Ongoing inflation

• Political instability

• The potential for a new health crisis or a

new form of Covid-19

It is for these reasons it is good for

travel and tourism professionals to take a

step back and to review at least some of

the basic fundamentals of their industry.

We all claim to know these fundamental

principles, but all too often in the ‘madness

of life and work’ we need to be reminded

of some of the basic principles of

tourism: what we do and why we do it.

To get the new year off to a great

start, here are a list of some of these

basic principles. It behoves tourism

professionals to remember that

when these principles are ignored,

eventually the entire industry suffers.

• In the world of leisure travel, tourism is

the telling of a story in which the visitor

becomes part of the tale. To travel is to

seek the different, to find a way to leave

the humdrum of daily life and enter into a

world of non-realities. This basic principle

means that the tourism industry must

allow its visitors to experience the unique

and special in a safe and secure

environment. Remember that we are

selling memories and it is our job to help

our customers create memories that can

be shared.

• Tourism and Travel professionals should



PAGE SITE STRAP NEWS

never forget that they are selling

‘memories’. No matter if the travel

product is of the leisure or business

variety, we are selling ‘memories’. Even on

short business trips, how we treat people

and the service which we offer is both

commented upon and remembered. The

fact that air travel has become so

unpleasant, and often expensive, is one of

the reasons that businesspeople have

continued to seek non-travel options.

• It cannot be stated too often, that most

leisure travel and tourism are a choice

made by the consumer, who is using his

or her expendable income and time. In all

but a few cases, and with the exception

of business travel and some forms of

health travel, the customer does not have

to choose to travel. This simple fact

means that tourists often frighten easily

and may have unrealistic expectations. It

does the travel expert no good to become

either frustrated or annoyed with his or

her customer. Although the customer

may technically not always be right, the

customer always has the option of not

travelling. In that case, it is the

professional or the professional’s

business that, in the end, suffers. This

fundamental principle is so important

that around the world, places that provide

clean, efficient and friendly service and

products prosper. Others, who take their

visitors for granted, demonstrate

disappointing results.

• A basic rule of tourism and travel is: treat

your customer fairly, provide a good

product in a safe and clean environment.

Travellers understand that the tourism

industry must show a profit if it is to

survive. Making a profit, however, does

not mean overcharging or underserving.

Be sure that your prices are in line with

your competition, your service is delivered

promptly and with a smile and your

security demonstrates a sense of caring.

• In tourism, a perception may not be true,

but its consequences are always true.

Negative reputations are not easy to

erase, and negative perceptions can

destroy a tourism industry. If our visitors

perceive that they are not wanted, or are

seen as easy prey, then they will soon find

alternatives.

• Tourism is security dependent. In a world

where one can experience ‘virtual’ travel,

where meetings can be held on a

computer, and where the traveller is

exposed to twenty-four-hour news cycles,

our customers know where there are

problems, be these problems which

concern security, health or even

infrastructure. The Covid-19 pandemic is

an example of how fragile the tourism

industry can be. Crime and terrorism are

also major problems around the world.

Countries that are not perceived to be

safe and skimp on security are risking

great economic loss.

• It is essential to create safety and

security. To create such an atmosphere,

local security professionals must be part

of the planning from the beginning.

Tourism security is more than merely

having police or security professionals at

a site. Tourism security requires

psychological and sociological analysis,

the use of hardware, interesting and

unique uniforms, and careful planning

that integrates the security professional

into the enchantment experience.

• Travel and tourism professionals need to

love our customers! Tourism

professionals need to travel so that they

may come and experience the world of

travel and tourism, both as a provider and

as a customer. If travel professionals are

perceived as ‘hating’ their customers,

then customer service and quality of

service will soon decline. Visitors are

savvy and know when tourism and travel

officials are more interested in their own

ego trips than in the vacationer’s

experience. An employee who is unique,

funny, or makes people go away feeling

special is worth thousands of dollars in

advertising. Every tourism manager and

hotel GM ought to have performed at

least once, every task in his or her

industry. Often, tourism managers push

so hard for the bottom line that they

forget that their employees are also

human beings.

• Professional burnout can become a real

problem. Tourism is hard work, and many

people find the industry too hard. Be on

the lookout for new and creative

employees, seek people who are

gregarious and extroverted, and people

with both patience and a sense of

adventure.

What we’re all about: motivational experiences

Why we do it? Business results!

Site is the only global network of travel and event professionals committed to motivational

experiences that deliver business results.

Site provides insights and connections that inspire the utilisation of this powerful tool

across diverse industries, regions and cultures.

Site serves as a source of knowledge and best practices where members can make

personal connections that sustain professional growth.

Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who seek

the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary

experiences. That organisation is Site...

Contact

Email: info@sitesouthernafrica.com

www.sitesouthernafrica.com

www.siteglobal.com


EXSA PAGE NEWS STRAP

2023 — the year

Welcome to 2023, the year that needs to produce results.

By Lee-Ann Alder, association manager of EXSA

We are hoping that you all had

a good rest during December

and are ready and rearing to go.

2022 was a frenetic hive of activity that

left us exhausted but also taught us all

many lessons. This year promises to be

just as busy, but a lot more organised.

This will make planning so much

easier and we will be able to produce

high quality work from the onset.

As an association, having survived

Covid intact was a feat in its own right.

This would not have been possible if

not for our amazing members that

continue to support and stand by

EXSA, we truly appreciate every one

of you. The industry is so unique and

filled with colourful individuals, which

makes my role such a pleasure, as no

two days are the same. I get to see

such amazing work being delivered

daily and I’m truly in awe of what you

deliver. So, thank you for your dedication

and support, and for being amazing

at what you do, it’s not surprising

that many organisers are choosing to

work with our members exclusively.

To the most amazing board anyone

could work with, thank you for being

steadfast and consistent throughout

this difficult time. Your leadership and

guidance is greatly appreciated, I love

working with all of you and love the

vastness of skill and personality that

you each bring to the association.

Together you can achieve great things,

and the changes you have instituted

are so positive for the entire industry.

Great results can only be achieved

through collaboration and teamwork.

This will be the focus this year, to build

on relationships with suppliers, venues,

organisers, government departments

and anyone that we work with in

our industry. We all have the same

goal, so it is time to share a vision

and make it happen successfully.

I am very excited for this year. I

don’t think it will be easy, but I do

really believe it will be worth it.



AAXO PAGE STRAP NEWS

2023 — growing Africa’s

thriving exhibition industry

A new year has arrived which means it’s back to school, back to work and back to business.

By Devi Paulsen-Abbott, chair, AAXO and vice president, dmg events.

Despite a challenging start of

the year for us in South Africa,

with level 6 load shedding and

questions around the leadership, all

indications show that South Africa’s

economy is expected to remain

stable in 2023, with growth and job

creation continuing to be the main

drivers of economic development.

As significant economic enablers

for businesses, individuals, and

communities, exhibitions will be critical

platforms to drive the macro and

micro development of our continent.

This is promising for our industry

with many of our members expecting

solid growth for their events this

year, thanks to increasing levels of

both local and international trade.

AAXO is well-placed to continue to

restore confidence and optimism in the

future of the exhibition industry and we

will continue to develop partnerships

and ensure that we remain firm in being

the voice of credibility for the industry.

We look forward to engaging with

you throughout the year whether it be

virtually, at our very successful Lunch

and Learn sessions, or at the live events

we will be attending. Watch our social

media channels for the updates on these

and on some of the exciting initiatives

we will be rolling out through the year!

Let’s grow the exhibition

industry by investing in our

young professionals.


DIRECTORY

SOUTHERN AFRICAN

ASSOCIATION FOR THE

CONFERENCE INDUSTRY

EXCO AND HEAD OFFICE

Chairperson:

Kim Roberts

e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com

c: +27 (0)82 652 2008

Vice-chairperson:

Minister Kganyango

e: mkganyago@csir.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 513 8708

Treasurer:

Jaques Fouche

e: jaques@be-moved.co.za

c: +27 (0)60 993 7542

Public officer:

Alistair Stead

e: alastair@scandisplay.africa

c: +27 (0)73 236 6618

Chief executive officer:

Glenton De Kock

e: ceo@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)82 575 7565

Membership services consultant:

Alshanthé Smith

t: +27 (0)71 299 0601

e: members@saaci.org

BOARD MEMBERS

Chairperson:

Kim Roberts

e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com

t: +27 (0)82 652 2008

Vice-chairperson:

Minister Kganyango


c: +27 (0)79 513 8708

Treasurer:

Jaques Fouche

e: jaques@be-moved.co.za

c: +27 (0)60 993 7542

Public officer:

Alistair Stead

e: alastair@scandisplay.africa

c: +27 (0)73 236 6618

Eastern Cape Chairperson:

Melissa Palmer

e: melissa@becbc.co.za

t: +27 (0)82 437 7600

+27 (0)41 404 2431

KwaZulu-Natal Chairperson:

Irene Vallihu

c: +27 (0)79 692 4604

e: irenev@icc.co.za

Gauteng Chairperson:

Neil Nagooroo

c: +27 (0)82 929 5241

e: neil@nxlevel.co.za

Western Cape Chairperson:

Angela Lorimer

c: +27 (0)74 550 1000

e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za

Coopted Youth Ambassador:

Minister Kganyango


c: +27 (0)79 513 8708

Coopted Learning Ambassador:

Esti Venske

e: venskee@cput.ac.za

c: +27 (0)83 482 9276

EASTERN CAPE

Chairperson:

Melissa Palmer

e: melissa@becbc.co.za

t: +27 (0)82 437 7600

+27 (0)41 404 2431

Vice-chairperson:

Claire Kivedo

e: claire@overallevents.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 4641 504

COMMITTEE:

David Limbert

e: david@magnetic.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 9064 198

Gill Dickie

e: gilld@bidvestcarrental.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 527 7619

Wanda Fourie

e: registration@easternsun.co.za

c: +27 (0)72 608 1641

Claire Kivedo

e: claire@overallevents.co.za

c: +27 (0)82 464 1504

GAUTENG

Chairperson:

Neil Nagooroo

c: +27 (0)82 929 5241

e: neil@nxlevel.co.za

Vice Chairperson:

Mary Mahlangu

c: +27 (0) 81 574 9493

e: mary@flockplatform.com

COMMITTEE:

Rendani Khorommbi

Joburg Tourism

t: +27 (0)11 883 3525

c: +27 (0)82 773 2999

e: rendanik@joburgtourism.com

Zaida Enver

Pure Grit Events and Exhibitions

Management

t: +27 (0)82 555 1049

e: zaida@puregrit.co.za

KWAZULU-NATAL

Chairperson: Irene Vallihu

c: +27 (0)79 692 4604

e: irenev@icc.co.za

Vice-chairperson: Gill Slaughter

c: +27 (0)83 269 0279

e: gills@turnersconferences.co.za

Treasurer: Sibusiso Mncwabe

c: +27 (0)83 477 5536

e: sibusiso@marketingwell.co.za

COMMITTEE:

Tarannum Banatwalla

c: +27 (0)83 254 9462

e: tarannum@jellyfishcatering.co.za

Mabuyi Mosia

c: +27 (0)71 117 7509

e: mabuyi@ikhono.co.za

Kavitha Dhawnath

c: +27 (0)83 607 200

e: kavitha.dhawnath@gearhouse.co.za

Wiseman Mnguni

c: +27 (0)78 220 2162

e: mboniseni.events@gmail.com

Sandile Dlamini

c: +27 (0)79 104 5510

e: sandile@anzomode.co.za

WESTERN CAPE

Chairperson:

Angela Lorimer

c: +27 (0)74 550 1000

e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za

e: ALorimer@Hotelsky.co.za

Vice-chairperson:

Alex Wrottesley

c: +27 (0)21 430 2060

e: alex@intoafrica.co.za

COMMITTEE:

Ansu Colditz

c: +27 (0)82 457 8071

e: ansuc@millenniumtravel.co.za

Esti Venske

t: +27 (0)21 460 3518

e: estivenske@gmail.com

Zimkitha Bavuma

c: +27 (0)72 172 5746

e: zim@live.co.za

Esmare Steinhofel

c: +27 (0)84 056 5544

e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org

Andrew Gibson

t: +27 (0)860 111 625

e: Andrew@magnetic.co.za

e: andrew.msct@gmail.com

Gheeta Payle

t: +27 (0)86 123 7890

e: gheeta.payle@inhousevtm.com

Lara van Zyl

Paragon Africa

t: +27 (0)82 223 4684

e: lvanzyl@paragong.com

EXHIBITIONS AND

EVENTS ASSOCIATION OF

SOUTHERN AFRICA

EXSA OFFICE

www.exsa.co.za

EXSA Association Manager

Lee-Ann Alder

t: +27 (0)82 550 0349

e: info@exsa.co.za

EXSA Chairperson and KZN forum

head:

Sibusiso Mchwabe (KZN)

Marketing Well

t: +27 (0)83 477 5536

e: sibusiso@marketingwell.co.za

EXSA Deputy chairperson, Head of

WC forum:

Jacqui Nel (EC)

Exhibition Freighting G.S.M.

t: +27 (0)21 552 7248

e: jacquinel@ef-gsm.co.za

Deputy head KZN forum:

Sandile Dlamini

Anzamode

t: +27 (0)79 104 5510

e: sandile@anzomode.co.za

Deputy Head WC forum:

Liam Beattie

Hott 3D

t: +27 (0)76 577 0989

e: liam@hott.co.za

Immediate past Chairperson:

Doug Rix

DK Designs

t: +27 (0)82 579 7071

e: dougrix@wol.co.za

Directors:

Kerry-Lee Bester

Brilliant Branding

t: +27 (0)72 265 6600

e: kerry@brilliant-branding.co.za

Beert Kuiken

Octanorm

t: +27 (0)82 387 5324

e: beert.kuiken@octanorm.co.za



DIRECTORY

SOCIETY FOR INCENTIVE

TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

President: Tes Proos

c: +27 (0) 84 682 7676

e: tes@crystalevents.co.za

Treasurer: Peter-John Mitrovich

c: +27 (0)82 318 1889

e: peter-john.mitrovich@grosvenortours.

com

Sustainability: Daryl Keywood

Southern Africa Development:

Brad Glen

East Africa Development:

Chris Munyao

Young Leader Programme:

Peter Mwanja

Africa Convention Bureaus:

Rick Taylor

North Africa Development:

George Fawzi

Board member at large: Rick Taylor

East Africa (Rwanda): Chris Munyao

North Africa: George Fawzi

North Africa support: Brad Glen

Secretariat & Events: Mariaan Burger

c: +27 (0)82 557 8041

e: info@siteafrica.africa

SA EVENTS COUNCIL

e: hello@saeventscouncil.org

Chairperson:

Raylene Johnson, CEO: TEBCO-SA

Vice-chairperson: —

–

Interim treasurer:

Glenn van Eck, Chairperson: CEPA

Spokesperson:

Projeni Pather, Chairperson: AAXO

Members:

Kevan Jones, Executive Director SACIA

Sharif Baker, Chairperson TPSA

Tes Proos, SITE President

Justin Hawes, Managing Director: Scan

Display & Event Greening Forum Treasurer

Sibusiso Mncwabe, Chairperson EXSA

Justin van Wyk, Chairperson SALPA

Mike Lord, Chairperson ESC

Arthur Goldstuck, PSASA Exco Member

Esmare Steinhofel, Chairperson: ICCA

Africa Chapter

Advisory Members:

Prof Nellie Swart, Associate Professor:

Tourism Management

Corne Koch, Head: Convention Bureau

(WESGRO)

Tiisetso Tau, AAXO member

Daryl Keywood, SITE Member

Bheki Twala, TEBCO-SA Executive

Kim Roberts, SAACI Representative

Western Cape

Robyn D’Alessandro, PR/Social media, Vivo

Visual Voice CC

ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN

EXHIBITION ORGANISERS

46 Waterford Office Park, Waterford Drive,

Fourways, Johannesburg

t: +27 (0)87 265 5840

e: aaxo@aaxo.co.za

Association coordinator:

Anthea Buys

e: anthea@aaxo.co.za

Chairperson:

Devi Paulsen-Abbott, Dmg Events

e: devipaulsen@dmgevents.com

Vice-chairperson:

Tiisetso Tau, Synergy Business Events

e: ttau@synergybe.co.za

Venue Committee Chairperson:

Charles Wilson, Gallagher Convention

Centre

e: charlesw@Gallagher.co.za

Treasurer:

Mark Anderson, Specialised Exhibitions

Montgomery

e: marka@specialised.com

Board of directors:

Chanelle Hingston, Clarion Events Africa

e: chanelle.hingston@clarionevents.com

Sandra Barrow

e: sandra.barrow@rxglobal.com

Projeni Pather, Exposure Marketing

e: projeni@exposuremarketing.co.za

INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS &

CONVENTION ASSOCIATION

ICCA African Chapter

Chairperson:

Taubie Motlhabane

Cape Town International Convention

Centre

t: +27 (0)21 410 5000

e: Taubiem@cticc.co.za

Deputy chairperson:

Jacinta Nzioka

Kenya National Convention Bureau

t: +254 722464221

e: jacinta@kncb.go.ke

Secretariat:

Esmaré Steinhöfel

ICCA Africa Regional director

c: +27 (0)84 056 5544

e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org

www.iccaworld.com/dbs/africanchapter

www.iccaworld.org

EVENT GREENING FORUM

179 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North,

Private Bag X7000, Parklands 2121

t: +27 (0)11 447 4777

e: info@eventgreening.co.za

www.eventgreening.co.za

Chairperson: Morwesi Ramonyai,

Borena Energy

Vice-chairperson: John Avanitakis,

Chat’r Xperience

Treasurer: Justin Hawes, Scan Display

Secretariat: Lynn McLeod

e: lynn@eventgreening.co.za

OTHER ASSOCIATIONS

OF INTEREST

ABTA – African Business Travel

Association

Box 2594, Pinegowrie, 2123

t: +27 (0)11 888 8178

c: +27 (0)83 679 2110

e: monique@abta.co.za

www.abta.co.za

Founder: Monique Swart

ASATA – Association of Southern

African Travel Agents

PO Box 650539, Benmore, 2010

t: +27 (0)11 293 0560/61

e: barbara@asata.co.za

e: general@asata.co.za

Office manager: Barbara Viljoen

Council of Event Professionals Africa

Kevan Jones

kevan@sacia.org.za

t: +27 (0)11 083 6418

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

Chairperson: Glenn van Eck

Magnetic Storm

c: +27 (0)82 800 2616

e: glenn@magnetic.co.za

FEDHASA National Office –

Federated Hospitality Association of

Southern Africa

PO Box 3853, The Reeds, 0157

c: +27 (0)82 552 9862

e: ceo@fedhasa.co.za

www.fedhasa.co.za

PSASA – Professional Speakers

Association of Southern Africa

t: +27 (0)11 462 9465

c: +27 (0)83 458 6114

e: admin@psasouthernafrica.co.za

www.psasouthernafrica.co.za

SABOA – Southern African Bus

Operators Association

Postnet Suite 393, Private Bag X033,

Rivonia 2128

t: +27 (0)11 511 7641

e: saboa@saboa.co.za

www.saboa.co.za

SACIA – Southern African

Communications Industries

Association

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e: kevan@sacia.org.za

Executive director: Kevan Jones

SATI – South African Translators’

Institute

Executive director: Marion Boers

t: +27 (0)11 803 2681

e: office@translators.org.za

www.translators.org.za

SATSA – Southern Africa Tourism

Services Association

Box 900, Ferndale 2160

t: +27 (0)11 886 9996

e: pa@satsa.co.za

www.satsa.com

SKAL International South Africa

Secretary: Anne Lamb

t: +27 (0)21 434 7023

c: +27 (0)82 708 1836

e: anne@yebo.co.za

www.skalsouthafrica.org

STA – Sandton Tourism Association

t: +27 (0)83 558 5445

e: secretariat@sandtontourism.com

www.sandtontourism.com

TBCSA – Tourism Business

Council of South Africa

Chief executive: Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa

Box 11655, Centurion 0046

t: +27 (0)12 664 0120

e: comms@tbcsa.travel

www.tbcsa.travel

www.tomsa.co.za

Member relations manager:

Boitumelo Moleleki

TGCSA – Tourism Grading

Council of South Africa

Private Bag X10012, Sandton 2146

t: +27 (0)11 895 3000

f: +27 (0)11 895 3001

e: enquiries@tourismgrading.co.za

TINSA – Interpreters/Translators

Network of Southern Africa

e: info@interpreter.org.za

t/f: +27 (0)11 485 2511

c: +27 (0)83 249 0010

www.interpreter.org.za

TPSA – Technical Production Services

Association

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e: kevan@sacia.org.za

www.tpsa.co.za

Executive director: Kevan Jones

TTA – Tshwane Tourism Association

Box 395, Pretoria 0001

t: +27 (0)12 841 4212

e: secretary@tshwanetourism.com

www.tshwanetourism.com

Chairperson:

Bronwen Cadle de Ponte

Secretary: Sithembile Nzimande

Membership coordinator:

Liz Oosthuysen

e: membership@tshwanetourism.com


PAGE MARKET STRAP NEWS

Ozzy Nel is appointed to the board of SA Harvest

Ozzy Nel is chief operating officer and newly appointed board member of SA Harvest, the food rescue

and hunger relief organisation that has rescued over 10,6 million tons of food from going to waste

and delivered it to more than 200 beneficiaries across South Africa, resulting in the delivery of over

35,3 million meals.

Mr Nel believes his position at SA

Harvest brings him full circle in

his life. “At 16 my brother and I got

involved with communities in Ivory Park and

the surrounding areas – we did development

work, played soccer, and taught martial arts,

while my parents taught reading and writing.”

After matriculating in 1996, Mr Nel studied

extensively to become a chef, as well as a manager

and team builder extraordinaire. When he built

his own team to work with him in restaurant

management, he chose people from the areas

where he had worked as a youngster – that

was 20 years ago, and many of the original

team are with him today at SA Harvest.

He describes a core strength as ‘managing

multiple outlets’ which he did as he worked for

several years with Jamie Oliver and various other

upmarket restaurants. When the pandemic struck

and he lost all his restaurant business, he by chance

encountered airline entrepreneur Gidon Novick who

is also chairman of SA Harvest. Mr Nel’s response

was instant. He wanted to volunteer.

His skills, insight, cheffing experience and

most importantly, his passion for supporting

vulnerable people, ensured that was a

perfect fit for the SA Harvest structure.

Alan Browde, chief executive officer of SA

Harvest, said Ozzy’s influence is felt throughout

SA Harvest’s operations. “From budgeting,

procurement, and warehouse management to

logistics control, marketing, and digital systems,

and from diesel engines to relationship building,

Ozzy keeps things running professionally.”

Ozzy’s ‘team’ includes the whole SA Harvest

family: teammates, beneficiaries, benefactors,

donors, food partners and suppliers. Mr Browde

added: “SA Harvest has become a major player

in the fight to end hunger in South Africa in

three short years, and we couldn’t have done

this without Ozzy’s dedication to his team

and to ending hunger in South Africa.”

Mr Nel said joining SA Harvest was a remarkable

eye-opening experience. “In the restaurants we

had made an effort to reduce food waste and

direct it to vulnerable communities, but I had no

idea that 10 million tons of food waste go into

landfills in South Africa each year, while millions

go hungry and child malnutrition is a major issue.”

He’s delighted to be part of an organisation that

is helping to reduce hunger but adds that “we’ve

only scratched the surface of the systemic issue

of food waste and hunger. We have a long way

to go and we’re working at involving as many

people as possible. There’s space for everybody.”

Looking ahead, Mr Nel said the country is still in a

crisis situation as far as the need for moving food

to vulnerable communities is concerned, but what

is most exciting is the opportunity for SA Harvest

to be involved in systemic interventions that can

change the broken food system in South Africa.

Index of advertisers and contributors

ADVERTISER PAGE EMAIL WEBSITE

AAXO 37 aaxo@aaxo.co.za www.aaxo.co.za

Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau FC,IFC,10-13 sonto@zulu.org.za www.zulu.org.za

Event Greening Forum 32 info@eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za

EXSA 36 exsa@exsa.co.za www.exsa.co.za

Meetings Africa 6-8,9 info@meetingsafrica.com www.meetingsafrica.co.za

Mjunxtion 4 yolande@mjunxtion.co.za www.mjunxtion.co.za

Premier Hotels 14,15 info@premierhotels.com www.premierhotels.com

SAACI 33 info@saaci.org www.saaci.org

SA Events Council 5 hello@saeventscouncil.org www.saeventscouncil.org

Site Africa 34-35 info@sitesouthernafrica.com siteglobal.com/chapter/site-africa



THE PAGE LAST WORD STRAP

The business’ biggest asset

is its people

It is said that a business’ biggest asset is its people, and this is especially true of the service industry

where staff are customer-facing and can make or break an experience for guests and visitors.

By Clinton Thom, general manager, Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel.

The busy season, and by extension

the southern hemisphere’s summer,

is peak season for the local

hospitality industry and a time when staff

are required to give their utmost and their

best. As leaders and business owners in

the sector, we also need to give the same

– and more – if we are all going to make

it through the busiest time of the year.

This might be the most lucrative time

of the year for hospitality businesses,

but it also means that there is more

stress among team members. Which

should take priority? The needs of the

staff? The needs of the guests? Or

the needs of the bottom line? For me,

it’s the needs of the staff. It’s not that

guests do not matter – they absolutely

do – and it’s not that I don’t care about

the bottom line — of course that’s

important. But I have come to find that

if I take care of my team, the rest will

fall into place and guest expectations

and bottom lines are exceeded.

Taking care of team morale and

ensuring that everyone is motivated to

represent the brand as it should be,

requires leadership skills and special

attention.

How can you ensure your team’s

best performance during these

times? Here are some tips:

1. First, ensure that your team is at full

strength.

This may require recruiting additional

seasonal staff if you have the budget to

do so. If you do take on short-term,

temporary workers, they should be as

familiar with your company, its values

and its mission statement as your

permanent teams. They must feel as

invested in the brand as core team

members and fully integrated. This

means proper orientation through all

the operational departments and

training, including cross-training where

appropriate, so that you can deploy

staff into different areas of the

business as demand requires.

2. Rosters and shift allocation must be

done as fairly and sensitively as

possible.

Everyone must feel that they are being

fairly treated with as much downtime to

spend with their own family and friends

as others. This is a time when teamwork

is essential, when everyone needs to

pitch in – including managers and team

leaders – to support each other. Anyone

feeling resentment towards another

team member will not give their best

and may create an environment that is

not conducive to good staff or guest

relations.

3. Reward your staff.

This does not always mean monetary

reward — although once the season is

over, bonuses are always motivational.

Good managers give praise where

praise is due. Acknowledgement of top

performers in internal communication is

another affirming tool that good

business leaders have in their arsenal.

4. Communication is key.

Give feedback to your staff on how the

business is doing. This may include

sharing both the positive and negative

reviews from guests on Tripadvisor or

other social media platforms or from

surveys they complete on departure. At

accommodation establishments,

provide staff with occupancy levels and

projections, to show that you are all

aligned and that reservations are strong.

5. Show you care.

Staff need to feel seen and heard just as

you want them to see and hear what is

happening around them. Set goals for

teams and individuals and reward

milestones achieved with an extra perk

or a gift voucher. Accommodating a

request for a different shift is also a

gesture of caring, as staff also have

external family demands of their own.

6. Be one of the team.

Being one of the team doesn’t mean

losing your status as a leader. It means

being prepared and capable of doing

yourself what you are expecting from

your staff, should the need arise. For

myself, as a hotel general manager, this

means ongoing skills training for all your

heads of department, both job skills as

well as management skills.

The bottom line is that happy staff

create happy guests and this positively

impacts the brand in the long run.

It is also said that we only have one

chance to make a first impression. Staff

attitudes and operational standards

will be your guests’ first impression of

your brand and are part of your unique

selling point, bringing repeat bookings

or business by recommendation.

Sales and marketing are not only done

externally but internally — every day,

at every touch point through the entire

operation of your hospitality business.

Who is Clinton Thom?

Clinton Thom has been the general

manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront

since 2018. On his watch, the hotel has

not only expanded its various offerings

with a number of new food and beverage

ideas, but it has also continued to attract

new and returning guests, all who value

what Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront

has to offer in terms of amenities and,

more importantly, top-class service.


DIGITAL

DIRECTORY

AFRICA’S LEADING

BUSINESS EVENTS

DIRECTORY

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1 offer

The print listings now mirror our

online directory style with basic and

premium listings. In fact, upgrading

a basic listing in print to premium will

include an upgrade to premium on

the website and vice versa. The

same information online is

printed in the print

directory.

Business Events Africa is known for having the most comprehensive directory of venues, service providers, speakers

and conference organisers in Africa. We have been a trusted source of information for more than 40 years, and

now offer this valuable resource online.

The market is tough out there. What makes your business different from any other? For starters, be more accessible

on the internet.

Online searches are now the preferred method of finding information and contact details, so the better your online

presence, the more business you will get.

BENEFITS OF LISTING YOUR BUSINESS:

• By claiming your listing, you can may your company’s information up-to-date at your own convenience

• Upgrade your listing online at any time, to maximise your brand exposure

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• See your stats – know how many people are seeing your listing

• Increase traffic to your website with a link from the directory

For as little as R2 400, you may get the edge over your competitors by

providing indispensable information to your customers on our online directory.

Affordable advertising is just a click away.

Visit www.businesseventsafrica.com/directory

Call +27 (0)31 764 6977 for more information

Business Events Africa - Vol 43 No 01 - January 2023

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