Business Events Africa - Vol 45 No 04 - April 2025

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 45 No 04 APRIL 2025

ANEW powers four-star upgrades

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With 18 properties in strategic locations across South Africa—and exciting new destinations on

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Business Events Africa: serving the business events industry for 45 years

CONTENTS

VOL 45 NO 04

APRIL 2025


Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 45 No 04 APRIL 2025

ANEW powers four-star upgrades

Cover Feature

COVER STORY

08 ANEW’s revamping SA’s four-star landscape.

On the pages

EDITOR’S COMMENT

04 The authenticity of sustainability.

NEWS

05 Hotel development booms in Africa, boosted by

Egypt and Marriott.

TRIBUTE TO LEE-ANN ALDER

06 A tribute Lee-Ann Alder.

CHEF’S PROFILE

11 Simple, clean and authentic dishes are best.

AAXO ROAR AWARDS

12 The Annual ROAR Awards 2025—honours

industry leaders.

14 RX Africa celebrates 12 AAXO ROAR Awards.

16 Celebrating success: two AAXO ROAR Award wins

for Specialised Exhibitions.

19 ExpoGuys celebrates Sustainability Award at AAXO

Roar Awards.

NELSON MANDELA BAY

20 Nelson Mandela Bay welcomes the NAACAM

Show: Showcasing the strength of South Africa’s

Automotive Industry.

EVENT MANAGEMENT

23 What are you really studying when you study

event management?

NICHE PARTNERS

24 Niche Partners—driving Africa’s MICE Future.

PERSONALITY PROFILE

26 Nicholas de Klerk—’50 years of fun’.

VICTORIA FALLS

28 Victoria Falls: A thriving hub for business events.

29 Mbano Manor Hotel—the perfect getaway gem

at Victoria Falls.

30 Discover unparalleled luxury at The Outlook Lodge:

Now expanded to elevate your stay.

About the cover

ANEW Hotels & Resorts continues to push forward

with comprehensive property renovations to its

portfolio of hotels and resorts across South Africa.

SYNERGY BUSINESS EVENTS

33 Synergy Business Events plays key role at the Buy

Local Summit and Expo 2025.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENTS

34 Accelerate action: Women pioneering change in

business events and tourism.

LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

35 How experiential eventing drives real connection,

real engagement, and real results.

FCM MEETINGS & EVENTS

36 FCM shakes up South Africa’s MICE sector with FCM

Meetings & Events launch.

BARMOTION

38 How to increase your ROI with live events?

VENUE NEWS

41 Sibaya Casino unveils Sun International’s biggest

solar plant to date.

42 An icon reimagined: The Lord Charles Hotel joins

Tribute Portfolio.

43 Southern Sun enhances Sandton and Rosebank

stays for modern travellers.

MARKET NEWS

44 WTM Africa 2025—record participation from 96

countries.

46 South African Tourism on track to deliver Africa’s

Travel Indaba 2025.

47 The Tourism Investment Forum Africa—goes

where it matters.

Association news

SITE

48 The future of events: Navigating uncertainty in a

fractured world.

SAACI

50 Why you should be at the 2025 SAACI National

Conference—to Shape the Future of Business

Events.

EXSA

52 EXSA hosts recent AGM.

EVENT GREENING FORUM

53 Beyond the bottles: The event industry’s role in

water sustainability.

Regulars

DIRECTORY

54 Directory of associations.

MARKET NEWS

56 Allie Hunt joins Cape Town Helicopters and

Escape+Explore.

INDEX

56 Index of advertisers and contributors.

A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

57 Superpowers.

The authority on meetings,

exhibitions, special events and

incentives management

Published by the proprietor

Contact Publications (Pty) Ltd

(Reg No. 1981/011920/07)

HEAD OFFICE POSTAL ADDRESS:

PO Box 414, Kloof 3640, South Africa

TEL: +27 (0)31 764 6977

FAX: 086 762 1867

MANAGING DIRECTOR:

Malcolm King

malcolm@contactpub.co.za

EDITOR:

Irene Costa

gomesi@iafrica.com

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:

Business Events Africa

April 2025—Volume 45 No 04

Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year

and is published monthly. This magazine

is only available in digital format.

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

Official media partner

Official Journal of the Southern Africa

Chapter of the Society for Incentive

Travel Excellence

Official journal of the

Exhibition & Event Association

of Southern Africa


EDITOR’S COMMENT

Community is at the heart of

human connection

As I reflect on the past month, I have a better understanding of the concept of community.

The business events sector can definitely be described as a community.

Credit: Hein Liebetrau

This month, Lee-Ann Alder, from EXSA, passed away

unexpectedly. Her passing has left me with an

emptiness. She was part of my industry community;

she was part of my tribe and she will be sorely missed by all

who knew her. I still find it unbelievable. Please read my

Tribute to Lee-Ann on page 6.

The business events sector is evolving rapidly—we talk

about personalisation, AI driven events, and sustainability as

being the key trends in the sector.

Honestly, I believe it is the community spirit in the

business events sector, that makes it successful.

When I think back to when I started, I still remember the

people who welcomed me into this sector. Over the years, I’ve

grown within the business events community, just like so

many others. The relationships I built from the very beginning

remain strong to this day. These relationships are what sets

our industry apart from others – quite frankly – it is the

people in this sector that makes it special.

Granted, it is not an easy industry to work in. It requires

professionalism, hard work, long hours, time away from

family, patience, and dedication. However, it remains one of

the most rewarding sectors to be in. The ultimate reward is

seeing the event come to life and witnessing the joy of a

satisfied client and the positive response from delegates. It

makes all the months – and sometimes years – of planning

completely worthwhile.

What also makes it rewarding is the actual collaboration

and the partnerships that transpire to make each event, each

exhibition, each conference, and each incentive, a reality.

I am in awe of what it takes to put together one event in

the business events arena, from concept to reality.

I stand by my earlier statement – it is really about the

people – and wow, we definitely have the best, the most

professional, hardworking, diligent, incredible people in our

community.

We have grit! And, when things go wrong, which they do,

we work together to overcome those problems, for the

greater good of the industry. How many other industries can

say the same?

Trade industry associations have a significant role to

play—they bring the community together. They play a vital

role in shaping industries and fostering collaboration,

providing a great networking platform, knowledge sharing,

professional development, and industry advocacy.

Community is at the heart of human connection. There is a

growing demand for meaningful, immersive, and responsible

in-person event experiences. The business events sector plays

a significant role in connecting other industries’ communities.

In closing, I encourage you to support your industry

associations, attend their events, and get more actively

involved. The SAACI National Annual Conference is taking

place from 27-29 July 2025, at The Vineyard Hotel in Cape

Town. See you there!

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

Hospitality Junxtion Alliance

is a full-services Sales &

Marketing Representation

company.

Image courtesy of Blueberry Hill Hotel,

Johannesburg

We dedicate ourselves to

promotiong Venues, Hotels,

Lodges and Event services

through dynamic sales,

marketing and networking

endeavours.

info@hospitalityjunxtion.co.za

Passionately Promoting,

Hotels, Lodges &

Event Services

NEWS

Hotel development booms in Africa, boosted by Egypt and Marriott

This year’s Hotel Development Pipeline Report, the definitive study of international hospitality

development projects in Africa, reveals record activity. There are 577 hotels and resorts, with

104,444 rooms, in the development pipeline, up by 13.3 per cent on 2024, way ahead of the singledigit

pipeline growth reported globally by the leading international chains.

Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo (opening

2025).

The report, compiled by Lagos-based W Hospitality Group,

with data from 50 international and regional hotel chains,

shows that development activity has been growing

impressively in North Africa, which saw a 23 per cent year-onyear

increase, compared to a 6 per cent increase in sub-Saharan

Africa. Over the past five years, the hotel development pipeline

has grown at an annualised rate of 4 per cent in sub-Saharan

Africa, 12 per cent in North Africa, and 7 per cent overall.

Egypt continues to lead the way in terms of development,

with 143 hotels and 33,926 rooms in the pipeline there. This is

almost four times the number of rooms in second-placed

Morocco, which has 8,579 rooms in 58 hotels. The following

eight countries, ranked by number of rooms, comprise Nigeria,

7,320; Ethiopia, 5,648; Cape Verde, 5,565; Kenya, 4,344; Tunisia,

4,336; South Africa, 4,076; Tanzania, 3,432; and Ghana, 3,125.

International hotel chains have deals signed in 42 of Africa’s 54

countries.

A more granular analysis, looking at the location of planned

properties, reveals an extraordinary boom in Cairo, with

17,757 new rooms projected in over 70 hotels. The contrast

with the second-placed location, Sharm El Sheikh, is dramatic,

where 4,231 rooms are planned in fewer than 10 properties.

The cities and resorts with the next largest pipelines by

number of rooms, are Lagos, 3,709; Boa Vista, 3,650; Addis

Ababa, 3,369; Casablanca, 2,939; Accra, 2,652; Abuja, 2,570;

Zanzibar, 2,523 and Dakar, 2,334.

The growth is being driven strongly by the major international

hotel chains, with Marriott International leading the way, with 165

hotels with 29,639 rooms. It is followed by Hilton, 93 hotels with

17,040 rooms; Accor, 73 hotels with 15,013 rooms; IHG, 40 hotels

with 7,951 rooms; Radisson Hotel Group, 32 hotels with 6,346

rooms; TUI Hotels & Resorts, 11 hotels with 2,954 rooms; Barceló

Hotels & Resorts, 7 hotels with 2,193 rooms; The Ascott, 15 hotels

with 1,897 rooms; Kerten Hospitality, 13 hotels with 1,881 rooms

and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, 7 hotels with 1,706 rooms.

developments, 210 keys vs. 170. Also, almost half of the rooms that

opened last year were in resorts.

Third, there is a definite movement by the chains towards the

franchise model, with 108 projects representing almost 19 per cent of

the total, compared to less than 10 per cent in 2020. A major factor is

the emergence of quality international, white-label operators such as

Aleph Hospitality and Valor Hospitality, and some indigenous

operators in Nigeria, Kenya and elsewhere, which are increasing

confidence that brand standards will be met.

The full report will be discussed at FHS Africa (formerly AHIF)

from 17-19 June in Cape Town. It is the leading hospitality

investment conference in the region, which brings together senior

decision-makers to shape the future of the industry.

Matthew Weihs, commercial director of The

Bench.

Matthew Weihs, commercial director of the Bench, which

organises FHS Africa, said: “The growth in hotel development

across Africa is a testament to the continent’s economic and

tourism potential. Furthermore, the commitment from the

international hotel chains makes it clear that global players see

Africa as a strategic opportunity.”

Despite its clear leadership in the absolute pipeline

numbers, Egypt has fewer than 50 per cent of rooms under

construction, a significantly lower proportion than secondplaced

Morocco, with over 72 per cent. Of the top ten countries,

Ethiopia has the highest ratio of rooms ‘on-site’, followed by

Morocco and Ghana. Cape Verde, Nigeria, and Tanzania have

some of the lowest percentages. However, ‘under construction’

does not necessarily mean that there is activity and progress

towards completion and opening—many of the sites in

Nigeria and Ghana, for example, have been closed for several

years, with hardly a hard hat in sight!

In the race for dominance, Hilton added slightly more rooms

to its African pipeline last year than Marriott International and

achieved a higher percentage of growth. Barceló Hotels &

Resorts recorded the largest percentage growth, more than

doubling its pipeline to 2,193 rooms, with three large resort

signings in North Africa.

Below the headline numbers, there are three notable trends.

First, the actualisation rate (actual openings vs. expected

openings), which has nearly doubled from 21 per cent in 2023 to

38 per cent in 2024. While it’s substantially less than the 75 per

cent actualisation rate achieved in 2019, it shows a continuing

recovery from the economic devastation of Covid-19. Of the total

104,444 rooms in the pipeline, over 50,000 rooms (nearly 50 per

cent) in 304 hotels are expected to open in 2025 and 2026.

Second, resort projects are increasing much faster than city or

airport hotels, both in percentage terms and in absolute numbers,

driven by the number of signings and by the larger average size of the

Trevor Ward, managing director of W

Hospitality Group.

Trevor Ward, managing director of W Hospitality Group,

concluded: “Despite the various trials that the continent faces, the

fact that hotel chains signed 125 new deals last year, with 21,000

rooms, is evidence that opportunities for further development

abound. According to the Global Cities Institute, by the year 2100,

ten of the world’s sixteen largest cities will be in Africa, with all but

one of them (Cairo) in sub-Saharan Africa. So, one might say that

development activity in Africa has barely scratched the surface.”


Business Events Africa April 2025 5

TRIBUTE TO LEE-ANN ALDER

A tribute Lee-Ann Alder

It is with deep sadness that I write this Tribute to my dear friend, Lee-Ann Alder, who left us

all too soon.

By Irene Costa, editor of Business Events Africa

Lee-Ann had the biggest heart, she just

knew how to make a person feel

welcome and when she was in the

room, her love was always felt.

She loved her family, Brad, Morgan, and

her fur-babies, who were the centre of her

life—she was so proud of Morgan and all

her achievements. We often met and

would spend hours first chatting about our

families, then we would get to the work

part—and how she loved the exhibition

industry, particularly the EXSA members,

who were all dear to her heart.

Lee-Ann was a woman of great integrity.

From the moment she joined EXSA, she

took a good association and, with the

assistance of the board members, she

made it great, and successfully grew the

EXSA membership. Lee-Ann was always

seeking ways to better the association and

exhibition industry, and always put the

members’ needs first. Lee-Ann was

professional, hardworking, and brought

‘family’ into the association, through her

love, integrity, and commitment to the

business events sector, as a whole. The

conferences and events she planned were

always the most fun. She believed in

working hard and playing hard.

She was also very passionate about skills

development, and devoted her time to this,

through the Services SETA and developed

several courses to upskill the sector further.

Though this could be tiring at times, it was

among her proudest achievements.

Lee-Ann had a way of bringing people

together, including the trade associations.

Lee-Ann believed that greater

collaboration among associations was

essential to further professionalising the

sector.

I will miss her beautiful smile, our long

conversations about everything, and her

hugs that made you feel that everything

was going to be okay. Her legacy lives on

through her family and friends, and all she

has done for, and contributed to the

exhibition industry.

I salute you Lee-Ann, and thank you for

your love and guidance. I will miss you.

Gone, but never forgotten.

Sibusiso Mncwabe Chairperson, EXSA

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share

the heartbreaking news of the passing of

our beloved association manager, Lee-Ann

Alder, who left us on the 10 th of April 2025.

A steadfast champion for integrity in the

exhibition industry, Lee-Ann was not just a

colleague, but a true friend to many of us.

Known as our ‘Irish Bulldog’, she brought a

fierce dedication to her work and an

unwavering commitment to our

association’s mission. Her kindness,

intelligence, and determination were

instrumental in helping us restore integrity

and trust within our community.

Lee-Ann managed our office with

remarkable skill and grace, navigating

challenges with a smile and an open heart.

She will be remembered not only for her

professional achievements, but also for the

warmth and camaraderie she fostered

among us.

Let us support the family and one

another during this difficult time. Please join

me in extending our deepest condolences

to her family, and remembering the

profound impact that she had on our

association and the exhibition industry.

6 Business Events Africa April 2025


COVER STORY

ANEW’s revamping SA’s

four-star landscape

ANEW Hotels & Resorts continues to push forward with comprehensive property renovations to

enhance its portfolio of hotels and resorts across South Africa. These ongoing upgrades,

expected to continue throughout the year, represent a significant investment in both improving

guest experiences and offering value to guests in an increasingly demanding hospitality market.

The multi-property refurbishment plan

has been aimed at delivering modern,

high-quality offerings that cater to the

needs of evolving business and leisure

travellers alike. With a clear focus on

enhancing operational efficiency, guest

comfort, and most of all, aesthetic appeal,

ANEW is working hard to ensure that each

hotel remains relevant and competitive in the

respective areas in which they are located. And

this strategy has worked, as six properties

within the group’s portfolio have upgraded

from three-star to four-star status, instilling the

ANEW group’s desire to be the preferred brand

of choice in the upscale four-star market in

South Africa.

The new status for these properties was

recognised by the Tourism Grading Council of

South Africa and shows ANEW’s continued

investment and commitment to understanding

and delivering on what today’s travellers value

most. The properties that recently upgraded to

four-star status include: ANEW Hotel Capital

Pretoria, ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe, ANEW Hotel

Highveld eMalahleni, ANEW Hotel Hatfield

Pretoria, ANEW Hotel OR Tambo Johannesburg,

and ANEW Hotel Green Point Cape Town.

While many in the hospitality industry slowed

investments following the challenges of Covid-

19, almost five years ago, ANEW Hotels & Resorts

chose to look ahead from the onset, during

these tricky times, by investing in its facilities

and properties to align with modern guest

needs. Clinton Armour, chief executive officer of

ANEW, notes that this intention of soldiering

through the difficult periods aligns with ANEW’s

long-term growth strategy.

Mr Armour said: “We have been taking

deliberate steps to modernise our properties

and improve the overall guest experience,

through continuous investment in upgrades

and refurbishments. The work we’re doing is

designed to ensure we meet the needs of

today’s travellers, and these four-star upgrades

allow us to offer more flexible, modern spaces

that are reflective of the evolving demands of

hospitality requirements.”

ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria

ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria, based in the

capital’s Central Business District, is one of the

most significant beneficiaries of the current

refurbishment programme. The renovations

here have been aimed at transforming the

hotel into a more modern and businessfocused

venue.

The upgrades at the hotel focus on



COVER STORY

expanding and modernising the meeting and

conference facilities, as well as renovating guest

rooms. The hotel’s dining options have also

been revamped, aiming to offer a better variety

for their diverse guests entering through their

doors.

Ozwane Mahlangu, general manager of

ANEW Hotel Capital Pretoria, said: “Our goal is

to create a hotel experience that is a home

away from home, offering affordable luxury.

Through these improvements, we are

positioning ourselves as a premier destination

for corporate guests in Pretoria. The addition of

mini bar fridges in every room adds to the

appeal of the hotel in the node.”

ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe

Situated near the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game

Reserve, ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe is another

property benefiting from ANEW’s ongoing

refurbishment efforts. The hotel, known for its

unique location close to South Africa’s oldest

game reserve, offers a well-rounded cultural

guest experience, including traditional Boma

drinks and dinner, and live traditional Zulu

dance performances every night. The

surrounding area offers a wealth of activities,

including boat cruises in St. Lucia, visits to the

Duma Zulu Cultural Village, among others.

“The aim is to keep the hotel in line with the

expectations of travellers who seek comfort

and an authentic cultural experience in the

bush, with modern aesthetic appeal,”

mentioned Drika Wylie, general manager at

ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe.

ANEW Hotel Highveld eMalahleni

ANEW Hotel Highveld, in eMalahleni, is known

for having the largest guest bedrooms in the

province. The property is conveniently located

in the middle of town, close to major business

hubs, and easy to get to from Johannesburg

and Pretoria. It is a great option for travellers in

town for meetings or who just need a relaxing

stopover if they are travelling through

Mpumalanga.

Sharleen Horsley, general manager of ANEW

Hotel Highveld, commented: “The recent

upgrades definitely instil more trust from our

most valued guests and assist in creating a

more business-friendly environment, while still

accommodating leisure travellers and families

travelling through the area. We’re delighted to

be improving the functionality of the hotel and

enhancing our offering.”

ANEW Hotel Hatfield Pretoria

ANEW Hotel Hatfield has also been undergoing

major upgrades, especially upgrading their

rooms’ functionality, appeal, and layout with

modern furnishings and revamped bathrooms.

Upgrades have been initiated, to meet the

growing demand for both corporate and

academic groups seeking a venue in close

proximity to the University of Pretoria, and it is

an ideal stopover for rugby enthusiasts and

concert goers wishing to be close to Loftus

Versfeld Stadium.

Brandon Tearle, general manager at ANEW

Hotel Hatfield, said: “The university’s presence in

the area makes us a popular choice for

academic and corporate travellers. Our recent

and continued upgrades, are yielding guests to

increase their length of stay at our property.

ANEW Hotel OR Tambo Johannesburg

ANEW Hotel OR Tambo is the ideal choice for

travellers wishing to remain close to OR Tambo

International Airport. Just 10km from the

gateway to Gauteng, the property has seen

phased renovations. These upgrades, which

include refurbishing guest rooms, modernising

dining areas, new bathrooms, and enhancing

conference facilities, are designed to appeal to

larger conference group needs.

Johann Minnaar, general manager of ANEW

Hotel OR Tambo, said: “Being located near the

airport, we welcome a diverse group of

domestic and international guests. The property

has the added benefit of the popular Cielo

restaurant, offering relaxed meals with beach

vibes in the city and a beautiful lakeside view.

Our aim is to be the preferred choice for large

conference delegates and an end-to-end

destination for all their conferencing needs.”

ANEW Hotel Green Point Cape Town

ANEW Hotel Green Point is also undergoing

significant changes, with its aim to enhance its

appeal to local and international visitors. With

close proximity to popular attractions such as

the DHL Stadium, the property has been

modernising its guest rooms’ layouts to

enhance functionality, and replacing all queensized

beds with king-sized ones that can be

configured as twin beds, offering greater

flexibility for groups visiting the city.

The hotel’s location in Cape Town, a city

known for its dynamic hospitality scene,

necessitates ongoing investment while

providing a comfortable and convenient base

for tourists and groups exploring the city.

Michael Rentzke, general manager of ANEW

Hotel Green Point, stated: “With Cape Town

being such a competitive market, these

upgrades are essential to staying relevant. We’re

enhancing our guest rooms and public spaces,

to offer an improved experience to our guests

and enticing them to return.”

ANEW Hotels & Resorts remains focused on

continuously redefining and expanding its

South African hospitality offering. ANEW

recently announced the acquisition of ANEW

Resort Hunters Rest Rustenburg in North West.

Previously managed by the ANEW group for the

past five years, the property is now officially

owned by the group, marking another

milestone in its expansion within South Africa’s

hospitality sector.



COVER STORY

One of the most sought-after destinations in

the North West, ANEW Resort Hunters Rest is

well-regarded by leisure and business travellers.

This well-established four-star resort stands at

the base of the Magaliesberg Mountains, just a

90-minute drive from Johannesburg and

Pretoria.

With full ownership, ANEW is committed to

further investment in the property, including

the addition of 40 new rooms. The resort

currently offers 98 spacious rooms, a range of

on-site activities, a spa, multiple dining options,

and conferencing facilities that are able to

accommodate up to 650 delegates. Recent

upgrades include renovated bedrooms,

bathrooms, and expanded dining areas.

Planned upgrades include new padel tennis

courts, and a 700-seater dome tent.

The ANEW team is most excited about its

partnership with INHOUSE Venue Technical

Management (IVTM). Through this partnership,

ANEW Resort Hunters Rest has introduced

cutting-edge audiovisual solutions, to enhance

its conferencing capabilities. The venue now

features seamless plug-and-play systems, highend

laser projection, and discreet, yet powerful

audio solutions, all meticulously tailored to

enhance both in-person and hybrid events.

IVTM maintains staff and additional stock onsite,

to ensure a world-class audio-visual

experience.

Stephan Vlaanderen, general manager of

ANEW Resort Hunters Rest, added: “As one of

the North West’s most popular properties, we

are thrilled to continue welcoming guests

under the ANEW flag. This transition brings

exciting opportunities to enhance our offerings,

and with the additional upgrades, we are

confident that ANEW Resort Hunters Rest will

remain a sought-after destination for travellers

to this area.”

Watch this space for further updates, as

ANEW Hotels & Resorts prepares to announce

more exciting expansion plans soon.

For more information

Go to https://anewhotels.com/



CHEF’S PROFILE

Simple, clean

and authentic dishes

are best

Ewald Schulenburg, executive chef at The Plettenberg, continually strives for excellence.

He was trained at Warwick’s Chefs Training School in Hermanus and has 18 years’

experience.

Born in Bloemfontein, Ewald was raised

in Heidelberg alongside his parents

and younger brother.

“After completing my school years, I took

a gap year working as a waiter, where I

found the love in food, the same love

shared with the family. My mother was

always cooking, and she was passionate

about it. And so, the journey started.”

Ewald’s career began at Arabella Hotel &

Spa, followed by Simola Golf Country Estate

& Spa and Fancourt on the Garden Route,

before he was appointed executive chef at

The Cradle Boutique Hotel in Lanseria,

Johannesburg.

This was followed by a stint at Brahman

Hills in Nottingham Road/Midlands and,

most recently, at the Drostdy Hotel in Graaf

Reinet, as executive chef overseeing De

Camdeboo Restaurant.

Ewald believes that ‘simple, clean and

authentic dishes are best’. He oversees the

kitchen of the hotel’s newly revamped

restaurant, Amelia’s at The Plettenberg,

where the menu is described as an

exploration of flavours, ranging from

seafood and grills to the classics. He also

brings fresh perspective to the signature

dishes of The Liz McGrath Collection, such

as the Bouillabaisse Seafood Soup,

Dalewood Huguenot Cheese Soufflé, and

Pan Seared South Atlantic Ocean Tuna.

As for local and global food trends, Ewald

said, “Local, fresh organic, and healthier

options, as well as the use of local

ingredients. Trends also show that guests

want to go on a food journey—they want

something unique, a memorable

experience.”

Ewald offers the following advice to PCOs

when planning an event: “In order to

achieve guest satisfaction, you need proper

planning, communication, and build strong

relationships with suppliers and the team.”

Ewald said that one of the challenges

facing the industry is consistency.

He said that he loves what he does, and is

currently working with an amazing team.

He enjoys building relationships, mentoring,

and learning from his team. “To be able to

have the opportunity to do this is truly

amazing,” Ewald said.

He has a beautiful daughter, named Leah,

who will be nine in May. For leisure he

enjoys exploring his surroundings and

restaurants.

Ewald also loves music, archery, and plays

the guitar.

His advice to newcomers aspiring to

become an executive chef is: “Work hard,

and don’t take anything personally, be open

to constructive opinions.”

What is your signature dish?

Fynbos-smoked lamb loin, paired with

Anthonij Rupert Optima 2020.

What food trends are emerging in the

conference industry?

More healthy and sustainable options,

including plant-based options.

What is your favourite beverage?

Castle Light.

What is your favourite food?

Lasagne, salad, and ciabatta bread.

What is your great love?

Original wine gums.

Are you adventurous?

Yes, I swam with dolphins!



AAXO ROAR AWARDS

The Annual ROAR Awards

2025—honours industry leaders

The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) proudly hosted the sixth

Annual ROAR Awards at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, celebrating the resilience,

innovation, and excellence of the exhibition industry. This prestigious event not only

recognised the outstanding achievements of industry leaders but also served as a key

networking platform where numerous business deals were forged, reinforcing the value

and impact of exhibitions on the African economy.

Under the theme ‘Forging Strength:

Celebrating Resilience and

Innovation’, this year’s awards

showcased the unwavering

dedication of professionals who have

invested countless hours to ensure the

success of exhibitions across the continent.

The recognition provided by the ROAR

Awards affirms the return on investment

(ROI) for campaigns, encouraging greater

industry spending and future growth.

Top winners of the night

The 2025 ROAR Awards saw leading

industry players receive top honours,

demonstrating excellence across various

categories:

• Best Trade and Consumer Exhibition Over

6,000m² – Decorex Cape Town by RX

Africa.

Best Trade Exhibition Under 6,000m² –

Fame Week Africa by RX Africa.

• Best Trade Exhibition Over 6,000m² – Electra

Mining by Specialised Exhibitions

Montgomery.

• Best PR Campaign – Music Ex, judged by

esteemed media personality Mika

Stefano, highlighting its impactful

communication strategies.

• Best Launch Event – Women in Festival by

Vuka Group.

• Best Social Media Campaign – Mogull

Media, underscoring the powerful role of

social media in enhancing event



AAXO ROAR AWARDS

engagement and reach.

• Venue of the Year – Gallagher Convention

Centre, reaffirming its status as a premier

exhibition and events destination.

• Chairperson’s Award – Alfred Mabule from

GL Events and Goolam Ebrahim from ZF

Cleaning, a special category recognising

individuals who have made significant

contributions to the industry.

• Supplier of the Year – GL Events.

• Stand of the Year – Dromax at Electra

Mining by Scan Display.

• Rising Star of the Year – Mmakgabo

RammoneIn.

In addition to the main awards,

Distinctions in Marketing, Operations &

Logistics, and Sustainability were presented

to outstanding industry players. Big 5

Construct South Africa (DMG Events),

Decorex JHB (RX Africa), Africa’s Big 7 (DMG

Events), Securex (Specialised Exhibitions

Montgomery), ILTM (RX Africa), The Hotel

and Hospitality Show (DMG Events), MusicEx

(Gallagher Convention Centre), WTM Africa

(RX Africa), Enlit Africa (Vuka Group), and

CEM Summit (Vuka Group) were all

recognised for their excellence in these key

areas.

• Furthermore, Expo Guys was awarded a

Distinction in Sustainability for their

forward-thinking initiatives, which are

paving the way for a more sustainable

future in the industry.

• Finally, Adele Hartdegen, Glenton De Kock,

and Professor Nellie Swart were honoured

for their outstanding contributions to the

exhibition industry, acknowledging their

dedication and impact in shaping its

growth and success.

A platform for growth and

collaboration

Beyond recognising excellence, the ROAR

Awards provide a unique opportunity for

industry professionals to connect, collaborate,

and secure future business opportunities.

With exhibitors, organisers, and suppliers

engaging in meaningful discussions, the

event serves as a catalyst for increased

investment in the exhibition industry, driving

innovation and economic impact.

AAXO chairperson, Gary Corin, emphasised

the significance of these awards, stating, “The

ROAR Awards not only celebrate success but

also highlight the resilience and creativity of

our industry. These recognitions inspire

continued innovation and encourage

businesses to invest further in exhibitions,

knowing the value they bring.”

Upholding excellence in the industry

AAXO remains committed to raising industry

standards and providing platforms that

promote best practices. Through the ROAR

Awards, the organisation acknowledges the

hard work and dedication behind every

successful event, ensuring that the exhibition

industry continues to thrive.

Adding to the excitement of the evening,

Inspire Furniture Rentals generously provided

on-the-spot prizes valued at approximately

R150,000, further enhancing the celebratory

atmosphere and rewarding excellence within

the industry.

The night concluded with winners

celebrating their achievements, while

attendees leveraged the event’s networking

opportunities to establish strategic

partnerships and secure future business

deals. The 6th Annual ROAR Awards once

again proved to be more than just an awards

ceremony—it was a night of recognition,

business growth, and inspiration for the

future of the exhibition industry in Africa.

AAXO ROAR AWARDS

RX Africa celebrates 12 AAXO ROAR Awards

RX Africa was honoured with 12 accolades at this year's Association of African Exhibition

Organisers (AAXO) ROAR Awards ceremony, which took place at the Johannesburg Expo

Centre on Thursday, 27 March 2025.

The ROAR Awards, now in its 6 th edition,

recognises innovation, excellence, and

professionalism within the African

exhibition industry, bringing together

industry leaders to celebrate outstanding

contributions and achievements in the field.

The RX Africa team received recognition

across multiple categories, including:

• Best Trade Exhibition under 6000m² – Fame

Week Africa

• Excellence in Sustainability – Fame Week

Africa

• 4 Distinctions in Sustainability – ILTM Africa,

WTM Africa, Decorex Cape & Decorex JHB

• Distinction in Marketing, Operations &

Logistics – WTM Africa

• Distinction in Marketing, Operations &

Logistics – ILTM Africa

• Best Social Media Campaign – Comic Con

Africa

• Best Consumer Exhibition over 6000m² –

Comic Con Cape Town

• Best Trade & Consumer Exhibition over

6000m² – Decorex Cape Town

• Distinction in Marketing – Decorex JHB

Carol Weaving, managing director of RX

Africa, expressed immense pride in the team’s

achievements, which eclipsed the eight

awards earned in 2024:

“I’m delighted that we’ve done it again!

Words cannot fully express how immensely

proud I am of our entire team. It was a

Carol Weaving.

remarkable evening and an outstanding

result, and reaffirms our belief that

exceptional teams create exceptional events.”

For Ms Weaving, the AAXO ROAR awards

reflect RX Africa’s commitment to creating

impactful events that keep their clients’ needs

front and centre.

“As we continue to prioritise sustainability,

innovation, and exceptional visitor

experiences, this industry recognition inspires

us to push the boundaries of what’s

possible—ensuring that we continue to raise

the bar in the African events and exhibitions

space,” Ms Weaving concluded.



AAXO ROAR AWARDS

ln the business of

building businesses

RX AFRICA is Africa’s leading exhibition organiser. With access to global trade and

consumer event organising expertise serving various business sectors, we provide the

best platform to showcase every industry.

RX Global produces over 350+ events in 42 sectors in 25 countries. Our events are

diverse, inclusive, impactful, commercial experiences where you can build your business

and thrive, whoever and wherever you are.

rxglobal.com SA-Info@rxglobal.com Social: @RXAfrica +27 10 496 3500



AAXO AWARDS – SPECIALISED EXHIBITIONS

Celebrating success: two AAXO ROAR

Award wins for Specialised Exhibitions

The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) ROAR Awards recently brought

together leading figures, visionaries, and key stakeholders to celebrate excellence, resilience,

and innovation in the exhibitions industry. Now in its 6 th edition, the prestigious event was

held on 27 March at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, embracing the theme of Forging Strength:

Celebrating Resilience and Innovation. Championing creativity, it was a testament to the

industry’s unwavering dedication and forward-thinking spirit.

Specialised Exhibitions, a division of

Montgomery Group, was delighted

to be recognised with two

esteemed awards. Electa Mining

Africa earned the title of Best Exhibition in

the category Trade Exhibitions over 6,000

sqm, while Securex was honoured with a

Distinction in Marketing for Trade Events

under 6,000 sqm.

“What an unforgettable evening!” said

Gary Corin, managing director of

Specialised Exhibitions. “Receiving these

two awards was an incredible moment for

our team, and we are truly grateful to

AAXO for this recognition. It was inspiring

to celebrate alongside our industry peers

and witness the outstanding

achievements across the sector. The

exhibition industry is thriving once again,

and it’s an exciting time to be a part of it!”

With these latest accolades, Specialised

Exhibitions reaffirms its commitment to

pushing boundaries and shaping the

future of the exhibitions industry.

As the lead for Electra Mining Africa,

portfolio director Charlene Hefer was

elated to see the show take home the



AAXO AWARDS – SPECIALISED EXHIBITIONS

prestigious AAXO Award. “This year’s

Electra Mining event was the largest in its

history, with 950 exhibitors spanning over

40,000m² of exhibition space and

welcoming 39,883 visitors—an impressive

27 per cent increase from the previous

edition in 2022,” Ms Hefer shared. “This

award further cements its success and

industry impact.”

Electra Mining Africa attracted highcalibre

attendees from a diverse range of

industry sectors, all seeking cutting-edge

advancements in products and

technologies. The show delivered worldclass

innovation, strengthening its

position as a premier trade platform that

fuels business growth and drives progress

across South Africa’s industrial,

manufacturing, and mining sectors.

The Securex team also proudly received

the Distinction in Marketing award at the

AAXO Awards evening, as they gear up for

this year’s Securex event at Gallagher

Convention Centre in June. Portfolio

director Mark Anderson described Securex

as ‘Africa’s premier security expo’ where

latest trends and technologies are on

display, together with complimentary

seminars, a drone demonstration area and

K9 demos amongst the exciting visitor

activations.

“The AAXO award recognises the

strength of our marketing campaign and

its impact on the show’s success,” Mr

Anderson said. “For this year’s edition,

we’ve expanded our reach, and added

new elements to enhance engagement,

especially as we also prepare to launch in

Cape Town later this year.” Securex is colocated

with A-OSH Expo, Facilities

Management Expo and Firexpo South

Africa.

The success achieved at the AAXO

Awards comes on the back of winning

four EXSA-LLENCE Awards in January this

year. Presented by the Exhibition and

Events Association of Southern Africa

(EXSA), the four awards were for Best Large

Event Award, the Association Award and

the Best Overall Event Award—all for

Electra Mining Africa, and Best Organiser

for Delivering Exceptional Services as per

Membership Vote 2024.

“We are looking at another exciting year

ahead for Specialised Exhibitions. Propak

Africa took place in March and hosted

more than double the number of

exhibitors compared to the previous

edition in 2022, and achieved 28 per cent

visitor growth. Securex and co-located

shows take place in June and October,

Frigair Expo in June and KZN Industrial

Trade Exhibition (KITE) in July,” Mr Corin

concluded.

For more details, visit

www.specialised.com.



AAXO ROAR AWARDS

ExpoGuys celebrates

Sustainability Award at

AAXO Roar Awards

ExpoGuys proudly announced that they received an Excellence in Sustainability Certificate at

the prestigious AAXO Roar Awards ceremony, held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre on

27 March 2025.

Hosted by the Association of African

Exhibition Organisers (AAXO), this

year’s awards celebrated the resilience

and innovation shaping the future of the

African exhibition industry.

ExpoGuys stood out as the only supplier

to be recognised in the Sustainability Award

category, underscoring its dedication and

commitment to environmental

sustainability and social responsibility. The

Sustainability Award specifically honours

exhibitions and suppliers who effectively

minimise environmental impact, advocate

sustainable practices and positively

influence the broader community and

industry.

Pat Cronning, commercial director of

ExpoGuys, shared his pride upon receiving

the award: “As a mass-producing exhibition

supplier with a broad range of services, we

are honoured to be recognised by the ROAR

Awards to earn this recognition as a

supplier in this category. ExpoGuys remains

passionate about aligning our efforts with

global sustainability standards—a

commitment we increasingly see from

corporate leaders across various industries.”

This award reinforces ExpoGuys’ ongoing

sustainability efforts, including its

pioneering Sustainable Stand Grading

System, eco-friendly modular stand designs,

and initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero

carbon objectives.

ExpoGuys is excited to continue leading

by example and influencing positive change

within the exhibition and events industry.



NELSON MANDELA BAY

Nelson Mandela Bay welcomes the NAACAM

Show: Showcasing the strength of South

Africa’s Automotive Industry

Nelson Mandela Bay is set to host the highly anticipated NAACAM Show from 13-14 August at

The Boardwalk ICC. This premier event, hosted in partnership with the Automotive Industry

Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC EC), is the leading platform for showcasing the

capabilities of South Africa’s domestic automotive component manufacturing sector.

By bringing together a diverse group

of automotive component

manufacturers, public and private

sector stakeholders, and service

providers under one roof, the NAACAM

Show serves as a key driver of industry

collaboration, networking, and strategic

discussions that align with the South African

Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035.

The NAACAM Show plays a critical role in

advancing the automotive industry by

facilitating trade and investment linkages,

enabling skills and technology partnerships,

and supporting the transformation of the

sector. It also provides a space for profiling

emerging suppliers and Black industrialists

while ensuring impactful engagement

through high representation levels of the

automotive component sector.

The National Association of Automotive

Component and Allied Manufacturers

(NAACAM) is recognised as the voice of the

South African automotive component

industry both domestically and

internationally. As a member-driven

organisation, NAACAM is at the forefront of

industry leadership, representation, and

stakeholder engagement for automotive

component manufacturers. Anchoring its

membership base are suppliers to OEMs for

assembly in South Africa, and those

supplying OE export markets and the

domestic and global aftermarket.

The majority of component suppliers to

OEMs are globally owned; however, there is

a strong emphasis on increasing the

Addo Elephant National Park.


Boardwalk Hotel and Convention Centre.

The Plantation.


NELSON MANDELA BAY

number of homegrown participants in this

space. To this extent, NAACAM devotes

extensive resources toward positively

impacting localisation, transformation, and

supplier development in South Africa.

Through its various initiatives, NAACAM

seeks to strengthen South Africa’s

automotive sector by enhancing local

production capacity and supporting

emerging industry players.

As the chosen host city, Nelson Mandela

Bay stands as the motor manufacturing hub

of Africa, playing a crucial role in the

national and global automotive value chain.

The region's manufacturing capacity is

anchored by major Original Equipment

Manufacturers (OEMs), including

Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) in Kariega,

ISUZU Motors South Africa, Ford South

Africa, and flagship projects such as BAIC

South Africa in the Coega Special Economic

Zone (SEZ) and FAW South Africa. These

manufacturers, together with a robust

network of component suppliers, position

the region as a key player in global

automotive production.

Beyond vehicle manufacturing, Nelson

Mandela Bay is home to world-class

automotive component manufacturers that

serve both domestic and international

markets. With the European Union as the

largest export destination, local component

suppliers have built a strong reputation for

producing high-quality automotive parts

that meet international standards. This has

reinforced the region’s role as a reliable

niche cap filler in the global supply chain.

The NAACAM Show is more than just an

exhibition—it is a catalyst for innovation,

trade, and investment. By bringing together

decision-makers, investors, and key industry

players, the event strengthens economic

development and positions South Africa’s

automotive sector as a competitive force on

the global stage.

Nelson Mandela Bay is excited to

welcome industry leaders, stakeholders, and

innovators to this premier event. With a

business-friendly environment, world-class

infrastructure, and a commitment to

advancing the automotive sector, the city is

an ideal destination for hosting the

NAACAM Show. As the industry gathers at

The Boardwalk ICC from 13-14 August, the

event promises to shape the future of South

Africa’s automotive sector, drive meaningful

collaboration, and contribute to the longterm

vision of SAAM 2035.

For more information, visit

www.naacamshow.co.za.

Sundays River Ferry.


Sacramento.

Celebration at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve.


COME DO BUSINESS IN THE

FRIENDLY CITY

OF NELSON MANDELA BAY

More than just business!

Nelson Mandela Bay: Where Inspiring Business Events Meet Unforgettable

Experiences, Creating Connections Beyond the Boardroom

Nelson Mandela Bay Convention Bureau

Tel: 041 503 7566 / 071 609 5350

E-mail: sisaacs@mandelametro.gov.za

dlouw@mandelametro.gov.za

EVENT MANAGEMENT

What are you really studying when you study

event management?

In a world that thrives on connection, continuous learning, experience, storytelling, and

showcasing, event management has emerged as one of the most complex and impactful

professions of our time. It is no longer a ‘sit-down and listen’ and ‘believe what you are told’

show. It’s about creating purpose, designing for impact, and delivering meaning while

controlling risk, aligning people and teams to achieve strategic objectives, often all at once.

By Pieter Swart, CEPA, CMP, CMM

So, what are you really studying when you study event

management? You’re learning how to turn vision into

reality, reliably, repeatedly, and with meaning. Event

organisers translate into timelines, budgets, blueprints, and,

ultimately, into memorable experiences. You learn how to take

abstract goals and bring them to life in the real world, often

under intense time pressure and with shifting expectations.

You’re learning the science of coordination and the art of

creating experiences. From organisational structures, project

scoping, planning and coordination, financial planning and

management, to risk identification and mitigation, you begin to

understand the essential balance between logic and creativity.

You learn how to organise chaos into clarity, making the

event appear effortless—yet, ironically, this often leads to the

misconception that anyone could achieve the same.

When you’re studying project management, you’re not

learning how to plan, but how to lead. How to motivate a team

and resolve conflict. How to adapt quickly. How to navigate

uncertainty while still delivering precision. And through that,

you’re developing your capacity to stay composed, focused, and

forward-thinking.

But deeper still, you’re studying human behaviour. What

makes people feel valued? What makes them engage? What

transforms an event into an experience that lingers long after

the last light fades? Event management is about curating

impact, moment by moment.

You’re studying communication in all its forms. Written,

verbal, and visual. How to brief a team. How to write a

compelling proposal. How to manage difficult conversations

and present confidently to stakeholders. You learn how to listen,

how to interpret, and how to lead with clarity.

You’re studying resilience; how to bend, not break. How to

protect your well-being in a profession where long hours and

high expectations are the norm. You learn the power of setting

boundaries, managing expectations, and asking for help when

you need it.

You’re also learning emotional intelligence; not just how to

read a room, but how to read yourself, how to respond rather

than react. How to know when to push and when to pause.

These are skills that benefit not only your work, but your entire

life.

And, perhaps most importantly, you’re studying the journey

from self-doubt to self-trust. You begin to understand that

being a professional isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about

knowing how to find answers, build systems, and assert your

own authority.

So, when you study event management, you’re not just

learning how to run events; you’re learning how to navigate

high-stakes, high-impact environments with confidence and

control. You’re learning how to lead with heart, plan with logic,

and execute with purpose. You’re preparing not just to manage

events, but to shape experiences that change lives,

communities, and businesses.

In a time where artificial intelligence is automating tasks

across industries, it’s natural to ask, “Could AI eventually replace

event organisers?” The answer is simple; No. While AI can

schedule, analyse data, or even generate ideas, it cannot replace

the unique human aspects that define truly exceptional events.

It is a tool, yes; your replacement, no.

AI cannot read a room, sense tension, or recognise when a

nervous speaker or performer needs reassurance. It cannot

intuitively adjust a programme when cultural sensitivities shift,

or creatively reimagine a space when the original plan falls

through. These are human instincts, shaped by lived experience,

emotional intelligence, and professional judgment.

AI can offer support, but it cannot lead. It cannot replace

empathy, negotiation, or master the subtle art of stakeholder

management. It can’t build relationships of trust, navigate

politics, read nuances, or rally a team under pressure.

Event management isn’t just about logistics, it’s about

people. It’s about emotion, intuition, and emotional

adaptability. These are qualities that no machine, no matter how

advanced, can authentically replicate.

Your job is safe and will remain in demand as long as you

can demonstrate your value. Use AI to your advantage, increase

productivity and accuracy, and test your theories. Learn to

embrace technology, acknowledge its capabilities, but

understand its constraints and work with that.

Having the ability to translate the brief into creative,

actionable event solutions with competence and confidence will

earn you a seat at the executive’s table.

The Event Architecture®: Principles of Event

Management in Practice (EAPoEMiP) programme was created

specifically to support this deeper, more holistic learning journey.

Built on nearly 30 years of industry experience and informed

by international standards, EAPoEMiP is more than a course. It’s

a transformational experience that mirrors the professional

demands of the event world, while providing the structure,

support, and community so often missing from traditional

training.

Structured over six months and delivered online, the

programme offers nine comprehensive modules that cover all

phases of the event lifecycle within its ecosystem. From

planning and budgeting to risk management, protocol,

marketing, and human resources. The content is practical,

relevant, and deeply integrated with real-world applications.

Students are guided through small group collaborations,

assessed on their strengths, and mentored by global thought

leaders in the field.

What makes EAPoEMiP different is its focus on personal

capabilities and emotional intelligence. It acknowledges the

threats, the isolation, and the ‘figure it out as you go’ mindset

that plagues so many in the profession. And it offers a better

way.

EAPoEMiP gives event professionals the tools to not just

survive, but to thrive—building or reclaiming their confidence,

articulating their value, and shaping a career grounded in

purpose, not just performance.

For those asking more of themselves, more of their careers,

and more from the events they create, this is where the journey

begins.

Applications for the June 2025 cohort close on 30 April. To

learn more or apply, visit www.eventschool.co.za



NICHE PARTNERS

Niche Partners—driving

Africa’s MICE Future

The MICE Research & Business Development Fellowship Programme, a bold initiative by

Niche Partners, is not just preparing professionals—it is actively shaping the future of

Africa’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

Now in its second month and ninth

session of a three-month journey, this

programme is already delivering a

tangible impact. It has ignited crossborder

collaboration, fostered in-depth

industry knowledge, and equipped fellows

with essential business development skills.

With Phase 1 complete—focused on

research and industry insights.

Phase 2: Strategic execution and practical

development.

At the heart of the programme is a dynamic,

diverse cohort of professionals from South

Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.

With expertise spanning tourism, event

management, policy, and market research,

these fellows represent a rising generation of

MICE leaders committed to propelling Africa

forward.

But, this Fellowship is more than a skillsbuilding

exercise—it is a catalyst for innovation,

shared learning, and regional integration.

Through weekly interactive sessions, practical

assessments, and powerful mentorship,

participants are enhancing their expertise, and

they are building networks and shaping

strategies that will raise Africa’s global profile in

the business events arena.

“The future of Africa’s MICE sector hinges on

strategic investment in its people,” says Londi

Khumalo of Niche Partners. With emerging

intra-African trade agreements such as the

AfCFTA, the continent is poised for increased

cross-border collaboration and a booming

demand for MICE platforms. The Fellowship

positions its participants at the forefront of this

shift—equipping them to navigate new trade

corridors, craft investment-ready business

models, and lead Africa’s MICE evolution.”

As South Africa prepares to host the 2025

G20 Summit, the timing couldn’t be more

critical. The event underscores Africa’s readiness

to convene influential dialogue, drive policy

reform, and boost trade, tourism, and

diplomacy—goals that align perfectly with the

Fellowship’s mission.

As Phase 3 of the Fellowship – Project

Development and Presentation – draws near,

the momentum continues to build. Fellows are

emerging as industry champions and strategic

architects, contributing directly to the growth

of Africa’s MICE ecosystem. The programme has

also secured partnerships with African

organisations hosting major conferences,

giving fellows real-time exposure to the

complexities of conference bidding and

strategic positioning. Their final challenge?

A high-stakes simulation where they

compete to win the bid to host an international

congress expected to attract 5,000 to 10,000

delegates in 2027—an event that will be

broadcast live across all participating countries.

This Fellowship is guided by a cohort of

thought leaders who are passionately

committed to Africa’s future: Tracy Gounden—

Messe Frankfurt, David Zimmerman—Glue-up,

Tes Proos—Crystal Events Africa, Glenton De

Kock—CEO, SAACI, Marlene Govender—The

Market Masters International, and Londi

Khumalo—Niche Partners. This is more than a

programme. It’s a movement. A fellowship of

future-builders. And Africa’s MICE moment has

arrived.

The Thought Leaders

Glenton De Kock

Glenton de Kock is

the Chief Executive

Officer of the

South African

Association for the

Conference

Industry (SAACI).

He brings a wealth

of experience from both the public and private

sectors, having held strategic management

positions at Tourism Buffalo City, Nelson

Mandela Bay, and the Eastern Cape Parks and

Tourism Agency (ECPTA). His career also

includes roles at KPMG and Grant Thornton,

where he led initiatives in the Hospitality,

Leisure, and Tourism Unit for Africa. Glenton is

deeply involved in community and economic

development, mentoring businesses within the

ICT and services sectors, and holding advisory

positions in several civic organisations. His

leadership at SAACI aims to enhance the

standards and global competitiveness of South

Africa’s MICE industry.

Glenton’s focus in the Fellowship Programme

will be on building partnerships with key

industry players.

David Zimmerman

David is a sales and

marketing

professional,

passionate about

people, fostering

their development,

and cultivating

meaningful connections. His insatiable

hunger for knowledge and self-improvement

propels him to continuously refine his skill

set, combining hands-on experience with

ongoing education and certifications.

With a background as a sales analyst, sales

and marketing manager for a prominent e-

commerce brand in South Africa, a

membership manager for the largest and

oldest Chamber of Commerce on the African

continent; involved in international and

diplomatic events; and most recently as an

enterprise account executive for the EMEA

region representing Glue Up, David

harnesses over 20 years of expertise in the

science of sales, customer journeys, and

experience enhancement.

David holds qualifications in Marketing

and Communication Science, reflecting his

deep interest in the art and science of

community building. He is particularly

focused on creating authentic brand

experiences and nurturing relationships that

resonate with audiences.

David will focus on leveraging social media

and professional networks in the Fellowship

Programme.



NICHE PARTNERS

Marlene Govender

Marlene Govender is a

passionate and

visionary leader

dedicated to

advancing Africa’s

economic positioning

through strategic

marketing and sustainable development. She

is the founder and chief executive officer of

The Market Masters International, a strategic

marketing consultancy committed to

identifying and addressing challenges facing

business, government, youth, and society at

large. Her work centres on building

collaborative, long-term solutions that create

both vertical and horizontal benefits across

the business ecosystem.

With over 25 years of experience in

marketing, sales, events, and public relations,

Marlene brings deep expertise in the business

tourism sector. Her career includes a decade in

senior management roles, most notably as

General Manager: Marketing, Sales and Events

at the Durban International Convention

Centre, where she played a pivotal role in

promoting South Africa as a global MICE

(Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and

Events) destination.

Marlene holds an International Diploma in

Information Technology, a BCom in Marketing

Management, and a Master’s Degree in

Business Administration (MBA) from the

University of KwaZulu-Natal. Her MBA

dissertation explored the economic impact of

convention centres on the South African

economy—an area closely aligned with her

professional interests and vision for Africa.

Marlene’s focus will be on converting

research into potential sales and building

professional relationships within the

Fellowship Programme.

Tes Proos

Tes Proos is the

visionary founder

behind Crystal

Events Africa, a

leading destination

management and

incentive travel

company rooted in Cape Town and operating

across the African continent. With over 30

years of experience in incentive travel,

corporate hospitality, and event

management, Tes has dedicated her career to

crafting immersive, soul-stirring experiences

that reflect Africa’s extraordinary diversity,

cultural richness, and natural beauty.

Under her leadership, Crystal Events Africa

has become synonymous with innovation,

creativity, and excellence. Tes and her

dynamic team are known for tailoring unique,

unforgettable moments that align with

clients’ personal tastes and business

objectives—always balancing creativity with

budget-conscious precision. From the plains

of Botswana to the beaches of Zanzibar, the

team delivers seamless event execution and

destination experiences across a wide

network that includes Uganda, Rwanda,

Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Seychelles,

and beyond.

Tes is also an active member of the Society

for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), giving

her access to a global network of over 130

trusted industry experts and further

expanding Crystal Events Africa’s international

reach.

Tes will lead the area of incentive bidding

and development in the Fellowship

Programme.

Tracy Gounden

Tracy Gounden is

an accomplished

Business

Development

Director at Messe

Frankfurt GmbH,

one of the world’s leading trade fair

organisers. With over a decade of experience

in sales, marketing, and event strategy, Tracy

plays a key role in driving growth and

profitability across a diverse portfolio of trade

fairs, including those in the automotive,

renewable energy, transport, and

manufacturing sectors.

Tracy brings a strong track record of

success in developing and executing

impactful event strategies, managing

complex budgets and P&L responsibilities,

and leading high-performing sales teams to

consistently exceed revenue and margin

targets. She is particularly skilled at building

long-lasting, value-driven relationships with

associations, government bodies, and

international clients—especially within

challenging and emerging markets across

Sub-Saharan Africa.

In addition to her business development

expertise, Tracy is a seasoned trainer and

facilitator, guiding teams and clients through

new product innovations while ensuring high

levels of customer satisfaction, service quality,

and employee engagement. Her strategic

acumen is matched by her ability to promote

lean operations, team cohesion, and

sustainable business practices.

Tracy’s expertise will see her focusing on

exhibition bidding, development, and

financial management in the programme.

Londi Khumalo

Londi Khumalo is the

Director of Niche

Partners, a research

and development

consulting firm

focused on providing

actionable insights

for the MICE

(Meetings, Incentives,

Conferences, and

Exhibitions) industry

in Africa. With over 16 years of experience

in business development, tourism, and

stakeholder engagement across African

organisations, Londi is deeply committed

to unlocking Africa’s economic potential

through strategic collaboration and datadriven

innovation.

Her career journey includes working

with some of Africa’s most respected

institutions, including the Durban

International Convention Centre, one of

the continent’s premier meeting venues

supporting over 10,000 jobs; Africa’s oldest

and largest Chamber of Commerce,

representing more than 3,000 businesses;

and Africa’s leading Convention Bureau at

Wesgro’s Cape Town and Western Cape

Convention Bureau, advancing the

continent’s visibility and competitiveness

in the global MICE sector.

Londi recently completed a Master of

Commerce degree, focusing on strategic

gaps within one of Africa’s Convention

Bureaux. Building on her Bachelor of

Commerce Honours in Economics, she

brings valuable insights into market

research aimed at creating sustainable

value in Africa—not only through revenue

generation, but also with a broader vision

of driving economic growth and job

creation across the continent

Londi’s focus in the programme will

therefore be market research and business

development.

Contact details

Londi Khumalo

Director

Email:londi@nichepartners.org

Tel: +27 (0)72 576 1013

Amaan Marthinus

Sales & Marketing Consultant

Email:business@nichepartners.org

Tel: +27 (0)79 453 7121



PERSONALITY CTICC PROFILE

Nicholas de Klerk

’50 years of fun’

Nicholas de Klerk, a stalwart in the exhibition industry since 1975, has built a reputation for

his unique, avant-garde approach to exhibition stand design. He owns Design and Display

(DaD) and is also the creative director for the Exhibition Stand Design Division at ExpoGuys.

Nicholas harnesses the power of

manual sketching and colourful

renders, preferring to manifest his

innovative designs ‘old school style’

on graph paper before his team digitises

them.

From his early beginnings as the town

designer in Oranjemund, to creating awardwinning

exhibition stands and delivering

keynote speeches at international conferences,

his multifaceted career speaks to his creative

ingenuity and three-dimensional vision.

A proponent of sustainable design, he

infuses his work with recycled materials and

everyday objects, leading him to coin the

phrase ‘Junk talks to me’.

Known for his humorous and out-of-the-box

approach, Nicholas believes in burning the

proverbial box, defying conventional design

paradigms to create unique, engaging, and

sustainable exhibits. His most notable projects

include the ‘Beautiful Things’ exhibition for the

World Summit for Sustainable Development

and the South Africa Village at the 2012

Olympics in London, where he blended craft,

recycling, and visual storytelling.

Nicholas reminisces on his 50-year journey, “I

wonder if there are many people in this world

who have loved going to work as much as I

have. I never realised how much creativity

could bubble out of me and how much I

would enjoy all the different things I would be

able to do, and enjoy doing it. Apart from

exhibitions, I was able to be creative in so

many other fields, from events to theatre sets

and costumes, shop interiors, film and

television, graphic design, window dressing,

and fashion shows. Life gave me a box of

chocolates and I am still eating it.”

Where were you born and raised?

George, in the shadow of the beautiful

Outeniqua Mountains.

Where did your career begin?

Oranjenund, at the mouth of the Orange River,

working for Consolidated Diamond Mines.

How long have you been in the

business events sector?

50 years of having fun, (interspersed with

some tantrums). I never thought of it as

work—it always felt more like play.

What do you enjoy most about it?

The energy, creativity, pace, diversity, and

the freedom to live and work on (mostly)

my own terms.

Where did it all begin?

After three years of studying graphic design

at Cape Tech (I failed History of Art, so I didn’t

graduate), I started at CDM, in Oranjemund,

as the town’s designer. The whole town

belonged to the company, and everybody

worked for them. Everything possible was

done to keep the people as happy as

possible, as one was only allowed to leave

town once a month. One had to be x-rayed,

because people would hide diamonds in

their shoes, hair, or swallow them.

The position was created for me after

working in their drawing office for three

weeks during the mid-year holidays of my

final year at college. I was very lucky there—

not only did I handle all the graphic work for

the town, and learn draughting, but I also

took on my first event (for a visit by Harry

Oppenheimer), designed my first restaurant

and pub, created theatre sets for the local

amateur dramatic society, and even built an

exhibition stand that won Best Stand at a

show in Windhoek.

After 18 months, the claustrophobia got to

me, and I left and moved to Cape Town. I

could not find a meaningful job there so, on

a whim, I eventually moved to Pretoria. I

arrived at my friend’s place on a Wednesday.

On Thursday, I checked the newspaper and

made a call, had an interview on Friday, and

by Monday, I’d started as a window dresser

for Vogue Shoes.

After 18 months, I joined Theo Steyn

Studios as their graphic designer, but it

wasn’t long before I began designing

exhibition stands as well. There, I got to know

Joy Donovan, as Theo used the system she

supplied ad nauseam. I learned a great deal

there and even had the opportunity to work

abroad – twice – once in Chile and once in

Rhodesia, before it became Zimbabwe.

Just over three years later, I met my

partner in Jo’burg and decided to move

there. I initially took a job at RTS Techniques

with Lenny Simons, but he was really looking

for a storeman. I don’t think I lasted even

three months—luckily, I soon found my

dream job at Graphic Group, a design studio

led by Werner Vichi.

Going for that interview, I got lost in

downtown Jo’burg and had to walk a long

way until I found the building. On the way, I

saw a beautiful tyre dealer. In the interview I

mentioned that I had just seen the bestdesigned

tyre dealer shop ever, which, lo and

behold, was designed by him! I still wonder

whether I was hired because of my flattery.

I have to share a fun little incident that

happened while I was working there. I had to

design a stand for an office furniture

company, and I went with Werner to present

it to the client. Presenting it, I got very

excited and, while explaining the different



PERSONALITY PROFILE CTICC

floor levels, I stood up and got onto the

couch, to explain the ‘commitment’ which

the visitor would make to experience the

chair.

On the way back to the office, the very

reserved Austrian was poker faced, so I said:

“You think I screwed that up?” and his reply

was “Yes.” A while later, Werner got a call that

we were awarded the job, because of our

passion, but we had to redesign, as the client

did not like the design. I stayed there for

quite a few years, working mainly with Z

Displays.

I loved the time at Graphic Group and

would have stayed there forever, if it were

not for a call from my friend, Pieter-Dirk Uys.

“Darling, we’re going to make a movie and

you’re the Art Director.”

All I knew about movies was how to buy a

ticket and watch one. As I had already been

doing all Pieter-Dirk’s theatre sets, costumes

and posters for a while, it made sense for me

to be involved. Nobody knew Mrs Evita

Bezuidenhout, and her family better than I,

to give the film “Skating on Thin Uys” an

authentic backdrop and create their world

on film. A three-year interlude followed, with

me working mainly in film and television,

which is the only industry I know of that

takes more of one’s time than working in

exhibitions. The Art Department has to

prepare for the next day, wrap up the

previous day’s work, and still be present on

set while filming is underway.

I was then offered the chance to buy

Design and Display from Alvira du Toit, which

I decided to buy, purely for the books, as I

had no idea of debtors and creditors or how

to handle quoting. I was lucky to also obtain

her client list, and three or four stayed with

Design and Display for a long time. One of

them was NAC, for whom I did a lot of work

over the years.

Design and Display prospered, and over

the years, I collaborated with Derrick Snaith

at Getset and, for a long time, with Gunter

Butsch at Intona. When Patrick Cronning

joined Intona from a teaching background, I

gave him a true baptism of fire into the

world of exhibitions.

After facing a significant bad debt, I

couldn’t keep Design and Display afloat.

Patrick and John Webb then suggested I join

ExpoGuys as Creative Director while still

keeping Design and Display running. Now it

was Patrick’s turn to give me a baptism of fire

into using the system as I was not the

biggest fan of it, having only designed

custom stands up to that point!

I’m sorry, you asked for a brief history, but

it’s difficult when one has had 50 years of fun.

What has been the biggest change

that you’ve seen in this sector?

There are too many big changes to choose

one, but all the new ways that are making

things easier—think fabric printing, CNC,

LED lighting to name a few. For example,

my first job at Theo Steyn Studios was to

hand-cut a vinyl logo for Unicorn

Shipping, and I think it took me two days!

Today, that would take a few minutes!

Another change is most definitely the

impact that sustainability is having on our

industry.

What role does your family play in

your life?

I have lived with my partner, Peets

Wolfaardt, in Melville for the past 44 years.

Families of the people in our industry have

to resign themselves to the fact that we’re

borrowed to them, as our jobs have very

little regard for anything other than “The

show opens tomorrow morning at 9am.”

Peets and our many dogs, over the years,

there were always three fur babies at a

time, have always been the rock, allowing

me to fully dedicate myself to my passion

for creating.

What would you change in your life, if

you could, when looking back?

Easy question. To have more of a business

brain and avoid always doing and giving

more than I promised.

Do you have any hobbies?

I’m a magpie. I’ve got probably the biggest

collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia in

South Africa. I think it contains about 1,400

different Coke cans from all over the world.

I also have a rather good collection of

paintings, pressed glass art deco vases, and

ceramics.

What is your favourite sport?

I like watching some cycling, tennis, and

Formula One. My favourite sportsmen are

Roger Federer and Charles LeClerc (Could it

be because he’s good-looking?).

What do you do for leisure?

Theatre, the bush, and TV.

What is your secret to success?

The DaD slogan says it best: Passion in

Motion.

What is the most memorable place you

have ever been to, and why?

Barcelona (if I’m allowed to only choose one). I

felt surrounded by creativity. I think that the

Catalan people are among the most creative

people on earth—think, Antoni Gaudi, Pablo

Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Joan Miro, and then

there’s tapas!

What is your pet hate?

When people say, “It’s good enough.”

What type of holiday would you avoid at

all costs?

A cruise on one of those huge liners.

If you could be anyone for the day, who

would you be and why?

Liza Minnelli’s husband! Just to get to know

her and experience her energy. I think she’s the

best on-stage performer and interpreter of the

lyrics of a song.

What is your favourite book, film, or TV

programme?

Good Times, Bad Times, a novel by James

Kirkwood. Cabaret, directed by Bob Fosse, with

Liza Minnelli and Joel Gray. The hilarious

Golden Girls, with those four ladies that crack

me up!

How do you relax?

What’s that?

What is your favourite food?

Pizza, tapas and Peets’ oxtail, soups, and sweet

potato cake.

Who is your favourite movie star?

Jake Gyllenhaal.

What is the most impulsive thing you

have ever done?

Bought the original converted loft on top of

Alliance Francaise in Cape Town. That’s when

things were still affordable. I sold it years later,

to this day my greatest regret, and didn’t even

make a significant profit. See what I mean? I

clearly don’t have a business mind.

Who is your role model?

Gunther Butsch. He was calm, clever, creative,

and such a gentleman.

What advice do you have for anyone

starting out in this industry?

Have passion, be creative, and don’t be

scared… boxes are there to get out of.

What is your dream for the future?

I would like to keep going, doing what I love,

for as long as possible, but also fit some more

travelling in as well. I’ve been lucky to have

travelled to many parts of the world, but

there’s still a long bucket list.



VICTORIA CTICC FALLS

Image by Simon Berger from Pixabay

Victoria Falls: A thriving

hub for business events

Victoria Falls, located in Zimbabwe, is a prime incentive destination. As one of the Seven

Wonders of the World, the natural beauty of the Falls sets the scene for perfect exploration,

adventure, history, culture, traditional customs, and cuisine, which are all perfectly

orchestrated through activities, gala dinners, themed parties, and sustainability programmes.

Victoria Falls continues to cement its

status as a premier destination for

business events, and recently, the city

hosted two high-level SADC regional

meetings.

The 40 th Annual SADC Technical Barriers

to Trade (TBT) Cooperation Structures

meeting was held at Peniel Retreat Centre,

while the meeting of SADC Ministers of

Employment and Labour and Social

Partners took place at the Elephant Hills

Resort. Both meetings ran over five days.

These gatherings highlight the city’s

growing reputation as a preferred venue for

international and regional conferences,

attracting business leaders, policymakers,

and industry experts.

Hosting such significant engagements

positions Victoria Falls as more than a

natural wonder, it establishes the

destination as a strategic business hub. The

influx of delegates boosts local businesses,

from hospitality and transport to cultural

tourism, creating employment and

fostering economic growth.

The city’s modern conference facilities,

world-class hotels, and breathtaking

scenery make it an ideal location for events

that drive regional development. With

increased business events, Victoria Falls is

set to benefit from enhanced infrastructure,

international investment, and sustainable

economic opportunities.

As these conferences continue, the city

reaps the benefits of increased visitor

spending, reinforcing its status as a key

player in regional economic discussions

and a gateway for business events in

Zimbabwe.



VICTORIA CTICC FALLS

Mbano Manor Hotel—the perfect

getaway gem at Victoria Falls

Tranquillity, seclusion, and nature’s sanctuary define Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls. This

luxury boutique gem is the ideal place for a corporate getaway and incentive trip.

Mbano Manor Hotel offers a uniquely

perfect blend of bush lodge

ambience, cultural history, and

world-class hospitality, only minutes away

from the majestic Victoria Falls. The ideal

oasis to enjoy Victoria Falls activities, while

still waking up to the sounds of a bird and

tree forest sanctuary.

The all-suite hotel comprises eighteen

spacious luxury suites, scattered in sets of

two across the four-acre forest estate. Each

suite has a mini-villa feel, elegantly

appointed with touches of old-world

charm and modern elegant comfort.

The 19 th suite is the opulent twobedroom

Mutota Villa. This magnificent

property includes two en-suite bedrooms,

a dining room, double lounge space, a

spectacular master bathroom suite with

dressing room, outdoor enclosed

courtyard, a plunge pool, a massive terrace,

private gardens, and much more. The Villa

is ideal for those seeking that extraindulgent

experience.

Recognised by TIME as one of the World’s

Greatest Places of 2025, Mbano Manor

Hotel has earned global recognition for its

exceptional setting, personalised service,

and its unique, rich story that celebrates

the finest of African heritage.

Mbano Manor Hotel was founded by one

of Africa’s trailblazing female hoteliers, Mati

Nyazema. Before founding Mbano, Ms

Nyazema served a long tenure as executive

director of the Sandton Convention Centre

in Johannesburg, where she led one of the

largest convention centres in Southern

Africa.

“I transitioned from hosting audiences of

up to ten thousand delegates at a time in

the meetings industry, to now hosting a

select audience of luxury safari travellers.

This exciting journey is still about

understanding guests’ needs, investing in

team excellence, and delivering the

optimum customer experience,” Ms

Nyazema said.

Mbano offers privacy, serenity, and

understated elegance. The canopy of giant

teak trees creates a cooler climate, whether

you relax by your private suite veranda,

lounge by the pool, or have a high-tea

indulgence at one of our forest-facing

lounge corners. A commitment to

exceptional personalised service, to our

community, and sustainability, redefine

Mbano Manor Hotel’s ethos of providing

luxury with purpose.

In the second half of 2025, Mbano will open

a luxury spa in its estate. The majesty of the

spectacular Victoria Falls awaits, then retreat

to a calm space that blends nature, elegance,

and exclusivity, at Mbano Manor Hotel.



VICTORIA FALLS

Discover unparalleled luxury at The Outlook

Lodge: Now expanded to elevate your stay

Nestled in the heart of Victoria Falls, The Outlook Lodge has long been synonymous with

elegance, exclusivity, and world-class hospitality. We are thrilled to announce an exciting

expansion, introducing 42 exquisitely designed rooms to our already distinguished property. This

expansion not only increases availability for our esteemed guests but also maintains our

unwavering commitment to luxury and personalised service.

As one of the premier

accommodations in Victoria Falls, The

Outlook Lodge is a sanctuary where

sophistication meets the raw beauty

of nature. Whether you are seeking a serene

getaway or a flawless corporate retreat, our

lodge promises an unforgettable experience

tailored to your every need.

Refined comfort in every detail

At The Outlook Lodge, we believe that luxury

is found in the details. Our new rooms are

meticulously crafted to blend modern

elegance with the warmth of African

hospitality. Each space is thoughtfully

appointed with plush bedding, contemporary

furnishings, and panoramic views that capture

the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls.

Whether you choose a deluxe suite or an

executive room, you will be enveloped in

comfort, serenity, and style.

Beyond aesthetics, our accommodations

are designed with functionality in mind. Highspeed

Wi-Fi, smart technology, and

personalised room service ensure a seamless

and enjoyable stay. Every element, from the

rich textures of locally sourced décor to the

soft lighting that sets the perfect ambiance,

has been curated to offer an unparalleled level

of comfort and refinement.

A culinary journey like no other

A stay at The Outlook Lodge is incomplete

without indulging in our exceptional dining

experiences. Our on-site restaurant presents a

culinary journey that highlights the best of

local and international cuisine. Helmed by

expert chefs, our menu is an artistic fusion of

flavours, crafted from the finest ingredients



SUSTAINABILITY PERSONALITY VICTORIA FEATURE PROFILE FALLS

sourced from the region.

Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast,

featuring freshly baked pastries, exotic fruits,

and handcrafted coffee blends. For lunch and

dinner, savour exquisite dishes paired with

premium wines, all while dining in an

ambiance that exudes sophistication. Whether

you prefer an intimate indoor setting or an

alfresco experience under the African sky,

every meal at The Outlook Lodge is a

celebration of taste and culture.

World-class conference and event

facilities

For corporate travellers and event planners,

The Outlook Lodge presents state-of-the-art

conference facilities designed to

accommodate everything from executive

board meetings to large-scale corporate

retreats. Our venue is equipped with modern

audiovisual technology, high-speed internet,

and ergonomic seating, to ensure maximum

productivity and comfort.

Our dedicated event planning team works

closely with clients to curate bespoke

corporate experiences, seamlessly blending

business with leisure. From team-building

activities in the wild, to luxury cocktail

receptions overlooking the breathtaking

landscapes, we offer customised packages to

suit your vision.

Beyond the Lodge: Immersive

experiences await

While The Outlook Lodge provides an oasis of

luxury, the adventure of Victoria Falls lies just

beyond our doors. As one of the Seven Natural

Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls captivates

visitors with its thunderous cascades, misty

rainbows, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Guests at The Outlook Lodge can embark

on exclusive experiences, including guided

walking safaris, thrilling game drives, and

serene river cruises along the Zambezi River.

For the adventurous spirit, activities such as

bungee jumping, helicopter flights over the

falls, and white-water rafting offer an

adrenaline rush like no other. Our concierge

team is available to tailor your itinerary,

ensuring an unforgettable exploration of this

remarkable destination.

Personalised service, timeless

hospitality

At the heart of The Outlook Lodge lies our

unwavering dedication to personalised

service. From the moment you arrive, our

attentive staff ensures that every detail is

seamlessly executed, allowing you to relax and

indulge in the experience. Whether you

require a private dining setup, bespoke

adventure planning, or simply a warm and

welcoming smile, our team is committed to

making your stay truly exceptional.

Plan your stay

As we unveil our expanded accommodations

and enhanced services, we invite you to

experience the grandeur of The Outlook

Lodge. Whether you are planning a romantic

escape, a family retreat, or a corporate event,

our lodge offers the perfect blend of luxury,

nature, and sophistication.

Explore more about our offerings on our

website: www.theoutlook.travel.

For inquiries, tailored packages, or to receive

our updated rate card and fact sheet, please

reach out to our team. We look forward to

welcoming you to an extraordinary stay at The

Outlook Lodge, where every moment is

crafted to perfection.

Email:reservations@theoutlook.co.zw

Tel: +263 832 842 695

WhatsApp: +263 77 494 4122



SYNERGY BUSINESS EVENTS

Synergy Business Events plays key role at

the Buy Local Summit and Expo 2025

Proudly South African hosted its 13 th edition of the flagship event, the Buy Local Summit & Expo,

which took place on 17 th and 18 th March 2025. This highly anticipated two-day event experience

brought together a diverse audience from the business events sector, offering a dynamic mix of

business engagement, networking, and industry insights.

The remarkable growth of this year’s event

underscores its success in fostering

community connections, showcasing local

businesses, and reinforcing the importance of

supporting the local economy. The gathering

has not only highlighted the diverse range of

products and services available in our region

but has also created invaluable networking

opportunities for businesses and individuals,

alike.

Hosting prominent thought leadership

sessions and masterclasses tailored for small and

medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) to insights

on local procurement, legislation, and

compliance, and a stellar exhibition of locally

produced goods and services, the Buy Local

Summit & Expo has become a key platform for

championing local business growth.

One of the key elements that contributed to

the success of the event was the invaluable

support and expertise provided by Synergy

Business Events. Their precise execution and

planning of the stand build and infrastructure

ensured that each exhibitor had a professional,

engaging, and dynamic space to showcase their

offerings and allowed for a seamless and visually

impressive environment, enhancing the overall

experience for both exhibitors and attendees.

Furthermore, Synergy Business Events played

a crucial role in facilitating the business

matchmaking programme, which was

instrumental in connecting local businesses

with potential clients, partners, and

collaborators. By curating personalised meeting

schedules and facilitating meaningful

conversations, Synergy ensured that the right

people came together, helping businesses grow

and form lasting relationships. The

matchmaking programme undoubtedly added

immense value to the event, creating

opportunities for future partnerships and

growth within the local business community.

True to its theme of ‘Building a resilient

economy through localisation’, the Buy Local

Summit and Expo has been a powerful

reminder of the strength and potential of local

businesses. With the support of Synergy

Business Events, the event has fostered

collaboration, innovation, and growth, laying a

strong foundation for future success in our local

economy, and we look forward to the

continued impact of this event and to the

continued partnerships that will emerge in the

years to come.

Synergy Business Events has always

supported SMME development in South Africa,

and the opportunity to work closely on the Buy

Local Summit and Expo is a great opportunity

for us to foster growth and elevate the show to

become the leading event in the MICE sector.

The 13 th edition of the Buy Local Summit and

Expo was a ground-breaking experience for the

local business hub. We welcome all corporates

and drivers of change to join in on elevating the

experience and contributing to the growth and

success of the show. Together we can make a

difference and build a resilient economy

through localisation.

Contact details

Synergy Business Events

Tel: 011 476 5104

Email address:admin@synergybe.co.za

Linkedin: Synergy Business Events

X: Synergy_BE

Facebook: Synergy Business Events

Instagram: official_synergybe



WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENTS

Accelerate action: Women pioneering change in

business events and tourism

Recently, Prof Nellie Swart, UNISA, was interviewed by Projeni Pather for the Africa Events

Connect Podcast. Following the podcast, Prof Swart, in collaboration with Ms Pather, will

produce a series of articles related to the empowerment of women in business events.

By Prof Nellie Swart, UNISA and Projeni Pather, Africa Events Connect Podcast

As we celebrated International Women’s

Day on 8 March, the theme ‘Accelerate

Action’ urges us to actively support

women’s advancement in all industries.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the

business events and tourism sectors, where

women have played an instrumental role in

shaping the industry. From trailblazing

initiatives, to mentorship programmes and

setting new industry benchmarks, these

women continue to transform the landscape.

Women-led initiatives making a

lasting impact

In South Africa, women leaders have

spearheaded significant advancements in the

business events and tourism industries. One

such pioneer is Projeni Pather, managing

director of Exposure Marketing and founder

of the MamaMagic Expo. Her work has

redefined industry standards while creating

platforms for young professionals to thrive.

Similarly, Shanelle Gow, a senior designer and

project manager at The Exhibitionist South

Africa, has contributed to exhibition

innovation, and Martina Komane, a director at

Synergy Business Events and chairperson of

the Scan Display BEE Trust, has championed

empowerment programmes for previously

disadvantaged communities.

Internationally, Nina Freysen-Pretorius,

managing director of The Conference

Company, made history as the first African

President of the International Congress and

Convention Association (ICCA), paving the

way for African representation in global

business events leadership. Carol Weaving

pioneered Meetings Africa (now owned by

South Africa Tourism) and, as managing

director of RX Africa, has been instrumental in

showcasing Africa as a top business events

destination through World Travel Market

(WTM) Africa. Additionally, Nonnie Kubeka,

head of the Gauteng Convention and Events

Bureau, and Taubie Motlhabane, chief

executive officer of Cape Town International

Convention Centre (CTICC), continue to drive

transformation and innovation in the

industry.

Prof. Nellie Swart.

Despite their remarkable contributions,

often these achievements are overlooked. As

we accelerate action, it’s time to celebrate

and amplify their impact.

Key leadership strengths of women in

business events and tourism

Women bring a unique set of skills to

leadership roles (such as empathy, emotional

intelligence, resilience, collaboration, and

adaptability), all essential for fostering

innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable

growth. These qualities align seamlessly with

the Sustainable Development Goals, making

female leadership invaluable to the industry’s

future.

For young professionals aiming for

leadership roles, the key is to:

• Embrace lifelong learning: Staying

updated with industry trends through

upskilling and reskilling yourself. This can

be done through either a formal

qualification or industry designation.

• Seek mentorship and role models:

Learning from established professionals

can offer invaluable guidance.

• Gain hands-on experience: Being actively

involved in projects, even in small roles,

can open doors to career opportunities.

• Take ownership of career growth:

Opportunities don’t always come easily, so

proactive steps are necessary.

Making your contributions visible:

Strategies for women

As Ms Pather astutely points out, women

Projeni Pather.

often do the work, but struggle for

recognition. While teamwork and

relationship-building are essential, selfadvocacy

is equally critical. Here’s how

women can amplify their contributions:

• Join industry networks: Associations

such as the Southern African Association

for the Conference Industry (SAACI) and

Meetings Professional International (MPI)

provide platforms for professional

visibility and strategic connections.

• Leverage social media: Building a strong

personal brand through LinkedIn and

industry-specific platforms ensures

recognition beyond the workplace.

• Document and share achievements:

Keeping a record of contributions and

sharing successes within professional

circles can enhance credibility.

• Support other women: Breaking the

‘pull her down’ syndrome and

advocating for fellow female

professionals strengthens collective

success.

Conclusion

Women have left an indelible mark on the

business events and tourism industry, yet

their achievements are not always

celebrated as they should be. Let’s commit

to accelerating action by recognising,

supporting, and empowering women in

these industries. Their leadership is not just

shaping today’s industry—it is building a

more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative

future for all.



SUSTAINABILITY EXSA-LLENCE LOCAL PERSPECTIVE FEATURE AWARDS

How experiential eventing drives real

connection, real engagement, and real results

Corporate events have long been vital strategic tools for showcasing values, launching

innovations, and empowering brands and individuals. But, as with so many areas, expectations for

these events have shifted dramatically as attention spans shrink, social media divides as much as

it informs, and screen time runs on overload.

By Colleen Lategan, Food and Beverage Manager at Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront Cape Town

Today’s – and tomorrow’s – attendees and audiences

crave more than just traditional information delivered

in conventional ways. At the same time, one truth

stands out significantly in our digital-first age: no amount of

Zoom meetings or emails can match the magic of genuine

in-person connections in an environment designed to

promote productive and authentic interaction.

Want attendees to remember your event?

Make them feel something

Research shows that experiences with multi-sensory appeal

are likely to be considerably more engaging and memorable,

with 91 percent of participants in one study describing

themselves as feeling more positive about a company or

brand after they’d been part of an experiential event. The

takeout: Whether the aim is a regional leadership session or

a full-scale global summit, today’s conferences, meetings,

and events must be innovatively imagined and thoughtfully

curated. Only then can they strengthen engagement, nurture

enduring connections, and drive the productivity which fuels

long-term success.

The future of eventing

Traditional elements such as keynote speeches and panel

discussions may always have their place. However, these

classic offerings are increasingly being supplemented by

experiences that emphasise active participation and

personalisation. Some examples to consider: Workshops that

offer hands-on product interaction, multi-dimensional

installations that engage the senses as well as the intellect,

and live demos to provide first-hand product experience.

Read on for five future-focused strategies that work now.

1. Prioritise formal and informal networking

opportunities

Fostering connections between attendees can range from

setting up small group discussions, to social sessions

curated around commonalities—from welcomes for

first-time attendees, to recognition drinks for veteran

employees and award-nominee celebrations. And, while

it may seem counter-intuitive to increase opportunities

for between-session socialising, these breaks have been

shown to improve memory retention, sustain interest,

and enhance content engagement.

2. Design for deep engagement

Events don’t need to be elaborate to deliver superb

results. Bring together participants who work in the same

field, but live in different cities or countries, to forge

bonds that supersede geographical divides. Include

thoughtful features such as themed meals, collaborative

challenges, interactive games, and creative breakout

sessions to nurture connections that last long after the

event. Balanced, polished programming with

spontaneous discussions. And give a platform to lesserknown

voices to spark diverse ideas, inspire trust and fuel

genuine conversation. Altogether, authentic approaches

increase the likelihood of greater career satisfaction for

individuals, smoother interactions between colleagues,

and more effective collaborations between

departments—all of which help to drive an organisation

forward.

3. Take real care

Want to ensure that sustainability is part of your event

ethos? Focus on venues that use practicalities such as

minimising disposables and offering locally sourced food.

Make sure all attendees are able to participate fully by

including features such as easy accessibility, live

captioning, sign language interpreters, and reserved

seating for those who are hard of hearing, have limited

vision, or may otherwise require accommodation.

4. Use technology to drive immersion, personalisation,

and value

As much as it can isolate and divide, technology can be an

incredible unifying factor. Synchronised virtual reality

installations allow attendees to share experiences,

creating stronger bonds and lasting impressions.

Interactive installations blend technology and

storytelling. Interactive screens, live streaming, and

immersive pop-ups featuring 360-degree projection and

touchscreen displays encourage attendees to feel part of

the brand story. And live demos bring products to life. AI

can also play a powerful role. Use it to personalise

agendas and match attendees with one another based on

their professional specialties or personal interests to

nurture smarter, stronger relationships and to ensure

participants feel valued and seen.

5. Include social media opportunities

Interactive events are inherently shareable, so up the ante

by providing elements such as branded photo booths,

hashtag campaigns, and Instagram-worthy installations,

which encourage attendees to share their experiences on

social media. Generating this kind of organic buzz boosts

an event’s reach, enhances brand perception, and makes

participants feel special and part of something

memorable.

Who is Colleen Lategan?

Colleen Lategan, the hotel’s dynamic food and

beverage manager has a calm command and deep

commitment to excellence. Starting at a modest

convention centre in Panorama, she soon moved on

to a boutique hotel in Camps Bay before finding her

place at the Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront in 2004.

What began as a waiter position quickly turned into

a career fuelled by passion, perseverance, and an

eagerness to grow. Over nearly two decades, Colleen

climbed the ranks with grace and determination—

from hostess and room service supervisor to

restaurant manager, banqueting lead, and now food

& beverage manager. Each role taught her the

power of adaptability, the importance of

consistency, and the joy of delivering unforgettable

experiences. Her current role is not only a

professional highlight but also an opportunity to

uplift and guide those walking the same path she

once did. Outside the hotel, she’s a dedicated

mother and a passionate home cook, often drawing

inspiration from her culinary colleagues. Her love for

Cape Town’s ocean views and coastal charm makes

her workplace feel like a second home. Colleen’s

story is one of resilience, growth, and generosity—

a true reflection of hospitality’s spirit. For her, it’s

never just about the job. It’s about people, passion,

and creating spaces where everyone feels seen,

valued, and welcome.




FCM shakes up South Africa’s MICE sector

with FCM Meetings & Events launch

As corporate travel costs continue to rise, and businesses dedicate larger portions of their

budgets towards meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE), FCM Meetings &

Events has launched in South Africa.

We are excited to launch FCM

Meetings & Events in South Africa

because the way that businesses

plan events is changing.

Companies now want more flexibility, better

technology, sustainable options, and unique,

engaging solutions. South Africa offers

incredible opportunities, from art galleries

and sports stadiums to heritage sites, making

it the perfect place to innovate. At FCM

Meetings & Events, we’re here to set a new

standard for business gatherings,” said

Mummy Mafojane, general manager of FCM

Meetings & Events.

Recently, State of the Market 2024 found that

28 per cent of businesses allocate more than 50

per cent of their total travel budget to MICErelated

trips. An additional 11 per cent of

businesses dedicate between 25-50 per cent of

their budget to MICE, while another 10 per cent

allocate between 15-25 per cent. The new FCM

division provides companies with a

comprehensive solution to control spending on

corporate events, while maximising their

strategic impact on business objectives.

According to the Global Business Travel

Association, prices across key travel sectors are

forecasted to show steady increases, through

2025. As budgets tighten, companies must find

more efficient ways to manage this critical

aspect of their operations. At the same time,

well-executed corporate events and incentive

travel programmes have become essential

tools for driving employee engagement,

motivation, and retention—priorities that have

gained heightened importance due to talent

shortages and the rise of hybrid work

environments.

The Incentive Travel Index underscores this

shift, revealing that 55 per cent of senior

leadership now views incentive travel as a

strategic differentiator for enhancing company

culture and workforce performance, while 48

per cent consider it vital for driving profitability

and broader business growth strategies.

Mummy Mafojane_General Manager of FCM

South Africa.




“Working with a professional travel

management company (TMC) delivers

immense value, not only in terms of financial

savings, but also by improving the overall

employee experience,” Ms Mafojane said.

“Given the substantial allocation of corporate

travel budgets towards meetings and events,

there is a clear opportunity for companies to

consolidate suppliers, optimise efficiencies, and

enhance visibility over their spending. This is

where working with a specialist meetings

management provider becomes critical.”

The growing need for outsourced meeting

solutions

As event logistics become increasingly complex,

and internal teams such as HR or office

managers take on more responsibility for

organising company-wide meetings, a

structured, outsourced approach to event

management is becoming essential for driving

efficiency gains.

According to a recent survey from Business

Travel Show Europe, 32 per cent of business

travel buyers expect they will soon assume

responsibility for meetings and events, primarily

driven by the desire for cost savings and

improved visibility over spend.

“FCM Meetings & Events provides an all-inone

solution for organisations seeking

outsourced support to effectively manage their

growing event portfolios,” Ms Mafojane added.

“By leveraging our expert planning services

alongside industry-leading technology

platforms such as our Venue Finder tool, we

help companies cut costs while delivering

exceptional attendee experiences.”

Comprehensive solutions tailored for

South African businesses

As part of its global rollout, with successful

implementations across multiple international

markets, FCM Meetings & Events brings its

global expertise directly into South Africa’s

thriving MICE sector, with solutions tailored to

meet local business needs:

Smarter venue sourcing with FCM Venue

Finder

A game-changing digital platform granting

instant access to over 250,000 venues

worldwide, the FCM Venue Finder allows

planners to compare up to ten venues side-byside

with real-time pricing insights,

communicate directly with suppliers to

accelerate negotiations, and reduce overall

sourcing times by up to 80 per cent, compared

with traditional manual processes. Features

include filtered ‘sustainability requests’ and builtin

analytics and reporting to make informed

venue selections.

Cost-controlled group travel

management

Corporate groups can benefit from fixed airfare

rates secured up to 10 months in advance,

minimising financial risks associated with

fluctuating market conditions (terms and

conditions apply). Exclusive discounts on bulk

hotel bookings are available through

preferential supplier agreements, while

dedicated logistics managers ensure seamless

coordination across flights, transfers, and

accommodation blocks.

Sustainable event planning

With the importance of sustainability in event

planning set to rise from 13 per cent today to 23

per cent industry-wide within just two years

(Incentive Index Report), FCM Meetings & Events

embeds environmentally conscious strategies

throughout its processes, including carbon

offset tracking to help brands quantify and

reduce their emissions’ footprints, partnerships

with green-certified venues and eco-conscious

supply chains, and paperless attendee

registration solutions to minimise unnecessary

waste.

“With our global coverage combined with

deep-rooted local expertise here in South Africa,

we’re offering businesses the best-of-bothworlds

approach when structuring meeting

programmes end-to-end,” Ms Mafojane said. “We

ensure every detail is meticulously executed,

while maximising cost-efficiency, whether it’s

small-scale executive summits or large-scale

roadshows spanning multiple regions.”

The evolving future of incentive travel

programmes and their strategic

importance

Incentive travel is rapidly evolving beyond

traditional models focused solely on rewarding

top sales performers. While qualification-based

sales incentives continue to account for 45 per

cent of global usage (Incentive Travel Index), new

trends indicate increasing demand for

company-wide incentive trips (37 per cent,

Incentive Travel Index) and large-scale

networking retreats that bring dispersed

colleagues together (31 per cent, Incentive Travel

Index).

This shift signals that forward-thinking

organisations are adapting their engagement

strategies towards more holistic models that

encourage collaboration, culture-building, and a

sense of shared purpose across entire

workforces—rather than just targeting select

high-performers. Companies are recognising

the strategic value of these experiences in

retaining top talent amidst today’s competitive

job market.

As the importance of retention strategies

grows, South Africa presents an opportune

market for businesses to explore innovative

incentive travel programmes. With its diverse

array of world-class destinations and robust

tourism infrastructure, the country offers unique

settings for crafting memorable corporate travel

rewards capable of boosting employee morale,

motivation, and loyalty.

However, designing and executing these

complex, large-scale initiatives requires

specialised expertise that many organisations

may lack in-house. This is where partnering with

a full-service strategic meetings management

provider, such as FCM Meetings & Events,

becomes invaluable.

“Our vision extends beyond mere logistics;

we aim to transform how corporates

conceptualise and execute meetings

dynamically through innovation-first

methodologies integrated seamlessly into

everyday operations,“ Ms Mafojane said. “It’s not

just about delivering events anymore—it’s

about designing impactful, data-driven

experiences that drive measurable returns, both

financially and culturally, within organisations

over the long term.”

Ms Mafojane concluded: “Our global vision for

the future of meetings and travel management

is centred around innovation, sustainability,

accessibility, and seamless integration of

technology.”



BARMOTION

How to increase your

ROI with live events?

In B2B marketing, exhibitions are often considered the go-to strategy for making a splash.

Attend any large B2B exhibition, and you’ll immediately understand the challenge faced by

exhibitors wanting to stand out from the crowd—the competition for attention is incredibly

fierce! The buzz, the conversations, the eye-catching displays—it’s all part of the excitement.

So, how can you increase your ROI

with live events? Instead of

competing with hundreds of other

exhibitors for audience attention,

have you considered creating an event of

your own, one where you’ll be the only

‘exhibitor’ in front of a hand-picked

audience of receptive minds? If you offer

your target audience a beneficial,

enjoyable, bespoke event, you’ll capture

more mindshare than by appearing at a

trade exhibition, shouting to be heard.

Smaller, targeted events redefine how

businesses engage with their clients and

partners. Whether it’s a bespoke client

appreciation day, an executive roundtable,

or a product showcase at a unique venue,

these experiences offer something mass

exhibitions often struggle to deliver—

genuine connection.

Creating bespoke events gives you the

freedom to align with your target

audience’s exact needs and expectations,

whether they are existing clients, prospects,

suppliers, or distributors. You can choose

your location and venue, whether that’s a

traditional venue space, a meeting room,

conference centre suite or something more

left field like the beach or the golf course.

As the master of your own event, you have

complete control over the look and feel, the

content and the atmosphere. Building

smaller, custom B2B events such as this can

offer you a superior approach to building

relationships, generating leads, and

achieving a greater ROI.

The setting of smaller, focused events also

opens creative opportunities. Mobile

hospitality solutions offer flexibility,

unfettered from the constraints of the usual

venue space. Barmotion’s mobility allows

almost limitless possibilities when choosing

a location. Using an experienced mobile



BARMOTION

hospitality supplier brings a wealth of

knowledge and experience. Because they do

this daily, their insight, understanding, and

pragmatism offer a reliable partner, to bring

the experience to life wherever you choose,

ensuring seamless service and a bespoke

menu tailored to your brand.

Creating an impactful event that

seamlessly integrates your brand requires

suppliers who understand what you are

trying to achieve and who work with you to

create customised, fully mobile, and

brandable platforms that can deliver

genuine hospitality to any location.

That’s where Barmotion comes in. As

experienced event suppliers, we understand

the power of a hospitality solution that

seamlessly integrates with your brand and

vision.

With the widest range of food and drink

options, we bring our creativity and

imagination, to deliver the perfect

hospitality solution to make your event fly,

from colour-changing cocktails and

straightforward coffee bars, to company

wellness days with healthy fruit smoothies

and free health checks. More importantly,

we can advise you on how far you can take

your concept and how it can be delivered.

However, good event hospitality isn’t

simply great quality coffee or delicious

snacks; it’s about extending your brand into

your guests’ emotional and sensory territory,

and being flexible and imaginative. It

encompasses simple things such as branded

coffee cups, to an entire menu that echoes

and amplifies your brand messaging.

Branded hospitality simultaneously engages

people’s minds and senses, creating

memorable, positive experiences.

Here at Barmotion, we’ve helped dozens

of brands and businesses achieve excellent

ROI by delivering their own custom B2B

events, providing the turnkey hospitality

services integral to success. From partner

appreciation days and executive

roundtables to product demonstrations,

dealer incentives, workshops, wellness days,

and beach parties, you can leverage the

power of more personalised engagement

with mobile hospitality. The key to success is

personalised engagement, not simply the

hard-sell.

While large exhibitions will always have

their place, they’re no longer the only way

to connect.

So, the next time you consider your B2B

marketing strategy, think beyond the expo

stand. Think about how a shared coffee or a

celebratory cocktail can spark conversations

beyond the event. Because, when you

create moments that matter, the

connections – and the results – will follow.

Let us help you engage with your

audience by offering more than simply

coffee and a chat on the exhibition stand—

the possibilities are endless!

Contact details

Email:info@barmotion.co.za

Website:https://barmotion.co.za

Phone: 0861 937 625



Brand

Activations |

Conferences | Expo

Stands | Events

0861 WE ROCK (93 7625) | info@barmotion.co.za | www.barmotion.co.za

VENUE NEWS

From left: Virath Gobrie, Sibaya’s general manager; Navin Kumardew, senior project manager for LTM Energy Group; and Ravin Sahadev, Sibaya’s

maintenance manager celebrate a milestone in sustainability with the launch of Sun International’s biggest solar plant.

Sibaya Casino unveils Sun International’s

biggest solar plant to date

A solar plant as large as four rugby fields will provide 60 per cent of Sibaya Casino &

Entertainment Kingdom’s electricity requirements, setting a benchmark for South Africa’s

hospitality industry.

innovation. “By reducing our carbon footprint

and investing in renewable energy, we are

reinforcing our commitment to sustainability

and operational efficiency, while setting an

example for the industry and contributing to

a greener future for South Africa.”

installed by LTM Energy Group and sets a

new standard for commercial energy

efficiency in the hospitality industry.

Virath Gobrie, Sibaya’s general manager,

said that the solar plant was a testament to

Sibaya’s dedication to sustainability and

The 2.5mW plant, with 4,590 solar panels

was installed at a cost of R54-million and

is hospitality group Sun International’s

largest investment in green energy to date. It

covers 90% of Sibaya’s external parking lot,

and will offer shade for visitors’ cars while

producing around 3,699gWh of clean energy,

significantly reducing Sibaya’s reliance on

traditional power sources.

Ravin Sahadev, Sibaya’s maintenance

manager, said that the aim of the solar plant

was for the leisure and hospitality complex to

“reduce our reliance on diesel, to prevent

emissions during times of load shedding, and

reduce electricity consumption during

normal periods.”

“By doing this, Sibaya not only saves money

but also contributes towards Sun

International’s environmental strategy which

aims to manage energy efficiently and costeffectively,”

Mr Sahadev said. The plant, which

has a lifespan of around 25 years, was



VENUE NEWS

An icon reimagined: The Lord Charles

Hotel joins Tribute Portfolio

Tribute Portfolio, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s growing collection of characterful, independent

hotels, welcomes its first property in South Africa with the opening of the Lord Charles Hotel,

Somerset West, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of

the Cape Winelands in Somerset West,

this iconic hotel has a new identity that

seamlessly blends old-world charm with

contemporary design and sincere service,

offering independent travellers a distinctive

stay.

Nestled at the foot of the Helderberg

Mountain, just 45 minutes from Cape Town

and 25 minutes from Cape Town International

Airport, the Lord Charles Hotel provides easy

access to world-renowned wine estates, golf

courses, beaches, and cultural landmarks. Set

on 22 acres of idyllic landscaped gardens that

once formed part of an 18 th -century farm, the

property provides guests with a tranquil

connection to nature, and the region’s rich

heritage.

“The Lord Charles Hotel has been a

beloved landmark in Somerset West for

decades, and we are thrilled to introduce

Tribute Portfolio to South Africa with this

celebrated hotel. Its striking design,

welcoming spaces, and deep connection to

the community make it an inspiring

destination for travellers looking for

something unique,” said Sandra Schulze-

Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select and

Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East, and

Africa, Marriott International.

Re-imagined design: Timeless charm

meets contemporary style

A major refurbishment in 2022 revitalised the

Lord Charles Hotel, seamlessly combining

contemporary design with timeless

elegance, drawing inspiration from Lord

Charles Henry Somerset—the namesake of

Somerset West and the founder of South

Africa’s first public library.

The hotel showcases bold artwork by

vibrant local artists, newly landscaped gardens,

and stylish spaces designed to bring people

together and connect with the local

community.

The lobby features abstract installations

inspired by local flora, while African patterns

and motifs throughout the décor celebrate the

region’s rich wildlife and plant life.

Each of the 198 guest rooms is designed

with striking emerald-green hues reminiscent

of an English country garden, complemented

by plush bedding, inviting lounge areas, and

private outdoor spaces offering sweeping

views of the gardens and mountains. For a

moment of quiet retreat, the cosy library

invites guests to sink into a chair, pick up a

book, and unwind with a warm, comforting

drink.

A gastronomic gem and social hub

Foodies can rejoice at any of the hotel’s

gastronomic experiences from early morning

to late drinks, paying homage to its dual South

African and British influences—think

sumptuous English roasts, fresh farm-to-table

dishes, and local speciality’s such as malva

pudding, milk tart, and koeksisters.

The Garden Terrace offers continental and

hot English breakfasts, while the recently

redesigned La Vigna Restaurant features

contemporary décor and a vibrant dining

experience. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining at

the poolside, or an elegant dinner paired with

the region’s finest wines from the hotel’s

expansive wine cellar.

Each afternoon, guests are warmly

welcomed in the lobby lounge for afternoon

tea with a delectable range of pastries, scones,

and a selection of teas, while the Scottishinspired

St. Andrews Pub serves up hearty

meals and pints, providing a vibrant venue to

enjoy the game with other guests and locals.

Resort-style amenities and state-of-theart

meeting spaces

For relaxation, guests can enjoy two swimming

pools, a fitness centre, three tennis courts, a

tranquil spa, and a full-service hair salon. The

hotel also offers expansive gardens complete

with a dam, a private gazebo, and a trickling

stream, providing a scenic backdrop for a

leisurely afternoon stroll.

The Lord Charles Hotel offers a sophisticated

setting for events of all sizes. As the thirdlargest

conference venue in the Winelands, it

features eleven fully equipped meeting rooms

and flexible spaces for gatherings of up to 500

delegates. Dedicated event planners ensure a

seamless experience for corporate meetings,

weddings, and special occasions.

“The Lord Charles Hotel has always been a

place of timeless elegance and heartfelt

service,” said Julia Ward, general manager of

the Lord Charles Hotel. “From the bartender

who knows your favourite drink, to the

concierge who shares hidden local gems,

every stay is designed to feel like a home away

from home. Joining Tribute Portfolio marks an

exciting new chapter, allowing us to introduce

fresh touches and unique experiences while

preserving the warmth, charm, and hospitality

that make the Lord Charles Hotel so special.”

The Lord Charles Hotel, Somerset West, a

Tribute Portfolio Hotel participates in Marriott

Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning

travel programme, allowing members to earn

and redeem points for their stay at this newly

reimagined hotel and others in the Marriott

Bonvoy portfolio.



VENUE NEWS

Southern Sun enhances Sandton and

Rosebank stays for modern travellers

Southern Sun has completed an extensive series of refurbishments across key hotels in

Sandton and Rosebank, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to service excellence and

as well as South African hospitality and tourism. The upgrades span five high-profile hotels

and represent a significant investment in Johannesburg’s premier travel and business hubs.

Andrew Hosking, central northern region

operations director for Southern Sun, said,

“Our recent refurbishments reflect

Southern Sun’s ongoing focus on quality,

comfort, and delivering an experience that

aligns with what today’s travellers expect.” Mr

Hosking added, “Guests want refined design,

attentive service, and a sense of connection to

the city. That is exactly what we have delivered.”

At the heart of Sandton’s commercial district,

Sandton Towers has been fully renewed with a

complete interior upgrade. The revamped Club

Floor, redesigned Atrium Restaurant, and

restored rooftop pool bring renewed

sophistication to this landmark hotel. Four

striking Anton Smit sculptures surround a

reimagined central fountain, adding a bold

artistic presence to the lobby. The hotel’s

enhanced service now includes dedicated

butler training for premium guests, positioning

Sandton Towers as a luxury destination in its

league.

Nearby, Southern Sun Sandton has redefined

modern comfort with a full refurbishment of its

301 rooms and suites. The new look brings in

clean lines, rich textures, and locally sourced

furnishings that create a space that feels both

polished and welcoming. Soundproofing,

blackout curtains, and upgraded lighting add to

the sense of calm, while executive rooms and

suites offer generous layouts, lounge areas, and

high-end finishes. The transformation aligns the

interiors with the hotel’s contemporary identity,

creating a stay that’s as stylish as it is functional.

Downstairs, the Eclipse Restaurant and

panoramic Skye Bar continue to attract guests

and locals alike for standout dining and city

views.

Hidden among Sandton’s high-rises,

Southern Sun Katherine Street offers a relaxed,

residential feel that sets it apart. With spacious

rooms, lush gardens, and its cosy SunPet

offering, it’s made for travellers who like their

stays a little more personal—ideal for long stays

for business travellers and families alike. Select

rooms have been adapted for pet-friendly stays,

with in-room pet amenities and a curated pet

menu. Kelsey’s Restaurant, now under direct

Southern Sun management, adds a relaxed,

flavour-forward dining experience.

In Rosebank, the iconic 54 on Bath continues

its tradition of classic luxury. The recent refresh

of its Level 4 Terrace and Bar, along with croquet

lawns and pool, brings renewed energy to the

boutique hotel’s classic setting. With garden

croquet, high tea, and premium gin pairings, it’s

a destination known for style without spectacle.

Also in Rosebank, the 318-room Southern

Sun Rosebank offers a refined full-service

experience that blends style with substance.

The hotel’s recently refurbished rooms feature a

modern, understated aesthetic with warm

tones, sleek finishes, and thoughtful touches

that make every stay feel considered. In addition

to the updated accommodation, guests can

enjoy the tranquil Zen Garden, Camelot Spa,

and versatile conference spaces. The dining

offering has also been refreshed, with the newly

revamped Fresh Restaurant now anchoring the

hotel’s culinary experience. Whether it’s a midweek

business trip or a weekend wind-down,

Southern Sun Rosebank delivers comfort,

convenience, and a strong sense of place.

“These investments not only reflect our

confidence in Johannesburg’s future but also

the critical role that hospitality plays in local

economic growth,” Mr Hosking said. “By

continuously refining our offering, we support

tourism, enhance the guest experience, and

invite both South Africans and international

visitors to rediscover what Jozi has to offer.”

Southern Sun operates more than 90 hotels

across South Africa and beyond, serving a

diverse mix of travellers. These recent

refurbishments reaffirm its leadership in the

industry and its belief in the value of local travel

experiences done well.



MARKET NEWS

WTM Africa 2025—record

participation from 96 countries

World Travel Market (WTM) Africa 2025 took place from 9-11 April 2025, with

unprecedented global participation, welcoming industry professionals from a record 96

countries under the theme ‘Ignite Africa’. The event signals strong recovery and growth in

African tourism, with significant increases in both buyer and exhibitor numbers.

In her opening address, Carol Weaving,

managing director of RX Africa,

highlighted the event’s impressive

growth: “We have 96 countries

represented this year, which is the biggest

World Travel Market Africa in eleven years.

We have a 27 per cent increase in buyers this

year and 82 per cent of these are new to

World Travel Market Africa, which is amazing

for our exhibitors.”

The eleventh edition of WTM Africa

features 742 exhibitors, with first-time

participation from six new destinations:

Zambia, Netherlands, Qatar, Croatia, Sierra

Leone and São Paulo. The event has also

attracted 13 new buyer countries, including

Peru, Algeria, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Thailand,

Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Latvia, Romania,

Finland, Ireland, and Kuwait.

Alderman James Vos, Cape Town’s Mayoral

Committee Member for Economic Growth

and Tourism, welcomed delegates to ‘the

best city in the world’, noting that “Cape

Town was now ranked as the best city in the

world by Time Out for 2025, moving up from

the second-place last year.”

Mr Vos went on to share key statistics that

reflect Cape Town’s growing role as a travel

hub:

• 226 international flights land weekly,

connecting Cape Town to 31 destinations.

• A total of 76 cruise ships are scheduled

this season.

• Targeted marketing campaigns reached

over 68 million people in India alone—

with more than 130-million-page

impressions within just one month.

During his address, Mr Vos outlined his



MARKET NEWS

five-point programme to drive tourism

growth in Cape Town, starting with landing

more flights. “The more flights we land, the

more visitors we attract, the more jobs we

create,” he said, citing recent engagements

with airlines in India about launching direct

routes between Cape Town and Indian cities.

Similar efforts will be made later this year

during an official visit to China.

His plan also includes expanding the city’s

cruise economy, increasing conferences and

events, implementing clever destination

marketing, and investing in more attractions

and experiences with geographic spread.

Mr Vos stressed that all these efforts are

underpinned by investment in infrastructure

resilience—including water security projects;

independent energy generation; expanded

public transport; enhanced law enforcement

deployment; and visa reform initiatives

aimed at improving access: “One of the

biggest barriers to travel is access. That’s why

I champion visa reform – to make it easier for

visitors to choose South Africa – and,

ultimately, Cape Town.”

Both leaders highlighted the importance

of tourism as an economic driver, with Mr

Vos stating: “Tourism is more than just an

industry. It'’s a game changer for businesses

and communities. And tourism isn’t just

about the places we visit. It’s also about the

people we empower.”

WTM Africa 2025 features a

comprehensive programme, including

responsible tourism awards, content sessions

across five theatres, travel tech showcases,

and specialised events focused on business

tourism, eco-tourism, and tourism

investment. The event has generated 38,559

appointment requests, reflecting its serious

business nature.

Ms Weaving concluded her remarks by

emphasising the human element driving

African tourism success: “Africa’s people are

our superpower.”

Key stats and highlights

from WTM Africa 2025

Global reach and representation

• 96 countries represented—the largest

number in WTM Africa’s 11-year history.

• 13 new countries attending for the first

time, including:

– Peru, Algeria, Uzbekistan, Malaysia,

Thailand, Czech Republic, Azerbaijan,

Latvia, Romania, Finland, Ireland,

Kuwait.

Buyer growth

• 27% increase in buyers compared to

previous years.

• A striking 82% of these buyers are new

to WTM Africa, indicating both strong

outreach and expanding global interest.

Media presence

• 28% increase in media attendance,

supporting increased visibility for

exhibitors and destinations.

Exhibitor expansion

• 742 total exhibitors.

• Representation from 6 new exhibiting

destinations:

• Zambia, Netherlands, Qatar, Croatia,

Sierra Leone and São Paulo (Brazil).

Business opportunities

• A record-breaking 38,559 appointment

requests were made, reflecting

heightened buyer-supplier engagement

and B2B activity.



MARKET NEWS

South African Tourism on

track to deliver Africa’s

Travel Indaba 2025

The countdown is on until Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025, solid plans are underway for what

promises to be another successful show!

From 13–15 May, with BONDay kicking

off on 12 May, the city of Durban, in

KwaZulu-Natal province, will welcome

delegates globally to an unforgettable

showcase of Africa’s rich tourism offerings.

South African Tourism is fully committed to

delivering a world-class event, that not only

highlights Africa’s diverse travel experiences,

but also serves as a powerful platform for

forging meaningful partnerships, and driving

business opportunities.

South African Tourism has established an

industry-led Advisory Committee, reinforcing

commitment to partnership and

collaboration, ensuring the seamless

execution of this global travel trade event.

While there have been some early

challenges in the planning, the team has

doubled its efforts, working tirelessly to

ensure that this year’s show not only meets,

but surpasses expectations.

Since registrations for Africa’s Travel Indaba

opened in February, interest has been

positive so far—with over 500 exhibitors from

nineteen African countries already registered,

and more than 650 hosted and non-hosted

buyer applications received globally.

This impressive response sets the stage for

an exceptional trade floor, brimming with

opportunities to connect, collaborate, and

celebrate Africa’s tourism story.

Applications are still open for hosted and

non-hosted buyers, and we also extend a

special invitation to domestic and regional

buyers to apply.

South African Tourism is also pleased to

announce that media applications for hosted

and non-hosted media are officially open,

inviting journalists, broadcasters, and content

creators to cover this iconic trade show,

showcasing the best of Africa’s tourism

landscape.

In the year of South Africa’s G20 Presidency,

we’re proud to show the world our country’s

capability in hosting leading global events.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is more than a trade

show—it’s a celebration of our continent’s

vibrancy, resilience, and unmatched travel

experiences.

South African Tourism thanks all partners

and stakeholders for being part of this

journey and we look forward to welcoming

all delegates to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in

May.



MARKET NEWS

The Tourism Investment Forum

Africa—goes where it matters

The Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) is dedicated to driving tourism-led

investment and development in villages, towns, and small dorpies (VTSD).

The City of uMhlathuze was recently

announced as the host city for the

highly anticipated Tourism Investment

Forum Africa (TIFA) 2025—a marquee event

bringing together investors scouring for deals.

To be held under the theme: Tourism and

Infrastructure Investment: Driving Economic

Transformation and Enhancing Community

Well-Being, from 26-27 August 2025, at the

Thembela Events Venue, Richards Bay. TIFA

2025 is expected to attract key industry

stakeholders, investors, policymakers, and

tourism leaders from across Africa and

beyond.

The selection of uMhlathuze, a key port city

in KwaZulu-Natal, underscores its growing

reputation as a dynamic hub for tourism,

trade, and investment.

Benefits of TIFA’s VTSD initiatives for local

communities:

Economic development

1. Job creation: Tourism investment can

create employment opportunities for local

residents, contributing to economic growth

and poverty reduction.

2. Revenue generation: Tourism can generate

revenue for local communities through

taxes, fees, and other economic activities.

3. Infrastructure development: Tourism

infrastructure projects, such as roads,

bridges, and public facilities, can benefit

local communities and improve their

quality of life.

Community development

1. Capacity building: TIFA’s VTSD initiative can

provide capacity-building programmes,

enabling local communities to develop the

skills and knowledge needed to participate

in the tourism industry.

2. Community engagement: TIFA fosters

community engagement and participation,

ensuring that local communities are

involved in tourism development and

decision-making processes.

3. Cultural preservation: Tourism initiatives

can help preserve local cultures and

traditions, promoting cross-cultural

understanding and appreciation.

Sustainable tourism

1. Environmental conservation: Sustainable

tourism practices can promote

environmental conservation and protect

natural resources, benefitting local

communities and the environment.

2. Responsible tourism: TIFA’s VTSD initiative

can promote responsible tourism practices,

ensuring that tourism development is

environmentally and socially responsible.

Why VTSD?

1. Improved living standards: Tourism

investment can lead to improved living

standards for local community members,

including better access to education,

healthcare, and other essential services.

2. Increased economic opportunities: TIFA'’s

VTSD initiative can create new economic

opportunities for local communities,

including entrepreneurship, SMME

development, and job creation.

3. Preservation of natural and cultural

heritage: Tourism initiatives can help

preserve natural and cultural heritage sites,

promoting cross-cultural understanding

and appreciation.

4. Initiative to transform the sector.



SITE NEWS

The future of events: Navigating uncertainty in a fractured world

We now live in a global society where conflict, in all its forms, has become the new normal. Gamechanging

decisions that impact entire industries are being made – and unmade – within 24 hours.

Global trade, poverty alleviation

programs, pathways to peace, and

even fundamental values like

inclusiveness are being actively

weaponised in a frenzied power struggle that

seems light-years away from the core

principles of a civilised society: peaceful

coexistence, truthfulness, integrity, honesty,

and care for the most vulnerable. The gap

between what should be and what is feels as

stark as the difference between a perfectly

curated gourmet meal on Instagram and the

disappointing reality on your plate.

And yet, as Samuel Beckett – Irish dramatist

and existentialist – famously stated in The

Unnamable, “I can’t go on. I’ll go on.” So, on

we go. Despite the challenge of keeping

research in step with the breakneck pace of

our evolving global marketplace, we turn our

attention to a newly released report from the

Events Industry Council (EIC), generously

supported by the SITE Foundation.

At SITE’s recent Global Conference in

Tulum, Mexico, EIC’s Amy Calvert launched

The Futures Landscape Report 2025, the

culmination of a year-long collaboration

among EIC’s 60+ association and corporate

members. The report was designed to

uncover and understand the key issues

shaping the future of the business events

community. It’s a deep and comprehensive

piece of research—like peeling an endless

onion of global data, each layer revealing

sharper insights and leaving you wanting

more (without the tears). But, given the

volatile geopolitical climate of the past five

months, some of its findings may already be

outdated.

What’s shaping the future of events?

According to the report, the ‘futures’ landscape

is defined by a dozen critical themes. The top

three in terms of importance are:

1. The Events Business Model

2. Talent

3. Risk Mitigation

Meanwhile, Mobility, Infrastructure, and ESG

(Environmental, Social, and Governance)

ranked lowest.

By Pádraic Gilligan,

Co-Founder, SoolNua

| Research &

Consultancy, SITE

The events business model has long needed

an overhaul, so it’s no surprise that respondents

identified it as the most important theme. The

report highlights three macro forces reshaping

the model:

· The entry of technology

· Rising costs

· Shifts in employer-employee relationships

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SITE NEWS

terms of fees paid for services rendered and

overall wage levels in our industry.

Globally, the events supply chain is more

complex than most clients realise. Consider

an association conference originating in

France and delivered in Thailand—this could

involve both a core and local PCO

(Professional Conference Organiser). Similarly,

an incentive program originating in Canada

and delivered in Brazil is likely to require both

a Canadian agency and a local DMC. Each

plays an essential role—but, does the client

recognise this? More importantly, are they

willing to pay a fair fee to both?

Meanwhile, the economic model

underpinning hospitality – the broader industry

through which we deliver our value – remains a

classic pyramid. Executive salaries at the top are

made possible only by the low wages of those

at the bottom. As cost pressures increase, how

sustainable is this model?

The curious case of mobility

One of the report’s more surprising findings is

the low ranking of Mobility as a priority issue.

Defined in the report as ‘protectionism, visa

challenges, travel disruptions, and access to

knowledge-sharing’, mobility is, in my view, a

ticking time bomb.

From my vantage point in Europe, mobility

issues are poised to escalate dramatically, as

travel, like trade, becomes weaponised. At

SITE Global Conference, I spoke with an

agency that has already been forced to

relocate eight meetings and incentive

programs – originally planned for the U.S. –

to Canada, due to visa challenges and client

concerns.

Compounding this, the U.S. administration

is now considering new travel restrictions

affecting citizens from up to 41 countries. At

the same time, Level 1 and 2 travel advisories

have been issued to U.S. travellers for several

destinations, including Turks & Caicos – an

upscale Caribbean resort destination – and

Albania, which was recently listed by Condé

Nast Traveler as one of The Best Places to Go

in Europe in 2025.

The intersection of geopolitical instability,

travel restrictions, and industry economics

presents a formidable challenge for business

events and incentive travel professionals.

But, as Samuel Beckett reminds us, we go

on. And, in that persistence, perhaps, lies the

future of our industry.

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


SAACI NEWS

Why you should be at the 2025 SAACI National

Conference—to Shape the Future of Business Events

Since the SAACI National Conference in 2024, the Southern African Association for the

Conference Industry has taken bold steps to address the key concerns raised by members and

stakeholders, especially around professionalisation, standards, and unlocking growth

opportunities across the region.

When Minister of Tourism Patricia de

Lille called on the sector to formalise

and scale its impact, SAACI listened—

and acted.

In the months following, the association has

worked closely with partners such as EXSA,

AAXO, SITE, and the Event Greening Forum to

advance consideration on a cross-sector

accreditation framework that has the support

of the National Department of Tourism, built

conversations focusing on alignment around

key industry standards, and strengthened

regional collaboration.

Now, as we gear up for this year’s national

conference from 27–29 July 2025 at The

Vineyard Hotel in Cape Town, the conversation

shifts from identifying challenges, to

implementing solutions.

With the theme ‘Shaping Tomorrow,

Together, Today’, this year’s conference will

feature a highly practical and immersive

programme. From the Welcome Networking

Lunch, to sessions that combine TED Talk-style

insights with hands-on simulations, delegates

will leave with actionable ideas, not just

inspiration.

What’s new in 2025?

A CEO-for-a-Day Simulation that puts attendees

in the hot seat to navigate real-world decisions.

A crowdsourced session voted on by

delegates, to ensure that your voice shapes the

agenda.

The Green Innovation Shark Tank, where

suppliers pitch their best sustainable solutions,

and receive expert feedback.

And of course, SAACI continues to focus on

capacity building, through a Youth Panel,

creating space for the young professionals

within the industry.

There’s no tomorrow without all of you.

The 2025 conference serves as a checkpoint

for how far we’ve come and where we’re

headed. Your participation will help shape the

direction of the business events industry in

Southern Africa, and beyond.

Register now to secure your place at the

2025 SAACI National Annual Conference and

be part of the solution. Early bird rates close on

18 June 2025.

Register here.

There is no tomorrow without today, so let’s

shape it together, today!



EXSA NEWS

EXSA hosts recent AGM

On 27 March 2025, EXSA held their 45 th Annual General Meeting.

EXSA chairperson, Sibusiso Mncwabe

opened the AGM by providing a broad

overview of the EXSA-ptionally busy year

2024. A brief overview of his discussion is as

follows:

In 2024, EXSA changed their Memorandum

of Agreement and Code of Conduct. Each

member is held accountable in line with the

code of conduct and should maintain the

standards that EXSA has in place for the

delivery of quality.

He also spoke about the success of the

conference and awards ceremony held in

January, congratulating all the recipients on

the high quality of their work. The conference

offered highly relevant, thought-provoking

content that assists the association members

build resilience and maintain positive mental

health.

Membership grew well in 2024, and we

ended with over 100 member companies, so

this is definitely a step in the right direction.

Members are seeing the benefit of belonging

to EXSA, and they feel like they are part of a

community that stands together to produce

exceptional service to the industry.

The courses which EXSA has been involved

in developing: Exhibition Stand Builder,

Events Management, and Business

Development Manager, are all in the final

stages of approval and should be accessible

in due time. This is very exciting, and we look

forward to attracting quality, qualified staff to

the industry.

Our Treasurer, Ishmael Atanasi, reviewed

the financials, which finally show positive

growth since Covid. This growth is attributed

to an increase in membership numbers, and,

if this trend continues, we expect to be fully

recovered by the end of the year.

Additionally, we have taken on essential

services, such as legal support, which have

benefited the association and are now

affordable.

The board will remain unchanged for the

next year, as per the MOI:

• Sibusiso Mncwabe Chairperson

• Jacqui Nel Deputy Chairperson

• Ishmael Atanasi Treasurer

• Liam Beattie Western Cape Chair

• Nicolas Curle Deputy Western Cape

Chair

• Ashona Maharaj KZN Chairperson

• Kerry-Lee Bester Gauteng Chairperson

• Angelique Smith Events Chairperson

• Ross Wilson Director

• Gavin Burgess Director

• Kimendrie Pillay Director

• Emmanuel Patty Director

• Daniel Chemel Director

• Steve Marsden Director

Each board member is actively involved in

one or more working groups aligned with

their skills and expertise. We have seen

positive outcomes from these groups and

anticipate even greater success in 2025.

We wish the board every success in 2025,

and all are fully committed to the EXSA vision

and mission.


Beyond the bottles: The event

industry’s role in water sustainability

Access to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental human

right—and a global responsibility. As one of the largest

producers of waste, the MICE industry needs to think more

sustainably.

By John Arvanitakis,

EGF Chairman

The United Nations’ Sustainable

Development Goal (SDG 6) calls for

universal access to safe water, sanitation,

and hygiene. Yet, millions still lack these

essentials, impacting health, ecosystems, and

economies. For this reason, water usage and

waste management are critical sustainability

concerns.

Events, whether conferences, festivals, or

exhibitions, require significant water for

hydration, sanitation, and operations. They

often provide drinking water through bottles,

water stations, or refill points, this can quickly

add up to a significant volume of water

required, to meet the demand of thousands

of people.

Events also rely on water for various

operational needs, such as cooling systems

(for AV equipment or catering), cleaning,

irrigation for outdoor events, and, in some

cases, firefighting systems or emergency

measures. For instance, exhibitions and trade

shows require water for cleaning and

maintaining the venue, while food vendors

and kitchens require water for food

preparation, dishwashing, and food safety

practices.

Additionally, events with large crowds

often need proper sanitation facilities

(including toilets and washrooms) that

require substantial water resources.

If not managed properly, these events can

place undue pressure on local water

resources and even pollute essential water

systems.

Here’s how the events industry can reduce

its impact, align with SDG 6, and promote

water sustainability.

Reduce water waste

One of the most direct ways the events

industry can contribute to water

sustainability is by minimising water waste.

Here’s what you can do:

• Venues: Install rainwater harvesting

systems to collect and repurpose water for

irrigation, cooling, and sanitation.

• Catering: Choose water-wise menus by

prioritising seasonal, plant-based, and lowwater-footprint

ingredients.

• Try this! Consider using AI-driven kitchen

technology to reduce water waste during

food preparation.

• Production and staging: Use waterless or

closed-loop cooling systems for event

lighting and AV equipment.

• Attendees: Educate guests on water

conservation through digital event apps,

on-site signage, and incentives.

Reduce water pollution

Another important aspect of water

sustainability is reducing waste associated

with bottled water and disposable cups. Not

only does this reduce the environmental

burden of plastic waste, but it also cuts

down on the water footprint of producing

and transporting bottled water. Here’s what

you can do:

• Venues: Replace single-use bottled water

with filtered, chilled water stations.

• Catering: Serve water in reusable

glassware rather than disposable cups.

• Outdoor and festival events: Implement

atmospheric water generators (AWGs) to

produce clean drinking water from

humidity, reducing dependency on

transported water supplies.

Provide proper sanitation

Water is not only crucial for hydration but also

for maintaining sanitation standards. Proper

waste management, especially at large

events, is essential for safeguarding water

sources from contamination. Several

sustainable practices can be integrated to

improve sanitation, while reducing water

usage:

• Indoor event venues: Upgrade to vacuum

flush or composting toilets that

significantly reduce water usage, compared

to traditional systems.

• Outdoor event venues: Use portable ecotoilets

with biological treatment systems

that safely process waste.

• Catering and bars: Install grease traps and

wastewater filtration systems, to prevent

contamination of local water sources.

• Event organisers: Choose suppliers that

follow strict wastewater disposal

regulations.

Try this! Use the Green Database to find

local sustainable suppliers across Africa.

https://www.greendatabase.co.za/.

By implementing sustainable water

management practices across venues,

catering, sanitation, and more, event

organisers can reduce the environmental

impact of their gatherings and contribute to

achieving SDG 6. Every drop counts!

Here’s how the events industry can reduce

its impact, align with SDG 6, and promote

water sustainability: https://www.

eventgreening.co.za/beyond-the-bottles-theevent-industrys-role-in-water-sustainability/

About us

The Event Greening Forum is a non-profit organisation

that promotes sustainability within the business events

sector. To find out more, please visit

www.eventgreening.co.za.

For more information, please contact:

Lynn Mcleod

Tel: 082 891 5883

Email: lynn@eventgreening.co.za



DIRECTORY

SOUTHERN AFRICAN ASSOCIATION

FOR THE CONFERENCE INDUSTRY

EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS

ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

SOCIETY FOR INCENTIVE

TRAVEL EXCELLENCE

SA EVENTS COUNCIL

EXCO AND HEAD OFFICE

Chairperson

Jaques Fouche

e: jaques@be-moved.co.za

c: +27 (0)60 993 7542

Vice-chairperson

Gheeta Payle

e: gheeta.payle@inhousevtm.com

c: +27 (0)61 609 8585

EXSA OFFICE

www.exsa.co.za

EXSA Chairperson

Sibusiso Mncwabe

Deputy Chairperson

Jacqui Nel

Treasurer

Ismael Atanasi

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

e: hello@saeventscouncil.org

Chairperson

Raylene Johnson, CEO: TEBCO-SA

Interim treasurer

Glenn van Eck, Chairperson: CEPA

Spokesperson

Projeni Pather, Chairperson: AAXO

Treasurer

Alex Wrottesley

e: alex@intoafrica.co.za

c: +27 (0)79 429 1627

Chief executive officer

Glenton De Kock

e: ceo@saaci.org

c: +27 (0)82 575 7565

Membership Services & Operations

Tracey-Lee Abdulla

e: members@saaci.org

t: +27 (0)84 492 1515

REGIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Eastern Cape Chairperson

Neil Mouton

t: +27 (0)61 423 9920

e: ec.za@saaci.org

KwaZulu-Natal Chairperson

Kavitha Dhawnath

c: +27 (0)83 607 2006

e: kzn.za@saaci.org

Gauteng Chairperson

Mary Mahlangu

c: +27 (0)81 574 9493

e: jhb.za@saaci.org

Western Cape Chairperson

Ansu Colditz

c: +27 (0)82 457 8071

e: wc.za@saaci.org

Western Cape Chair

Liam Beattie

Deputy Western Cape Chair

Nic Curle

KZN Chairperson

Ashona Maharaj

Gauteng Chairperson

Kerry-Lee Bester

Events Chairperson

Angelique Smith

Directors

Ross Wilson

Gavin Burgess

Kimendrie Pillay

Emmanuel Patty

Daniel Chemel

Steve Marsden

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

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

Learning Ambassador

Esti Venske

c: +27 (0)83 482 9276



DIRECTORY

ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN

EXHIBITION ORGANISERS


INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS &

CONVENTION ASSOCIATION

SACIA — Southern African Communications

Industries Association

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e: kevan@sacia.org.za

Executive director: Kevan Jones

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

Gary Corin, Specialised Exhibitions

e: Gary.corin@montgomerygroup.com

Vice Chairperson

Projeni Pather, Exposure Marketing

e: projeni@exposuremarketing.co.za

Venue Committee Chairperson

Cornelle du Preez, Gallagher Convention Centre

e: cornelled@gallagher.co.za

Treasurer

James Bull, Informa Tech

e: James.bull@informa.com

Immediate Past Chair

Devi Paulsen-Abbott

e: devi@aaxo.co.za

Board of Directors

Adele Hartdegen, Dogan Events

Errol Bryce, Vuka Group

Joshua Low, dmg Events

Tracy Gounden, Messe SA

179 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North, Private Bag

X7000, Parklands 2121

t: +27 (0)11 447 4777

e: info@eventgreening.co.za

w: www.eventgreening.co.za

Management Committee Members:

Chairperson: John Arvanitakis, Chat’r Xperience

1 st Vice Chairperson: Neo Mohlatlole, SevenColors

2 nd Vice Chairperson: Angelique Smith, Event

Synthesis

Treasurer:Justin Hawes, Scan Display

Secretariat: Lynn McLeod, Individual

Aabida Davis, CTICC

Caylynne Fourie, Individual

Gary van der Walt, Xanita

Gavin Burgess, Technology Partners

Grace Stead, Steadfast Greening

Herkie du Preez, STRONG PR

Joey Swart, Take Note Events

Morwesi Ramonyai, Borena Energy

Patrick Cronning, Expo Guys

Sanja van Rooyen, Specialised Exhibitions

Associate Members

Anthea Buys, AAXO

Ellen Oosthuizen, PCO Alliance

Glenton de Kock, SAACI

Kevan Jones, SACIA

Lee-Ann Alder, EXSA

Tess Proos, SITE Africa

PCO ALLIANCE NETWORK

e: info@pcoalliance.co.za

w: www.pcoalliance.co.za

Chairperson

Melody Barber

t: +27 (0)84 705 1181

ICCA African Chapter

Chairperson:

Taubie Motlhabane

Cape Town International Convention Centre

t: +27 (0)21 410 5000

e: Taubiem@cticc.co.za

Deputy Chairperson:

Frank Murangwa

Rwanda Convention Bureau

t: +250 788 358 454

e: frank.murangwa@rcb.rw

Secretariat:

Esmaré Steinhöfel

ICCA Africa Regional director

c: +27 (0)84 056 5544

e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org

w: www.iccaworld.com/dbs/africanchapter

w: www.iccaworld.org

OTHER ORGANISATIONS

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

w: 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

e: 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

w: 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

w: www.psasouthernafrica.co.za

SATI — South African Translators’ Institute

Executive director: Marion Boers

t: +27 (0)11 803 2681

e: office@translators.org.za

w: 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

w: 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

w: www.skalsouthafrica.org

STA — Sandton Tourism Association

t: +27 (0)83 558 5445

e: secretariat@sandtontourism.com

w: 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

w: www.tbcsa.travel

w: 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

w: www.interpreter.org.za

TPSA — Technical Production Services

Association

c: +27 (0)82 555 5556

e:kevan@sacia.org.za

w: 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

w: www.tshwanetourism.com

Chairperson: Bronwen Cadle de Ponte

Secretary: Sithembile Nzimande

Membership coordinator: Liz Oosthuysen

e: membership@tshwanetourism.com

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

w: www.saboa.co.za



MARKET NEWS

Allie Hunt joins Cape Town Helicopters

and Escape+Explore

Allie Hunt will be joining the management team of Cape Town Helicopters and Escape+Explore

on 1 April 2025.

Her new cross-company role reflects

both brands’ commitment to the travel

trade, focusing on product

development and industry partnerships.

Founders Ingram Casey (Escape+Explore) and

Neil Warren (Cape Town Helicopters) said that

bringing Allie on board reinforces their shared

vision to elevate trade collaboration.

Ms Hunt is widely known in the industry,

having owned and managed Inspirational

Places for the past 17 years, and, in her new

position, she will help bridge two of Cape

Town’s most dynamic experience brands.

While Cape Town Helicopters and

Escape+Explore remain separate companies

with distinct identities, they are united in their

mission to position Cape Town as the world’s

experience and storytelling capital—on land,

sea, and air.

Index of advertisers

Escape+Explore is known for curating

private guided adventures across the Cape,

pairing discerning travellers with top local

guides and storytellers. Cape Town

Helicopters – home to helicopters,

experiences, catamaran charters, and fixedwing

operations – delivers immersive

journeys by air and sea that showcase the

Cape’s natural splendour. Together, the two

companies are crafting seamless, world-class

experiences that celebrate Cape Town’s

biodiversity, marine life, diverse cultures, wine,

culinary scene, and layered historical journey.

“I’m excited to step into a full-time role with

two dynamic companies that share my

passion for Cape Town,” Ms Hunt said. “This

new chapter allows me to spend more time

in the city I love, while helping shape

seamless experiences that showcase its

stories, people, and natural beauty in bold,

meaningful ways.”

For more information or to explore trade

collaboration opportunities, please visit:

escapexplore.com | capetownhelicopters

ADVERTISER PAGE EMAIL WEBSITE

AAXO 12-19 aaxo@aaxo.co.za www.aaxo.co.za

ANEW Hotels & Resorts FC,IFC,8-10 reservations@anewhotels.co.za anewhotels.com/

Barmotion 38-39,40 info@barmotion.co.za barmotion.co.za

CTICC 7 sales@cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za

EAPoEMiP 23 lashika@eventschool.co.za www.eventschool.co.za

Event Greening Forum 53 info@eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za

EXSA 52 exsa@exsa.co.za www.exsa.co.za

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

Nelson Mandela Bay 20-21,22 dlouw@mandelametro.gov.za www.nmbt.co.za

Niche Partners 24-25 business@nichepartners.org www.nichepartners.org

RX Africa 14,15 SA-Info@rxglobal.com rxglobal.com

SAACI 50,51 info@saaci.org www.saaci.org

SA Events Council 49 hello@saeventscouncil.org www.saeventscouncil.org

SITE Africa 49 info@sitesouthernafrica.com siteglobal.com/chapter/site-africaess

Specialised Exhibitions 16-17,18 SEMarketing@montgomerygroup.com www.specialised.com

Synergy 33 admin@synergybe.co.za https://synergybe.co.za/

The Outlook Lodge 30-31,32 reservations@theoutlook.co.zw www.theoutlook.travel



A GLOBAL THE LAST COVER PERSPECTIVE WORD STORY

Superpowers

Fans of the Marvel movies know that every hero has her/his specific superpower, allowing

them to stand out. The same goes for successful convention centres. Each of them has

something which makes them special. The big difference with the superpowers of the Marvel

characters is that these superpowers are the result of very hard, data driven, work—which

makes it an achievable goal for every convention centre.

By Sven Bossu, chief executive officer of AIPC

The notion of superpower has been

around for a very long time, in almost

every culture across the globe. It became

even more popular since the introduction of

the comic books in the 1930s, featuring

heroes such as Superman or The Flame. More

recently, the notion of superpower is also

applied to companies which have one

institutional capability which separates them

from the others.

We all know the classic examples. The

Toyota Way: an amazing manufacturing

process based on continuous improvement

and respect for people. LEGO: a journey of

continued innovation, allowing them to stay

relevant for every new generation. Amazon:

challenging the status-quo as a mindset. Their

superpower has allowed these companies to

become the absolute champions in their field.

The same is seen in the area of convention

centres, which could be considered as a

highly commoditised market. Very often, a

conference room in a convention centre in

Canada will look very similar to one in

Germany. It is especially in these markets

where standing out is important.

A number of convention centres are doing

a great job at this. Take the SwissTech

Convention Center in Lausanne, Switzerland.

This is a boutique venue, based on a

university campus, where some of the

brightest minds in the world can be found.

This collective brainpower is the superpower

of the centre in two ways. On the one hand, it

provides access to great content and

speakers. On the other hand, many of the

professors on campus are members of boards

of associations or scientific committees,

giving them access to a wide range of

decision-makers when it comes to locations

for upcoming conferences and meetings.

Now, how do you go about defining and

implementing your superpower? First of all, it

is important to know that there are two types

of superpower: functional capabilities and

enterprise-wide capabilities. A functional

superpower is about an activity that any

convention centre does (sales, operations,

etc.), but you are consistently better at it than

the competition. Data analytics at Marina Bay

Sands, Singapore, would be an example. I am

not aware of any other convention centre

that is as focused on data, or excels as much

in translating data into yield. (Such as speed

of decision making, ability to innovate, the

operating system, and customer-centricity). A

fine example of an enterprise-wide

superpower is ICC Sydney: the mindset across

the entire staff – from CEO to usher – is

focused on making a difference for the

customer. That is the enterprise-wide focus

point. How that is done, of course, differs

from person to person and function to

function, but it creates a company-wide drive

toward one goal.

Secondly, once you have defined your

superpower (you might actually have more

than one), you need to build it/them. This is

not straightforward, as it requires a holistic

approach. The leadership needs to have a

clear vision of what needs to be achieved and

needs to be able to adapt, as the

environment continues to change.

Employees need to receive the skills,

functional framework, and support to

develop their talents to feed into the

superpower. A culture and mindset need to

be implemented and measured, to underpin

the superpower. The appropriate technology

required to deliver the superpower needs to

be implemented in a structured way. The

organisational structure and ways of

operating must be designed and structured

to ensure clear roles, responsibilities, and

accountabilities, enabling the capability to

grow and thrive. And finally, well-designed

routines and processes need to be in place

and practiced continuously.

Thirdly, as the top management team

drives the journey of building the

superpower, it is crucial that the team is fully

aligned on what needs to be done, the

expected outcome, and how it will be

measured.

Establishing a superpower is certainly no

easy endeavour. It is not a ‘one-off’, as

maintaining the superpower, much like

staying in shape, requires continuous training.

However, as the examples – both from within

the industry and beyond the event industry

and outside the industry – demonstrate; it

can make a significant difference, and, in

some cases, make THE difference.

Who is Sven Bossu?

Sven joined AIPC as chief executive officer in May 2020. In

collaboration with the board, members, and business

partners, he has implemented a transformation

programme that has led to a completely new proposal for

convention and exhibition centres worldwide, based on

the changing needs of members and the challenges they

face. Before joining AIPC, Sven worked as managing

director at ESTRO (European Society for Radiation

Oncology). He successfully led the branding, marketing

and digital transformation of ESTRO—a massive project

that was finalised in April 2020. It included full rebranding,

implementation of a new CMS and CRM

system, the creation and implementation of a complete

revamp of the annual congress. Prior to joining ESTRO,

Sven worked for 20 years in the financial services world.

The first 10 years of his career he worked as an

international programme manager at ING, followed by 10

years at SWIFT—the Society for Worldwide Interbank

Financial Telecommunications. At SWIFT, Sven oversaw

Sibos, SWIFT’s flagship event, which brings together over

8,000 decision-makers, from more than 150 countries, for

four days, to address the common challenges facing the

financial community, and explore solutions. Sven holds a

degree in anthropology. He works and lives in Belgium,

has two children, and loves to read.



DIGITAL

DIRECTORY

AFRICA’S LEADING

BUSINESS EVENTS

DIRECTORY

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and conference organisers in Africa. We have been a trusted source of information for more than 45 years, and

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

Business Events Africa - Vol 45 No 04 - April 2025

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