Make it your year! 2020

As 2019 comes to a close, we welcome in a new decade of possibilities. During this period, I look back on the year that was and look forward to what 2020 may bring to the business events industry in South Africa. This is probably the most exciting part, the year end and imagining what 2020 can bring.

There is no doubt that 2019 has been another challenging year filled with some uncertainty, but at the same time, there seems to be a new found optimism in our sector.

In this edition of BEA, industry leaders have shared their predictions for the coming year. This gives insight to the various sectors of the industry and their professional perspective on 2020, and what we could expect. For the first time we also look at a sustainable trends and food trends for 2020.

In 2019 the South African national elections took place this year with no issues. Though business was slow around this time it really didn’t make a huge difference to the business events sector. There was a good flow of government and political parties’ events in the build up to the elections.

2019 also saw South Africa’s rugby team being crowned the Rugby World Cup winners for 2019. This event united our country and its people, near and far. It was an amazing period to be South African. It is amazing that a sports event could have this far reaching effect on its citizens. Wish we had a formula to bottle that energy and the overwhelming feeling of pride. Slowly, we have come back to the real world and the news that SAA is in dire straits has certainly been a sobering one. The thing is it is not the first time SAA has been in this situation – however, it does feel like there isn’t much light at the end of this tunnel. Government is trying to work out another rescue plan for SAA. The questions is, is there anything to rescue? The economy remains a concern going into 2020. We can only remain cautiously optimistic that the economic environment will improve.

Technology continues to change the way we do business. Hopefully for the better, though every now and again, I wish my smart phone wasn’t so ‘smart’. It can be very intrusive having emails and social media at your fingertips.

I will definitely take some ‘me’ time by turning off devices over the holidays and try to get my family to do the same. Having young children, this is easier said than done. Take this holiday time to reconnect with your loved ones in person. Your devices will still be there after the holidays.

Talking about connecting, Meetings Africa is taking place in February 2020. Meetings Africa offers exhibitors from across our continent a professional platform to meet in person quality buyers. It offers buyers the cream of our continent under one roof. This remains my favourite show of the year as I get to see all my industry colleagues, clients and acquaintances during the show. Meetings Africa 2020 takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 24-26 February 2020.

As I sign off, I wish you all a prosperous 2020 and look forward to partnering with each and every one of you in 2020.