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Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa
Vol 42 No 4 APRIL 2022
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Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 42 years
CONTENTS
VOL 42 NO 4 APRIL 2022
About the cover
www.businesseventsafrica.com
Voice of the Business Events Industry
The authority on meetings, exhibitions, special events and incentives management
in Africa
Vol 42 No 4 APRIL 2022
Having used the lock-down period to refurbish its head office in the heart of Sandton, the JSE is once again able to offer a world-class venue, equipment, and facilities to host corporate events and meetings. VENUE NEWS 25 ANEW Hotels & Resorts remains on-trend in essentialism. SMME PROFILE 26 Meet Francine Zana. TRENDS 27 Event tech trends for 2022. A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE 26 Placing sustainability at the heart of the travel economy. PERSONALITY PROFILE 30 Tanya Johnson — passion is key in hospitality.
Cover Feature COVER STORY 6 Meet, interact and connect at the newly refurbished JSE venues.
On the pages…
CHEF’S PROFILE 31 Chef Rudi Blaauw — believes in supporting local.
Association news EVENT GREENING FORUM 32 Meet the new EGF team.
EDITOR’S COMMENT 4 Hear, hear! — to an ‘eventful’ 2022.
SITE 34 Five inSITEs on IRF’s 2022 Trends Report.
NEWS 5 Durban ICC in turbo mode to host Africa’s Travel Indaba.
SAEC
AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA 10 Africa’s Travel Indaba — be part of the story.
AAXO 38 Simple ways to make your event more sustainable.
VENUE OF THE MONTH 12 The Capital Zimbali — where smart minds meet.
EXSA 39 It is up to us to drive confidence.
GLOBAL NEWS 16 Global Exhibitions Day — bringing the industry together. GLOBAL PERPECTIVE 18 What meeting planners are looking for. MARKET NEWS 20 Responsible Tourism rock stars win big at Africa Travel Week. 22 Botswana to host the 2022 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum. 23 The Hotel & Hospitality Show 2022 redefines African hospitality. 24 SAITEX celebrates the revival of the African economy.
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 31 764 6977 FAX: 086 762 1867 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Malcolm King malcolm@contactpub.co.za EDITOR: Irene Costa gomesi@iafrica.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Vincent Goode vincent@contactpub.co.za DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Jackie Goosen jackie@contactpub.co.za SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Irene Costa +27 (0)82 558 7387 gomesi@iafrica.com PUBLICATION DETAILS: Volume 42 No 4 Business Events Africa has 12 issues a year and is published monthly. Due to Covid-19, the magazine is currently only available in digital format.
36 The road to recovery for events and exhibitions. publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:
SAACI 40 It is up to us to drive confidence. 41 SAACI announces winners of the youth competition.
Regulars
Official media partner
42 Directory. MARKET NEWS 44 Marriott International appoints Richard Collins as area VP. 44 Index of advertisers and contributors. THE LAST WORD 45 eVisas are the key to unlocking SA’s inbound tourism market.
Official Journal of the Southern Africa Chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence
Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa
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EDITOR’S COMMENT
The year has already been rather ‘eventful’ – pardon the pun – and all I can say is, may it continue! The world keeps spinning and will continue to do so, regardless.
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t times, I reflect on when we were in the midst of the worst of the pandemic and wonder, what was it that kept us all going? Personally, it was the people within the industry who became friends during this challenging time. The check-in calls and messages every now and then, the continuous association and organisation webinars, Zoom and Teams meetings — just keeping in touch. Business Events Africa played a major role in keeping the industry informed durings these times and we approach thewas endconstantly of year, I am seeking positive stories throughout theI’m cautiously optimistic. Personally, industry to share our readers. To be feeling a lotwith more upbeat. honest, this is what me sane during The business eventskept industry is slowly these unprecedented times. hibernation. emerging from an enforced even more so, Business Events I Now, am definitely seeing an increase in
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physical all parts of the industry. Africa is events here toinassist the industry with It is fantastic to observe different sharing its news with ourthe readers, both sectors in our industry starting up again. locally and internationally. The fewI was weeks have been Thispast week speaking to anamazing. industry I’ve been following industry leaders colleague, who shared a story of theon social platforms what they do best time she spent indoing hospital with Covid — be ititexhibitions, incentives, (when was at its worst) and how conferences events. Thewas, industry desperate theand environment with has been waiting foraway so long and all it but took people passing in the ward, was green lightwas from government! whatashe found that the spirit of After months despair, finally there human kindnessofand compassion was is renewed positivity in the industry. always evident, even in what couldOne big is thatas South onlypositive be described a warAfrica zone.is now finally off most of go thefrom world’s travel red So where do we here? lists, including UK.always prevails. In my opinion,the good The recent Africa’s Travel andhave Tourism floods in KwaZulu-Natal been Summit (ATTS) set the scene for devastating, butalso again, what shines what is to If anything, I get the through is come. the way in which people come feeling our continent – the continent forwardthat to assist each other during the of Africa – is finally realising its own worst of times. strength unity.that Over the years, I am so in happy Africa’s TravelAfrican Indaba countries have lookedThis to other returns this yearalways to Durban. event continents for tourism and business will bring KwaZulu-Natal much needed events while, in fact, its own African economic benefits. countries werethe overlooked. This is what business events sector is is no there arepeople still a allThere about: it isdoubt aboutthat connecting lot of challenges, like airlift, visa throughout all spheres of different restrictions, etc. industries, through these meetings, One of theevents challenges addressed During during exhibitions, and incentives. ATTS that tourism/incentive and these isbusiness events, new relationships conference/events packages in theideas past are formed, knowledge is shared,
have created, always communities been geared are uplifted to the due to European legacy programmes, or American and the economic markets. If we, benefits Africans, are immense. would like Another to cater role forI see our own African visitors we our should sector playing, packageisit encouraging differently. people toOver overcome the past thefew fearyears, that resulted our industry from leaders Covid-19, have by done getting a lot them of talking to meetabout again, the face-to-face. issue of airlift This mindset within our of continent fear is a as well tough asone the and issueisof evident visas within in our Africa societies. for Africans, It will takeI hope a while that forATTS people hasto ignited a new overcome chapter, this.where Our industry African can airlines certainly look at be new the conduit routes within for changing the continent perceptions, and finally by following break those healthbarriers and safety which protocols have hindered to ensure travel peoplewithin that they Africa. are in a safe environment. Of course, we would all love to see international The hybrid model delegates is here andtotourists stay, which return means to that ourpeople shoresare butable what to prevents either us from attendexploring or travelnew to business marketsevents withinasour they continent? wish, though, TheinCovid-19 my opinion, pandemic nothing has taught beats meeting us that in-person. we are able to collaborate a As lot the better yearif gets we keep into full the swing, with communication streams open within our lots more conferences, exhibitions and continent. Theforward time is now, Africa is open events, I look to seeing more for business and I am proudly African! industry people… face-to-face!
Irene
Email: gomesi@iafrica.com
Credit: Liebetrau Credit: HeinHein Liebetrau
Hear, hear! — to anfor ‘eventful’ 2022 Africa is open business
PAGE STRAP NEWS
Durban ICC in turbo mode to host Africa’s Travel Indaba Durban’s award-winning Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre is all spruced up and ready to host Africa’s Travel Indaba after a two-year respite.
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he over-112,000 square metre Durban ICC, incorporating the Durban ICC Arena and Durban Exhibition Centre, will be transformed into an exhibitor’s playground when the Indaba, which is the largest tourism marketing event on the African calendar, runs from 2 to 5 May 2022. Given Durban’s excellent weather and convenience for connectivity, the Durban ICC – an icon of sophistication, class, innovation, service excellence and versatility – has been the venue for the tourism expo for more than two decades. Lindiwe Rakharebe, chief executive officer of Durban ICC said Africa’s Travel Indaba is a great showcase of the diverse tourism products South Africa and the continent has to offer and brings together local and international stakeholders in the tourism sector. A face-to-face Indaba will allow the Durban ICC to continue making its valuable contribution to the economy, providing employment and sustaining many livelihoods in the tourism sector’s broad value chain. “While the Durban ICC was affected due to Covid-19, we embraced the opportunity to renew, renovate and refresh our facilities. “We have extended the reliability of our infrastructure and assets, including refurbishing essential lifts and replacing non-compliant airconditioning systems with ozone-friendly units. “We are excited to welcome Indaba delegates. The Durban ICC has entrenched itself as the signature venue for Africa’s www.businesseventsafrica.com
Travel Indaba and we are waiting to warmly welcome thousands of delegates, who will engage in business and secure deals. “An event of this magnitude has huge economic spinoffs for the tourism industry and associated businesses, including Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal,” she said. Durban ICC has hosted important global conventions, including, among others, the World Economic Forum on Africa, 21st International AIDS Convention, COP17/21, Tourism Indaba, 4th BRICS International Competition Convention, 14th World Forestry Congress, Africa Peace Awards, 21st World Routes Development Forum, 3rd World Social Science Forum (WSSF), Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture Africa 2015 and transformation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) to the African Union (AU). The Durban ICC took the coveted award for being Africa’s leading convention venue for a second time last year, after winning in 2020, and was also adjudged South Africa’s Best Convention Centre 2021 at the World MICE Awards. The World MICE Awards is a global initiative to recognise and reward excellence in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions industry and the results follow a year-long search for the world’s leading MICE brands. “Winning awards is a visible demonstration of all the behind-the-scenes hard work from the Durban
ICC teams and people whose principal focus is to continuously provide world-class customer service to clients, both local and international. “It is for this reason that the close-knit team strives to maintain the Durban ICC’s strong inherent culture of warmth and hospitality which we are known for and strives to ensure that each guest leaves the Durban ICC happy and satisfied with the service received,” Ms Rakharebe said. In September, Ms Rakharebe added another trophy to Durban ICC’s impressive collection of silver, when she won the Venue Representative of the Year category of the seventh Women in MICE Awards. The award was given to ‘the woman who has ensured the highest standards of guest and staff wellbeing by moving swiftly to implement measures that not only meet all requirements but exceed them’. Ms Rakharebe said that the Durban ICC is poised to further evolve into one of the world’s top 10 global meeting facilities. The next evolutionary growth cycle will usher in a series of revolutionary and innovative strategies. “Having led the African continent for more than two decades of hosting the world, the Durban ICC will now usher in the highest level of technologically advanced meeting facilities. Leadership in service and technology will continue to be the hallmark of our performance excellence,” she added. Business Events Africa April 2022 5
PAGE STRAP COVER STORY
Meet, interact and connect at the newly refurbished JSE venues After two years of severe limitations on gatherings and with Covid-19 restrictions easing, there is a renewed interest and increase in physical events taking place around South Africa. While virtual events may have provided a necessary alternative during the challenging past 24 months, there is no replacing the value and lasting impact of networking and face-to-face interactions. And with the recent further easing of restrictions, both the eventing industry and event delegates are breathing a sigh of relief.
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aving used the lock-down period to refurbish its head office in the heart of Sandton, the JSE is once again able to offer a world-class venue, equipment, and facilities to host corporate events and meetings. From sound engineers and technical equipment to secure parking and catering, the highly experienced eventing team at the JSE can assist to conceptualise and coordinate anything from a leading industry conference to a small personal business meeting.
6 Business Events Africa April 2022
Take advantage of the JSE’s prime location within Africa’s leading business hub to host AGMs, annual results announcements, corporate meetings, seminars, conferences, workshops or a gala awards evening. Vuyo Lee, JSE’s director for marketing and corporate affairs, said that the JSE is thrilled to unveil this newly renovated venue, which last underwent significant refurbishment back in 2014. “This time around, the main focus was to improve the visitor experience and ensure that we have cutting-edge
Ms Vuyo Lee.
www.businesseventsafrica.com
COVER PAGE STORY STRAP
technology for interactive presentations and hosting hybrid events in the ‘new normal’,” Ms Lee explained. New foyer Some highlights of the newly renovated space include the impressive new JSE foyer. Boasting two state-of-the-art wallboards, this is an ideal space to welcome guests to your event. The main wallboard in the foyer is the perfect setting for live entertainment, be it a pianist, saxophonist or marimba band, or you could choose the smaller wallboard, which is adjacent to the atrium and outdoor deck. Adding to the tech upgrade of the facilities, the JSE has introduced the WizzPass Visitor Management System, which provides added security and ensures convenient and Covid-19-safe access for visitors. This functionality enables guests to pre-register for events and confirm registration on the day of the event through facial recognition on their mobile device. The Auditorium This tiered theatre is the most formal venue at the JSE and provides fixed seating for 145 guests (41 during covid restrictions). As with the other venues, both a standard AV package and a premium AV package is available. Think full HP projectors, top sound quality, external broadcasting connectivity, audio conferencing, WIFI connectivity. Whatever your tech needs, we have the sound and broadcast solution for you. Renovated atrium This flexible, spacious area can be transformed into a theatre, conference room, boardroom, banqueting room, exhibition space or an open networking or exhibition venue. The entertainment area is included at no additional cost when the atrium is hired for that special event, making this area ideal for all-day conferences and larger events. www.businesseventsafrica.com
Business Events Africa April 2022 7
PAGE STRAP COVER STORY
Entertainment area In addition to the new modern open foyer and renovated atrium, the entertainment area has now been designed to include more counter space with a setup for catering and bar facilities. Along with the eight new unisex bathrooms, there is also a new open-air area, just outside the atrium, with a wooden deck, which is perfect for evening entertainment. The building also has a new suite of meeting rooms of various sizes, with state-of-the-art technology and
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interactive webinar functionality. The infrastructure, cabling and technologically advanced equipment in each of the venues, as well as the onsite sound engineers and technicians will ensure that events and meetings run smoothly. In short, the JSE offers a one-stop-shop solution for hosting successful events. ‘New normal’ venue setup With virtual and hybrid meetings and webinars being part of our eventing future, meetings from the JSE can be
broadcast live to your audience with the option of including video, slide presentations, document handouts, audience polls and surveys. This includes the ability to stream international speakers live to your local delegation. Post the event, the recording along with relevant videos and presentations can be packaged and sent to you for your records or sent to delegates. Once again, a full value-added service, which is managed by our experienced in-house tech support team. “Our venues are designed to meet
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COVER PAGE STORY STRAP
Venue capacity To meet the needs of several types of events, various seating configurations are available. These include cinema-style seating for between 50 and 110 guests*; classroom-style seating for 50 to 70 seated guests, a U-shaped configuration for 30 seated guests and a seated dinner for 50 to 70* guests. Venue hire includes a dedicated event coordinator, standard tables, chairs, cutlery and crockery — a professional service with all the extras, to guarantee an unforgettable event experience. *Pax during covid restrictions the ‘new normal’ environment of being Covid-19 compliant, tech-savvy and boast some of the comforts we have become accustomed to while working from home. The JSE is looking forward to hosting corporate clients and guests at its renovated building and promises to pull out all the stops to make the experience productive and enjoyable,” Ms Lee concluded. This space within Sandton’s bustling business hub is the perfect venue in Johannesburg to host both local and international physical and hybrid events and will continue to adhere to all the necessary Covid-19 screening protocols. The JSE now provides the perfect conference and eventing space in Gauteng. Spacious, sustainable, modern, tech-savvy, safe and secure — with the physical events industry back in business, contact the JSE eventing team to take your event to the next level. Contact details Tel: +27 (0)11 520 7000 Email: IssuerServices@jse.co.za Website: www.jse.co.za/services/ company-services
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Business Events Africa April 2022 9
PAGE COVER AFRICA’S STRAP STORY TRAVEL INDABA
Africa’s Travel Indaba — be part of the story Now more than ever, it is critical for the entire sector to unite, and register to attend Africa’s Travel Indaba which makes a comeback after a two-year pause due to Covid-19.
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s the tourism sector is slowly recovering, following the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the floods in KwaZuluNatal will certainly set the sector back further as lives have been lost and many others injured whilst businesses and organisations have lost their properties and livelihood. Plans remain in place for the hosting of Africa’s Travel Indaba in the city of eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal from 2-5 May. Africa’s Travel Indaba 2022 is ready to welcome delegates from across the world, to connect and do business, contributing to the African continent’s tourism sector recovery.
About Africa’s Travel Indaba Africa’s Travel Indaba is Africa’s largest B2B Leisure tourism platform, that serves to curate the quality relationships between all value chain players, built on true value into the future It showcases the widest variety of Africa's best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. Africa’s Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism and organised by Synergy Business Events (Pty) Ltd. Africa’s Travel Indaba has won the award for Africa’s best travel and tourism show. This award was presented by the Association of World Travel Awards. 10 Business Events Africa April 2022
Show Dates BONDay: 2 May 2022 Show Days: 3-5 May 2022 Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (Durban ICC), City of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Theme: AFRICA’S STORIES. YOUR SUCCESS Africa Moves You through telling real African stories, which inspires Africa’s world-class tourism products that give travellers an unforgettable travelling experience. The theme, ‘Africa’s stories, your success’ reaffirms the fact that Africa is reclaiming its own narrative and is ready to share with the world inspiring stories of resilience shown throughout the pandemic. Africa’s Travel Indaba is the best platform to witness how a new story of African prosperity is being told through tourism, from exhibitors, buyers, media and stakeholders’ perspectives.
Africa’s Travel Indaba is set to bring much needed economic injection into the city of Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal province at large, as international delegates will be hosted on pre- and post-tours, to familiarise them with the province’s tourism offerings. At the last edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba in 2019, the show attracted about 6,200 delegates from all over the world, with 1,033 exhibiting businesses from nineteen countries on the continent, showcasing an array of travel and tourism offerings to almost 1,177 local, regional and international buyers. Furthermore, almost 452 local, regional and international media representatives participated at Africa’s Travel Indaba 2019, pointing to the stature and global
profile of the African continent’s tourism industry. To date, there are currently exhibitors and buyers from over 47 countries around the world, confirmed to attend Africa’s Travel Indaba 2022 and ready to do business. These countries include South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria, Ghana, Germany, Switzerland and the Netherlands, to name a few. Empowering small business With travellers from across the world seeking new experiences, Africa’s Travel Indaba continues its commitment to empowering small and lesser-known businesses in the tourism sector. The trade show will feature SMMEs from all of South Africa’s nine provinces. www.businesseventsafrica.com
AFRICA’S TRAVEL MARKET PAGE INDABA STRAP NEWS
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outh African Tourism’s acting chief executive officer, Themba Khumalo, invited players in the tourism industry (both local, regional and international) to come and attend Africa’s Travel Indaba. He emphasised that Africa’s Travel Indaba is an African trade show specifically tailored to advancing the continent’s tourism sector needs, with a clear outlook towards recovery. “We believe that this platform will showcase authentic African experiences and products. Buyers from across the globe will have access to only the best and uniquely African products and experiences.” He said: “The tourism sector has remained resilient through the Covid-19 pandemic though the devastating effects of the
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hindile Makwakwa, acting chief executive officer of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal said that the organisation shared the pain of those who have been affected by the floods in KwaZulu-Natal. “Tourism KZN is confident there will be restoration within the province and a speedy recovery to get back to normality, especially after having endured two years of Covid-19. She added: “Africa’s Travel Indaba will confidently demonstrate to exhibitors, buyers, and the international market that KZN is roaring again and ready to offer memorable travel and tourism experiences and events.” www.businesseventsafrica.com
pandemic can never be discounted. This can largely be attributed to the sector uniting, acting and advocating for recovery. Now more than ever, this spirit needs to be reignited. The more delegates register to attend and participate at Africa’s Travel Indaba, the more the trade show will bring much needed economic injection into the city of Durban and the KZN province at large. The hosting of international delegates on pre- and post tours to familiarise them with the province’s tourism offerings will also go a long way in this regard.” The National Disaster Management Centre and the InterMinisterial Committee on Disaster Management have been activated following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to the province recently. These structures are coordinating an integrated response across all spheres of government, the private sector and civil society. South African Tourism, owner and host of Africa’s Travel Indaba, is encouraged that there will be a speedy restoration of infrastructure so as to allow citizens to resume their normal lives. “We applaud the speedy action in clearing major affected roads. This makes the province open and ready to welcome tourists and, all Indaba delegates who will come from various parts of South Africa and the world in May. While there are some areas that are affected by power cuts and water shortages from time to time, we know that the various government structures are working tirelessly to restore these. Visitors to the province can still enjoy the varied attractions, products and experiences that the province has to offer,” Mr Khumalo added.
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manda Kotze-Nhlapo, the Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the South Africa National Convention Bureau, said that there is a lot to look forward to at this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba. “More than contributing to the city and the province’s tourism sector and the economy, Africa’s Travel Indaba is poised to ensure that both our exhibitors and buyers extract maximum value from the trade show. Only globally vetted buyers will be at the trade show, and they will be paired with exhibitors through our internationally benchmarked diary system to ensure seamless booking of meetings ahead of the show,” Ms Kotze-Nhlapo concluded. Business Events Africa April 2022 11
PAGE SUSTAINABILITY VENUE STRAP OF THE MONTH
Zimbali entrance.
The Capital Zimbali — where smart minds meet Located in a luxury eco estate with insanely beautiful Indian Ocean views, less than fifteen minutes from King Shaka International Airport, The Capital Zimbali Resort is easily accessible and feels like you have arrived at a utopian paradise! Set in a tropical forest that unfurls into the ocean, the resort blends organically into a lush natural landscape.
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magnet for business travellers; the resort is far enough removed to allow delegates to step back and take time to enjoy the tranquil surroundings. A plethora of exciting activities and sensational cuisine boosts the delegates’ sense of complete wellbeing.
Zimbali pool experience.
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Mangwanani Signature Spa.
www.businesseventsafrica.com
VENUE OFVENUE THE PAGEMONTH STRAP NEWS
Reasons why you should book your event at The Capital Zimbali: • South Africa’s most iconic coastal resort is newly renovated and offers top security, ensuring privacy for all events. • 925 m² of superbly renovated function room space with choices ranging from a massive ballroom (which can be divided into two smaller rooms) to the boardrooms (for smaller, executive meetings). • Breakaway option of four dynamic zoom pods or zoom meeting rooms. • Tech enhanced venue with high-speed uncapped Wi-Fi, allowing for live broadcasts, laser projector with high lumens, motorised projector screens, built in high-definition speakers, SM58 roving mics, soundproof venue, high density AP points, LED panels, staging and lighting. • Delegates take a respite in beautifully remastered rooms – thoughtfully designed and meticulously appointed – including luxury suites, garden suites, villas, presidential and penthouse suites, which offer spectacular views of either the forest, Indian Ocean or golf course. • Four outdoor swimming pools equipped with loungers and umbrellas for the enjoyment of guests, with pool side refreshment service. • Onsite signature Mangwanani Spa — take advantage of our corporate rates for groups. • A choice of spectacular venues to host private events including The Stingray Pool Bar, a Bedouin tent or The Zimbali Beach Club. • Access to preferred décor company that provides top notch services that transform the event space to your specifications. • Perfect venue for car/truck launches; in a 658 m2 space, plus ability to drive into the venue. • Option to use the hotel’s specialist team building partners that can theme and tailor-make your programme at the resort or within walking distance from the beach. • Full backup power — only venue that has two generators. • Our well-appointed rooms, suites and villas. • Delegates have access to Zimbali Country Club’s Tom Weiskopf-designed 18-hole golf course. • An excellent variety of unique dining options to suit different palates — plus 24 hour in-room dining. www.businesseventsafrica.com
The Club Lounge.
Meetings and Conferences The Capital Zimbali Conference Centre can host upwards of 700 attendees, with Jubilee Ballroom taking up to 500, banquet style. The Conference Centre has five venues and two meeting rooms. There are also
additional spaces, including the restaurant and foyer, that can be used as the perfect cocktail reception or coffee break area. Facilities include audio-visual equipment and our experienced and dedicated events team is on hand to help with all your meeting needs.
Jubilee Ballroom.
Zimbali boardroom.
Business Events Africa April 2022 13
PAGE VENUE SUSTAINABILITY STRAP OF THE MONTH
Poison Ivy Lounge.
The Copper Restaurant and Bar.
Half and full day conference packages Half day packages are flexible, with a morning or afternoon refreshment break. This includes the hire of the venue, parking, lunch, equipment, bottled water, and complimentary, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi. Full day packages include the hire of the venue, parking, lunch, three coffee breaks, equipment, bottled water, and complimentary unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi. Rooms and Apartments The Capital Zimbali boasts 150 rooms and an additional 96 rooms room capacity, including luxury rooms, apartments, presidential suites and a penthouse as well as several luxury villas. Our well-appointed rooms and suites offer gorgeous views of the Indian Ocean,
beautiful hotel gardens or the main swimming pool.
Zimbali Beach Club.
Mangwanani Signature Spa This brand new Signature spa, unique to the Capital Zimbali is the latest resort style offering from the Mangwanani group. A first-of-its-kind, with a majorly renovated spa and pool facility. A fusion of African wellness, ultimate relaxation and exclusive indulgence. Golf Course A Tom Weiskopf-designed course — by a former South African PGA and British Open Champion. Contact Tel: + 27 (0)32 538 5000 Email: zimbali@thecapital.co.za Website: https://thecapital.co.za/zimbali/
Zimbali Pool.
A Garden Suite.
Pool side treatments — Mangwanani Signature Spa.
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www.businesseventsafrica.com
VENUE PAGE STRAP NEWS
South Africa’s most iconic coastal resort
Remastered for upscale events and epic meetings Located in a luxury eco-estate with insanely beautiful Indian Ocean views, The Capital Zimbali is a magical backdrop for your conference and events. Recent extensive renovations, tastefully curated spaces and stunning accommodation are the essential ingredients for a memorable experience. Partner with our attentive team to create a tailor made programme.
CONTACT US +27 (0) 32 538 5000 | zimbali@thecapital.co.za www.businesseventsafrica.com
Business Events Africa April 2022 15
PAGE GLOBAL STRAP NEWS
Global Exhibitions Day — bringing the industry together Global Exhibitions Day (GED) advocates for the irreplaceable value of physical exhibitions and faceto-face business events in bringing people together and driving the global economy. It is a recognition of the power of face-to-face events to create platforms for economic growth and recovery.
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his 1 June, GED sends the message that everyone in the exhibitions industry – from individuals and professionals to businesses and associations – is working to empower people and businesses, creating opportunities for millions around the world to each make a difference and to make their voices heard. As the pandemic recedes, the exhibitions industry has made a remarkable comeback, thanks to the resilience, innovation, and strength of the community. Exhibition organisers and associations have managed to quickly bring live event platforms back. Indeed, events are seeing levels of attendance similar – if not higher – than
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those before the pandemic. And some shows around the world are bigger than they had been before the pandemic, driven by pent-up demand, especially from small and medium-sized businesses to meet and to do business face-to-face. “Global Exhibitions Day puts the spotlight on the exhibitions industry,” said Monica Lee-Müller, UFI President, “It is a recognition and a celebration of this spirit of innovation and resilience in the industry, and everyone is welcomed to join — working together to showcase who we are as an industry and what vital role we play.” By joining forces to create the firstof-its-kind global coalition, led by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI, facilitator of GED on
1 June 2022, and important industry associations, as well as the world’s leading exhibitions organisers, Clarion Events, Comexposium, Diversified Communications, Emerald, Informa Markets, RX (Reed Exhibitions) and Tarsus, the exhibitions industry is again showing its support, innovation, and resilience in responding to difficulties. Charlie McCurdy, chief executive officer of Informa Markets, said: “The spirit of connection and collaboration are at the heart of our industry’s purpose — when people come together to achieve common goals, they thrive. Our platforms help communities grow together through relationship building, innovation, discovery, and business opportunity. Over the last few years, www.businesseventsafrica.com
GLOBAL PAGE STRAP NEWS
we have united as an industry to bring safe, successful events back to life. We’re once again celebrating the magic of face-to-face connection, and creating a sustainable future, together. We are, more than ever, seeing the value of our services through the eyes of our customers, who are returning to the show floor with urgency and enthusiasm. And we’re confident that through digital and data services complementary to our in-person platforms, we are enhancing and evolving our event experiences to do even more for the markets we serve." Hugh Jones, chief executive officer of RX, added: “Nothing speaks of the power of face-to-face events to drive business recovery, growth and innovation, as the sight of customers streaming back through our show doors. But. in these fractured times, our events also celebrate the importance of community, of coming-together, of shared experiences where everyone is made to feel welcome. In this spirit of collaboration, RX is committed to working closely with our global industry partners to share the magic of live events, keep health and safety front and central at our shows, and achieve our ambitious carbon net zero goal. Together we are stronger.” Douglas Emslie, chief executive officer of Tarsus, commented: “The value of in-person events has never been more evident than over the past two years and it is uplifting to see B2B events running again, across so many industries. As organisers we have been collaborating more closely than ever before to advocate for the return of in-person events; we have implemented health and safety measures and rebuilt our customers’ confidence in the unmatched value of live events. This collaboration will carry the industry www.businesseventsafrica.com
forward as we continue to rebuild and sustain us as we work together to achieve our sustainability goals.” “Our industry has come together in an unprecedented way, partnering through associations such as UFI, and collaborating on critical initiatives to overcome our shared challenges,” added Russell Wilcox, chief executive officer of Clarion Events. “We emerge with a unified voice, confident that we can foster innovation in our end markets and deliver vital routes to market, to help our customers thrive and grow.” “We are thrilled with the success of our recent events this year, making ever more evident our need to gather around businesses. During this experiential period, we have enriched our formats in order to propose new experiences and offers to better serve our communities, said Renaud Hamaide, president of Comexposium. Through an omnichannel approach, our role is to propose global and safe platforms to our clients to drive economic recovery, rebuild trust, develop business relationships, showcase innovation and continue to constantly adapt to new environments and challenges, as we have done during the last two years.” “The benefits of face-to-face interactions and the critical business function in-person events provide our customers are what drive our industry forward with determination and vigour. People want to meet to share ideas, products, and innovations; to be inspired, share best practices, and discuss challenges,” said Hervé Sedky, president and chief executive officer of Emerald. “As our industry continues to recover, Emerald remains steadfast in our commitment to continue championing the economic importance and sustainable value of in-person events and our role in driving
connections, commerce, and growth for customers and communities.” Ted Wirth, president and chief executive officer of Diversified Communications, said: “From medical conferences to food trade shows, we’ve successfully and safely hosted 27 events across the world since Fall 2021. Working collaboratively with peers in the trade show industry and developing guidelines to have inperson events in the current situation provided the tools our communities needed to get back together again.” The seventh annual Global Exhibitions Day will take place on 1 June 2022. The focus will be on the irreplaceable value of physical exhibitions and faceto-face business events in creating platforms for economic growth and recovery. It will also be an occasion to network and meet other people. This day of advocacy is supported by more than forty national and international industry associations and facilitated by the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI. All businesses and professionals in the sector are encouraged to join the GED celebrations on 1 June 2022 by highlighting the impact of exhibitions on local economies — both in building businesses and connecting people from around the world. To learn more about Global Exhibitions Day, please visit www.globalexhibitionsday.org. List of #GED2022 partner associations under the UFI umbrella: AAXO, AEFI, AEO, AFE, AFECA, AFIDA, AMPROFEC, AOCA, AUMA, CAEM, CEFA, CENTREX, CFI, EEAA, EEIA, EFU, EMECA, EXSA, FAIRLINK, FAMAB, HKECIA, ECA, IDFA, IECA, IEIA, IELA, IFES, LECA, MACEOS, MFTA, PCEI, SACEOS/SECB, SCEIA, SISO, TEA, TECA, TFOA, UBRAFE and UNIMEV. Business Events Africa April 2022 17
PAGE CHEF’S GLOBAL STRAP PROFILE PERPECTIVE
What meeting planners are looking for Meeting and event planners, like most of the business events industry, are facing many challenges during the ongoing pandemic that does not seem to have an immediate end.
Challenges • Running safe events for their attendees. • Navigating the variations in travel and safety regulations from country to country, from region to region and from city to city. • Having to change plans at short notice from live events to hybrid, virtual, postponements or cancellations. • Cost containment, considering the additional costs of safety protocols, technology and meeting space. • Looking at ways to monetise virtual and hybrid events and diversifying revenue streams. • How to mitigate against risk and becoming more agile to respond to 18 Business Events Africa April 2022
ever-changing circumstances. • Negotiating more flexible agreements with the supply chain. • How to plan ahead and become more sustainable during a period of prolonged border closures and unpredictable lockdowns. • How to restore confidence in travel and mass gatherings. • Dealing with a supply chain that has been dramatically disrupted. • Adapting to a new digital age. • Competing against a number of tech companies that are investing in event management systems. • Corporations have a duty of care to their employees, resulting in more stringent travel and safety procedures.
According to the PCMA APAC COVID_19 Survey 2021, the two key areas of concern relate to safety and local support. They want to know that destinations have the right measures in place to contain the virus and to keep visitors safe. They are also looking for support and advice from DMOs (destination marketing organisations) and CVBs (Convention and Visitors Bureaus or tourism bureaus) to minimise risk and to organise safe and successful events. As they plan ahead, meeting and event planners are looking to partner with destinations and suppliers to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. They are in search of innovative ideas and www.businesseventsafrica.com
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In the aftermath of Covid-19, destinations need to articulate the benefits of face-to-face events more clearly to encourage a return of foreign visitors to their shores. solutions to meet today’s challenges. Hybrid events are not likely to go away. It will just be a question of what proportion of attendees will be on-site versus virtual. Host destinations will need to invest and upskill in their technological capabilities, to be able to marry virtual and live events effectively. Remote locations stand to benefit if they are able to enhance their technological and live event capabilities. Virtual platforms provide an excellent platform for delivering year-round content and to achieve a much higher audience reach, many of which would not normally attend live events. Through AI technology virtual platforms may deliver more tailored content at a more convenient time to a specified target audience. Associations are already discovering how virtual platforms provide the opportunity for ongoing engagement with their members and communities. Hybrid events also provide multichannel platforms to address the variable preferences of their audience and may provide superior levels of data collection. In the aftermath of Covid-19, destinations need to articulate the benefits of face-to-face events more www.businesseventsafrica.com
clearly to encourage a return of foreign visitors to their shores. The on-theground experiences need to be more meaningful, to accentuate the difference between virtual and on-site. On-site attendance creates better opportunities to immerse in the local culture, to network and build professional relationships, to exchange knowledge, to socialise as well as to create a more inclusive environment for delegates of all cultures to interact. Planners will also be looking to negotiate more flexible terms and conditions across the supply chain and will look to DMOs and CVBs to keep them well informed of any disruptions to the supply network. The pandemic has also created a number of new event opportunities within certain industry sectors, such as healthcare and wellness, technology, sustainability, transport and logistics, online services, risk mitigation and social justice. The role of the DMO and CVB has never been more important to keep the market well informed and to create innovative solutions that address the ongoing industry challenges that leverage from the new opportunities being presented.
Who is Mike Williams? Mike Williams is a destination and convention bureau specialist with 30 years of experience in the business events and tourism industry. He oversees Gaining Edge’s in market sales and business development assignments and has been consulting on destination development projects in Australia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Qatar, New Zealand, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, South Africa, South Korea, Central America and the South Pacific. Mr Williams was the lead consultant for the establishment and capability strengthening for the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau and the Japan Global MICE Cities programme. Business Events Africa April 2022 19
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Martin Hiller, RX Exhibitions.
Responsible Tourism rock stars win big at Africa Travel Week • 2022 winners announced for the WTM Responsible Tourism Awards live at Africa Travel Week. • TUI Care Foundation, Wild Horizons and Green Safaris awarded gold. • Gold winners in each category will go on to compete in the Global Awards at WTM London from 7-9 November.
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he winners of the WTM Responsible Tourism Awards 2022 have officially been announced at Africa Travel Week (ATW), with TUI Care Foundation, Wild Horizons and Green Safaris taking home gold. The live ceremony, held on the Global Stage at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Monday, 11 April, commenced in front of a live audience of global industry professionals and local media. “It was a great pleasure to honour those responsible-tourism rock stars who lead by example, and champion meaningful causes within our industry,” said Martin 20 Business Events Africa April 2022
Hiller, content and creative director: travel, tourism and creative industries at RX Exhibitions. “We also want to extend a massive thank you to all of our sponsors, and applicants who continue to shine a spotlight on Africa as a continent that truly cares for its people, places and the wellbeing of our planet.” Following an intense judging session, the panel, including Harold Goodwin, WTM’s Responsible Tourism Advisor, shortlisted seven organisations from across Africa as gold winners for this year’s awards. Official winners and runners-up per category are as follows:
Decarbonising Travel & Tourism: Climate change will have profound consequences for businesses in the travel and tourism sector, and people and wildlife in originating markets and destinations. It is important to find ways to reduce the amount of carbon emissions that travellers and holidaymaker’s cause. • Gold: Green Safaris Green Safaris operates properties in Zambia and Malawi using tourism to contribute to conservation, community development and the promotion of engaged tourism. Their lodges are built with earthbags − which reduce cement use by 95% − as well as local materials www.businesseventsafrica.com
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to minimise embedded carbon footprint. Most are fully solar-powered and the earthbag construction helps better regulate the interior temperature naturally. They also use solar-charged game-drive e-vehicles, e-boats and e-mountain bikes, and have introduced smart stoves to reduce charcoal-burning in neighbouring communities. • Silver: Grootbos • Silver: V&A Waterfront Destinations Building Back Better Post-Covid At the awards last year we saw several destinations that were beginning to rethink the tourist volumes and market segments they will attract post-Covid, and some who were considering demarketing. • Gold: TUI Care Foundation The TUI Care Foundation connects holidaymakers to good causes; they foster education and the wellbeing of children and youth, the protection of nature and the environment, and the positive impacts of tourism on people and places in destinations worldwide. • Silver Sustainable: Island Mauritius • One to Watch: Rwanda Development Board • One to Watch: Ultimate Safaris
the amount of single-use plastic, adding to the global plastic waste crisis. The industry needs to do more to reduce single-use plastics, take responsibility and work with local communities and their governments on waterways to capture waste plastic with nets and floating barriers and upcycle it for cobbles, furniture and crafts. • Gold: Asilia Asilia were early partners of Zanrec in introducing sustainable waste management and played a part in encouraging 100 other hotels and guesthouses on the east coast of Zanzibar to partner with them and recycle their waste responsibly. In 2020 at Sayari, in the Serengeti, they launched a solar-powered micro-brewery using reverse-osmosis purified water from a borehole on site. They no longer purchase plastic and glass bottles or cans for the camp and save carbon emissions by not having to transport drinks to the lodge. • Silver: Lemala Camps and Lodges
Sustaining Employees and Communities through the Pandemic Many businesses and organisations in the travel and tourism sector have worked hard to sustain their employees and the communities in which they operate during Covid-19. This award recognises and draws attention to those who have successfully helped others − employees and neighbours alike − to weather the storm. • Gold: Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project The Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project is a programme of the Kilimanjaro Responsible Trekking Organization, a porter welfare initiative aiming to improve their working conditions. When Covid arrived, they used a phone-tree method to provide Covid safety information to 7,000 mountain crew and asked them to share the information with families, friends and neighbours. • Silver: We are Victoria Falls
Increasing Diversity in Tourism Diversity is a broad term: ‘Identities include, but are not limited to, ability, age, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, immigration status, intellectual differences, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.’ For the travel industry, it is about who they employ at various levels, who they market to, the way they present the destinations they sell, the range of experiences they promote and the stories they tell. • Gold: BON Hotel Bloemfontein Central In 2007, BON Hotel Bloemfontein Central appointed previously disadvantaged staff members to their board of directors and then created a staff share trust in which they allocated 51% of the shares in the business to the staff. The initiative is self-funded from the hotel’s profits. The establishment is also involved with the Towers of Hope, an NGO located across the street from the hotel which works to improve the lives of marginalised citizens in inner-city Bloemfontein. The judges wanted to recognise this unusual example of an initiative designed to empower previously disadvantaged members of their community. • Silver: Lemala Camps and Lodges
Reducing Plastic Waste in the Environment The pandemic has dramatically increased
Growing the Local Economic Benefit By adapting the way they do business,
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accommodation providers and tour operators can create additional market opportunities for local communities in their supply chains and create opportunities to sell goods and services directly to tourists. • Gold: Wild Horizons Wild Horizon’s Pay It Forward Initiative enables guests to enrich their journey while making a positive impact. From a list of registered charitable organisations, guests select a cause they would like to support. The guests connect with local people, discover less-visited parts of town and immerse themselves in a different style of grocery shopping before delivering their purchases to their chosen charity. • Silver: andBeyond Virtual Volunteering The judges were struck by two innovations included by businesses entering the Africa Responsible Tourism Awards this year — innovations generated in response to the pandemic which are likely to become a permanent part of the travel and tourism sector. There have been many efforts to create virtual travel experiences, whether on the internet or through the use of virtual reality. • Gold: people and places People and places create individually designed placements which match volunteer skills to local needs in ten countries worldwide including Eswatini, The Gambia, South Africa, Madagascar and Morocco. • Silver: TUI Care Foundation Gold winners in each category will go on to compete in the Global Awards taking place at WTM London from 7-9 November this year. Last year, the V&A Waterfront scooped the Global Award in London. “The V&A Waterfront was selected for the global award for their work with local communities during Covid. We’ve got fantastic applicants this year for the Responsible Tourism Awards in Africa,” says Harold Goodwin, WTM’s Responsible Tourism Advisor. This year also saw two judges’ awards, which are only awarded when two independent panels select the same winners in any chosen category. In the history of the Responsible Tourism Awards, there have only ever been five judges’ awards. The deserving winners were Grootbos and Transfontier Parks Destinations. Business Events Africa April 2022 21
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Botswana to host the 2022 Africa Tourism Leadership Forum Botswana will host the fifth and 22nd edition of the Africa Tourism Leadership Forum (ATLF) & Awards at the Grand Palm GICC.
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urban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre will once again become a hub of activity with the return of Africa’s Travel Indaba, from 2-5 May 2022. After Themed ‘Igniting Intra-Africa tourism through inclusive intra-Africa trade, partnerships and investments’, the intra-African travel game-changing event will take place in Gaborone in November 2022 and is expected to bring together industry leaders from across Africa and the rest of the world. The country will host the next three editions in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Botswana will be the second southern African country to host the event after Durban, South Africa, staged it in 2019. Other past host countries are Ghana in 2018 and Rwanda in 2020 and 2021. Botswana takes over the hosting
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of Africa’s leading tourism Thought Leadership Forum from Rwanda, which successfully hosted this gathering in November 2021. Announcing the next destination for the Pan African tourism event at Meetings Africa 2022 at Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, Kwakye Donkor, chief executive officer of African Tourism Partners said: “The Africa Tourism Leadership Forum has shown the commitment and resolve to the development of the continent’s tourism sector in the last five years. I congratulate Botswana Tourism Organisation and its partners for embracing the initiative”. “We are enthused that the event has become a blueprint for actionable collaboration among African tourism stakeholders and service providers in the past five years. We urge all industry stakeholders across the continent to make time to be in Gaborone this year and submit their entries for the 2022 Africa Tourism Leadership Awards.” Africa Tourism Partners is also grateful to previous hosts Ghana, South Africa, and Rwanda for their immense commitments to the growth of Africa’s Tourism development. Africa Tourism Leadership Forum is
a Pan-African dialogue platform that brings together key stakeholders from Africa’s travel, tourism, hospitality and aviation sectors. It aims to provide a continental platform for dialogue, networking, sharing insights and devising strategies for sustainable travel and tourism development across the continent. It also focuses on the enhancement of Africa’s brand equity and promoting intra-Africa travel. The African Leadership dialogue platform is designed and convened by Africans in Africa to promote tourism as a priority sector and significant economic development pillar in African states. The event is organised by Africa Tourism Partners (UNWTO Affiliate Member) and BDO South Africa. For partnerships, sponsorships, registration and enquiries, please contact Ms Rejoice Chishamba at: rejoice@africatourismpartners.com
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The Hotel & Hospitality Show 2022 redefines African hospitality One of Africa’s most significant contributors to GDP, the tourism industry, was also one of the hardest hit by the pandemic. Despite the numerous challenges hampering its recovery, the United Nations World Tourism Agency (UNWTO) noted a 12 per cent rise in tourism arrivals in Africa in 2021 compared to 2020.
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he latest UNWTO Panel of Experts also revealed a more optimistic outlook and stronger pace of recovery for 2022 and beyond, with international tourism expected to reach pre-Covid levels on the continent by 2024.[1] As Africa’s public and private tourism stakeholders work to rebuild the sector through policy responses and relief initiatives, The Hotel & Hospitality Show taking place between 19 and 21 May 2022 under the theme of ‘Redefining hospitality – Recovering for Future Growth’, will bring together leading buyers and brands from Sub Saharan Africa to discuss the latest trends and innovations driving the continent’s tourism revival. Taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre, it is also strategically co-located with Design Joburg, opening access to an audience of top architects, commissioning designers and developers from Southern Africa. Evan Schiff, portfolio director of Food, Hospitality and Trade at dmg events said this year, new features have been added that are aimed at helping industry professionals keep pace with change, integrating every element of the guest experience into a packed three-day exhibition. “There is no doubt that Covid-19 created some interesting hospitality trends. With the expert guidance of a strong advisory board, we have identified several focus areas that should serve as the cornerstone www.businesseventsafrica.com
of recovery for hospitality businesses across Africa.” Over and above the host of curated products and services on show from local and international exhibitors and an exclusive, closed-door Hotel GM luncheon hosted at Sandton Sun Hotel, visitors will make meaningful connections as they explore the building blocks for future growth and prosperity during a series of collaborative workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions led by prominent industry players. Topics include the future of the township economy as well as the need for hospitality businesses to pivot beyond rooms, by rethinking plans for assets and identifying value-added non-guest and non-room services to power demand and unlock recurring revenue opportunities. Another burning issue is the need to leverage technology and automation to improve business performance, while keeping guests at the heart of a business strategy. Regardless of a business’s size, going green has proven to have a positive impact on customer experience and loyalty. Industry thought leaders will look at how to achieve a sustainable future by incorporating sustainable practices into every aspect of brand management, from building design and energy savings to reducing plastic usage or food waste reduction. About responsive restaurant planning,
Michelin-star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen will lead a fireside chat on the evolution of dining; the future of restaurant design as well as how to anticipate future consumer eating behaviour, preferences and spending changes. Other prominent industry speakers include Lindiwe Sangweni-Siddo, chief operating officer, City Lodge Hotel Group; Lee-Anne Bac, director, BDO South Africa and Fabio Nava, vice president: Hotels & Hospitality Sub-Saharan Africa, JLL. Interactive features to return in 2022 The Hotel & Hospitality Show is proud to announce the return of two exciting interactive industry competitions to the event, which are open for public entry. The Southern African Housekeepers League of Champions will see housekeeping teams racing against the clock to prepare rooms to the highest standards, while the Global Pizza Challenge will watch passionate, independent pizza makers compete for the best gastronomic masterpiece. “In its fifth year, the Hotel & Hospitality Show 2022 is the largest and most influential hospitality exhibition in the region and it continues to inspire and drive change in the industry. Offering a 360-degree of latest market trends and innovation, it is a must-attend event for buyers and brands across Sub Saharan Africa.” Business Events Africa April 2022 23
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SAITEX celebrates the revival of the African economy Prominent multi-sector trade event paves the way for business growth across the trade and township economy sector.
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frica is home to one of the world’s fastest growing consumer markets, predicted to increase to 1.7 billion consumers by 2030[1]. On the one side of this market are the rising number of ‘ultra-high net worth’ individuals with assets over $30 million, expected to grow by almost 50% by 2025. On the other side is the bustling informal sector – considered Africa’s backbone of economic activity – accounting for over 80% of jobs and employing almost 90% of Africa’s women.[2] While the past two years have sent unprecedented shockwaves to global markets, supply chains and economies, the impact has been particularly challenging for smaller African businesses and the SMME sector as a whole. As they move out of ‘survival mode’ and start to re-establish themselves, what new strategies, technologies and other resources can be employed to drive development, trade and growth? How can businesses mobilise funding and unlock new market opportunities, while ensuring that they remain both competitive and regulation compliant? These are just some of the themes that will be covered at SAITEX, Africa’s largest and mostestablished multi-sectoral trade show taking place between 19 and 21 June 2022 at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. According to Portfolio Director of Food, Hospitality and Trade of dmg events Evan Schiff, this year’s face-to-face event will provide a unique opportunity for buyers and brands to connect and network with industry leaders, as they explore latest innovations and trends impacting the sector over a series of trade exchange workshops, dialogues, and stakeholder engagement and training sessions led 24 Business Events Africa April 2022
by trade experts, financial institutes and entrepreneurs. “Of particular interest this year is SAITEX’s new focus on the township economy,” says Schiff. “With almost half of Southern Africa’s urban population living in townships and informal settlements, this is a market segment valued at hundreds of billions of rands, which represents a significant opportunity for both manufacturers and importers of food and FMCG goods.” As part of a stakeholder engagement discussion with government and business that looks at Gauteng townships as a catalyst for growth, attendees will learn how the Township Economic Development Act and Township Economy Partnership Fund will change commercial activity, expand existing businesses in townships, and facilitate cheaper and easier business operations. Other workshops and discussions will centre around topics such as transformation and the opportunities for women in trade, capacity building, the role of technology to drive recovery, as well as SMME access to finance. Bigger event, access to a wider audience In 2022, the 3-day SAITEX event will be co-located with the continent’s leading food and beverage event, Africa’s Big 7, and the Halal International Trade Expo, which promises to open up access to an even larger audience of buyers and brands. “In its 28th year, our marketplace provides buyers with a vast variety of products showcased by over 150 exhibitors from across the world, while offering exhibitors the opportunity to develop exciting new partnerships and conclude export and import
SAITEX www.saitexafrica.com SAITEX is the original multi-sectoral trade-show allowing local and international importers and exporters to test, explore and take advantage of inbound and outbound trade opportunities, within the African Region, for over 27 years. SAITEX facilitates tangible international and local trade relationships, whilst providing a platform for the private sector to demonstrate the innovations, solutions and services they have to offer Africa. The exhibition features retail products such as electronics and home appliances, homeware, cosmetics and household products as well as building materials and tools. SAITEX will be held from 19-21 June 2022, at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa.
dmg events — South Africa dmg events is a leading organiser of face-to-face events and a publisher of trade magazines. We aim to positively impact the African economy and community by providing platforms for public and private sector professionals to connect and forge strong relationships that will drive the future of the African continent. dmg events has a portfolio of 80 events, managed across 11 offices worldwide with two of those offices based in South Africa. The team organises 14 events in Africa, bringing together more than 30,000 professionals from the construction, infrastructure, coatings, mining, transport, food and beverage, trade and hospitality sectors. deals,” says Schiff. “As a high-level, international business-tobusiness trade platform, backed by a strong advisory board of industry champions whose strategic insight ensures relevant, topical and valuable content to both exhibitors and visitors, SAITEX promises to set the stage for business expansion and growth into Africa.” For exhibitor and visitor information, please visit: https://www.saitexafrica. com/?utm_source=online&utm_ medium=website&utm_ campaign=pr1&utm_content=&utm_ term=CN=pr1/SN=online www.businesseventsafrica.com
VENUE PAGE STRAP NEWS
ANEW Hotels & Resorts remains on-trend in essentialism
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espite the setbacks brought on by the Covid-19 global pandemic, ANEW Hotels & Resorts has shown considerable growth during the past two years. Not only has the group expanded their property portfolio from three to fourteen properties during this time, but as a business, the group eagerly anticipates staying abreast of current global trends in the tourism and hospitality industries to remain efficient in its services. As a forward-thinking hotel asset management company, the group continually aims to elevate their valued guests’ experiences and expectations. Their most recent property, ANEW Hotel Green Point, previously known as Vib Best Western Hotel in Green Point, has guest satisfaction at the forefront. The hotel has transformed into a more digitised and minimalist space, making this a top destination for bleisure travellers (business and leisure). ANEW Hotel Green Point is based in the perfect location, right across from the Green Point Stadium, close to the V&A Waterfront and within walking distance of many famous local landmarks such as the Green Point Urban Park and the Sea Point Promenade. A big trend in the hospitality industry in 2022 is essentialism. ANEW Hotel Green Point is on-trend with no fewer than 76 expertly designed and environmentally conscious hotel rooms. To save on space and create a minimalist look, their pod rooms’ cupboards have been removed, and guests will now have access to drawers under the bed. By staying on top of digital trends, ANEW Hotel Green Point is taking a digitally savvy approach in an era where unnecessary contact (due to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic) is prevalent. One example is their electronic ‘Do Not Disturb’ consoles, instead of the classic door tag, which usually hangs on the door handle. They also offer laundry service consoles, making it easier to manage your laundry request, schedule according to your day and keep track of your laundry. A big plus during your stay is a digital guest directory that can be accessed by scanning a QR code that allows you to have all relevant hotel information at your fingertips and in your pocket whenever
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ANEW Hotel Green Point.
you need it. Further perks include ethernet and Wi-Fi internet connectivity while sipping on an Americano, all in the comfort of your hotel room, which also offers Nespresso machines. While utilising the hotel, why not sign up for the ANEW Rewards loyalty programme, which rewards returning and regular guests at all ANEW Hotels & Resorts properties. By making ANEW Hotels & Resorts your ‘home away from home’, you will benefit by getting discounts on direct bookings and earning Wena Bucks with every stay, which you
can use towards future stays, food and beverage orders, amongst others. Instead of offering digitised replacements, ANEW Hotel Green Point strives to be a sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel by doing away with traditional print collateral.
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PAGE VENUE SMME STRAP PROFILE NEWS
Meet Francine Zana Motivational, Francine Zana, 35, director of Exclusive Hospitality Concepts, based in the Eastern Cape, is all about empowering service staff. She believes that the sky is the limit, with the right support. Exclusive Hospitality Concepts is all about supporting hospitality establishments with training and upskilling of their service staff, and to find ways to ensure that hotel staff are acknowledged and awarded for their hard work.
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s Zana’s story, from being a cleaner to a tourism business owner, won her a Lilizela Minister’s Award in 2017, alongside a host of other accolades. It is testament to her excellent work ethic and the belief that tourism allows people to grow from the bottom all the way to the top. “Tourism is 90 per cent practical, 10 per cent theory, and you need to put in the long hours,” Ms Zana said. Ms Zana was born in Coega in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape Province, into a humble and modest family. She aspired to pursue a career in business, but, due to financial difficulties, she was forced to leave college after completing her second year and went to work, first as a domestic worker and cleaner, then a room attendant, waitress and eventually, front office clerk. It was through sheer determination and personal drive that Ms Zana worked her way up to management level, later working for award winning establishments such as the No5 by Mantis group, which specialises in five-star boutique hotels, which is where she was given the big break to start training other workers. “The cleaning and cooking staff in
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hotels are the backbone of the industry, yet for some reason, they are never acknowledged, are taken for granted and often abused. In many instances, guests do not even greet them, as they encounter them in the long passages of the hotels where they sleep, stay and eat.” “They work extremely long hours, toiling to ensure that guests find their rooms clean when they arrive at the hotels; but they don’t even get a simple greeting when guests bump into them.” Ms Zana said: “My duty in the industry is to ensure that hotel staff are acknowledged and awarded, as they work hard. Having been there and experienced the strife faced by my former colleagues, I want to ensure that they have accolades for the hard work they put in, to keep hotels running.” Ms Zana has over nineteen years of experience in the sector and is a current holder of a National Lilizela Tourism Award 2017, The Minister’s Award Category, which was awarded to her by the Ministry of Tourism for her contribution to the tourism industry. She is also a winner of Standard Bank Top woman in the Eastern Cape Region. She was
also Awarded Lifetime Achievement in entrepreneurship by CEWENA and she also received an award from the Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor as part of the Top 50 Companies operating in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Ms Zana is also a Service Excellence Ambassador in the Eastern Cape and she also founded her own hotel organic amenity range: Organic Amenities by Francine. She is also a founder of Celebrating Woman in Hospitality Gala Dinner/Awards. This is an event that aims to recognise and honour the people who make the hospitality industry the success that it is today. She also runs a special programme where she provides hospitality training to unemployed youth and later places them in hotels for temporary/casual or permanent positions. This is a nonfunded project that aims to produce high quality hospitality staff and create job opportunities for unemployed people. Ms Zana was awarded Standard Bank Top Women Regional Entrepreneur for the year 2019. She was also awarded the African Women in Tourism Leadership Award for the year 2020. www.businesseventsafrica.com
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Event tech trends for 2022
The advancement of technology affects many different industries, and the events industry is no exception. Whether your function is online, offline, or hybrid, innovative technology helps event planners create more efficient and streamlined experiences. In this article, we look at the popular tech we may expect to see in 2022. By Mike Lysko, chief executive officer and founder of Flock.
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his is the trending tech to expect this year:
Contactless check-in People have been checking in to their flights online for years now, and the same concept is trickling through to events, to create a more seamless experience. With a contactless check-in system, guests will no longer have to stand in line, fumbling to find their tickets and get checked in. Instead, you are able to grant attendees access based on their online actions. To get rid of the unpleasant queue, all you need to do is set up a virtual queue. If you’ve never heard of a virtual queue before, here’s how it works: • Guests ‘check-in’ to your virtual queue online. • You decide how many people are allowed entry to the venue at a time. • Attendees are notified when it’s their turn to enter the venue. • As they enter you check them off the queue, allowing the next batch of guests to be notified of their turn. This means that guests don’t have to stand in an actual line. They may wait in their cars or grab a coffee from a vendor outside. They should only head to the entrance once they’ve been notified that it’s their turn to do so, which means you don’t have to manage crowd control. Easy-peasy! Contactless verification While we’re on the topic of quick and easy, let’s discuss contactless verification. While Covid-19 restrictions are becoming lax around the world, safety is still a top priority in 2022 — especially regarding in-person conferences. To that end, many businesses have decided to limit access to venues, and only permit entry to those who are vaccinated and/or willing to take a Covid-19 test before the event.
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To make this verification process more seamless, guests may include their certified Covid-19 status in their profile on your event app, which you are able to verify while they’re in the virtual queue. Once you’re satisfied that they meet requirements, you allow them to enter. Custom event apps Whether your event is online or offline, custom event apps are all the rage in 2022. As we’ve already mentioned above, an app may be extremely useful for verifying and checking guests in, but that’s not all they’re good for. An app allows you to organise and distribute event information quickly and effectively, while giving guests immediate access to that important information. It also allows them to engage with other guests or speakers and provide useful feedback and data about the event. It’s an easy-to-use platform that allows you to manage an entire event from the palm of your hand. VR experiences Facebook’s Metaverse is going to change the event industry and audience expectations, particularly among tech-savvy Millennials and Gen Zers. To hold their attention, events will be less about watching speakers on stage and more about getting audiences involved. Think live-streamed VR entertainment and Oculus Rift parties. For now, the potential of the Metaverse may sound a little too outlandish for many business needs. However, event planners should not miss opportunities to explore and learn from other events that use VR in the meantime. AI assistants These helpful assistants have already been making an appearance at events and webinars, and we think that they’ll only get more popular.
Who is Mike Lysko? Mike Lysko is the chief executive officer and founder of Flock, an online Eventing Platform that makes it easy to build websites, mobile apps and engagement tools — without any previous coding experience required. He has been an entrepreneur from a young age and began his first events business whilst obtaining a BCom Degree. Mike has experience in all areas of business, having managed multiple teams across operations, business development and sales, software development, marketing and customer support. He founded Flock in 2013, which has assisted over 400 customers across 36 countries, in numerous industries including IT, Finance, Tourism, and Pharmaceutical, amongst others. Mike loves events and technology, but when he is not at his desk you are able to find him at his turntables, mixing and producing music or hiking and discovering new trails. Chatbots make it easier for guests to find event information, certain locations, and more. AI bots are able to easily integrate with your mobile event app, for example — offering push notifications when tables are ready or answering FAQs. QR codes We’ve seen QR codes rise in popularity in the restaurant industry, and now they have their place at events. Using QR codes is a wonderfully efficient way to share content without printouts. Leaflets and physical freebies are unnecessary when guests are able to access the same content in an easier and more eco-friendly format. This doesn’t mean that you have to do away with branded merchandise and freebies — it just means you may shift over to online content, which is much more affordable for clients, anyway. Think of branded social media filters, online vouchers, and discount codes. Will you be adopting these trends for your events this year? Business Events Africa April 2022 27
PAGE A LOCAL STRAP PERSPECTIVE
Placing sustainability at the heart of the travel economy Sustainability has become a commodity. The Agoda Sustainable Travel Trends Survey 2021 places it as one of the most important imperatives for the travel industry today, one that will not only work towards the environment, but will capture the attention of the modern traveller too. By Sergio Adams, head chef at The President Hotel in Bantry Bay, Cape Town.
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eople would like to know that their experiences are not having a negative impact, and they are more likely to stay at hotels that have made sustainability a priority. The survey found that, while people hold governments accountable for positive environmental change, they are equally drawn to travel destinations that have clearly labelled sustainability practices. This has been a globally growing trend for a while, but the
28 Business Events Africa April 2022
pandemic has shifted this into higher gear. More people would like the option to travel with care. The travel industry is in a unique position to collaborate with government and local municipalities to build sustainability best practice frameworks. We all need to look at how we are able to put sustainability at the forefront of our planning, experiences and decision making. This is important, not just for igniting tourism, but also for doing the right thing, as an industry.
The sustainability question Investing into sustainability, as an industry, is a three-pronged approach. The first is to find ways of collaborating with government and municipalities to put sustainability initiatives in place that are designed to drive the message across community, traveller and organisation. This collaboration is key to creating a sustainability dialogue that may place an area on the sustainable traveller’s map. www.businesseventsafrica.com
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE PAGE STRAP
Another aspect of the conversation is how decision makers view sustainability and how this is filtered down throughout a business. If the exco or the board see sustainability as a priority, then this will become part of the culture of a company. This type of culture is not able to be bought or enforced, it has to be lived and embodied in processes and in planning. Which forms the third part of the approach — daily sustainable steps. These are initiatives that are put in place on the hotel floor, that consistently remind people to reduce waste and make sustainable decisions. Some hotels, like the President Hotel, have put measures in place to actively try and reduce food waste. We’ve installed little table talkers at each table to assist in educating the guests about food quantities, so that we are able to minimise waste. We explain that the buffet is there for their enjoyment. The goal is to encourage the average guest to satisfy their appetite by selecting food they enjoy so that less food is wasted. However, there are still people whose eyes are bigger than their stomach, so other measures have to be put in place to minimise waste and maximise sustainability. Intelligent steps to sustainable success There are several smart systems in place to support hotels in sustainably removing www.businesseventsafrica.com
food waste or using it intelligently. One is the solution employed by the President Hotel — a food waste management system that tracks the amount of waste going through the kitchen, to assess the impact of initiatives like the table talkers which is also bolstered by the effective disposal of waste. To minimise our impact on landfill we use Bokashi and a worm ecosystem to compost any waste. Every month we receive a full report on how many kilograms of food were reused in compost or juicing versus what would have gone to landfill. It’s a small contribution, but it adds up. The President Hotel’s commitment to sustainability recently saw the hotel divert 15,415 kg of organic waste from landfill, achieve 4,872.8 CO2e savings, and reduce the need to plant 371 trees. The travel industry sits at a unique point in history. This is the perfect time to disrupt traditional methods and ways of operating and to create sustainability programmes that make a difference and attract tourism. It’s also the perfect time for the industry to come together and unite in creating sustainability initiatives and programmes that deliver shared benefits and value. We need to get to a level where we all strongly believe in, and work towards, sustainability. This is an ethical and smart way to disrupt the industry, take advantage of a growing travel trend, and to make a difference over the long term.
Who is Sergio Adams? Sergio Adams is the head chef at The President Hotel, Bantry Bay, in Cape Town. His culinary career began in 2012 after completing his qualification at Capsicum Culinary Studio in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). He was fortunate to begin at a small 60-seater restaurant as a Head Chef at Blu Café. Sergio gained much experience there having to take charge of a kitchen straight out of culinary studio. He was approached to be part of the opening team of the Boardwalk Hotel (Sun International), where he spent four years and then transferred to Time Square Pretoria where he was part of the opening team and spent a further two years there as resident chef. Sergio then joined The President Hotel, which was a huge milestone. Sergio said: “As a chef, I have always believed that to be good at what you do, one needs to experiment, fail and then grow. We are never too old to learn and improve. My passion is keeping guests satisfied as well as fascinated by what we serve on a plate. I strongly believe in developing staff as that is how I have grown in the past 10 years of my culinary career. I love knowing that I can help to inspire future chefs and help others make their way in this wonderful business.”
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PAGE STRAP PROFILE PERSONALITY
Tanya Johnson — passion is key in hospitality Passionate Tanya Johnson, 38, general manager of The CellarsHohenort in Constantia Valley, Cape Town. She is a hotel school graduate and comes with extensive industry experience spanning 17 years, including the past seven years as executive manager of guest relations at The Cape Grace.
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y first taste of hospitality was at a small guest house in Harfield Village called Harfield Guest Villa. It was a small family-run business; I then went on to study hotel management and did my first six-month practical experience at The Cape Grace Hotel. I was asked to stay on at Cape Grace and continued to work there in the evenings while I completed my studies during the day. After graduating from Granger Bay, I was employed at Cape Grace on a permanent basis and grew within the company. I spent 15 years at Cape Grace until I moved to The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel,” Ms Johnson said. Part of The Liz McGrath Collection, the five-star Cellars-Hohenort Hotel & Spa is situated in what is known as ‘Cape Town’s Vineyard’ — the historical Constantia Valley, a short, 15-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre and the V&A Waterfront. This proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and Traveller Made boasts 51 elegant guest rooms and suites with breath-taking views of South Africa’s iconic Table Mountain range and the property’s extraordinary gardens. Ms Johnson, said: “The on-site restaurant, The Conservatory, takes guests on an unforgettable culinary journey. Our gardens offer tranquil surrounds, ideal for outdoor activities, while our intimate meeting rooms are excellent for small, executive meetings. We have four meeting rooms, Seeliger, Spilhaus, Camphor and Klaasenbosch, which can accommodate between 18 and 45 people.” “We offer innovative conferencing packages that will not only inspire your team’s creativity, but will also awaken their culinary senses when dining at The Cellars-Hohenort.”
Where did you grow up? I was born in Johannesburg and moved to Cape Town at the age of six, so I believe I am a Capetonian. Where did your career begin? What do you enjoy most about it? I have been in the hospitality industry for the past 19 years. Hospitality is a difficult industry, so you 30 Business Events Africa April 2022
need to have a love and passion for it. I do love this industry as it allows me to interact with people from all over the world, help people create memorable experiences, grow relationships and assist in developing and growing my teams. What role does your family play in your life? The hospitality industry can be draining when you have a family — long hours, working when they are off at home. My family have been very supportive of my career, especially my husband. I think I am lucky that he loves to cook, so he happily takes care of dinners in our household. What would you change, in your life, if you could, when looking back? I am very happy and fortunate with the places I have worked, and the experiences I have gained over the years. The only thing I would possibly change is to have travelled more and gained more international exposure. Do you have any hobbies? I love to run. What is your favourite sport? Rugby. What do you do for leisure? Spend time with my family and explore Cape Town. What is your secret to success? I do believe that my secret to success is choosing properties with company values that are aligned with my personal values. Integrity, honesty, trust to name a few… with these values in place it has allowed me to grow within the companies that I have worked in. It also helps that I am extremely passionate about this industry and have a love for interacting with people. What has been your biggest challenge in this sector? I think that the current situation has been the
most challenging to date… the Covid pandemic. Trying to navigate through Covid has been extremely challenging and difficult for the industry in terms of implementing new Covid protocols, while still trying to keep that warmth and hospitality within the hotels. We are fortunate to have an amazing team at the Cellars that has been key to ensuring that guest satisfaction remains a priority. What is your pet hate? Bad service and lack of attention to detail. What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why? Safari. There is something so special about being on Safari, early morning game drives, fresh air, peace, tranquillity… What is your favourite food? Sushi. Who is your favourite movie star? Ryan Reynolds. What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done? In high school, I decided that I wanted to be an exchange student, so I went off to Germany for six months, on the spur of the moment. As I never had the opportunity to learn German, it was quite an experience to be taught in a language you don’t understand! What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps? Only go into hospitality if you really have a true passion for service, guest satisfaction and people. I see a lot of people study hospitality management and, unfortunately, after their first practical experience, they change industries. If you do not have a true passion for this industry then it is very difficult to manage the long hours, guests who may sometimes be challenging, and other demands that this industry has in store for you. www.businesseventsafrica.com
CHEF’S PAGE PROFILE STRAP
Chef Rudi Blaauw — believes in supporting local Rudi Blaauw, 37, executive chef at The Marine in Hermanus, a member of The Liz McGrath Collection, is one of South Africa's most spectacular seaside hotels and is a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
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hef Rudi gained extensive experience at two Relais & Châteaux properties, including five years as executive sous chef at Delaire Graff Estate’s famed Indochine Restaurant in the Cape Winelands. Before joining The Marine, Chef Rudi was executive chef at Ellerman House in Cape Town, where he worked alongside his mentor, Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Peter Templehoff. He was born in Namibia, but came to South Africa just before South Africa and Namibia became separate countries. Namibia was formerly known as South West Africa. “I attended school in a small town called Villiersdorp and studied at Kevin Warwick’s Warwick’s Chef School in Hermanus.” Chef Rudi learned the tricks of the trade from his father, who was also a professional chef. The young apprentice cook completed his training at what was formerly known as The Mountain Manor Hotel in Franschhoek, now Le Franschhoek. During the past 20 years as a chef, he also gained valuable international experience working as a private chef in Qatar and the UK. When asked about his food philosophy, it’s an easy answer for this chef, who concentrates on the quality of the produce, allowing it to shine and believing that creativity will follow. At The Marine’s Origins Restaurant, Chef Rudi has introduced a new a la carte menu, which includes what Chef Rudi describes as ‘everyday’ favourites that showcase local flavours. Believing firmly that the time to support local is now, Chef Blaauw invites patrons to enjoy his expertly prepared menu of ‘simple pleasures’. This celebration of the produce and talented artisans of the area comes together perfectly in a menu centred around the origins of fine food. On the subject of food trends, he said: “Healthy food, and the move to vegetarianism and veganism. There is a lot of focus on eating local and sustainably.” Globally, Chef Rudi said:
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“Immunity-supporting ingredients have gained greater attention since the Covid pandemic, and these ingredients became trendy globally. These include ginger, fresh turmeric, garlic, honey, oily fish, chilis and oranges.” Paying homage to its seaside location, The Marine prefers to support ethical fishing and buy from local fishermen who catch fish by the line. Chef Rudi is married to Jenivie and they have been married for eight years. They have two sons, Marco and Irvin. For leisure he enjoys spending quality time with his family. His hobbies include collecting recipes. Chef Rudi’s advice to newcomers is: “As an executive chef, you can have all the talent in the world, but the harsh reality is that if this doesn’t come with a great, positive attitude and work ethic, then you’ll find life tough as an executive chef.” The Marine, a member of The Liz McGrath Collection, is one of South Africa's most spectacular seaside hotels. Located on Hermanus’ famous cliff path, overlooking the breath-taking Walker Bay, the Small Luxury Hotels of the World property offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience the finest land-based whale watching in the world from June to November each year. Guests are able to view these majestic creatures from the comfort of their own sea view room. The Overberg region is also a must for adventure sport seekers, offering a host of activities — including hiking, mountain biking and marine sports.
“ My goal in the next five years is to master my craft further.” What has remained constant in this industry? Nothing ever remains constant in the hospitality industry! What is your favourite beverage? Water. What is your favourite food? Sushi.
What is your signature dish? My signature dish currently is a vegan dish: Adzuki Bean Coconut Curry — cardamom squash, sesame Pak choi, crispy shallots and coconut yoghurt.
What is your pet hate? A messy workstation.
What trends are emerging in the conference industry regarding food? Healthier, and gluten free options.
Are you adventurous? Yes, the most adventurous thing I have done was living with no money in the slums of Asia for a couple of months.
What is your great love? My great love is food.
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PAGE STRAP EVENT GREENING FORUM
Chantal Croaster.
Justin Hawes.
Geraldine Parmassar.
Meet the new EGF team The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a non-profit organisation fulfilling the critical role of helping to advance the sustainability of the South African events industry. The management committee who will lead it forwards in 2022 includes several new appointments to key positions.
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ost notably, Morwesi Ramonyai, director of Borena Energy, is stepping into the role of EGF chairperson. Ms Ramonyai is an impact entrepreneur with 12 years’ experience in the green economy focusing on renewable energy and sustainability consulting. She has experience in developing solar energy projects, provides carbon offsetting through trading Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), conducts ecoaudits and advises on sustainability. She is also a certified carbon footprint analyst and a climate reality leader. She said: “With the events industry showing signs of a rebound after a devastating two years, the EGF is keen to
Lethabo Kgotse.
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see greening and sustainability return to focus as climate change remains the bigger pandemic of our time. We have a new team that builds on the great work done so far. The industry and EGF members may expect consistency as well as new offerings that will not only add value to members and their businesses, but tangibly formalise, elevate and mainstream greening at events. “As chairperson in the new term, I’m inspired to lead with the spirit of inclusivity, collaboration and partnership for the benefit and promotion of green events first and environmental sustainability more broadly.” Ms Ramonyai succeeds Greg McManus, director of Heritage and EGF chairperson
Morwesi Ramonyai.
for the past six years. Some of Mr McManus’ significant achievements during his tenure include the development of minimum standards for sustainable events and a technical standard for sustainable event certification. The EGF Management Committee has expressed heartfelt thanks to Greg for his dedication to the organisation and its vision and principles, including during the challenges of the past two years. He will be sorely missed. Another key appointment to the leadership team is John Arvanitakis as the vice chairperson. Mr Arvanitakis is the founder and chief engagement officer of Chat’r. He is new to the EGF’s management committee, but not to the industry, with over two decades of experience in the
Gavin Burgess.
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EVENT GREENING PAGEFORUM STRAP
Louis Nel.
Lynn McLeod.
John Arvanitakis.
business events space. He is also the immediate past chairperson of SAACI Johannesburg Branch Committee, while Chat’r has been an EGF member for several years. Mr Arvanitakis, said: “Although I am new to the EGF ManCom, I know that I will be able to fit in and get up and running without delay. I have a lot of ideas about how I am able to add value, from being a bridge between industry suppliers and organisers in the broader business events space (given my experience in this segment of the industry), to getting corporate clients to understand their impact and be more accountable by greening their events. I would also really like to see our industry play a more constructive role in ensuring not only the sustainability of our planet but also of small, micro and medium-sized businesses.” The full EGF 2022 management committee is: • Chairperson: Morwesi Ramonyai (Borena Energy) • Vice chairperson: John Arvanitakis (Chat’r)
• Treasurer: Justin Hawes (Scan Display) • Secretariat: Lynn McLeod (Individual) • Marketing chairpersons: Gavin Burgess (Technology Partners) & Neo Mohlatlole (7 Colours) • Education and training chairperson: Geraldene Parmassar (Technology Partners) • Membership chairperson: Chantal Croaster (CTICC) • Grace Stead (Steadfast Greening) • Lethabo Kgotse* (Event Greening Forum) • Louis Nel* (Louis THE Lawyer) • Stephanie Brand* (Technology Partners) *Co-opted. They are joined by the EGF’s associate member representatives, who are: • Betty Sichivula (AAXO) • Doug Rix/Lee-Ann Alder (EXSA) • Lee Zama (Fedhasa) • Janet Landey (IFEA Africa) • Helen Brewer (The MICE Academy) • Glenton de Kock (SAACI) • Kevan Jones (SACIA/TPSA) • Bernard Sebothoma (SA Roadies)
Grace Stead.
About About the the EGF EGF
The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a The Event Greening Forum is a non-profit organisation that(EGF) promotes non-profit organisation promotes sustainability within the that business events sustainability business events sector. It doeswithin this bythe hosting educational sector. does this byand hosting educational sessionsItfor industry lobbying sessions for industry and to lobbying government in an effort implement government in an effort to sustainability principles intoimplement the daily sustainability the daily operations of principles the eventsinto industry. operations of the events industry. The EGF was established through The EGF was established through dedication and support of eight industry dedication support of eight industry associationsand who are recognised as associations who areThe recognised as founding members. founding founding members. The founding members are key industry associations members are key industry associations working together to promote South working together to promote South Africa as a destination for various types Africa as a destination for various types of events. of events.
Want to know more? Want tolike know more? If you would to know more about
Stephanie Brand.
www.businesseventsafrica.com
Neo Mohlatlole
If you greening, would likevisit to know more about event event greening, visit wwweventgreening.co.za where you can www.eventgreening.co.za where browse the free resources, sign upyou to the can browse the free resources, monthly newsletter, or contact sign themup to the monthly directly with newsletter, any queries.or contact them directly with any queries. Contact: Contact: Lynn Mcleod Lynn T: 082Mcleod 891 5883 T: 891 5883 E: 082 lynn@eventgreening.co.za E: lynn@eventgreening.co.za
Business Events Africa April 2022 33
PAGENEWS SITE STRAP
Five inSITEs on IRF’s 2022 Trends Report “As we journey through 2022, Covid-19 and uncertainty continue to impact every aspect of incentives,” says the Incentive Research Foundation (IRF) in the opening lines of a new report, published in late January. By Incentive Research Foundation.
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daptation, flexibility, and communication will continue to be key as companies weigh their options about bringing employees together, whether it’s opening the office or travelling on an incentive trip.” We’ve broken down the latest IRF findings, with a focus on key report insights that are especially relevant for incentive travel professionals. Incentives increasingly important, with budgets to match From the IRF: Given the importance of recruitment, retention, and engagement, incentive programmes will be more important than ever. Dramatic hiring shifts are driving companies to examine how to be even more competitive in the job market, and a robust incentive programme is an important part of a company’s full benefits package. According to the IRF’s Industry Outlook for 2022, overall incentive budgets are expected to
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increase by 34 per cent in 2022, with the per-person spend increasing to $806, from $764 the prior year — although these budgets will need to accommodate price increases resulting from workforce, inventory, and supply chain challenges. Our extra inSITE: Also, more important than ever is communication and successful cooperation between MICE buyers and suppliers. Nailing your communications and strategically working together to fully understand issues and arrive at robust, innovative solutions will help all of us to navigate workforce, inventories, and supply chain challenges.
Do more, to reach more? From the IRF: As companies strive to retain and hire talent during ‘The Great Resignation’, incentive programmes are expanding their reach to motivate the maximum
number of employees and partners… While many incentive programmes have traditionally focused on top performers and senior team members, incentive programme owners are [also] now working to close the gap between what tenured members of leadership teams value in terms of culture and what their employees value. Our extra inSITE: Don’t lose your Covid-driven creativity! Covid-19 pushed many of us to get original, personal, and uber insightful when it came to identifying what is motivational and moving for top performers. Tap into those solutions even so now, even with travel back on the table. Creativity will be key for building inclusive reward structures and may prompt new, insightful ways of making sure that the travel programmes we create, run, manage and reflect both leadership and qualifier expectations. www.businesseventsafrica.com
PAGE SITE STRAP NEWS
Hybrid is here to stay From the IRF: Hybrid events are being used to broaden participation and boost motivation. While companies launched virtual recognition and reward events out of necessity during the pandemic, as live events return, many incentive event professionals have continued to include hybrid elements to share the experience with a broader audience. Not only is this an opportunity for an incentive trip to reach more people, seeing what happens at the live event is a strong motivator for employees who could qualify for the event. Previewing this top reward motivates employees to reach the highest performance level so that they may attend in person the next year. Our extra inSITE: It’s going to be about finding balance — how do you strategically use your resources, especially your team’s time and talents, to pique interest and promote a sense of ‘FOMO’, using virtual tools, while still committing to an unforgettable in-person experience for qualifiers enjoying activities onsite? Also, consider what translates best — online versus what should be left as a once-in-a-lifetime tangible, in-person programme element.
More personal than ever before From the IRF: Personalisation will be infused into
incentive travel programmes – whether providing choice through itineraries or gifting experiences, or by giving participants additional free time during the trip… Personalisation will include more flexibility and options regarding the agenda, breaks, and spacing as critical elements in achieving attendees’ peace of mind and delivering a memorable experience. Our extra inSITE: This is one we want to hear from all of you on. Share with us, as we return to a year filled with more in-person travel and start venturing further afield. What are your attendees asking for? What do you find yourself seeking out at industry events? We’ve got a few ideas in the works for our own events but also want to practice that which we advise, and warmly welcome feedback from all of you.
Still feeling the market and logistics side effects of Covid-19, too From the IRF: The labour shortage is impacting the full incentive travel experience, including availability of flights, fleets, restaurants, local activities, and housekeeping. Reductions in labour are compounded by the increased need for space, such as
fewer people in a vehicle or more spacing in a restaurant or conference room… Incentive programme owners are looking at restaurant buy-outs, bringing additional staff, and partnering with DMCs to maintain incentive-level experiences… Incentive travel programme budgets are absorbing rate increases from hotels and partners to cover their cost increases, increased health and safety measures (Covid testing pre- and onsite), and supplemental staffing and local partners. Our extra inSITE: It’s back to basics as we all relearn and readjust our travel habits. Go over those final few details with those staffing a programme to be sure that everyone understands what’s expected — but also be patient, be kind, and be forgiving. Let’s continue creating memorable, unforgettable experiences above all else, even if it takes a bit more time, endurance, and energy in a world that is very much still recovering.
Curious about anything above, or want to dig deeper into the IRF’s research? Read the full report here. Be sure to check out page three of the report PDF for much more on incentive travel specifically.
What we’re all about: motivational experiences Why we do it? Business results! Site is the only global network of travel and event professionals committed to motivational experiences that deliver business results. Site provides insights and connections that inspire the utilisation of this powerful tool across diverse industries, regions and cultures. Site serves as a source of knowledge and best practices where members can make personal connections that sustain professional growth. Only one organisation sits at the critical intersection between those who seek the benefits of motivational tools and those who can provide these extraordinary experiences. That organisation is Site...
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Contact
Email: info@sitesouthernafrica.com www.sitesouthernafrica.com www.siteglobal.com
Business Events Africa April 2022 35
PAGE NEWS SAEC STRAP
The road to recovery for events and exhibitions Exactly two years after the declaration of a State of Disaster effectively brought the South African events and exhibitions industries to a standstill, and under the shadow of its extension; the SA Events Council’s Road to Recovery Webinar sparked robust debate around the way forward for this devastated sector.
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ediated by Projeni Pather, chair of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO), representatives of the various event types came together to discuss the industry’s challenges and the path to recovery. Panellists, Tes Proos (president of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence), Glenton De Kock (chief executive officer of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry), Justin Hawes (treasurer of the Event Greening Forum), Justin Van Wyk (South African Live Performance Association), Ellen Oosthuizen, (chairperson of the Professional Conference Organisers’ Alliance Network), Kevan Jones (executive director of the Southern African Communications Industries’ Association), Tiisetso Tau, (managing director of Synergy Business Events), Charles Wilson, (chief executive officer at Gallagher Convention Centre) and Raylene Johnson (Chair of the SA Events Council), brought forward topics of concern and dealt with questions, from the virtual attendees, as they came in. Gavin Burgess of Technology Partners generously sponsored this important webinar. As capacity restrictions begin to relax, international travel resumes, and the fourth wave of the pandemic subsides in South Africa, events are opening across the broader industry. While confidence is building due to the uptick in bookings, it is not quite as simple as picking up where we left off. The long-term effects of the pandemic and its subsequent devastation will take years to repair, and the industry will never be quite the same again. Despite the fundamental differences across the various venues, services, live events, conference and exhibition organisers, incentive travel and destination management companies attending the webinar, common threads emerged across the different discussions.
36 Business Events Africa April 2022
Capacity restrictions It is still not economically viable to run at even 50% capacity for some types of events. When audience capacities include support staff like catering, security, front-ofhouse and performers, it becomes impossible to generate sufficient turnover to pay all involved, with adequate profit to stay afloat. However, we are slowly gaining ground and the latest regulations are another step forward. Health and Safety Protocols Although clear-cut protocols exist for events, they are interpreted differently between municipalities, and their application varies between organisations and events, making touring or multi-city events very difficult. Implementing protocols that are subsequently disregarded or inadequately enforced on show day, is simply a waste of effort and budget. It is equally counterintuitive to put audiences and staff at risk by circumventing measures meant to keep them safe. Skills gaps and staffing Wide-spread furloughs and company closures resulted in many events-sector professionals and semi-skilled staff moving to the Middle East or elsewhere, to work. Of those who remain, some are eager to get back to work, while others are reluctant to relinquish the new careers they have forged. The resultant skills gaps across our industry will take months of training to resolve and even then, will not be anywhere close to the skills levels at which we previously operated. For those further up the supply chain, the loss of trusted suppliers has set back their ability to plan and provide events of the same calibre as before. Infrastructure We have had to sacrifice valuable infrastructure, both individually and as an industry (e.g. the sale of the TicketPro Dome). The events sector is classified as
high-risk, so it isn’t easy to obtain loans to rebuy assets or refinance premises. How do we recapitalise the industry? Lead times The ongoing uncertainty around whether events may go ahead, at what capacities, and under which regulations, has resulted in rapidly contracting lead-times. When clients hold off on confirmation until the last minute, for fear of cancellation, the knock-on effect puts enormous pressure on the organisers, venues and suppliers who are left to fulfil the brief with minimal planning and even less build time. Pricing and affordability Affordability is exacerbated by staff who, considering the skills gap, demand higher salaries or even increases, and clients who are unable to provide budgets in line with pre-pandemic expenditure. We are earning less and paying more than we did in 2019. How do we bridge this gap? Solutions Participants were automatically transferred to breakaway discussions to discuss segment-specific concerns, exchange ideas and brainstorm potential solutions before returning to the main room to share their insights with the floor. As an industry that ‘sells an experience’, the inability to properly fulfil the objective, whether due to insufficient time, overly constrained budgets, skills shortages or safety lapses, translates to a lost client. So, these are vital areas for us to rectify. Extending our influence Perhaps the most critical obstacle we face is the prevailing uncertainty around events. The government urgently needs to provide a clearly defined plan for our industry to open effectively, and implement support mechanisms to protect people’s livelihoods. We also need the banking sector to make low-cost funding packages available for the www.businesseventsafrica.com
A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE PAGE STRAP
reinvestment our sector requires to restart. During lockdown, the SA Events Council established various engagement platforms with governmental and financial entities and opened channels of communication. Our work does not end here; we must continue to occupy an area within a variety of government spaces, to maintain awareness and extend the influence of our sector. Flexibility and capacity building In the interim, however, we need to remain flexible and rebuild organisational capacity to accommodate our clients as they struggle with commitment and budget. We need to be adaptable around financial constraints and negotiate a way forward with our clients, suppliers, and partners to ensure that ‘the show goes on’. Health and safety regulations are key If stakeholders interpret the Health and Safety regulations to suit their own commercial agendas, we cannot move forward. Health and Safety regulations around communicable diseases are here to stay, and unless we work together to
resume event-related activities responsibly and safely, we are damaging our own credibility. We will continue to work towards enforcing a standard set of regulations, consistently across all segments of our Industry. Focus on skills building In the absence of many of the experienced event professionals we knew and trusted, piloting staff contracts on an ‘as and when basis’ and employing interns with a view to full-time employment, is one way to move forward. Our focus should be on retaining, attracting and developing talent within the industry. Bringing new people into the industry is a very positive step, and, while it will necessitate time spent on training, we will have a pool of reasonably skilled people again, after a transition period. How quickly and to what levels we are able to upskill them, depends entirely on their level of commitment and our collective efforts! Collaboration and communication Not only have events suffered the stigma of being labelled as dangerous
super-spreaders, but the announcement of the Omicron variant relegated South Africa to ‘red lists’ worldwide. We have suffered reputational damage to both our industry and country. Now we must take control of our own narrative, let people know that we are safely open for business and give clarity on travel requirements. We need to rely on each other, assist one another, share our resources and collaborate towards a common goal, using our ‘collective IQ’ to come up with innovative solutions. We cannot leave it up to a couple of entities to market South Africa as a safe destination with world-class locations and facilities. Every single one of us may echo the messaging, and between us, we also have access to a vast international network that are able to raise their voices with us. We are now in a trial-and-error phase of operation – with the opportunity to resume successfully – but, to achieve this, we need to pull together with a shared vision and a clear, united voice as we travel the long and rocky road to recovery. Onwards and upwards, as always!
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.
www.businesseventsafrica.com
hello@saeventscouncil.org
Business Events Africa April 2022 37
PAGE STRAP AAXO NEWS
Simple ways to make your event more sustainable As the effects of climate change continue to dominate headlines, the need for sustainable and eco-friendly events has never been greater. By Chanelle Hingston, group director of VUKA
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vent organisers aren’t the only ones invested. Attendees also care about the environment, and they reward events that share their values. Sustainable events reassure participants that your organisation holds the greater good in mind — but what is a sustainable event, and how can you plan one with ease, authenticity and ensure that it does not break the bank? The good news is that there are a few simple steps you can take. Ditch the paper • Get an event app — commit to your mobile app, and when things change or update (as they always seem to do), you can make instant content updates. • Digitise your signage — it looks great and can be changed regularly with all those lastminute changes that we all know always seem to creep in. • Invite your sponsors and partners to participate. Get them to offer their materials in the event app.
Group and board member of AAXO. Make ‘greener’ food choices and reduce your food waste • Opt for menu choices with minimal packaging, ideally supplied in biodegradable or recyclable containers. • Ask for locally sourced, organic foods and sustainably sourced seafood. • Obtain guests’ special dietary requirements in advance, to prevent food waste. • Donate surplus food to charity. Ask your venue if they work with any local charities. • Champion plant-based or vegetarian choices to help reduce CO2 emissions derived from meat. • Use biodegradable cutlery. Reduce waste = go plastic free • Recycling sorting stations in all meeting spaces. • Cut down on water bottles — use filtered water dispensers. • Eliminate the use of plastic cups for water or other beverages and encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles, or use glass cups.
• Design reusable signage. • Give out reusable totes instead of plastic based gift bags. • Using plastic name-badge holders? Collect them after the event for reuse. Reduce the transportation footprint • Encourage attendees to travel to your event venue in an eco-friendly way. This could be as simple as choosing a hotel near the venue. • Encourage ride-shares and hire minibuses over taxis for events held in remote locations. • Offer people options for attending the event virtually. Sustainable event planning is a win-win: It’s good for the earth, it’s good for your brand, and it’s good for your budget. If you’re an event organiser interested in adopting sustainable best practices, you’re not alone — going green is a growing trend in the industry.
Let’s grow the exhibition industry by investing in our young professionals.
38 Business Events Africa April 2022
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PAGE EXSA STRAP NEWS
EXSA partners with Technology Partners Technology Partners has been appointed to manage EXSA’s social media. The company is an information and communications technology company, deeply rooted in the exhibitions and business events space.
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hen asked about their vision, Gavin Burgess, founder and managing director of Technology Partners, said: “What makes us stand out as a company is that we have a very strong technical, as well as a very strong creative team, which goes hand in hand. Through our expertise, we are able to partner with our clients and work collaboratively to add value to the experience of business events by leveraging technology, both on site and in the office.” The exhibitions and business events industry in South Africa is steadily opening; and exhibition stand builders, infrastructure providers, organisers, and delegates alike, are revelling in the joy of being able to attend face-to-face events again. EXSA and its members are busy
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and excited about this much-anticipated return to the unparalleled passion found in the world of business events. At the recent Meetings Africa held in February this year, the much-loved Sustainability Village featured again. The vendors who trade at the village are specifically local SMMEs who have exceptional products made from fully renewable or recyclable raw materials, and that would otherwise not have exposure to buyers from international markets. Partnering with the event, Technology Partners implemented their cashless trading platform that allowed these vendors to trade on a gift voucher basis — further enhancing the overall sustainability of the event by eliminating generic corporate gifts and allowing delegates to select their own gift.
The Sustainability Village and the accompanying voucher system, provided exclusively by Technology Partners, will be in use at the much-anticipated 2022 edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba. Technology Partners offers a myriad of services to the industry, both on-site at events as well as in the offices of exhibition stand builders, infrastructure providers, organisers, and suppliers to the business events value chain. As a registered ISP and a managed services provider, Technology Partners looks after the diverse needs of our vibrant industry with world-class service. EXSA is truly delighted to work with Technology Partners and is already reaping the rewards of this partnership through consistent and sustained growth of the association’s social media platforms.
Business Events Africa April 2022 39
PAGE STRAP SAACI NEWS
It is up to us to drive confidence The business events sector has a symbiotic relationship with many other industries, including airlines, hotels and venues, transport, catering, and cleaning, which are so inter-related and may have an impact on the sector’s recovery process.
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hile highly dependent on the simultaneous recovery of other enabling industries in the tourism, hospitality and events ecosystem, business events may resume its critical economic and social role within our country’s economic ecosystem. With the easing of restrictions, we may move to the next phase of the recovery process — that of sustained business events and exhibition activity that will drive confidence throughout the remainder of 2022. We cannot underplay that the hosting of business events is a key signal of business confidence across the economy. In the first quarter of 2022, we have seen this with Meetings Africa, Propack and the Caravan Show as well as the Africa Energy Week to name a few highlights.
By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI. With the option of hosting virtual events or hybrid events still a potential backstop for organisers, it is in no way a replacement for in-person events. There is a place for hybrid, but how they are delivered and the impact they make in our communities still requires discussion — it is a work in progress. As we shared previously, our sector’s recovery of business events will be geographically phased as restrictions ease and business confidence returns. We view this phased approach as key to how we build confidence and how we bring back many skilled individuals. South Africa’s global market position in its rebound will be underpinned by the country’s ongoing ability to manage the pandemic with the backing of science
and for all we have worked towards, that of saving lives and livelihoods. Our health service capacity, global health and hygiene reputation ensures that Destination South Africa is always alert in our management of the pandemic. With that backing, we are sure that business events are the catalyst for South Africa’s broader economic recovery, local employment reactivation and job creation. Unique opportunities for South Africa and its geographical spread exist. Let us continue the build-back of the business events sector.
THE ASSOCIATION FOR CONFERENCE INDUSTRY LEADERS
CONNECT SAACI unites , supports and educates the business
events industry in southern Africa by creating sustainable environment for business growth
THRIVE Join SAACI and enjoy access to an inspiring network of industry professionals, while giving your business the professional status it needs to attract the attention of business leaders. GROW Become the business events professional you’ve always wanted to be. Access the SAACI Academy and enter a world of inspiration, connections and world-class skills development.
40 Business Events Africa April 2022 www.businesseventsafrica.com
Visit our online community: www.saaci.org www.saacicongress.org www.saaci-academy.org
+27(0)11 880 5883 info@saaci.org
Business Events www.businesseventsafrica.com AfricaLearning October 2020 40 | Growth | collaboration
SAACI PAGE STRAP NEWS
SAACI announces winners of the youth competition The national board of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) undertook to create a youth platform within SAACI; specifically targeted to young students studying towards a career in the broader business events and tourism industry.
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his platform aims to empower students and new entrants in the industry and bridge the knowledge and skills gap between Academia and Industry. The vision is to enhance relevant skills and employment opportunities in the industry. SAACI challenged students to come up with a brand name inclusive of an identity (logo, vision, mission and tagline) for the SAACI Youth Initiative. Glenton De Kock, chief executive
officer of SAACI, said: “Many professionals in the business events industry acknowledge the challenges we are facing due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. As SAACI we are concerned about the students and graduates that will be entering the world of work soon. We all agree that there is no substitute for learning about the world of work, than being in the world of work. As an association, we view this competition as a building block for
young professionals and students within our industry to understand the current ecosystem of the business events industry.” All students were at CPUT at the time of entering the competition. The competition winners are: • Jade Dumas • Nadia Ruthanne Cloete • Mbali Ndlela • Abigail Tsolo • Darren Vaudin
This is what some of the winners had to say about the competition: Nadia Ruthanne Cloete Events assistant at SARETEC (CPUT) +27 (0)74 719 5593 Nadiacloete96@gmail.com “I am grateful that our initiative was selected to make a change in the lives of young and vibrant individuals. This initiative aims to elevate the struggle of gaining experience within the work environment and, in essence, equip graduates and students with the necessary skills to change the events industry on a broader level. The youth of today is the future of tomorrow.”
Mbali Ndlela CPUT 074 010 8081 Currently residing in KZN Durban Working status: Unemployed Graduate “I’m so proud to be one of the people to work with SAACI to start the youth initiative, like Paulo Coelho said in his book: “When you want something all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it. Doors are opening for the youth, the start of a better future.” www.businesseventsafrica.com
Darren Vaudin +27 (0)84 085 7777 darrenvaudin1@gmail.com Currently in Seychelles working for a private resort, in conjunction with events and service management. “By achieving this amazing award it has come to my attention that the youth’s decision-making skills of today, ultimately affect the outcomes of the future. Therefore, we should always give 110 per cent when attending to something.”
Jade Dumas CPUT +27 (0)64 687 7122 dumasjh100@gmail.com Currently self-employed. “Hearing about this win came as an overwhelming surprise. I am thrilled about this networking opportunity and that I get to be involved with an association that is central to the business events industry. I cannot wait to see what the future brings. Hard work certainly pays off!” Business Events Africa April 2022 41
DIRECTORY
SOUTHERN AFRICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE CONFERENCE INDUSTRY
EXCO AND HEAD OFFICE Chairperson: Kim Roberts e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com c: +27 (0)82 652 2008 Vice-chairperson: Minister Kganyango e: mkganyago@csir.co.za c: +27 (0)79 513 8708 Treasurer: Jaques Fouche e: jaques@be-moved.co.za c: +27 (0)60 993 7542 Public officer: Alistair Stead e: alastair@scandisplay.africa c: +27 (0)73 236 6618 Chief executive officer: Glenton De Kock e: ceo@saaci.org c: +27 (0)82 575 7565 Membership services consultant: Alshanthé Smith t: +27 (0)71 299 0601 e: members@saaci.org BOARD MEMBERS Chairperson: Kim Roberts e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com t: +27 (0)82 652 2008 Vice-chairperson: Minister Kganyango e: mkganyago@csir.co.za c: +27 (0)79 513 8708 Treasurer: Jaques Fouche e: jaques@be-moved.co.za c: +27 (0)60 993 7542 Public officer: Alistair Stead e: alastair@scandisplay.africa c: +27 (0)73 236 6618 Eastern Cape Chairperson: Melissa Palmer e: melissa@becbc.co.za t: +27 (0)82 437 7600 +27 (0)41 404 2431 KwaZulu-Natal Chairperson: Irene Vallihu c: +27 (0)79 692 4604 e: irenev@icc.co.za Gauteng Chairperson: Neil Nagooroo c: +27 (0)82 929 5241 e: neil@nxlevel.co.za Western Cape Chairperson: Angela Lorimer c: +27 (0)74 550 1000 e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za Coopted Youth Ambassador: Minister Kganyango e: mkganyago@csir.co.za c: +27 (0)79 513 8708 Coopted Learning Ambassador: Esti Venske e: venskee@cput.ac.za c: +27 (0)83 482 9276
EASTERN CAPE Chairperson: Melissa Palmer e: melissa@becbc.co.za t: +27 (0)82 437 7600 +27 (0)41 404 2431 Vice-chairperson: Claire Kivedo e: claire@overallevents.co.za c: +27 (0)82 4641 504 COMMITTEE: David Limbert e: david@magnetic.co.za c: +27 (0)82 9064 198 Gill Dickie e: gilld@bidvestcarrental.co.za c: +27 (0)79 527 7619 Wanda Fourie e: registration@easternsun.co.za c: +27 (0)72 608 1641 Claire Kivedo e: claire@overallevents.co.za c: +27 (0)82 464 1504 GAUTENG Chairperson: Neil Nagooroo c: +27 (0)82 929 5241 e: neil@nxlevel.co.za Vice Chairperson: Mary Mahlangu c: +27 (0) 81 574 9493 e: mary@flockplatform.com COMMITTEE: Rendani Khorommbi Joburg Tourism t: +27 (0)11 883 3525 c: +27 (0)82 773 2999 e: rendanik@joburgtourism.com Zaida Enver Pure Grit Events and Exhibitions Management t: +27 (0)82 555 1049 e: zaida@puregrit.co.za KWAZULU-NATAL Chairperson: Irene Vallihu c: +27 (0)79 692 4604 e: irenev@icc.co.za Vice-chairperson: Gill Slaughter c: +27 (0)83 269 0279 e: gills@turnersconferences.co.za Treasurer: Sibusiso Mncwabe c: +27 (0)83 477 5536 e: sibusiso@marketingwell.co.za
Vice-chairperson: Alex Wrottesley c: +27 (0)21 430 2060 e: alex@intoafrica.co.za COMMITTEE: Ansu Colditz c: +27 (0)82 457 8071 e: ansuc@millenniumtravel.co.za Esti Venske t: +27 (0)21 460 3518 e: estivenske@gmail.com Zimkitha Bavuma c: +27 (0)72 172 5746 e: zim@live.co.za Esmare Steinhofel c: +27 (0)84 056 5544 e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org Andrew Gibson t: +27 (0)860 111 625 e: Andrew@magnetic.co.za e: andrew.msct@gmail.com Gheeta Payle t: +27 (0)86 123 7890 e: gheeta.payle@inhousevtm.com Lara van Zyl Paragon Africa t: +27 (0)82 223 4684 e: lvanzyl@paragong.com
EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
EXSA OFFICE www.exsa.co.za EXSA Association Manager Lee-Ann Alder t: +27 (0)82 550 0349 e: info@exsa.co.za EXSA Chairperson and KZN forum head: Sibusiso Mchwabe (KZN) Marketing Well t: +27 (0)83 477 5536 e: sibusiso@marketingwell.co.za EXSA Deputy chairperson, Head of WC forum: Jacqui Nel (EC) Exhibition Freighting G.S.M. t: +27 (0)21 552 7248 e: jacquinel@ef-gsm.co.za Deputy head KZN forum: Sandile Dlamini Anzamode t: +27 (0)79 104 5510 e: sandile@anzomode.co.za Deputy Head WC forum: Liam Beattie Hott 3D t: +27 (0)76 577 0989 e: liam@hott.co.za Immediate past Chairperson: Doug Rix DK Designs t: +27 (0)82 579 7071 e: dougrix@wol.co.za Directors: Kerry-Lee Bester Brilliant Branding t: +27 (0)72 265 6600 e: kerry@brilliant-branding.co.za Beert Kuiken Octanorm t: +27 (0)82 387 5324 e: beert.kuiken@octanorm.co.za
COMMITTEE: Tarannum Banatwalla c: +27 (0)83 254 9462 e: tarannum@jellyfishcatering.co.za Mabuyi Mosia c: +27 (0)71 117 7509 e: mabuyi@ikhono.co.za Kavitha Dhawnath c: +27 (0)83 607 200 e: kavitha.dhawnath@gearhouse.co.za Wiseman Mnguni c: +27 (0)78 220 2162 e: mboniseni.events@gmail.com Sandile Dlamini c: +27 (0)79 104 5510 e: sandile@anzomode.co.za WESTERN CAPE Chairperson: Angela Lorimer c: +27 (0)74 550 1000 e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za e: salesmanager@ lagoonbeachhotel.co.za
42 Business Events Africa April 2022
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DIRECTORY
SOCIETY FOR INCENTIVE TRAVEL EXCELLENCE
President: Tes Proos c: +27 (0) 84 682 7676 e: tes@crystalevents.co.za Treasurer: Peter-John Mitrovich c: +27 (0)82 318 1889 e: peter-john.mitrovich@grosvenortours. com Sustainability: Daryl Keywood Southern Africa Development: Brad Glen East Africa Development: Chris Munyao Young Leader Programme: Peter Mwanja Africa Convention Bureaus: Rick Taylor North Africa Development: George Fawzi Board member at large: Rick Taylor East Africa (Rwanda): Chris Munyao North Africa: George Fawzi North Africa support: Brad Glen Secretariat & Events: Mariaan Burger c: +27 (0)82 557 8041 e: info@siteafrica.africa
SA EVENTS COUNCIL
ASSOCIATION OF AFRICAN EXHIBITION ORGANISERS
46 Waterford Office Park, Waterford Drive, Fourways, Johannesburg t: +27 (0)11 465 8955 e: aaxo@aaxo.co.za Association coordinator: Molebegeng Masote e: mole@aaxo.co.za Chairperson: Projeni Pather, Exposure Marketing e: projeni@exposuremarketing.co.za Vice-chairperson: Devi Paulsen-Abbott, Dmg Events e: devipaulsen@dmgevents.com Venue Committee Chairperson: Charles Wilson, Gallagher Convention Centre e: charlesw@Gallagher.co.za Treasurer: Mark Anderson, Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery e: marka@specialised.com Board of directors: Adele Hartdegen, Dogan Exhibitions & Events e: adele@expocentre.co.za Chanelle Hingston, Clarion Events Africa e: chanelle.hingston@clarionevents.com Tiisetso Tau, Synergy Business Events e: ttau@synergybe.co.za
INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS & CONVENTION ASSOCIATION e: hello@saeventscouncil.org Chairperson: Raylene Johnson, CEO: TEBCO-SA Vice-chairperson: — – Interim treasurer: Glenn van Eck, Chairperson: CEPA Spokesperson: Projeni Pather, Chairperson: AAXO Members: Kevan Jones, Executive Director SACIA Sharif Baker, Chairperson TPSA Tes Proos, SITE President Justin Hawes, Managing Director: Scan Display & Event Greening Forum Treasurer Sibusiso Mncwabe, Chairperson EXSA Justin van Wyk, Chairperson SALPA Mike Lord, Chairperson ESC Arthur Goldstuck, PSASA Exco Member Esmare Steinhofel, Chairperson: ICCA Africa Chapter Advisory Members: Prof Nellie Swart, Associate Professor: Tourism Management Corne Koch, Head: Convention Bureau (WESGRO) Tiisetso Tau, AAXO member Daryl Keywood, SITE Member Bheki Twala, TEBCO-SA Executive Kim Roberts, SAACI Representative Western Cape Robyn D’Alessandro, PR/Social media, Vivo Visual Voice CC
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ICCA African Chapter Chairperson: Taubie Motlhabane Cape Town International Convention Centre t: +27 (0)21 410 5000 e: Taubiem@cticc.co.za Deputy chairperson: Jacinta Nzioka Kenya National Convention Bureau t: +254 722464221 e: jacinta@kncb.go.ke Secretariat: Esmaré Steinhöfel ICCA Africa Regional director c: +27 (0)84 056 5544 e: esmare.s@iccaworld.org www.iccaworld.com/dbs/africanchapter www.iccaworld.org
EVENT GREENING FORUM
179 Jan Smuts Ave, Parktown North, Private Bag X7000, Parklands 2121 t: +27 (0)11 447 4777 e: info@eventgreening.co.za www.eventgreening.co.za Chairperson: Greg McManus, Heritage Environmental Management Services Vice-chairperson: Morwesi Ramonyai, Borena Energy Treasurer: Justin Hawes, Scan Display Secretariat: Lynn McLeod e: lynn@eventgreening.co.za Marketing: Pippa Naudé e: pippa@eventgreening.co.za
OTHER ASSOCIATIONS OF INTEREST ABTA – African Business Travel Association Box 2594, Pinegowrie, 2123 t: +27 (0)11 888 8178 c: +27 (0)83 679 2110 e: monique@abta.co.za www.abta.co.za Founder: Monique Swart ASATA – Association of Southern African Travel Agents PO Box 650539, Benmore, 2010 t: +27 (0)11 293 0560/61 e: barbara@asata.co.za e: general@asata.co.za Office manager: Barbara Viljoen Council of Event Professionals Africa M16 Ticketpro Dome Cnr. Northumberland & Olievenhout Roads, Northriding Executive Director: Kevan Jones kevan@sacia.org.za t: +27 (0)11 083 6418 c: +27 (0)82 555 5556 Chairperson: Glenn van Eck Magnetic Storm c: +27 (0)82 800 2616 e: glenn@magnetic.co.za FEDHASA National Office – Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa PO Box 3853, The Reeds, 0157 c: +27 (0)82 552 9862 e: ceo@fedhasa.co.za www.fedhasa.co.za Chief executive: Tshifhiwa Tshivhengwa PSASA – Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa t: +27 (0)11 462 9465 c: +27 (0)83 458 6114 e: admin@psasouthernafrica.co.za www.psasouthernafrica.co.za SABOA – Southern African Bus Operators Association Postnet Suite 393, Private Bag X033, Rivonia 2128 t: +27 (0)11 511 7641 e: saboa@saboa.co.za www.saboa.co.za
SACIA – Southern African Communications Industries Association M16 Ticketpro Dome Cnr. Northumberland & Olievenhout Roads, Northriding t: +27 (0)11 083 6418 c: +27 (0)82 555 5556 e: kevan@sacia.org.za Executive director: Kevan Jones SATI – South African Translators’ Institute Executive director: Marion Boers t: +27 (0)11 803 2681 e: office@translators.org.za www.translators.org.za SATSA – Southern Africa Tourism Services Association Box 900, Ferndale 2160 t: +27 (0)11 886 9996 e: pa@satsa.co.za www.satsa.com SKAL International South Africa Secretary: Anne Lamb t: +27 (0)21 434 7023 c: +27 (0)82 708 1836 e: anne@yebo.co.za www.skalsouthafrica.org STA – Sandton Tourism Association t: +27 (0)83 558 5445 e: secretariat@sandtontourism.com www.sandtontourism.com TBCSA – Tourism Business Council of South Africa Box 11655, Centurion 0046 t: +27 (0)12 664 0120 e: comms@tbcsa.travel www.tbcsa.travel www.tomsa.co.za Member relations manager: Boitumelo Moleleki TGCSA – Tourism Grading Council of South Africa Private Bag X10012, Sandton 2146 t: +27 (0)11 895 3000 f: +27 (0)11 895 3001 e: enquiries@tourismgrading.co.za TINSA – Interpreters/Translators Network of Southern Africa e: info@interpreter.org.za t/f: +27 (0)11 485 2511 c: +27 (0)83 249 0010 www.interpreter.org.za TPSA – Technical Production Services Association M16 Ticketpro Dome Cnr. Northumberland & Olievenhout Roads, Northriding t: +27 (0)11 083 6418 c: +27 (0)82 555 5556 e: kevan@sacia.org.za www.tpsa.co.za Executive director: Kevan Jones TTA – Tshwane Tourism Association Box 395, Pretoria 0001 t: +27 (0)12 841 4212 e: secretary@tshwanetourism.com www.tshwanetourism.com Chairperson: Bronwen Cadle de Ponte Secretary: Sithembile Nzimande Membership coordinator: Liz Oosthuysen e: membership@tshwanetourism.com
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PAGE STRAP MARKET NEWS
Marriott International appoints Richard Collins as area VP Marriott International has appointed Richard Collins as its area vice president for Sub-Saharan Africa.
I
n this new role, Mr Collins oversees the company’s managed operations in the region and will be based out of the company’s Cape Town office. He takes on his new position following the announcement of Volker Heiden’s retirement, effective from the end of March 2022. “Richard is an experienced leader with a proven track record, and we are delighted to have him lead our operations across Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Phil Andreopoulos, chief operating officer, Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriott International. “With his leadership and extensive knowledge, Richard will play a pivotal role in building on our successes in the region.” Mr Collins has over 30 years of hospitality experience and is a 20-year veteran with Marriott International. A graduate of the Shannon College of Hotel Management in his native Ireland, Mr Collins began his career with Marriott International in Scotland at the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club in Edinburgh in 2001, before leading the Marriott Druids Glen Hotel and Country
Club near Dublin. Mr Collins moved to the United Arab Emirates in 2013, where he was general manager of Dubai’s first JW Marriott Hotel. Following a successful period at the JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, Richard then took the helm at The Ritz Carlton, Dubai where, within a three-year period, the property saw unprecedented success growing its business, profit, associate engagement, RevPAR index, and guest voice scores. In 2018, Mr Collins was appointed his first multi-property role as area general manager of Abu Dhabi for Marriott International, during which he also managed the successful transition of all Starwood Legacy properties to the Marriott network. Commenting on his appointment, Mr Collins said: “I am delighted to take on this new role and be part of this exciting region. Marriott International has a longstanding presence across SubSaharan Africa and this region continues to be an important market for the company’s current operations and future growth opportunities.”
Marriott International’s current portfolio in the Sub-Saharan Africa region features nearly 100 properties (managed and franchised) and over 12,000 rooms across sixteen markets.
Index of advertisers and contributors ADVERTISER AAXO
PAGE 38
WEBSITE
aaxo@aaxo.co.za
www.aaxo.co.za
—
www.indaba-southafrica.co.za
Africa’s Travel Indaba
10-11
Event Greening Forum
32
info@eventgreening.co.za
www.eventgreening.co.za
EXSA
39
exsa@exsa.co.za
www.exsa.co.za
IssuerServices@jse.co.za
www.jse.co.za/services/company-services
JSE
FC,IFC,6-9
Mjunxion
4
yolande@mjunxion.co.za
www.gotrips.co.za
SA Events Council
36
hello@saeventscouncil.org
www.saeventscouncil.org
info@saaci.org
www.saaci.org
34
info@sitesouthernafrica.com
www.sitesouthernafrica.com
12-14,15
reservations@thecapital.co.za
www.thecapital.co.za
SAACI SITE The Capital
40,41
44 Business Events Africa April 2022
www.businesseventsafrica.com
THE PAGE LAST WORD STRAP
eVisas are the key to unlocking SA’s inbound tourism market In line with global post-pandemic policies, President Cyril Ramaphosa has lifted the National State of Disaster, with the last of the regulations falling away in early May. By Marc Wachsberger, managing director of The Capital Hotels and Apartments.
T
his would have been outstanding news for the local tourism industry, but the fact that South Africa’s tourism operators’ chances of success are hobbled by the country’s antiquated paper-based visa system, which effectively prevents hundreds of thousands of international tourists from visiting the country. The Department of Home Affairs has been talking about an eVisa system for years, and although it has been rolled out in 14 countries, potential tourists in the rest of the world still have to visit a South African consulate, embassy or trade representative to fill out and submit forms and photographs. This often means that they would have to incur travel time and costs just to apply for a visa, and then again to collect it, if they live somewhere other than the South African representative office’s location — adding an often-insurmountable obstacle to their travel plans. Mostly, they’ll just look for somewhere else to go, that either doesn’t have visa requirements
www.businesseventsafrica.com
for their home country, or that has a quick and effective online visa application system, followed by a virtual visa delivery. With South African travellers themselves hobbled by onerous visa requirements for many countries, based on the historic frequency of travel document fraud, a digital visa system would also contribute to eliminating fraudulent travel documents, making sure that only people who have complied with the country’s port entry requirements, are able to enter. A digital visa system also makes it easier for South Africa to diversify the types of visas it offers in response to the changing world of work. The Capital Hotels and Apartments has a constant stream of international executives who would like to work remotely from our Cape Town or Johannesburg apartment hotels, but there is currently no South African visa solution that allows for this. That means that we – and South Africa – have lost the revenue that they would have brought with them, and another country will benefit from that instead.
Who is Marc Wachsberger? Marc Wachsberger is the managing director of The Capital Hotels and Apartments. The hotel group, with its innovative apartment hotel model that offers the best of accommodation, conferencing, and lifestyle events, has properties in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, and Mpumalanga. He is married and has three children. The current piloting of e-gates at Cape Town International Airport that are aimed at improving passenger processing times, and their first experience of South Africa, is welcomed, but urges the Department of Home Affairs to pick up the pace of digitalisation across all elements of its interactions with citizens, and with visitors to the country. The last two years have shown us just how quickly shifts to virtual ways of working may happen if there’s a strong will for it to happen, so there really is no excuse for the slow progress in adopting digital solutions for visas and other travel documents. South Africa is lagging its counterparts in Africa when it comes to digital travel documents, and we’re going to continue to lose valuable tourism revenue to other nations unless the Department of Home Affairs accelerates the roll-out of its pilot projects. Failing to do so compromises the future of the country’s tourism industry, and indeed its economy. Business Events Africa April 2022 45
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