Time to connect…
As I reflect on 2023, I am grateful that we have all experienced a very fast-paced, busy year!
I
n so many ways, it was our first year of operating with no shutdowns. The business events industry is operating close to capacity, albeit with some issues. In this edition, we have our industry leaders’ predictions for 2024. This annual feature is definitely worth a read if you are wondering what 2024 could bring. I have been in the business events industry for nearly 20 years, and I have seen it grow, evolve and adapt. The current buzzwords are sustainability, adaptability, and in-person. When I think about the sector, I can sum it up as — an industry that makes connections possible. The industry has transformed significantly since I began long ago, but the foundation and the relationships have remained. It really is about the people! Our industry has lost many stalwarts over
the years, but what I love is ‘the changing of the guard’, and with that, new leaders arise. I was recently invited on a FAM trip to beautiful Maputo in Mozambique, which included a visit to the travel trade show — FIKANI. Look out for the feature in the January edition. Being part of an ‘industry/media group’, made up of various nationalities, reminded me why I love this industry. For me, it is about connections. It was wonderful connecting with some local South Africans, who were also in the group, and international tour operators, travel agents and organisers from around the world. Travel does open your eyes to different cultures, food, and history. It also reminds us that South Africa is an incredible destination, with world-class infrastructure. Granted, we have our challenges, from power supply to potholes, etc. However, we should be very proud of the beautiful country we
live in and its incredible, resilient people. From chatting with the international visitors in our group, I quickly realised that we are actually on par (and sometimes excel) on the global stage — even with our challenges. It is really great to be reminded that South Africa as a destination, is no different to the rest of the world when we look at industry challenges. In South Africa, the business events sector is very close-knit… generally, most people in the sector know each other – sometimes only by reputation – but are still known. However, the connections I am alluding to are the connections we make possible for others — be it in attending an exhibition, a meeting, or association conference, or even a once-in-a lifetime incentive. The business events sector makes it possible for people to connect, who have the same interests, or are in the same industry. An opportunity that would not present itself, if the business
events sector did not exist. These face-to-face connections open up so many opportunities, from growing the knowledge economy, bringing in financial gains for the destinations and lastly, it is a platform for creating new partnerships, which often become good friendships. It really is a mighty superpower to have! As I say goodbye to 2023, I look forward to 2024 and reconnecting and making new connections with you all. From the Contact Publications team and I, we would like to thank you for all your support over this fast-paced year and wish you much more prosperity, peace, hope, and certainty in the new year! Enjoy your downtime with your family and friends.
Credit: Hein Liebetrau
EDITOR’S COMMENT
Irene
Email: gomesi@iafrica.com
Image courtesy of Blueberry Hill Hotel, Johannesburg
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