Business Events Africa September 2021

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Voice of the Business Events Industry in Africa

Vol 41 No 9 SEPTEMBER 2021

REDISCOVER SOUTH AFRICA’S BUSINESS PLAYGROUND

Business Events Africa: Serving the business events industry for 41 years

CONTENTS

VOL 41 NO 9 SEPTEMBER 2021

The authority on meetings, exhibitions, special events and incentives management

About the cover

Fancourt’s wide open spaces make it an excellent business travel prospect.

SUSTAINABILITY 24 UFI releases key findings on sustainability in the industry.

26 The events industry kicks off towards net zero.

MARKET NEWS 27 Clarion Events - Africa evolves into the Vuka Group.

Cover Feature FANCOURT SOUTH AFRICA 6 Rediscover the business playground of South Africa.

On the pages…

EDITOR’S COMMENT 2 The time has come — make the move.

NEWS 4 CTICC secures fifteen international conferences.

5 Wrenelle Stander appointed new CEO of Wesgro.

ECONOMIC RECOVERY 28 Third quarter GDP will see headwinds from unrest and level three lockdown.

PERSONALITY PROFILE 30 Jacqui Nel — This industry is all about the people.

CHEF’S PROFILE 32 Chef Genghis San heads up new Radisson RED Rosebank restaurant.

Association news EVENT GREENING FORUM 34 Where there is a woman, there is magic – Ntozake Shange.

SITE 36 Tourism and terrorism déjà vu.

VENUE PERSPECTIVE 9 Conferencing today.

SAACI

Western Cape Feature

AAXO 39 How to increase digital engagement.

11 A reason to consider hosting an in-person meeting in the Western Cape.

13 The Capital 15 on Orange — a spectacular urban oasis.

16 Endless possibilities with the CTICC’s digital event solution, CTICC Engage.

EDUCATION 18 Tourism Educators South Africa weigh in on events restrictions.

20 The School of Tourism and Hospitality cements partnership with Sun International.

A LOCAL PERPECTIVE 22 Hospitality offers opportunities for a better future for South African youth.

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 41 No 9 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.

38 Consider a green recovery.

publishers of Business Events Africa, is a member of:

SAEC 40 The case for exhibitions to be reopened.

EXSA 41 Getting back to the business of exhibitions.

Regulars MARKET NEWS 42 KZN launches Tourism Month.

43 South African optimism higher than the global average – study finds.

Learning | Growth | collaboration

Official media partner

Official Journal of the Southern Africa Chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence

Official journal of the Exhibition & Event Association of Southern Africa

43 Index of advertisers.

44 Directory and associations of interest.

THE LAST WORD 46 The future of events in a post-pandemic world.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

EDITOR’S COMMENT

The world has certainly changed. If we are able to learn anything from Covid-19, things have the ability to change in a heartbeat. However, what is reassuring is that no matter how circumstances may change, certain things will never alter completely.

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or one, human beings are social creatures — we need physical interaction. This the reason why the business events industry will never cease to exist. Our sector brings people together, be it at a conference, an exhibition, a meeting, an event or an incentive. There is something magical in that.

Don’t get me wrong, the virtual platforms do serve a purpose… the way I see it, is that digital is a bridge to the physical world. Over the past eighteen months it certainly has given us an avenue to meet – and continue to meet – when the need arises. This is the reason why the hybrid model (physical attendance with a virtual offering) will definitely continue with us into the future.

However, in my opinion, a screen may never replace the human touch.

Today, I attended the first day of Africa’s Travel and Tourism Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The excitement was palpable, I enjoyed seeing all the familiar ‘masked’ faces and reconnecting with industry members, some I hadn’t seen in person for over a year. This part of any

business event cannot be recreated on any virtual platform.

The networking is the ‘je ne sais quoi’ which I missed the most. There is something about reconnecting with old colleagues and meeting new colleagues at these events. These connections are priceless — they are a connection that may never occur virtually. There is something most reassuring about chatting to someone face-to-face and ‘feeling’ their energy — be it through their smile, eye contact or just their body language, which may only occur in a physical environment.

The connections we make at these events, conferences, meetings, exhibitions and incentives set the foundation for a solid business relationship. These relationships may lead to new opportunities and, more importantly, long-lasting friendships. This type of collaboration is vital for anyone who would like to do business. The content at an event draws people in, but it is the networking which gives it that ‘special something’. Personally, the networking is the heartbeat of the industry, and therefore the sector will always have a place in society.

Today was the first time in a long time that I saw a glimmer of light in what has been a dark period of time for the business events sector. Being in a room with more than 150 people after a long period of time was a little daunting. To clarify, at no point did I feel unsafe. All Covid-19 protocols were strictly adhered to, namely social distancing, masks and sanitisers, which were placed and available throughout the Sandton Convention Centre. Initially, I was overwhelmed and then ’normality’ set in and I was then able to enjoy the energy in the room.

As the business events industry, we are required to lead the way, encouraging our clients to follow suit. Ultimately, this will only take place if we ourselves take the first step and begin attending face-to-face events. The time has come — make the move. What are you waiting for?

Irene

Email: gomesi@iafrica.com

yolande@mjunxtion.co.za www.mjunxtion.co.za

Credit: Hein Liebetrau

The time has come — make the move

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NEWS

CTICC secures fifteen international conferences Over the past 17 months The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has secured 15 international conferences and will welcome approximately 22,000 delegates to the Mother City, bringing an estimated R594 million into the local economy over the next six years.

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he business events industry (meetings, incentive trips, conferences, and exhibitions) has been one of the hardest-hit sectors over the past 17 months. Even with many businesses and associations worldwide reevaluating their position on business travel, the CTICC has managed to secure 15 international conferences through collaborative efforts with their partners, such as the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau.

Additionally, one of the most notable conferences secured is Africa Oil Week, part of a three-year deal the Hyve Group has signed with the CTICC. Nine of the 15 conferences will host a trade exhibition as part of the conference.

Taubie Motlhabane, chief executive officer of the CTICC, said: “With strict lockdown measures impacting our normal sales process, the team has had to do everything remotely. As part of

the sales process, we take all potential customers on a virtual tour through the centre. The tour allows them to experience the different spaces and get a feel of the venue. We also offer all our clients the options of running hybrid or virtual events using our digital platform CTICC Engage. And our strict C19-Care© protocols provide the assurance needed from a health and safety perspective, allowing customers to book with us with confidence.”

CTICC Engage allows professional conference organisers to host seamless and successful live digital events with customisable branding and offers features such as AI matchmaking, a lead generation dashboard, and exhibitor booths. The team at the CTICC developed the C19-Care© protocols in collaboration with health, tourism, and events industry leaders, both locally and abroad, and the protocols apply to the National

4 Business Events Africa September 2021

Department of Health’s regulations.

The stringent protocols ensure that the safety of the CTICC’s clients, staff, and delegates is always put first. Since opening its doors almost two decades ago, the CTICC has focused on building a resilient brand on the global business events stage. The continued interest over the past year in the CTICC as a venue to host conferences and trade exhibitions, most notably those in the medical and scientific fraternities, signifies the strength and resilience of the venue and destination.

Deon Cloete, chairperson of the Cape Town International Convention Centre Company (Convenco), said: “In a highly challenging year, the team at the CTICC and their partners were able to make this achievement possible by working together and showing the world why we are Africa’s leading business events venue and destination.” www.businesseventsafrica.com

NEWS

Wrenelle Stander appointed new CEO of Wesgro The board of directors of Wesgro – the official tourism, trade, investment and film promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape – is pleased to announce the appointment of Wrenelle Stander as chief executive officer.

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fter a lengthy and rigorous recruitment process, Ms Stander takes over from Tim Harris as chief executive officer of Wesgro. Wesgro is the agency mandated to grow the economy of the Cape and position the region to attract investors, filmmakers, buyers and tourists. Ms Stander will begin her tenure in October 2021.

Michael Spicer, chairman of the Wesgro Board, commented: “Wrenelle is an exceptionally experienced leader, with an impressive public and private sector track record and diverse skillset spanning across sectors that are vital for the province — particularly as we navigate complex global times. We are confident that she has the acumen to lead Wesgro into a new phase and will be an asset to the Western Cape in helping speed up provincial economic recovery and drive growth rates higher.”

Ms Stander has led multiple, large-scale enterprises, particularly in the transport and energy industries prior to joining Wesgro, holding key executive positions including: chief executive officer of Comair Limited; managing director of South Africa’s Air Traffic Navigation Service (ATNS) and managing director of Sasol Gas, a subsidiary of Sasol Limited.

She began her career in aviation at South Africa’s national department of transport where she rose to become chief director of Aviation and Maritime Regulation and also served as deputy chief executive officer of the SA Civil Aviation Authority.

Underpinning her readiness for the role, Ms Stander has sat on a range of boards and has an MBA from Oxford School of Business.

Ms Stander said: “I am delighted to accept the great responsibility of leading such a world-class organisation in what is a critical time for our economic growth as a country and a province. Wesgro sits at www.businesseventsafrica.com

the interface between government and business, which is a catalytic space that I am well versed in. Having been born in Cape Town and educated at Wittebome High School and later UCT - I am looking forward to returning to my hometown once again.”

Wesgro is an award-winning economic

agency, with diverse capabilities and highly talented individuals throughout the organisation. The Agency welcomes the appointment of its new chief executive officer as it moves into the third quarter, where Ms Stander will lead the wellattended annual review event and outline her vision for the upcoming year.

Business Events Africa September 2021 5

COVER STORY: FANCOURT

The Kingfisher Suite.

Rediscover the business playground of South Africa Although it needs no introduction as a premier golfing and family holiday destination, Fancourt’s wide open spaces on its 613-hectare estate make it an excellent business travel prospect.

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s an award-winning leading resort and golf hotel, the estate is fully equipped with modern conference facilities (banquet hall, boardrooms, meeting rooms and other outdoor options) and offers understated luxury accommodation.

The extensive grounds and conferencing facilities are particularly suited to open-air functions – more in demand than ever before.

Easy access and green space Located just outside George, Fancourt is an easy 10-minute shuttle drive away from the closest airport.

The lush Garden Route countryside makes for stunning views and plenty of opportunity for outdoor pursuits. A little-known fact is that the area is home

to the largest forest systems in Southern Africa. Known as Afro Montane Forest or the Southern Cape Temperate Forest, it spans from Mossel Bay to Gqeberha.

Nature lovers will appreciate Fancourt’s efforts to clear all alien vegetation and improve biodiversity by replanting trees endemic to this specific location — on the golf courses and in areas being developed within the estate.

Thanks to this commitment to the environment, there is a wide array of venues, from marquees to spacious outdoor areas, which make Fancourt safe for socially distanced events, as well as outdoor meetings and functions.

Modern home comforts The Fancourt Hotel has 115 spacious rooms and suites, all effortlessly blending

6 Business Events Africa September 2021

contemporary luxury with classic elegance to create a calm sense of relaxation. All rooms and suites have a balcony to admire the iconic Fancourt views of manicured gardens and greens.

Conference facilities are equipped with modern audio-visual and computer equipment, full business services and video conferencing.

Activities galore Once you arrive at Fancourt, you really don’t have to leave the estate. Fancourt’s three championship golf courses remain a big drawcard. Each rank in the Top 20 of SA top 100 courses in the country, and it is the perfect opportunity for golfers to tick off their ultimate bucket list by playing The Links (1), Montagu (8) and Outeniqua (184). www.businesseventsafrica.com

COVER STORY: FANCOURT

And as a team building exercise for the non-golfers in the group, why not create a memorable experience by booking a group into The Academy at Fancourt for the ultimate golf lesson?

Apart from a round of golf, activities include mountain biking, horse riding, fishing (big-mouth black bass) or trail running. Two swimming pools, including one heated, invite business travellers to clear their heads with an early morning swim.

Fancourt offers guests the perfect base from which to explore the spectacular 200km Garden Route, and the Fancourt team are able to arrange outside team-building activities such as wine tastings at nearby vineyards, Big Five game drives and Knysna Lagoon boat cruises. For more adrenalin-packed action, forest or ocean zip lining, kloofing/canyoning in river gorges and sandboarding are popular options.

Treat your team If pure relaxation is the order of the day, The Spa at Fancourt revives and pampers tired delegates. Choose from a range of blissful treatments, or simply relax in The Spa’s roman bath and jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. The award-winning spa is a sanctuary for guests to unwind at the end of a long day.

Food at Fancourt is a definite highlight, with a team of sixty chefs working in twelve kitchens to showcase the best that the Southern Cape has to offer. The suppliers around the Garden Route, Klein Karoo and surrounding farming areas offer a smorgasbord of locally sourced ingredients (from fresh oysters to venison and farm cheeses).

The Fancourt chefs pride themselves on delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

The recently revamped La Cantina is unpretentious, relaxed and the menu offers Mediterranean favourites, as the name suggests. It is also home to Fancourt’s hearty buffet breakfasts and ever-popular thin-crust pizzas. Monet’s is a French-style bistro serving great coffee, pastries and casual café meals and French-inspired favourites.

The Club House is the place to go for comforting steaks and burgers as well as exotic cocktails, while Henry White’s – at The Manor House – promises an evening of fine fare. www.businesseventsafrica.com

The club lounge.

The tranquility of the Roman baths.

The most scenic tennis courts.

Business Events Africa September 2021 7

COVER STORY: FANCOURT

Sustainability is a core value

Relalxation, sun and cocktails… at their best.

Safety comes first For Peter Dros, sales and marketing director of Fancourt, safety is critical now, more than ever: “The days of spending eight hours indoors at a conference or event are over. Organisers are actively looking for venues which offer an indoor/ outdoor flow, flexible configurations which are able to deliver social distancing with ease, and spacious grounds for al fresco events.”

You’ll be greeted with plenty of big smiles at Fancourt — our staff have had to learn to smile with their eyes as they are all wearing masks! As the vaccine rollout continues, all our staff are well trained to manage Covid-19 protocols.

From sanitising your hands before entering the premises to filling in a wellness questionnaire to declare any symptoms that you may be experiencing, the team

is on hand to keep you safe during your stay and to provide impeccable service.

Flexibility We are open to customising your experience. Fancourt’s many conferencing facilities, venue options and packages may be tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences.

You may even want to bring the family along… The Kidz Club caters for little ones under 10 years, the Teen Zone for teenagers and The Leisure Centre has gym and swimming pool facilities for the whole family to enjoy.

Known for its warm hospitality, elegant luxury and memorable activities, it’s no wonder Fancourt is rated as a leading lifestyle resort. There’s no better time than now to rediscover ‘the business playground’ of South Africa.

Sustainability is at the heart of the Fancourt experience and the estate is dedicated to giving back to the local community and supporting the natural environment. Every delegate or guest’s stay, visit or round of golf contributes in some way: • 300m2 of grass clippings are composted every month.

• 2,000+ indigenous trees have been planted over the last three years.

• 50 beehives have been established.

• 60+ psychotherapy sessions for children have been sponsored.

• 900 meals per year are served in soup kitchens.

• 300+ boxes of stationery have been provided to school children.

• R1million has been raised by the Caddie Trust Fund to provide loss of income support for 138 Fancourt caddies due to Covid-19.

• R100,000+ has been raised for George Child & Family Welfare.

• Towels are donated to Garden Route SPCA. • Every year, Fancourt either renovates, sends donations (blankets, rugs and accessories) or provides a hearty lunch for the Rosemoor Old Age Home.

• The annual stationery drive launches on 1 November (and runs until January) and aims to provide 400 children with a year’s worth of stationery.

• The Spekboom cutting project: During Arbour Week (held in the first week of September as a symbolic gesture of sustainable environmental management), the Fancourt team harvests 500-600 spekboom cuttings which are handed over to staff members to plant in their own outdoor spaces.

Contact us: groupreservations@fancourt.co.za

Finest dining at Monet’s.

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www.businesseventsafrica.com

VENUE PERSPECTIVE NEWS

Conferencing today The Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly sped up the pace of evolution and progress in the conference industry tremendously. It has however, of course, done so at great economic cost.

By Bronwen Cadle de Ponte, group manager: conferencing and accommodation, CSIR ICC.

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he conference industry has always been slow to change, with traditional meeting models having been in existence for decades and the winning of international meetings being the ultimate goal for many in the meetings value chain. Overnight, the pandemic changed the traditional face-to-face model to virtual and, with international travel not an option, local and regional meetings became the darling.

Given that we operate in a very traditional sector, it has been uplifting to see how our staff, suppliers, stakeholders, and clients have adapted so well, and so quickly, to the ‘new normal’. New screening, cleaning, social distancing, revenue models and new technologies have been embraced and given us a new eagerness for innovation and creativity which has been inspiring.

The negative impact of the pandemic is, however, felt in a much broader loss to economic development. Yes, we have seen venue closures, job losses, and a diminishing supply chain and attractiveness of the industry to the youth as the business events sector contracts.

We have also, more devastatingly, seen the broader negative impact when professionals are frustrated by meeting online only, and when those serendipitous encounters, that normally take place at face-to-face events, do not have an opportunity to happen, resulting in little or no opportunities gained for the type of

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knowledge sharing and collaboration that sparks growth and innovation in our economy. These have been the real losses caused by Covid-19 for the meetings industry that will only be reversed once people are able to once again meet face-to-face and engage in the opportune encounters which inspire progress and innovation. The meetings industry needs to return to face-to-face to regain its positive exponential effect on growing the economy.

It is regrettable that business meetings were not dealt with separately from social gatherings in the government’s regulations – from the onset of Covid-19 – as our industry is already very well regulated and controlled. I believe that, due to the strict health and hygiene regulations in the meetings industry, confidence will return to the professional meetings market albeit slowly, local first, then regional and international only much later. I believe that it is more the uncertainty around government and travel restrictions that are making meeting owners hesitant to commit to face-to-face meetings and, as we get better at planning and predicting ways to mitigate the spread of communicable diseases, better formulated responses and plans and guidance from governments world-wide will bring certainty and renewal to our industry.

We will meet again, possibly in smaller groups, with less travel and more

technology, but the desire for professionals to engage, face-to-face, to let knowledge exchange and inspiration in their fields flow is still there — and perhaps even more valued now than ever before.

Who is Bronwen Cadle de Ponte?

Bronwen Cadle de Ponte is the group manager: conferencing and accommodation, CSIR International Convention Centre situated in Tshwane.

The convention centre was the first international standard convention centre to be built in South Africa, over 40 years ago and has been hosting international meetings ever since.

Business Events Africa September 2021 9

SPECIAL FEATURE WESTERN CAPE FEATURE

Western Cape Meet in an Inspiring place…

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www.businesseventsafrica.com

WESTERN SPECIAL CAPE FEATURE

A reason to consider hosting an inperson meeting in the Western Cape The Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau, a division of Wesgro, the official Tourism, Trade, Film and Investment Promotions agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, is excited to announce the Western Cape Business Events Support Programme - a support programme aimed to stimulate short-and-medium term national business events in the Western Cape.

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he Western Cape Business Events Support Programme focusses on local or national business events, comprising of meetings, incentives, conferences or exhibitions, presented in person or hybrid. It is designed to reignite confidence in holding in-person or hybrid business events, by assisting eligible event organisers with funding, which can be used to cover event-related costs, such as accommodation, venue hire, food and beverage, transport and other eventrelated expenses, and with 50 per cent of this funding being paid prior to the event to support upfront expenses.

Expression of interest is now open, and submissions for business events will be assessed against the following eligibility and mandatory criteria: • Must be a new national event, • Conference organiser’s compliance must be in good standing, • Event must commence prior to 31 March 2022, • Must have a physical attendance of a minimum of 20 delegates for small www.businesseventsafrica.com

sized events and 50 delegates for medium sized events. The delegate numbers exclude virtual delegate participation, • Must consist of a two-day programme, with a one night stay in the Western Cape, • Must include proof of venue hire and/ or accommodation enquiry/reservation from the venue/accommodation establishment, and • Must provide a post business event report to verify the delegate numbers prior to the balance of the support being paid out.

Western Cape Minister of finance and economic opportunities, David Maynier, welcomed the launch of the Western Cape Business Events Support Programme: “The value of the business events sector to the provincial economy cannot be underestimated, with the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape having hosted the most international association conferences in Africa over the last 10 years. And so, we hope that this initiative will go a long way to supporting the

sector, which has been hard-hit by the Covid-19 pandemic but has also shown great resilience and adaption during these difficult times. With our innovative hybrid conferencing and meeting facilities, world-class attractions and strict Covid-19 health measures in place, we continue to welcome business travellers to the City of Cape Town and the Western Cape.”

Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, chief convention bureau officer at South African Tourism, said: "The South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) welcomes this initiative by the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau. These types of initiatives will assist our industry to reintroduce face-to-face engagement to our clients as a viable platform to advance the business objectives of their organisations. Business events are crucial to the economic development of our country, and we need to assist our clients to venture away from their screens safely and to again embrace the unique value face-to-face engagements can provide.”

Acting Wesgro chief executive officer, Yaw Peprah, concluded: “Business

Business Events Africa September 2021 11

SPECIAL FEATURE WESTERN CAPE FEATURE

Priority Sectors The Western Cape’s high-growth sectors are finance and insurance, construction, communication, furniture, film, design, ICT and various marine sectors. Other priority sectors are human and animal medicine, engineering and infrastructure. The region hosts one of the highest concentrations in South Africa of medical device and biotechnology companies, research institutes and research groups.

Agriculture and agribusiness is also one of the most important sectors in the Western Cape and involves all the different activities that link the entire value chain, from the farm/forest/fishery to the consumer. This includes inputs, production, processing, marketing and distribution of agricultural, forestry and fishing products.

Oil and gas is the Western Cape’s fastest-growing sector. The Western Cape and Cape Town are ideally placed to service this growing demand. Most international exploration and oil-refining firms have a presence in Cape Town.

events are catalysts for change, and despite the sector being one of the hardest hit as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a continued interest in hosting conferences, meetings and incentive travel in Cape Town and the Western Cape. As the premier business events destination in Africa and an inspiring place to meet, there is no better time than now to showcase our commitment to supporting the business events industry and demonstrate that our destination is ready and prepared for business events to resume safely and responsibly. So I urge all business events planners to seize this opportunity and showcase their ability to adapt and innovate.”

Should regulations based on the Disaster Manager Act gazette be amended to prevent events taking place in person, the approved funding of 50 per cent will still be honoured to successful applicants.

Interested participants can visit https://www.wesgro.co.za/ convention-bureau/home or email businessevents@wesgro.co.za

Issues and Challenges In 2020-2021 the Covid-19 pandemic posed major challenges and CTCB worked energetically to instil confidence among its clients in terms of the destination’s readiness to host business events. During this time, it continued to bid for future business events and rolled out numerous promotional campaigns after the outbreak of the pandemic.

Villages, Townships, and Small Dorpies CTCB are pleased that three of our regional towns have been selected as part of the National Association Programme otherwise known as villages, townships and small dorpies. The initial towns that have been selected include: Saldanha Bay (Weskus), Wilderness (Garden Route and Klein Karoo) and Grabouw (Cape Overberg). The National Association Projects is an initiative driven by the SANCB to pull different levers as part of South African Tourism’s (SAT) recovery plans for the tourism industry.

This project aims to capacitate the local association sector in SA that will enable the sector to start hosting regular national meetings again and to create bidding opportunities for future international conferences.

Meet in an inspiring place The Cape Town and Western Cape region is the number one conference destination in Africa and the Middle East (ICCA 2019.) It is a destination that offers flexibility, diversity and hands-on support. It is proud of its custom-built centres – designed to top international specifications – and the diverse range of facilities at hotels, educational institutions and theatres, and will provide a world-class meeting experience.

For further information, visit: https://www.wesgro.co.za/convention-bureau

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www.businesseventsafrica.com

WESTERN CAPE PAGE FEATURE STRAP

The Capital 15 on Orange — a spectacular urban oasis Combining distinctive architecture and exquisite luxury, The Capital 15 On Orange Hotel is set within Cape Town’s richly historical Company’s Garden and is anchored by Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.

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troll down to vibrant Kloof Street, a culinary destination full of trendy cafes, stunning restaurants and cocktail bars. Next door is the Planetarium and the V&A Waterfront is a mere three kilometres away.

Meetings and conferences Events that will inspire, complemented by stunning Cape Town views. A variety of well-equipped spaces ideal for meetings, events and weddings. From business conferences and vibrant fashion shows to grand galas and small cocktail parties, a place for every occasion. An experienced planning team to assist in advising and coordinating, and ensuring the event is ultimately successful.

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, lunch, equipment, bottled water, and complimentary, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi. Full day packages include the hire of the venue, lunch, three coffee breaks, equipment, bottled water, and complimentary unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi. Secure parking is available at discounted rates. www.businesseventsafrica.com

Virtual Meetings The Capital 15 On Orange Hotel has facilities for video conferencing/virtual meetings.

The hotel is able to host a countrywide meeting on our high-speed, uncapped Wi-Fi. The Day Conference Packages (DCPs) and venue hire now include the following: • Video Camera • Laptop • PA system • 2 handheld microphones • AV technician Dining Awaken the guest’s tastebuds with sumptuous local and international flavours. Dine in style at the sophisticated Emerald Lounge Restaurant & Bar and experience our global menu in a tranquil and sophisticated setting.

15 on Orange rooms and apartments With 129 accentuated rooms, suites and apartments set to the highest standards.

Throughout each of the exquisitely appointed spacious rooms, a breathtaking fusion of cosmopolitan comfort and natural splendour is offered at every turn.

Standard Rooms 24 x standard rooms (40 m2). Urban sophistication with everything one needs for a perfect night’s rest. Rooms include a 55-inch smart TV, free Wi-Fi, a tea/ coffee-making station and a mini bar.

Luxury rooms 34 x luxury rooms (50 m2). Rooms feature a king size bed with percale linen, lounge, block out curtains, luxurious bath with a rain shower, 55-inch smart TV, free Wi-Fi, safe, mini bar, tea/coffee station.

Executive suite 18 x executive suites (60 m2). Rooms feature a king size bed with percale linen, lounge, block out curtains, luxurious bath with a rain shower, 55-inch smart TV, free Wi-Fi, safe, mini bar, tea/coffee bar station.

Executive suite with mountain view 27 x executive suite with mountain view (65 m2). Rooms feature a king-size bed with percale linen, lounge, block out curtains, luxurious bath with a rain shower, 55-inch smart TV, free Wi-Fi, safe, mini bar, tea/coffee bath station.

Apartments 24 x one-bedroom apartments (65 m2).

Business Events Africa September 2021 13

PAGE WESTERN STRAP CAPE

The Emerald Lounge Restaurant & Bar, The O bar and pool deck have views of the majestic Table Mountain and Signal Hill. The hotel also features conference venues, a stunning spa and a gym.

14 x two-bedroom apartment (120 m2).

Modern and luxurious, a true home-awayfrom-home experience; these one- and two-bedroom apartments are kitted out with quality appliances and finishes. These apartments feature a separate living room area, dining area; fully equipped kitchen with fridge, stove, oven, washing machine and tumble dryer. The apartments also feature a king-size bed with percale linen, block curtains, luxurious bath with a rain shower, 55-inch smart TV and free Wi-Fi.

One bedroom apartment.

Signature Pod These showstoppers are a match made in heaven for someone looking for an immersive experience. These rooms are themed around popular beverage preferences — Whiskey, Champagne, Gin and Cocktails. The goal here is not just a good night’s sleep but to wow and seduce with glamour and over-the-top moments reminiscent of 007. Guests will feel like they have the starring role in a blockbuster movie. With a fully stocked bar, dreamy king-size bed, floor to ceiling eyecatching wallpaper and rooms that overlook reception.

15 on Orange comforts • The Emerald Lounge Restaurant & Bar • The O Bar • Designer spa • Café • Retail centre • Fitness centre with modern equipment • Pool and deck • Private dining room • Modern class conferencing • Complimentary laundry in apartments • Complimentary high speed uncapped Wi-Fi • Complimentary shuttles to the V & A Waterfront • 24-hour controlled security access ensuring guest safety and privacy • Luxury guest amenities and robes • Work desks • Valet service • Concierge and travel desk • Full backup generator 14 Business Events Africa September 2021

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Endless possibilities with the CTICC’s digital event solution, CTICC Engage The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is pivoting itself in the most innovative ways, introducing its interactive platform that will bring extraordinary event experiences to life with a click of a button.

CTICC Engage is ideal for preparing meetings and conferences, exhibitions and trade shows, community engagements, and webinars, among other digitalcapable events.

C

TICC Engage, powered by the hybrid and virtual conference provider MyPlanner, offers access to the latest technology, harnessed to create digital events, with state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology incorporating industry best practices.

CTICC Engage is one of the most innovative ways we have pivoted during the Covid-19 pandemic, by offering digital and hybrid event solutions.

Everything is interconnected, allowing us to provide clients with a streamlined, safe, and efficient service offering, while guaranteeing exceptional event experiences.

The CTICC Engage platform allows organisers to host seamless events where attendees are able to engage with

16 Business Events Africa September 2021

in-platform interactive online meetings and live presentation sessions. This platform also provides for real-time networking opportunities, making for endless possibilities.

The CTICC has technology in place which includes 1,792 network points, 1,496 fibre optic points, and 28km of fibre, which caters to high-speed, high-volume traffic. Wi-Fi connectivity is enabled through a combination of high and standard density points, providing for a combined total of 15,000 connections with an internet connectivity uplink of 10 gigabytes.

The CTICC has always adhered to strict health and hygiene standards and, with Covid-19, has considerably upgraded its response by instating new and improved protocols under the name ‘C19-Care©’. www.businesseventsafrica.com

WESTERN CAPE FEATURE NEWS

These protocols consider current World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines to continue ensuring the health and safety of the Centre’s guests, clients and employees.

CTICC Engage is ideal for preparing meetings and conferences, exhibitions and trade shows, community engagements and webinars among other digital-capable events.

The CTICC Engage key features include: • Customisable branding • Live sessions with Q&A, chatbox and polls • Artificial intelligence (AI) matchmaking, which includes scheduling video meetings on the platform with delegates, speakers and exhibitors • Lead generation dashboard

• Upload conference material, marketing collateral and videos in each exhibitor booth • Exhibitor and sponsor branding opportunities throughout the platform • Group video call meetings • Session replays are available within minutes of the conclusion of the live event • Data analytics and CPD reporting

For more information on CTICC Engage or to book your demo, contact us on +27 (0) 21 410 5000, our Sales Department at sales@cticc.co.za, or visit our website at cticc.co.za.

Connect with us on LinkedIn, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. #ExperienceExtraordinary #BringIt2CTICC www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa September 2021 17

PAGE STRAP EDUCATION

Tourism Educators South Africa weigh in on events restrictions Before the pandemic, the events fraternity notably played an immense role in terms of resuscitating the struggling economy of South Africa. It has been more than eighteen months since the first case of the Covid-19 pandemic was recorded in South Africa.

By members from Tourism Educators South Africa (TESA).

O

wing to the devastating effect of Covid-19 on the tourism and travel industry, the events industry has been impacted by a subsequent indefinite postponement, impacting many small economies. What began as a fictional horror movie became a living, daily reality for every event stakeholder to be confronted with.

The initial cancellations of noble events such as the Standard Bank National Annual Arts Festival; the Annual Cape Town Jazz International Festival (previously known as the North Sea Jazz Festival); and Tourism Indaba amongst others, were tolerated as the country prepared for the management of the pandemic. However, the continued restrictions prohibiting the hosting of events are crippling the cultural and creative industries, especially as South Africa is home to over 600 festivals annually, contributing significantly to local

and provincial economies and influencing communities’ social aspects. Furthermore, inconstant and uncertain clauses have been published in the frequently updated Disaster Management Act (DME).

Regulations have prohibited many businesses to operate, resulting in the liquidation of suppliers across the entire tourism value chain, and massive job losses. Hence, the impact on various role-players who benefit from events is, to some extent, immeasurable. Indeed, we can quantify the economic impact by investigating loss in revenue, the impact of event cancellations, and the furlough or even the retrenchment of staff (either seasonal, temporary, or permanent) and pay cuts. However, it is the intangible impact that we are ill-equipped to measure. For example, with the cancellation of events, not only have artists lost their jobs, but towns have also

18 Business Events Africa September 2021

lost a significant amount of their gross domestic product (GDP) too. The financial losses will also continue to negatively impact tertiary institutions and research entities as festivals and events will be unable to budget for research in future.

For them, the focus now is on survival.

The ripple effect of the continued restrictions is, therefore, unparalleled and may take years to recover.

The pandemic had and is continuing to have a detrimental influence on our teaching and research activities.

Adjustments in teaching and learning Lockdown restrictions have forced Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) to move away from ‘business as usual’. For instance, being an Academic in a ruralbased institution had its challenges. Most of the students were lamenting about www.businesseventsafrica.com

PAGE EDUCATION STRAP

network connectivity, or an environment that is not conducive for learning at home, to name a few. To be more succinct, this was more of an imbroglio.

The Covid-19 pandemic has also challenged academics and scholars to find innovative and creative ways to facilitate education, which will deliver teaching and learning to our students.

Furthermore, multi-modal teaching and learning has made teaching both easier and extremely challenging. The ‘new normal’ has become a reality and one has had to adapt to the ever-changing learning management systems while ensuring that students are also moving in the right trajectory. According to Higher Education South Africa (HESA), IHL needs to embrace this digitally driven world and brace itself for the “new normal” for at least the next 36 months. It sounds surreal and somehow a thoughtprovoker. However, the Covid-19 pandemic is real, and it has taken its toll on the lives and livelihoods of many people.

It is the intangible impact that we are ill-equipped to measure.

Impact of event restrictions on research With the cancellation of many domestic and international conferences since March 2020, many, mainly business events were either hosted as hybrid or fully online events. Access to delegates became limited or restricted, and often event owners “sold” access to their database, as a desparate measure to recoup their financial losses. This poses a future threat to postgraduate students' access and ability to collect data.

Many institutions of higher learning have long-standing research agreements with various festivals and events ranging from music, food, arts and culture, sport, and exhibitions, amongst others. While agreements were in place to conduct research at festivals and events in 2020, none of the surveys could occur owing to the lockdown restrictions. This has led to the following adverse effects: www.businesseventsafrica.com

• A loss of primary industry-specific data which has a direct negative impact on research outputs. On average Institutions of Higher learning reported a decline in research outputs by more than 60 per cent compared to 2019.

• A significant decline in our thirdincome stream. Institutions have had to cancel event courses, despite the effort to offer the programmes online, as people seem to have lost trust in the events industry as a career option. Some institutions have on-site venues, such as conference facilities and restaurants, where undergraduate students gain practical experience and are used to supplementing their income to take part in expensive programmes, but these had to close and resulted in huge revenue losses.

• Post-graduate students are unable to collect data and complete their studies.

Other data collection avenues had to be considered, with online surveys being the only option in quantitative studies as opposed to where students could collect data at the events in person through self-administered questionnaires. While this approach proved successful in some cases, a poor response rate was achieved in many others due to respondents being bombarded by numerous online questionnaires. Some students had to postpone their research activities until 2021, but as many tourism businesses closed, the population became smaller and the required sample size could not be met. Post-graduate students who need to submit their theses or dissertations in 2021 now have insufficient data and no financial means to increase the sample size. This especially has a significant and worrisome influence on PhD candidates who must contribute by developing models, frameworks, or strategies. With an insufficient sample size and inadequate data to support their hypotheses, the limitations currently outweigh the study’s contributions. This will undoubtedly influence the examiners’ reports, and the overall targets that South Africa has to offer PhD students.

• Despite the adoption of the data collection mitigation strategies such as collaborative partnerships with events marketing organisations, participants are motivated by incentives, which are against the research ethical policies of many IHL. • In the past, fieldwork gave

undergraduate and postgraduate events, tourism, and hospitality students valuable exposure to research within the industry.

Since no face-to-face fieldwork may currently be conducted, communityengaged research – as part of an institution’s community engagement strategy – cannot be realised.

Besides the effect on research, the absence of events has a significant impact on our student numbers, with fewer students considering events as an attractive job opportunity, which is one of the focus areas of many qualifications.

Unfortunately, this will create a gap in knowledge, skills, and competence regarding event management, and result in more skills gaps for the industry.

As tourism educators, we are concerned about the impact the prolonged restrictions have on tourism, hospitality, and specifically the events sector. The limited operation of establishments across the tourism value chain – which are largely fuelled by events – resulted in students losing internships, work-integrated learning (WIL) experience or other practical exposure opportunities. Although WIL is offered virtually, it does not provide students with the same experience that a face-to-face environment does.

Furthermore, the disruption of the events industry has prevented students gaining valuable experience within the industry and delaying their graduation.

As academics and researchers, we monitor the regular publications of the Disaster Management Act Regulations, and it is concerning to note the misunderstanding and interpretation of ‘events’, specifically business events, which include meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). We applaud the efforts by the Tourism Business Council of South Africa (TBCSA) with the development of the Tourism Industry Standard Protocols for Covid-19 Operations, and the Re-Opening Guidelines for the Event Industry in South Africa — Covid-19 Safety and Prevention Measures, designed by the Event Safety Council (ESC), and we hope that events will be allowed to operate sooner rather than later under these protocols. We believe festivals and events are able to safely accommodate audiences by following these rigorous safety protocols. The survival of South Africa’s events, cultural and creative industries, and the research endeavors contributing to the industry’s sustainability depends on this.

Business Events Africa September 2021 19

COVER STORY: FANCOURT EDUCATION

The School of Tourism and Hospitality cements partnership with Sun International The auditorium, located at the University of Johannesburg’s School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH), has been renamed to the Sun International Auditorium. The new name was unveiled at a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted on Wednesday, 22 September, as part of the annual STH Alumni and Industry event.

W

e are really excited to finally unveil the Sun International Auditorium,” said STH director, Prof Diane Abrahams. “Sun International has been one of the STH’s long-standing industry partners. Over the years, they have actively supported the school across several initiatives including career days, fundraising for students through bursaries and presenting opportunities for both work integrated experiences and work integrated learning placements. We are grateful that, even in the current challenging environment, the organisation remains committed to supporting the school as we develop the

next generation of tourism and hospitality leaders”.

“The auditorium, which seats up to 147 delegates and includes a fully functional foyer amongst its key features, is located in the Kerzner Building, at the university’s Bunting Road campus in Auckland Park, Johannesburg,” explained operations manager, Gerald Hamadziriphi. “The space forms part of the STH commercial unit, where we run a number of outlets across UJ campuses under the banner of TheKerzner@UJ.” This encompasses a broad range of offerings including meeting venues, conference venues, special event venues, restaurant, coffee shops and food and

20 Business Events Africa September 2021

beverage offerings which may be ordered via the UberEATS and Mr D platforms.

The TheKerzner@UJ commercial outlets include: • Two conference rooms which may host up to 200 delegates combined.

• A culinary theatre which seats up to 54 delegates.

• A selection of syndicate meeting rooms and executive boardrooms.

• The Alumni Bar and a tasting room.

• The Waterford Restaurant.

• Design Café – a coffee shop.

• Industrial kitchens in the Center of Culinary Excellence.

The Sun International Auditorium is the latest addition in the number of industry www.businesseventsafrica.com

EDUCATION NEWS

brands that have taken up the opportunity to extend their brand footprint within the STH facilities. Other industry partners with brand visibility at the STH include the The City Lodge Hotel Group, Empact, AHA, Tsogo Sun and Tourvest.

Prof Abrahams noted that the branding opportunity is not only to highlight the partnership with the STH but also serves to raise brand awareness and affinity of industry partners amongst the students. “It is important to realise that not all of our students have exposure to some of the industry players and brands when they begin their studies, therefore creating corporate visibility in the various spaces of teaching and learning at the STH is important.”

“With the recent announcement of the country moving to the adjusted lockdown level two, the vaccination process that is underway and Covid-19 infection rates declining, we are really optimistic about the prospects of the meetings and events industry bouncing back in the coming months,” Mr Hamadziripi said. We hope that the situation continues to improve so that delegates may once again book and host their events at our address, have first-hand experience of our great facilities and contribute to the excellent learning experiences for our students,” Mr Hamadziriphi said.

Contact information For more information about the commercial outlets at TheKerzner UJ, visit www.thekerzneratuj.com www.businesseventsafrica.com

Hybrid or Onsite, choose us for your next Conference

CLICK HERE FOR MORE Business Events Africa September 2021 21

Call: 011 559 1141/42

Email: bookthekerzner@uj.ac.za

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

Hospitality offers opportunities for a better future for South African youth The tourism industry has been one of the hardest hit by Covid-19. In 2019, the sector contributed seven per cent to GDP — now, as a result of the pandemic, it contributes a mere four per cent. As such, it is vital to find new ways to revive tourism, such as the recent rise of digital nomads and ‘workations’.

By Harpreet Singh Chhatwal, area senior HR director – Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group.

Y

oung people make up a third of South Africa’s population, around 17.84 million South Africans. Yet they are also the population group most affected by unemployment, according to Stats SA, with a record per cent unemployed in the first quarter of 2020 — and the pandemic has only further exacerbated the challenge of youth unemployment in the country.

With such high unemployment rates, it might seem like there aren’t many opportunities available for young South Africans to make a better life for

themselves. However, one sector could play a vital role in reducing youth unemployment.

The travel, tourism and hospitality industry, as a whole, is one of the largest employers in the country, contributing 4.5 per cent of total employment in South Africa in 2018 and employing more than 740,000 South Africans in that year alone.

As the world begins returning to a semblance of normal, and more people are able to travel, the industry is expected to experience an economic boom leading to more job opportunities being created. The

22 Business Events Africa September 2021

International Labour Organisation (ILO) notes that the hospitality industry is one of the top job-creating sectors and has a significant multiplier effect on employment in other related sectors, estimating that every new job created in the hospitality sector supports 1,5 jobs along the supply chain and proportionately boosts the economies of local communities.

More than employment, though, the hospitality industry also offers South Africa’s youth a wide range of opportunities for growth and development as well as a sense of purpose and dignity. www.businesseventsafrica.com

A LOCAL PERSPECTIVE

Who is Harpreet Singh Chhatwal?

The right attitude The hospitality industry is unique in its recruitment process as it places skills and attitude over any formal qualification.

Additionally, it has interesting challenges as employees’ interface with people from different cultures and backgrounds daily. Each guest is unique and, when working in the industry, an employee will have to hone the right skills – think good communication and plenty of emotional intelligence – to explore what guests need and be able to offer the hotel’s solutions in line with the guest’s requirements.

Even so, not having the right skills is not always viewed as a disadvantage. For example, the Radisson Hotel Group offers soft-skill learning programmes through its Radisson Academy, where complex topics are taught in bite-sized training modules that are engaging and offer guidelines on how to practice these skills, so that they become habitual.

Additionally, Radisson has a robust on-the-job skills training programme that assists young people in acquiring life skills, as well as actual job training even without any prior experience or www.businesseventsafrica.com

education. Radisson’s HR initiatives have also been digitalised and all positions are now advertised on a single, state-of-theart recruitment platform where anyone may apply. To take a more holistic approach to recruitment, applicants are not only considered for the position they have applied for, but their full potential is explored to see whether they are more suitable for another position, enabling more young people to develop a career in the industry.

Well-suited to an ever-changing landscape Looking at today’s youth, it’s clear they are a bold and adventurous generation. They are willing to explore opportunities and try new things, are keen to interact with people from different cultures, and are more open to being a global citizen. The hospitality industry offers the opportunity to experience all of this as no day is the same as another and employees are exposed to a diverse range of people from myriad cultural backgrounds. With a wide variety of departments and locations around the world, the industry offers something for everyone — from careers

In his role, Harpreet Singh Chhartwal oversees all aspects of talent for 100 hotels in operation and development and the Radisson Hotel Group offices in Dubai, UAE and Cape Town, South Africa. Harpreet has worked across India, Singapore and now in Dubai.

Harpreet holds a bachelors degree in hotel management and a postgraduate certificate in human resource management. He is a certified hospitality educator, certified emergenetics associate and certified user of SHL psychometrics. He is passionate about people development and loves studying organisational behaviour and psychology. within the core functions of a hotel, such as food and beverage management, to support functions in human resources and finance.

While hospitality may be very demanding (a hotel is a 24/7, 365 business), it offers young people ample opportunities to dip their toes into the job market. Educated or not, skilled or not, opportunities for learning are rife and the experience and skills garnered may be applied across other industries too, for those looking to make the jump at a later stage. There are many success stories where young people have entered the industry at the bottom-most level, whether it be as a porter or front desk clerk, and have gone on to become managers of hotels.

The industry’s door is wide open and young South Africans are most welcome to step inside.

Business Events Africa September 2021 23

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY SUSTAINABILITY

UFI releases key findings on sustainability in the exhibition industry • The research shows that exhibitors and visitors believe that exhibitions may help them save time and money, while reducing travel to multiple locations and the related carbon footprint.

• The exhibition industry states that the industry’s transition towards sustainability has progressed to halfway between “only starting” and “very advanced”.

• Key priorities have been identified and are informing several projects between UFI and other partners from the event industry.

• The research provides detailed results for all regions of the world.

24 Business Events Africa September 2021

www.businesseventsafrica.com

SUSTAINABILITY CASE STUDY

The majority consider the environmental impact of the tradeshow sector to be important to them, and they believe that improving this environmental impact will become increasingly more important to the sector’s long-term success

E

ven though the Covid-19 pandemic has severely hit the economy, the fundamentals remain, and sustainability is a strong priority for exhibitions and their participants.

For 86 per cent of exhibitors and 87 per cent of visitors, travelling to an exhibition helps save time, while for 84 per cent of exhibitors and 83 per cent of visitors it helps save money. For 67 per cent of exhibitors and 64 per cent of visitors, travelling to an exhibition, where they may do multiple things under one roof and avoid separate flights to other locations, helps to reduce their carbon footprint.

In parallel, the majority consider the environmental impact of the tradeshow sector to be important to them, and they believe that improving this environmental impact will become increasingly more important to the sector’s long-term success.

Across all segments (organisers, venues and service providers) there is a feeling that the rate of transition towards sustainability is around halfway between ‘only starting the transition’ and ‘very advanced’, and, in general, exhibition participants also rate the efforts of the industry as ‘average’, in this regard.

“This report is unprecedented in its analysis of the views of the industry and its clients as to the key issue of sustainability in our industry. We will use these findings in many of our current projects, aiming to further improve the performance of exhibitions as sustainable ways of doing business,” said Kai Hattendorf, UFI managing director and chief executive officer.

Key findings detailed in the report Before Covid-19, what were the expectations from exhibition participants?

73 per cent of exhibitors and visitors either agreed or strongly agreed that it is important for a tradeshow to display a www.businesseventsafrica.com

strong commitment to sustainability.

34 per cent of exhibitors and 36 per cent of visitors said that they would not attend a trade show that does not have a responsible approach to sustainability.

And what is the perception of the efforts to date?

73 per cent of exhibitors say that their company is taking steps towards improving sustainability.

On average, all segments (organisers, venues and service providers) of the industry believe the rate of transition towards sustainability to be halfway between ‘only starting the transition’ and ‘very advanced’.

Exhibition participants rate the efforts of the industry as ‘average’, generally speaking; 24 per cent of exhibitors and 16 per cent of visitors consider them to be ‘very poor’ or ‘poor’, while 26 per cent of exhibitors and 30 per cent of visitors see them as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’.

How is Covid-19 affecting the situation?

Investments from the exhibition industry for programmes related to sustainability have not been as affected as others. In June 2020, while 85 per cent of companies had stopped or decreased their overall level of investments, that was the case for ‘only’ 54 per cent of companies for investments for programmes related to sustainability, and there was ‘no’ or ‘limited impact’ for activities related to sustainability for 51 per cent of them.

89 per cent of companies from the exhibition industry believe that public investments to be necessary (43 per cent ‘for a significant share’ and 46 per cent ‘as essential and necessary for most of the investments’).

Most importantly, ‘fundamentals remain’ for exhibition participants. In 2021, 86 per cent of exhibitors and 87 per cent of visitors say that travelling to an exhibition helps them save time, while 84 per cent of exhibitors and 83 per cent of visitors say it helps save money.

Meanwhile, 67 per cent of exhibitors and 64 per cent of visitors believe that travelling to an exhibition, where they may do multiple things under one roof and avoid separate flights to other places, helps them reduce their carbon footprint.

Having said that, lower proportions of participants – although still a majority – believe that the tradeshow sector’s environmental impact remains important to them (51 per cent of exhibitors and 52 per cent of visitors) while 58 per cent of both exhibitors and visitors consider that improving this environmental impact will become increasingly more important to the sector’s long-term success.

In terms of environmental impact, what are the priorities and how can they be achieved?

Significant differences may be seen when comparing the views of participants and of the industry (and the type of activity within the industry) when it comes to identifying the key areas of material impact: plastic and food come first for participants, while travel and booths come first for the industry.

Exhibition participants prioritise three domains of action to make the tradeshow industry environmentally sustainable: “reduce the costs of sustainable materials/products/services available for use”, “develop new technologies or processes for problems such as waste, carbon emissions, etc.” and “develop education about sustainable events at all levels of the value chain (including visitors and exhibitors)”.

77 per cent of exhibitors and 65 per cent of visitors believe that ‘organisations that organise and set-up events’ are responsible for helping the tradeshow industry improve its environmental impact. This responsibility also relies on exhibiting companies for 53 per cent of exhibitors and 54 per cent of visitors.

In line with UFI’s objective to provide vital data and best practices to the entire exhibition industry, the full report may be downloaded at www.ufi.org/research

Business Events Africa September 2021 25

CASE STUDY SUSTAINABILITY

The events industry kicks off towards net zero • The objective is to have a pledge ready for COP26.

• Goals will include 50 per cent reduction in GHG emissions by 2030.

• Initiative supported by the UNFCCC and hosted by JMIC.

ICCA, Global Meetings industry Association, is proud to announce the launch of a new initiative – Net Zero Carbon Events – to connect the events industry globally to the rapidly growing movement towards net zero by 2050. This initiative is hosted by the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC).

I

n November 2021, world leaders will meet in Glasgow, Scotland, at COP26 to present how their countries will achieve the 50 per cent reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 in order to deliver on the Paris Agreement. In advance of this meeting, for profit and non-profit organisations from across all sectors are setting forth their own pathways towards this goal, and the ultimate goal of net zero by 2050.

Through this initiative, JMIC aims to link all stakeholders in the corporate, professional, academic and destination

communities world-wide that have also committed to engagement in what is one of the biggest collective challenges we all face today, and to invite those that have not done so yet, to join.

The Net Zero Carbon Events initiative aims to bring together a wide range of industry stakeholders to: • Jointly communicate our industry’s commitment to tackling climate change and driving towards net zero by 2050.

• Develop common methodologies for measuring the industry’s direct, indirect and supply chain greenhouse gas emissions.

• Construct an industry-wide roadmap towards net zero by 2050, and emissions reductions by 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement, with support and guidance on key issues.

• Foster collaboration with suppliers and customers to ensure alignment and common approaches.

• Establish common mechanisms for reporting progress and sharing best practice.

The new initiative arises from the work of an organising task force initiated by

26 Business Events Africa September 2021

JMIC members ICCA, AIPC and UFI joined by representatives of Emerald Expositions (US), ExCel (UK), Freeman (US), HKCEC (China), Informa (UK), Javits Center (US), MCI (Switzerland), Messe München (Germany), RX (UK) and Scottish Event Campus (UK) and it was born from a discussion with the UNFCCC secretariat — United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change secretariat — which is also supporting the initiative.

All interested parties are invited to join this journey at https:// netzerocarbonevents.org. The aim is to grow this initiative that represents the events industry as a whole and provide a collaborative commitment all may act on.

James Rees, ICCA president, said: “ICCA is committed to driving sustainable development within the meetings industry and our global membership. We are proud to be a part of such an initiative which is becoming more important than ever and through collaborative effort with our JMIC partners, we look forward to playing a very active role in developing and implementing sustainable event strategies that are of the highest standards.” www.businesseventsafrica.com

MARKET NEWS

Clarion Events - Africa evolves into the Vuka Group The African arm of international events organisation, Clarion Events, is delighted to announce a full rebrand representing their shift to a more future aligned approach to their market offering.

T

he organisation, now branded as Vuka Group – which means awaken and rise – will be focussing their strategic direction and decision making to include a more African-centric vision of bringing people and organisations together to connect with information and each other, across curated digital and in-person environments.

“The past eighteen months have been extremely challenging for the events industry, and for our organisation. Not being able to run any live events for nineteen months has necessitated a rapid and exciting evolution of our business,” says Vuka Group CEO, David Ashdown.

“Our vision and brand style is a step away from the traditional bricks and mortar world of exhibitions and talks, more to a modern agency approach. The Covid pandemic has been a disruptor to our industry and remodelling our business now will allow us to thrive in the future,” explains Ashdown. “We are in the business of connections and experiences and the evolution of our portfolios has now allowed us to offer a far greater range of touch points to industry, including in-person meeting places; exhibitions, conferences, summits, alongside digital events, news media, www.businesseventsafrica.com

resource media, webinars, social media and research materials. We are able to support our customers with channels to market across multiple mediums, which allows for effective, integrated campaign management. We are providing greater value to the industries we serve, driven by data and proven by analytics. This is a big shift for us as an organisation and we feel the rebrand is necessary to support the reset in our approach and the mindset of our project teams and customers.”

Having established a strong presence on the African continent over the past 20 years, Clarion Events – Africa, is an industry leader in the Energy and Mining sectors, which will continue to grow under the Vuka Group. “We are very excited about being able to bring back our scaled in-person projects next year; Enlit Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in June, as well as DRC Mining Week in Lubumbashi, DRC, and believe that these events will thrive under our new approach,” says Mr Ashdown. “The industry would like to be able to meet face-to-face again and our subtle shift in direction and expansion of touch points will provide increased value to the industry sectors we serve.”

The rebrand follows the local management buyout of Clarion Events - Africa from Clarion Events. Vuka Group will continue working collaboratively with Clarion Events on the African continent, supporting them, with no changes to their staff or operations. With a commitment to data at its core, Vuka Group is well positioned to support industry stakeholders now and into the future.

“We, as the Clarion Group, are very supportive of the local management buyout, which will focus the business through a more Africa-centric lens rather than a global lens,” says Clarion Group Managing Director, Lisa Hannant. “We believe that the future success of the business and its customers, will be best driven locally, with local ownership, and are delighted to support the team as they embark on this new era.”

For more information about The Vuka Group please visit: www.clarioneventafrica.com www.wearevuka.com #wearevuka Linkedin: Clarion Events Africa / Vuka Group Twitter: Vuka Group Facebook: Vuka Group

Business Events Africa September 2021 27

PAGE STRAPRECOVERY ECONOMIC

Figure 1: Real GDP growth (per cent)

19,3

20 13,9

15 10 5 0 -5

0,0 -0,1

0,1

2,5 3,5

0,1 0,5

-0,6

1,2

-2,6

-5,8

-10

1,0

-15 -20

2019Q3

2019Q4

Source: Stats SA

2020Q1

-16,8 -17,4 2020Q2

% q-o-q

2020Q3

2020Q4

2021Q1

2021Q2

% y-o-y

Third quarter GDP will see headwinds from unrest and level three lockdown Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) reported on September 7 that the South African economy continued to recover lost ground during the second quarter of 2021.

By Lullu Krugel, chief economist for PwC Strategy and Africa and Dr Christie Viljoen, PwC strategy and economist.

R

eal GDP increased by a seasonally adjusted 1.2 per cent q-o-q which was higher than the first quarter number of 1.0 per cent q-o-q and better than a consensus forecast of 0.7 per cent q-o-q. A decline in manufacturing (-0.8 per cent q-o-q), construction (-1.4 per cent q-o-q) and general government services (-0.9 per cent q-o-q) was countered by increased activity in trade (contributing 0.3 percentage points to the 1.2 per cent q-o-q growth rate), transport and communication (0.5 percentage points) and personal services (0.4 percentage points).

Given the large, lockdown-induced negative impact on GDP during the second quarter of last year, the annualised growth rate was always

expected to be large. Stats SA reported a 19.3 per cent y-o-y expansion in the economy during 2021 Q2 with all industries except government services having expanded in the year after the harshest lockdowns. The public sector experienced very little impact on its activities during the second quarter of 2020, so the 0.1 per cent y-o-y decline in this sector’s GDP in 2021 Q2 does not suggest anything untoward.

The South African economy expanded by an average of 7.5 per cent y-o-y during the first half of this year. However, this did not translate into more jobs.

While the country had 15.024 million (formal and informal) jobs at the end of last year, employment fell to 14.995 million in the first quarter of this year and 14.942 million in the second quarter – a

28 Business Events Africa September 2021

Lullu Krugel

Dr Christie Viljoen

www.businesseventsafrica.com

ECONOMIC PAGE RECOVERY STRAP

net loss of 82,000 jobs during 2021 H1.

Formal non-agricultural employment declined from 10.495 million in 2020 Q4 to 10.200 million in 2021 Q2 – i.e., a net loss of nearly 300,000 formal jobs during the first half of this year. This is a staggering number. Unsurprisingly, South Africa now has the highest official unemployment rate globally. At 34.4 per cent in 2021 Q2, this is higher than Nigeria (33.3 per cent), Bosnia and Herzegovina (32.4 per cent), Angola (31.6 per cent) and Palestine (26.4 per cent).

Looking ahead, it is likely that the third quarter will see some pressure on the rate of recovery due to a combination of adverse effects from one) unrest in KZN and Gauteng in early July as well as two) an extended level three lockdown still in place. The severity of the mid-year wave, and the accompanying strictness of associated lockdowns, is the primary driver behind the nature of the economic recovery alongside the impact of electricity load-shedding. We expect the current adjusted level three lockdown to www.businesseventsafrica.com

be in place for the rest of September.

While active cases under the third wave of infection have declined from a peak of more than 200,000 in mid-July, this reading has not dropped below 140,000 over the past two months.

While some forecasts suggest that the South African economy will grow by more than 4.0 per cent this year, our modelling points to a figure closer to 2.5 per cent. The mediocre y-o-y growth seen in the first half of this year coupled with the negative factors highlighted for the third quarter does not encourage much optimism about how quickly South Africa’s GDP will be back to pre-pandemic levels. Our baseline and downside assumptions also consider a likely fourth wave of infections during the summer holidays. Minister of Health Joe Phaahla recently warned that authorities are expecting a fourth wave to materialise in November. He expressed concern with the long tail of the third wave and the risk that South Africa could move from the current wave straight into another wave over the summer.

PwC’s purpose is to build trust in society and solve important problems.

PwC is a network of firms in 158 countries with over 250,000 people who are committed to delivering quality in assurance, advisory and tax services.

PwC has a presence in 34 African countries with an office footprint covering 66 offices. With a single Africa leadership team and more than 400 partners and 9000 professionals across Africa, PwC serves some of the continent’s largest businesses across all industries.

Business Events Africa September 2021 29

PERSONALITY PROFILE

This industry is all about the people Humble Jacqui Nel, the International Exhibition Logistics Association (IELA) board member and chairperson of the Industry Relations Working Group (IRWG) and director of Exhibition Freighting GSM South Africa has been in the exhibition industry for over 20 years.

M

y career in freight forwarding began in 1981, in the logistics division of Safmarine, where I worked my way through to the exhibition industry by joining RE Rogers in 1993.

In 2002, my late husband, Clive, and I started Exhibition Freighting GSM South Africa, together with our colleagues at EF-GSM UK. “My love for the exhibitions industry allowed me to get involved with EXSA where I became chair in 2005 with the aim to grow the number of members in the Western Cape. I have always believed that being a member of an association is vital to keep up with the changes and challenges that are happening around the world, not to mention that it brings credibility to your business within the industry.

“When I joined IELA in 2017, I joined the IRWG and quickly became involved wherever I could. I believe that the logistics knowledge we all have is key to the success of the exhibitor at an event as well as passing this knowledge on to others.

“During 2019, the IRWG launched the Ambassadors Program and the success we have seen is because we have connected other associations around the world with IELA, through our ambassadors in those associations. It has been very exciting to watch as countries begin reopening and returning to normal. The Ambassadors have begun interviewing the various associations on their success stories, so that we are able to motivate other countries to follow suit.”

Where do you see the exhibitions industry in South Africa at present and where do you see it heading in the future?

Sadly, on a global scale, our industry together with tourism has taken a huge knock with Covid-19 and has left most of our industry without work, while we continue to see exhibitions and various events being postponed to 2022 or even cancelled.

We recently held the 36th IELA Congress, which took place online, and learnt that no one is able to foresee the future. We are living in uncertain times. The best course is to take one day at a time, attempt to anticipate and do what you are able to do today with openness, humility and respect.

Globally, how do you see the exhibitions industry at present?

Many countries are in the same situation as South Africa. However, we are beginning to see small local exhibitions taking place again, with China and Dubai leading and other countries, such as USA and Mexico, slowly following suit. Dubai is allowing visitors into their country and this is a big step in the right direction.

Division, as I was initially interested in studying chartered accountancy. However, life took me on a very different route!

Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Johannesburg, where I worked for several years before being transferred to the Cape in 1997. I attended Greenside High School, and following this, I attended RAU and obtained my advanced diploma in road transportation.

How long have you been in the sector?

I have been in the logistics side of shipping for too many years and it was a pure coincidence that I went for an interview to work at RE Rogers. This is where I began working within the exhibition industry, moving goods to and from exhibitions.

Where did your career begin?

My career began the Standard Bank Forex

What do you enjoy most about it?

Although entering the exhibition industry

30 Business Events Africa September 2021

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PERSONALITY PROFILE

has been very exciting, it has been working alongside some amazing people that has been very special. This industry is all about the people and I love every moment of it.

What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in this sector?

The biggest change I have seen is that many of our entrepreneurs have retired, taking with them their skills and stories.

These stories entail so many trials and tribulations that deserve to be shared. As with many industries, we face the challenge of not enough young people entering our industry.

Were you always involved in this sector?

No, I was in shipping for many years, and I still get to do what I love for another type of industry. I find it thrilling to move cargo around the world and the challenges it brings. Being a part of IELA is really such a privilege and it allows me to meet people from around the world who enjoy it as much as I do.

Are you married?

I was married to an amazing man, Clive for 33 years. Sadly, he passed away in 2015.

What role does your family play in your life?

My family is very important to me and without their love and support, I would not have been able to have a successful career. They assisted me in maintaining a balanced home life and even though my son is married, he and his wife continue to be there for me.

What would you change in your life – if you could – when looking back?

I would not change anything, as I have had a very blessed and exciting life. While it hasn’t always been easy, the bumps in the road make you stronger, wiser and more resilient to navigate your next journey.

career, running a home and family, it is not always easy.

What is your favourite sport?

Day/night cricket, rugby and golf. My favourite sportsman is Gary Player. He is such a testimony to hard work, perseverance, learning your skill well, being focused, and, when reaching the top, giving back to communities.

What do you do for leisure?

Enjoy the many wine farms around the Cape.

How do you relax?

I spend weekends away with my family.

What has been your biggest challenge in this sector?

People’s misconceptions about freight costs and the time it takes to move goods to and from an exhibition, including the time for customs clearance. The lack of attention to the documentation required and thinking that customs will approve incomplete documents.

What is the most impulsive thing you have ever done?

Dune riding in a 4x4 in the desert.

What is your pet hate?

People who try and cover up their mistakes. Be human, and just own the mistake, fix it and move on.

What is the most memorable place you have ever been to, and why?

We hired a car and, with my family, had great fun travelling through all the small villages of Scotland.

What type of holiday would you avoid at all costs?

An adventure holiday. Holidays are a time to have fun and rest up.

Do you have any hobbies?

Only the usual hobbies, walking my dogs, reading, yoga, painting. I stay very clear of the adrenaline type sports.

Do you play any sports?

I used to participate in athletics, gym and hockey. However when you are building a

What is your favourite city?

I have two favourites.

Venice, Italy. With the charm of its

What is your favourite book?

For fiction, I enjoy all the Dan Brown books. He is such a good writer.

For non-fiction — it would have to be two books, Losing my Virginity by Richard Branson and 21 Laws to Leadership by John C. Maxwell.

What is your secret to success?

Be passionate about what you do. You must love going to work. Be very good at what you do, learn your skill well. Be humble and always remember that you didn’t get there by yourself. There were many people who believed in what you were doing and who were part of your journey to being successful.

If you could be anyone for the day, who would you be and why?

It would be myself. I really enjoy what I do. I am blessed to have wonderful family and friends around me.

www.businesseventsafrica.com

canals, the architecture and beautiful bridges, not to mention the food.

Cape Town – South Africa, for the natural beauty of the mountains, beaches and the lovely diverse culture of people who live here.

What is your favourite food?

Pavlova.

Who is your favourite movie star?

Denzel Washington. He is such an amazing actor.

Who is your role model?

Richard Branson. He is the most inspirational person.

What advice do you have for anyone starting out in this industry and hoping to follow in your footsteps?

Firstly, you must love what you do, and do it very well. In order to be an exhibition freight forwarder, you have to learn about the basics of air and sea freight logistics and, whilst you may learn about it through doing a course, join a shipping company and learn the practical side well, because when you are on an exhibition show site, your client, who could be the organiser or the exhibitor is going to expect you to be a logistics specialist and be able to solve some of the logistic problems that may arise.

What is your dream for the future?

That exhibitions return to their full capacity, thus enabling the people in our industry who lost their jobs to be re-employed, continuing with the work they love. I think that the hybrid part of exhibitions will stay, as a value-added service for those visitors who will be unable to travel.

Business Events Africa September 2021 31

CHEF’S PROFILE

Chef Genghis San heads up new Radisson RED Rosebank restaurant Johannesburg born and bred Genghis San, 31, is the executive chef at AKA Lead Kitchen at the newly opened Radisson RED Rosebank.

M

y RED is the first ever in Johannesburg. Genghis said: “It’s been exciting to pioneer the food side of such a bold and trendy hotel brand. This position feels like the most exciting thing to happen to me. I’m loving the brand and diners may expect a true RED menu. What does that mean? Get ready for unexpected flavour pairings, new takes on old favourites and out of the box fusion cuisine.

Overall, my team and I are crafting an experience which will leave diners excited and wanting more. I’ll also be showcasing my interest in African and Asian cuisine, which was sparked by shadowing my father in Portuguese, Chinese and Afrikaans restaurants when I was a youngster.”

His first major role as a chef was assisting with the FIFA World Cup in 2010. Before joining Radisson RED Rosebank, he was executive chef at Fire & Ice, Melrose Arch.

Winning a bursary to study at Capsicum Culinary Studio changed Genghis’ life. He said that without the bursary he would not have been afforded the opportunity to hone his craft: “My time at Capsicum was amazing. The most unexpected and interesting part was the theory. I enjoyed honing my skills, but the best part was aligning my experience with the knowledge and theoretical competences that were taught to us.”

He studied the International Professional Chef’s Diploma at the Lonehill campus (which has since moved to Rosebank) and graduated in 2011.”

Genghis has had a stellar career. One of his achievements was reaching the regionals for Unilever’s Junior Chef of the Year.

He said that it’s hardly surprising that he found his calling in the kitchen: “I grew up among a family of chefs! I’ve always loved food and cooking, but I never thought that it was my calling. That was until I had the chance to work professionally in a kitchen.”

“My Dad has been my mentor my entire life. He was the first chef who I ever watched in action and he passed on his passion for food to me. I’ve also been lucky to interact with many other excellent chefs who have influenced me. Two who stand out from my time during my Capsicum studies are Chef Dewault Koetze (at the time head lecturer at Capsicum) and

32 Business Events Africa September 2021

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CHEF’S PROFILE

This time has been a real test to the industry. I would urge my fellow chefs to remain motivated. People need to eat and there is always a niche to discover where your talent will be appreciated.

Chef Chad Humby.”

“After graduating, my mom experienced some health issues and I stepped in to help her run her Kosher canteen. I then began working as a chef de partie and quickly moved to sous chef at two major hotel brands. By January 2014 I had been promoted to an executive chef position. I was only 24 and my career was just beginning! subsequently, I have been privileged to open two hotels with two different brands and have more than 15 years’ experience in the kitchen.”

His goal for the next five years is to continue pioneering fusion menus that inspire his guests. “I would like to carve out a space for myself to grow my brand and share my unique way of cooking.

One element that I love is mentoring and I would like to spend more time growing the incredible potential in South Africa and on the continent.”

In terms of local trends, Genghis said: “There is way more variety in trends currently. From plant based to gourmet street food, the industry is exploding right now, and I enjoy the fact that there is so much diversity.”

He said: “Support local. We all need to get behind our community — not just when times are tough.”

“I never waste an ingredient. Generally, on my day off you will find me cooking up something interesting with whatever I can find. For example, if I have corn on the cob and yesterday’s roast chicken, I will turn it into a hearty chicken and corn soup. Nothing ever ends up on my www.businesseventsafrica.com

plate without a twist,” he added.

“On a global front,” Genghis said, “Covid has pushed innovation… we’re seeing smaller businesses pop up and people becoming creative to make a living.”

His advice to organisers is sit with the chef so that we are on the same page.

“Nothing is more rewarding than getting the nuance right and making an event tailor perfect.”

In terms of challenges, he said: “Covid has been a real test for the industry. I would urge my fellow chefs to remain motivated. People need to eat and there is always a niche to discover where your talent will be appreciated. I know that it is hard out there and we are all feeling it, but I have faith that the industry will bounce back. Keep your mask on and don’t put that chef’s hat down!”

“There is a lack of employment owing to the pandemic. That’s why it’s been inspirational to work in a new hotel and create a team from scratch.”

Genghis is married to a fellow chef, Kabelo Molosiwa. They have been married for two years.

For leisure he enjoys travelling, meeting new people and trying new things. He also enjoys entertaining people — there’s nothing I enjoy more than arranging a get-together.

His advice for those aspiring to become an executive chef is: “Your team is your family. When you’re an exec chef, you’re a leader and it’s about ensuring you get the best from your team… that’s only possible when you treat them the best.”

What is your signature dish?

Steamed RED Snapper together with rice and a white Iona.

Which trends are emerging in the conference industry, regarding food?

It’s become explorative and unique! I love that conference food has become more creative and themed.

What has remained constant in this industry?

People’s appetite! There will always be a love for food and if it’s there, you’ll have innovative and passionate chefs.

What is your favourite beverage?

Tequila.

What is your favourite food?

Asian food.

What is your pet hate?

The guest comes first — I become upset when people don’t get this. From service to attitude, I’m all about a great guest experience.

What is your great love?

Atmosphere. If I am able to create a good ambiance that keeps people coming back, I’m happy.

Are you adventurous?

Yes! I love camping off the grid, eating good food, without distractions — no electricity, lights, appliances or civilisation nearby.

Business Events Africa September 2021 33

EVENT GREENING FORUM

By Lynn McLeod, secretariat of EGF.

Nomaswazi Tinus, African Mamas Crafts.

Chantal Croaster, Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Where there is a woman, there is magic – Ntozake Shange Most people who know the Event Greening Forum (EGF) know the members of the management committee very well — our chair, Greg McManus; vice chair, Morwesi Ramonyai and treasurer, Justin Hawes.

A

t our recent Annual General Meeting we elected some new faces to the management committee. As they are women, it seems only appropriate to introduce them following Women’s Month in August. We have also added several sub-committees to ensure that the work of the EGF carries on unabated into the future. The first person we wish to introduce is Lethabo Kgotse, our first intern. Lethabo is a tourism management graduate of the University of Johannesburg and was one of the students attending the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum Africa at Meetings Africa 2019. In addition to her top academic marks, Lethabo makes time to

By Lynn McLeod, secretariat of EGF.

volunteer for two NGOs. While she’s with us, Ms Kgotse is primarily focusing on improving our Green Database, so you have probably heard from her. She is also handling all the EGF’s social media and participates in the implementation of our marketing initiatives.

Nomaswazi Tinus has been appointed chair of the membership/subsidised members sub-committee. In fact, Ms Tinus has been in this position for most of 2020, but there was very little she could achieve in the circumstances prevailing over the past year.

Ms Tinus is the founder and director of African Mamas Crafts — a social enterprise based in Johannesburg but

34 Business Events Africa September 2021

operating across three different provinces in South Africa to create urban-rural linkages and support rural livelihoods.

Her background and experience are in the fields of cartography (mapping), geographic information systems (GIS) and geography — with almost 20 years’ experience in the property and telecommunications sectors. She is passionate about sustainable and inclusive community development.

African Mamas Crafts celebrates the beauty and creativity of African women who use their gifts and skill of their hands – passed down from generation to generation – to provide for their families by crafting beautiful handmade products. www.businesseventsafrica.com

EVENT GREENING PAGEFORUM STRAP

Geraldene Parmasser, Technology Partners.

The brand exudes the warmth, generosity, strength and resilience of African women who over the years have done so much with so little. We focus on recognising assets people already have – and hence the slogan “What is in your hands?”

The two newest members of the management committee are Geraldene Parmassar of Technology Partners and Chantal Croaster of the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

Ms Parmassar entered the business events industry in 2019 and worked at The Forum. She has experience in project management and has worked on major shows such as the Turbine Art Fair. In her time at The Forum, Ms Parmassar worked on events such as bridal open days, weddings, and conferences.

Prior to entering the events space, Ms Parmassar spent 11 years working in education and corporate governance for the Engineering Council of South Africa.

During her tenure she was also involved from a MICE frame, and worked on events such as golf days, university accreditation visits, and council inauguration ceremonies.

In 2020, Ms Parmassar joined Technology Partners as their general manager.

Technology Partners is a service provider to the business events industry with a core focus on sustainability. Ms Parmassar serves on the EGF’s management www.businesseventsafrica.com

Lethabo Kgotse, EGF Intern.

committee, as well as the membership / BEE sub-committees. With her experience in education, she has been appointed as chair of the education and training sub-Committee.

Chantal Croaster has been working in the hospitality and events industry for just over 20 years, fourteen of which were spent at the CTICC. She currently heads up the conference and exhibition services division at the CTICC. Some of her career highlights are being awarded with the Manager of the Year title in 2012 and Team of the Year Award in 2013. In addition, Ms Croaster has also been privileged to attend the AIPC Academy in Brussels in 2013. Although her base qualification was in Tourism Management, the biggest achievement would have been to successfully complete a post graduate diploma with the UCT Graduate School of Business in 2015.

Ms Croaster has been elected to serve on the management committee of the EGF and is a member of both the marketing and finance sub-committees.

Her key focus will be to investigate what possibilities there are to change the conference and exhibition landscape in South Africa by introducing more sustainable solutions to the market.

The quote by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: “You deserve to take up space” is what motivates and drives all decisions she makes. It is important for women to

take up their space and to make their presence known.

We welcome them all to the EGF Management Committee and look forward to them infusing new energy and vitality into the Forum.

About the EGF The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is a non-profit organisation that promotes sustainability within the business events sector. It does this by hosting educational sessions for industry and lobbying government in an effort to implement sustainability principles into the daily operations of the events industry.

The EGF was established through dedication and support of eight industry associations who are recognised as founding members. The founding members are key industry associations working together to promote South Africa as a destination for various types of events.

Want to know more?

If you would like to know more about event greening, visit wwweventgreening.co.za where you can browse the free resources, sign up to the monthly newsletter, or contact them directly with any queries.

Contact: Lynn Mcleod T: 082 891 5883 E: lynn@eventgreening.co.za

Business Events Africa September 2021 35

SITE NEWS

Tourism and terrorism déjà vu The August 26th attacks on the Kabul airport’s civilians trying to depart Afghanistan serves as a further reminder of how dangerous the situation is in Afghanistan.

By Dr. Peter Tarlow, Tourism & More. inc.

The World Trade Center and St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, which began services at 155 Cedar Street in 1922. All three buildings were among those destroyed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York City in 2001.

W

ith the final date for the US and its allies’ departure from that country fast approaching it is important that tourism industry professionals take a deep breath and consider the potential impact of the Taliban’s victory on the world of tourism.

Although there will be numerous articles regarding the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan written from the political perspective it is often impossible to separate the world of political actions from the world of tourism. For example, Al Qaeda’s attacks in September of 2001 were political actions, but the results were an immediate economic setback for tourism and the tourism industry still feels – some twenty years later – the reverberations of September 11, 2001.

September 2021 will not only mark twenty years since the attacks that are also called 9-11 (September 11th) but the dawn of a potentially new and more dangerous era for the world of tourism.

No one knows what the world of tourism will look like in six months, a year, or two years from now. The tourism industry is always vulnerable to

unpredictable or unforeseen political or economic events that are often called ‘black swan’ events. As advanced communications makes it seem as if the world grows ever smaller, and events become known around the world almost instantaneously, it appears that the number of black swan events increases with time. These events often influence our traveling decisions, both for pleasure and for business.

Tourism officials need to be ever mindful that the currents of history are not a single event, but a potpourri of events.

Ironically these mixtures seem unlikely prior to their occurrence but once having occurred seem in hindsight to have been the logical outcome.

The events of the late summer of 2021 exemplify this mélange of events and from a tourism industry perspective require thoughtful analysis. Although I am writing this article from a United States’ perspective, many of these historic currents will impact the world tourism industry.

The summer of 2021 was filled with both new and unresolved challenges. For

36 Business Events Africa September 2021

example, the tourism industry had hoped that by the end of the northern hemisphere’s summer that the Covid-19 pandemic would have become a part of history rather than an ongoing challenge.

The delta variant of the Covid pandemic ended that hope. In August of 2021, much of the world was stuck in issues such as to vaccinate or not and if a third shot was necessary. Six months ago, no one, or very few people, had heard of the Delta variant of Covid. Tourism – centres, like Hawaii – were booming, and there was hope that the cruise industry would soon be back on its feet. Instead, we read headlines such as: “Hawaii Gov. Discourages Travel to State Amid Uptick in Covid-19 Cases” (Travel & Leisure magazine).

This increase in Covid cases is occurring at around the same time that the US (and much of the world) is experiencing its worst case of inflation in decades.

Headlines such as the following one from CNBC (July 2021): “Inflation climbs higher than expected in June as price index rises 5.4 per cent” state what any person who shops already knows. It is especially important that tourism officials understand the impact of inflation, as healthy, retired people compose a sizeable segment of the leisure tourism industry. This segment of the travelling public often lives on fixed incomes and is particularly sensitive to rising prices.

An additional crisis to impact the tourism industry is crime. For example, in a BBC news article on July 7th about crime in America states: “The New York Times looked at 37 cities across the US with data for the first three months of this year (2021), and overall there has been an 18 per cent increase in murders compared with the same time period in 2020.” Such headlines around the world discourage travel to the United States once its borders reopen. The crime wave has also impacted domestic travel to such US cities as Chicago, Portland, Oregon, Seattle, Washington, DC, and New York City. www.businesseventsafrica.com

SITE NEWS

The attack on the Kabul airport (August 26) underlines the fact that tourism now faces new threats. At this point no one knows exactly how deadly the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan will be on world tourism. What we do known is that Afghanistan is now under the almost complete control of a terrorism group. The Taliban rule over Afghanistan twenty years ago resulted in a haven for Al-Qaeda terrorists and spawned numerous attacks against major political and tourism targets such as New York’s World Trade Center.

The fact that Afghanistan is now controlled by a fundamentalist Islamic group makes the situation completely different from other current problems, especially as tourism has, in the past, served as a magnet for terrorism attacks. The potential for terrorists doing major harm to the tourism industry is now greater than any point since the 9-11 attacks.

Below is a quick summary of some of the challenges that the fall of Afghanistan means for world tourism.

• Travel might become a lot harder and more dangerous. The fact that there are now thousands of non-vetted people who have left Afghanistan means that there is a chance that at least some of these people might be part of sleepercells and governments will have to take added precautions until it is clear who is travelling and for what circumstances.

• The US-Mexico border, already dangerous, will become a lot more so.

The United States, during the last seven

months, has had, in effect an “openborder” policy. Unvetted or poorly vetted migrants may now enter the United States from both friendly and unfriendly nations. Some of these people come for reasons of political asylum or economic opportunity.

Others might be coming for less benevolent reasons and, once in the US, they are basically free to go wherever they please. This non-stop, unregulated migration has already resulted in the rise of crime and illnesses, including Covid.

• Europe should expect an increase in unvetted refugees, who will continue to make Europe less safe and less attractive to visitors. The result will be a decline in European living standards and quality of life.

• The Talibans’ traditional source of income, illegal drugs and especially the production of heroine, will increase and this increase is bound to cause problems for the tourism industry. ‘Narcotic farmers’ will no longer have to fear anything other than a tax collector and the result might be a major increase in drug (and perhaps even sex) trafficking around the world, especially in the western nations. It is these nations that produce most of the world’s tourism.

• The sudden withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan and its lack of coordination with its NATO allies might well result in a weakened NATO alliance exactly at

the time when tourism may face renewed terrorism threats. The tourism industry is going to need to work together and with multiple government agencies against any new threats of terrorism or organised crime.

• The fact that the Chinese currently see a weak America might encourage an attack on Taiwan or other parts of the South China sea. Such levels of instability could only hurt tourism recovery, both along the Asian Pacific rim and in southern Asian countries.

Tourism in this region may become totally dominated by the Chinese and other countries, such as North Korea, might become emboldened to act in a reckless manner. It should be remembered that much of the world’s cargo goes by ship and attacks on major sea lanes could result in increased transportation prices.

• The fall of Kabul is a wakeup call for tourism executives. This is not the time to cut back on tourism security but rather plan for a potentially difficult period. Tourism leaders will need to work with their governments, law enforcement agencies, and health ministries to create conditions for an expanded tourism industry and greater safety and security. These will not be easy times, but for the tourism industry to survive, it must face face realities, must be prepared for the worst, but at the same time pray for the best and work to bring people together.

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SAACI NEWS

Consider a green recovery Sustainability is the balance we all aim for. Understandably, the past year, the sheer need to survive has meant sustainability of our business events industry and our businesses, has pushed environmental sustainability to the back of the queue.

By Glenton de Kock, chief executive officer of SAACI.

W

hile we accept this for the reason, we all know, we do need to keep the environmental sustainability conversation alive.

Many agree that a green post-pandemic recovery is vital for all businesses in the events and hospitality sector as we navigate the road ahead.

So how do we achieve this?

Our work as an association, as part of the collective of the Event Greening Forum (EGF), provides access to partners that aid

how we plan and execute our association activities. The past SAACI national congresses have been assessed, audited, and reviewed on how venues and suppliers performed in dealing with sustainability.

While there will always remain work to be done, the move towards sustainability accreditation and policies is underway. We may start to see future RFPs considering the impact of events on the environment and how we need to play our part.

In the coming months SAACI will be working with the EGF to help find

the best practices for our members and industry. While we work on gaining certification from a prestigious organisation that ensures we are meeting national and international standards.

As an association, we cannot express our gratitude to the individuals we work with at the EGF and their commitment in lifting awareness in the needs to think green.

We all agree sustainability is the balance that we seek. We will not find all the answers, but we are building a movement to address some issues in the present to assist with a sustainable future. As an association we will play our part to help achieve these objectives.

Looking ahead it is critical that clear sustainability objectives and carbon-neutral ambitions are put at the forefront of our industry to help businesses thrive postrecovery and guide them in the years to come. By using accreditation schemes, partnering with experts, and harnessing technology, events and venues can significantly improve their performance and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s).

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.

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 AfricaLearning October 2020 38 | Growth | collaboration

AAXO NEWS

How to increase digital engagement Most digital events are finding fostering engagement among event attendees challenging. But it does not have to be.

By Chanelle Hingston, group director, Clarion Events Africa.

H

ere are a few tips that I have come across to assist in improved engagement levels.

sure you invite and bring along those community members who are really engaged and have been adding good value to your existing community.

Think TV production It does not have to come with the costs of producing for TV but having a plan and being a little more creative makes all the difference.

The following can really help enhance the experience — scripts, using appealing aesthetics such as backgrounds, green screens, adding titles or using translation. You may consider using an MC or experienced presenter to help begin conversations. If your budget allows using a production house it may take the pressure off your in-house team as well as raise the bar at your digital event.

Try new things when it comes to engagement Your community are human beings, who, like us, are also tired of the same old Zoom sessions. So, ensure you are looking for common threads amongst your members and using these to better engage and bring some fun to your event.

Activities such as quiz sessions, yoga and virtual drinks are just a few that I have seen run successfully to have a bit of a laugh, break the ice and have some fun. This is often a simple, inexpensive tool that’s not used enough.

Involve your community To make the most of your live engagement, make

Create a sense of presence Ensure you are enticing people to benefit from

attending live instead of consuming the content on-demand after the digital event. Live interaction and Q&As are often the most valuable parts of these sessions. You may continually run an on-demand campaign after the digital event, but your goal is to drive as much live attendance as possible to assist with improving engagement.

Keep improving The final point is we’re all having to step up, adjust and work harder at everything we do in the context of events.

• Organisers must be switched on and ensure that they are correctly onboarding all stakeholders, as well as investing in top-notch online experiences.

• Community members need to be open in an attempt to test these new technologies and ensure you are updating your profile with your full info so you’re easily discoverable.

• Sponsors are required to understand the tools, technology and platforms which organisers use. They are required to be more digitally proactive in engaging audiences/prospects with the use of these tools.

SAEC NEWS

The case for exhibitions to be reopened We may only resume business if the venue capacity restrictions for exhibitions increase and the South African government realises that exhibitions are commercial marketplaces.

A

AXO and EXSA have embarked on discussions with the Department of Corporate Governance and Trade Affairs to reopen the exhibition industry.

Our proposal emphasises that an exhibition is not an event and cannot be switched on and off like other industries but requires months of planning and preparation before being hosted. Hence, we have proposed an urgent phased reopening to facilitate the lead time and planning required to open exhibitions.

Due to the varying rates of progression of the pandemic in different countries, exhibition industries in other countries have been able to host events that would have previously taken place in South Africa. In many countries, exhibitions are no longer grouped with mass events. The South Africa exhibition industry faces fierce international competition, as exhibitions are being relocated to alternative countries.

We are not an insignificant sector. Before Covid-19, the exhibition industry was a vibrant, growing sector, annually contributing R75-billion to the South Africa economy (source: AAXO 2015 Exhibition Industry Study), with exhibitions contributing R23-billion to tourism through the 1 million exhibition attendees visiting the country annually.

The exhibition sector supports thousands of businesses, many SMMEs, allowing them to generate income by meeting potential customers and concluding sales.

By Projeni Pather, chairperson of AAXO for SA Events Council.

Many government departments also utilise exhibitions. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition specifically uses local and global exhibitions for the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) programmes. The Department of Tourism hosts two of the most significant exhibitions in South Africa to drive the tourism industry: Africa’s Travel Indaba and Meetings Africa. The sector is a vital contributor to South Africa’s economic competitiveness and acts as the shop window to the world, enabling companies from various sectors to meet prospective customers, generate sales and driving South African exports.

We remain confident that South African exhibitions are able to take place safely with robust regulations and measures, as successfully demonstrated at the Restart Exhibition, hosted in November 2020 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre and supported by SA Tourism. The exhibition was run under the Event Safety Guidelines for the exhibition sector formulated by the Event Safety Council and are aligned with the health and safety protocols from the Department of Health, the World Health Organisation, and many international exhibition industry organisations. These guidelines include a risk-assessed approach, including (but not limited to) sophisticated staggered attendance to manage numbers and track and trace measures to ensure safety is maintained.

If the South African exhibition industry is

40 Business Events Africa September 2021

unable to resume planning for reopening in early October 2021, we fear there is a high chance of the industry ceasing to exist. Several organisers and suppliers have had to shut their doors in the past year.

Some of the largest international players who invested in South Africa's exhibition sector have also closed their South African operations, e.g., Messe München (Germany) and Terrapinn (UK). In addition, the Ticketpro Dome, a venue that accommodated a vast number of exhibitions, has ceased operations, has been sold and will no longer be used as an exhibition venue.

An exhibition is a temporary commercial marketplace, where one or more sellers display their goods and services to their customers/buyers. We are confident that, given the nature of an exhibition, it should be allowed to operate irrespective of the levels of lockdown. Our government proposal acknowledges the importance of saving lives and livelihoods by including mandatory safety protocols, risk-adjusted strategies, incremental venue capacity allowances, and stimulating business across all sectors across all levels of lockdown. Exhibitions are not events! e: hello@saeventscouncil.org

www.businesseventsafrica.com

EXSA NEWS

Getting back to the business of exhibitions With the national department of health working with key role-players in developing a digital Covid-19 vaccine passport and consideration at government level on the banning of non-vaccinated people from public amenities, we are beginning to see some light, following a gruelling 17 months of exhibition industry drought.

E

ngaging government, stakeholders and decision-makers on how we may best reopen our beloved Industry – through a phased and responsible approach – has been our primary focus and objective.

As an association and moreover, as an industry collective, we have maintained our professionalism and standing amidst – and despite – a decimated sector that was once thriving and vibrant.

As a collective, our professional conduct shows that we may be taken seriously and

that we are focused on getting back to doing business in an Industry that we protect, love and serve.

For the business of exhibitions, the combination of two powerhouse industry associations, AAXO and EXSA, supported by many professional bodies and individuals, has resulted in a proposal to the special advisor to the minister of CoGTA, of which we, as an exhibition industry collective, may be proud.

It was necessary for us to provide facts, data and a portfolio of evidence, from our international counterparts, to support our cause and motivation for a gazetted, phased approach to reopening exhibitions.

The industry stakeholders have not stopped at exhibitions — on the events side, SACIA and the Event Safety Council (ESC) have effectively engaged the department of sport and have presented their comprehensive proposal for a phased approach reopening.

By Gill Gibbs, chairperson of EXSA. We will share the feedback as we receive it, as we push for a positive response in the coming days.

Finding the balance What is needed now, more than ever, is to find the balance — to reopen and support the economy, roll out the digital vaccine passport and to welcome international visitors to provide us with a much-needed boost.

With so many debates (and myths) doing the rounds – to vax or not to vax – education is critical and so too, is data.

Whilst businesses and organisations are considering and implementing vaccine policies for their employees, so too are industry sectors reviewing the same.

It’s boils down to our very survival.

Let’s assist one another to make memories on the exhibition and event floor, together again. #GetVaccinated.

MARKET NEWS

KZN launches Tourism Month This year’s theme for Tourism Month is “tourism for inclusive growth". The KZN department of economic development, tourism and environmental affairs (EDTEA) together with Tourism KwaZulu-Natal will use this month to aggressively focus on initiatives and interventions that will encourage growth and renewal of the local tourism sector under this global theme, as promulgated by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.

U

nder this theme, KZN will join the world in celebrating tourism’s ability to drive inclusive development and the role it plays in promoting respect while generating economic opportunities for millions across the country. Inclusive tourism means getting everybody behind a better vision for tourism and our nation.

“In keeping with this year’s theme, the province of KwaZulu-Natal will be rolling out activities that underpin and promote our transformation and inclusivity agenda which lies at the heart of people-centred tourism. Because we understand that people are the lifeblood of the KwaZuluNatal tourism industry, we want this Tourism Month to be an opportunity to not only look beyond just numbers but to acknowledge that behind every number, there is a person who has a significant role to play,” said Ravi Pillay, MEC for economic development, tourism and environmental affairs.

“We know that tourism is a powerful lever that is able to grow and transform our economy for the upliftment of communities as well as aid in the alleviation of poverty. As we kick off Tourism Month, we wish to extend a warm invitation to our regular visitors and encourage new explorers to the exceptional Zulu Kingdom,” he continued.

Coupled with a high visibility and community-focused campaign, the province will be rolling out additional

interventions to support local businesses and ensure that they are ready to welcome visitors. Among these will be the launch of the second phase of the Tourism Relief Fund.

The province has been able to develop excellent tourism facilities that have put KwaZulu-Natal on the world map as well as provide exceptional service. These tourism facilities came about because of strategic collaboration between the local communities, private investors, government entities and funding agencies, which has seen the development of world class tourism offerings and seamless operations. The facilities are a true demonstration of ‘inclusive growth’ within the sector.

Mr Pillay said: “We have been eagerly anticipating this most exciting time on the tourism calendar. Tourism Month always injects energy that inspires creativity and innovation by the industry, which culminates in truly exceptional experiences and products for consumers. There is plenty to see and do in the Zulu Kingdom during this time and while we are excited to welcome visitors – old and new – to the province — we want to encourage locals to travel and rediscover the gems and magic of their own backyard.”

“Through close engagement with members of the tourism trade, we are able to assure consumers that they may take advantage of value-for-money packages

42 Business Events Africa September 2021

when booking their next holiday to KZN. A thriving tourism industry is required to fast-track recovery, create jobs and boost small businesses,” he continued.

The province has put in place measures to contain the spread of the Corona-virus and has taken extraordinary measures to ensure Covid-19 safety and health protocols are adhered to at all the province’s signature events and soughtafter establishments and attractions.

The month of September has a special significance in South African culture as it is also Heritage Month. KwaZulu-Natal, being jewel-rich with culture, beautiful landscapes, and attractions, is undoubtedly the place for consumers wishing to immerse themselves in the spirit of heritage month.

As the world begins to open up and as we look to the future with hope and excitement, we want to pledge and make sure that nobody is left behind; that this tourism month fosters awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, and economic value and the contribution that the sector will make towards reaching the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

“We want to ensure that, as we begin our journey towards recovery and growth, that this also translates into the improvement of people’s lives and transformation of communities,” Mr Pillay concluded. www.businesseventsafrica.com

MARKET NEWS

South African optimism higher than the global average – study finds Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic hardship, the majority of South Africans remain optimistic about the future. This is according to a recent global survey.

T

he Expo 2020 Dubai survey, conducted in partnership with YouGov, tracked global sentiment and hope in a world irrevocably changed by Covid-19. More than 22,000 people between the ages of 18-40+ were interviewed, with participants coming from 24 countries. Within the survey, topics focused on critical subjects such as health and wellness, sustainable travel, efficient food supply chains and the development of urban and rural communities.

The survey results highlighted that South Africans would like more opportunities for youth. Chosen from eleven options, South Africa is the second country in the global study to cite next generation empowerment as the most significant future action.

Nine out of ten South Africans believe that collaboration is key in tackling its most pressing challenges. South Africans emphasised the value of collaboration and knowledge sharing to address global challenges. 76 per cent believe greater

knowledge exchange between individuals and communities may shape a better future – 14 per cent higher than the global response – while 70 per cent said that sharing global innovations, insights and expertise is crucial towards overcoming humanity’s present obstacles.

The study also discovered a shift in priorities around employment and purchasing. When asked about lifestyle changes, most of those surveyed prioritised working remotely while supporting local small businesses and purchasing local

products. Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai, adds: “Expo 2020 has developed this latest global study to help us understand how the citizens of the world believe we can shape a better future.

Overall, the findings are encouraging, and show a collective desire to work together, broaden our horizons and exchange ideas.”

For further information about the latest global survey by Expo 2020, www.expo2020dubai.com/en/news

Index of advertisers ADVERTISER

PAGE

EMAIL

WEBSITE

AAXO

39

aaxo@aaxo.co.za

www.aaxo.co.za

CTICC

3,16

sales@cticc.co.za

www. cticc.co.za

Event Greening Forum

34

info@eventgreening.co.za

www.eventgreening.co.za

EXSA

42

exsa@exsa.co.za

www.exsa.co.za

groupreservations@fancourt.co.za

www.fancourt.com

Fancourt

FC, IFC, 6

MJunxion

2

yolande@mjunxion.co.za

www.mjunxion.co.za

SAACI

38

info@saaci.org

www.saaci.org

SA Events Council

40

hello@saeventscouncil.org

www.saeventscouncil.org

SITE

36

info@sitesouthernafrica.com

www.sitesouthernafrica.com

The Capital 15 On Orange

13, 15

khomotjo@thecapital.co.za

www.thecapital.co.za

University of Johannesburg

20, 21

bookthekerzner@uj.ac.za

www.thekerzneratuj.com

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Business Events Africa September 2021 43

DIRECTORY

SOUTHERN AFRICAN ASSOCIATION FOR THE CONFERENCE INDUSTRY

Learning | Growth | collaboration EXCO AND HEAD OFFICE Chairperson: Kim Roberts e: info@mise-en-placesolutions.com t: +27 (0)82 652 2008 Vice-chairperson: Jaques Fouche e: jaques@be-moved.co.za c: +27 (0)60 993 7542 Treasurer: Glenn van Eck e: glenn@magnetic.co.za c: +27 (0)82 800 2612 Public officer: Denise Kemp e: denise@easternsun.co.za c: +27 (0)82 654 9755 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: Jaques Fouche e: jaques@formative.co.za c: +27 (0)60 993 7542 Treasurer: Glenn van Eck e: glenn@magnetic.co.za c: +27 (0)82 800 2612 Public officer: Denise Kemp e: denise@easternsun.co.za c: +27 (0)82 654 9755 Eastern Cape Chairperson: Alistair Stead e: alastair@scandisplay.africa c: +27 (0)73 236 6618 KwaZulu-Natal Chairperson: Irene Vallihu c: +27 (0)79 692 4604 e: irenev@icc.co.za Gauteng Chairperson: John Arvanitakis t: +27 (0)83 415 2774 e: john@chatr.co.za Western Cape Chairperson: Angela Lorimer c: +27 (0)74 550 1000 e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za Co-opted Youth Ambassador: Minister Kganyango e: mkganyago@csir.co.za c: +27 (0)79 513 8708 Co-opted Learning Ambassador: Esti Venske e: venskee@cput.ac.za c: +27 (0)83 482 9276

EASTERN CAPE Chairperson: Alistair Stead e: alastair@scandisplay.africa c: +27 (0)73 236 6618 Vice-chairperson: Melissa Palmer e: melissa@becbc.co.za c: +27 (0)82 437 7600 Treasurer: Andrew Stewart e: andrew@periexpo.co.za c: +27 (0)82 578 5987 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 Nabeelah Sharmar e: nabeela@greenroom.co.za c: +27 (0)83 661 4140 Hayley Pretorius e: ec.za@saaci.org c: +27 (0)62 758 7933 GAUTENG Chairperson: John Arvanitakis Chat'r Xperience t: +27 (0)83 415 2774 e: john@chatr.co.za Vice Chairperson: Neil Nagooroo NXLevel Events and Exhibitions t: +27 (0)82 929 5241 e: neil@nxlevel.co.za Treasurer: Chris de Lancey Multi-Media t: +27 (0)82 854 2230 e: chris@multi-media.co.za COMMITTEE: Angelique Smith SAACI Johannesburg c: +27 (0)60 970 7653 e: angie@eventsynthesis.co.za Mary Mahlangu, Flock Platform t: +27 (0)81 574 9493 e: mary@flockplatform.com Rendani Khorommbi Joburg Tourism t: +27 (0)11 883 3525 c: +27 (0)82 773 2999 e: rendanik@joburgtourism.com 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

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 COMMITTEE: Herkie du Preez c: +27 (0)82 839 3489 e: herkie@eventwizards.co.za Melanie Pretorius c: +27 (0)82 410 1202 e: melanie.pretorius@mweb.co.za Riaan Maritz c: +27 (0)82 899 7612 e: riaanm@atkv.org.za Tumi Tsatsi c: +27 (0)78 373 9790 e: tumi@eventwizards.co.za Heather Heskes c: +27 (0)76 321 6111 e: tsh.za@saaci.org Leon Pheiffer e: leon@ephproductions.co.za e: leon@montededios.co.za c: +27 (0)72 616 5390 WESTERN CAPE Chairperson: Angela Lorimer c: +27 (0)74 550 1000 e: angelajacobson862@yahoo.co.za e: salesmanager@ lagoonbeachhotel.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 Stefan Huggett c: +27 (0)83 740 8897 e: stefanh@spier.co.za Gheeta Payle t: +27 (0)86 123 7890 e: gheeta.payle@inhousevtm.com Lara Van Zyl c: +27 (0)82 223 4684 e: wc.za@saaci.org

EXHIBITIONS AND EVENTS ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

EXSA OFFICE www.exsa.co.za Chairperson: Sibusiso Mchwabe (KZN) Marketing Well t: +27 (0)83 477 5536 e: sibusiso@marketingwell.co.za Treasurer: Ishmail Antatasi GL - events t: +27 (0)83 212 7338 e: ishmael.atanasi@gl-events.com Past chairperson: Doug Rix DK Designs t: +27 (0)82 579 7071 e: dougrix@wol.co.za Directors: Sandile Dlamini Anzamode t: +27 (0)79 104 5510 e: sandile@anzomode.co.za Kerry-Lee Bester Brilliant Branding t: +27 (0)72 265 6600 e: kerry@brilliant-branding.co.za Jacqui Nel (EC) Exhibition Freighting G.S.M. t: +27 (0)21 552 7248 e: jacquinel@ef-gsm.co.za Liam Beattie Hott 3D : +27 (0)76 577 0989 e: liam@hott.co.za Chad Botha Inspire Furniture Rentals t: +27 (0)76 644 0271 e: info@inspirefurniture.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

44 Business Events Africa September 2021

www.businesseventsafrica.com

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: Western Cape: Mariaan Burger c: +27 (0)82 557 8041 e: info@sitesouthernafrica.com

SA EVENTS COUNCIL

e: hello@saeventscouncil.org Chairperson: Raylene Johnson, CEO: TEBCO-SA Vice-chairperson: Glenton de Kock, CEO: SAACI 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 Gill Gibbs, 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 Sibusiso Mncwabe, EXSA Board member; EXSA KZN Forum Chair; SAACI KZN Committee member and Treasurer Bheki Twala, TEBCO-SA Executive

www.businesseventsafrica.com

Kim Roberts, SAACI Representative Western Cape Robyn D’Alessandro, Social Media – Vivo Visual Voice CC

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

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

Business Events Africa September 2021 45

THE LAST WORD

The future of events in a post-pandemic world The global pandemic, which began early in 2020, rapidly changed the way people engaged with one another. Due to safety concerns, physical events came to a screeching halt almost overnight.

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

I

t was if the world stopped functioning and soon the term ‘new normal’ began being used for the new way people had to live their lives. Fortunately, there is a glimmer of hope for us to return to some form of the ‘old normal’ in the near future.

While the prospect of the return to the old way of life is exciting, Flock Evening Platform’s founder and chief executive officer, Mike Lysko, shares his thoughts on what it means for the events industry, which has done a U-turn and today functions very differently to the pre-Covid days.

The future of physical events “As the world of in-person events reopens, it will become increasingly important for event planners to manage health and safety at physical venues,” Mr Lysko said.

“As an event planner of the future, you will have to deal with the emotionallycharged and controversial topic of vaccinations and you are well advised to implement policies around this issue for in-person events.”

Below are some suggestions to help navigate this controversial area: • Have strict safety measures in place at your physical event, such as sanitisation

46 Business Events Africa September 2021

stations and ensuring the wearing of masks where appropriate.

• Choose well-ventilated venues to host your event.

• Regulate attendee access to create a safe event environment.

• Limit the duration of in-person events.

Get creative with future physical event layouts. For instance, offer attendees the option of connecting with other attendees online, to encourage interaction.

• Embrace touchless devices to provide a sense of safety among in-person attendees. www.businesseventsafrica.com

THE LAST WORD

• Create a Covid event company policy and make it available on your website to show that you take government regulations seriously and to safeguard yourself and business.

The pandemic may be around for years and, even after it ends, there may be ongoing regulations and lingering fears about Covid.

Holding physical events will remain a tricky space to navigate. However, Mr Lysko said, as long as people are informed about security protocols and attendees have options on how to engage (that is, join online or in-person), you may implement measures to avoid alienating any one of your potential guests.

Event tech will become essential Event planners have become accustomed to the use of event technologies and are unlikely to step away from this development. If anything, we are likely to see more event tech solutions emerge to solve more event pain points.

“The future of events will remain a mix of physical and online. Hybrid events are here to stay,” Mr Lysko said.

“I cannot see event planners and organisations – who have transformed their businesses – going back to the ‘old fashioned’ form of event planning.

According to research on LinkedIn, 45 per cent of future B2B events will be completely virtual,” he added.

Event ROI measurement tools will become a must-have As new event tech and formats emerge there will be an increasing demand for more effective data measurement tools.

Event tech is providing substantially more meaningful information about events, attendee engagement and activity which event planners are able to utilise to create better events, and which may be used for better reporting on ROI in the marketing sphere.

“Event ROI is always top-of-mind and meaningful data is an essential element that event planners require to motivate for increased budgets for their clients and obtain event sponsors. New event measurement tools are likely to become essential to showcase the success of events, regardless of the format,” Mr Lysko said.

The 365-engagement strategy: Event communities, user-generated content and virtual platforms Mr Lysko predicts that a 365-event www.businesseventsafrica.com

engagement strategy will become a staple in the events industry.

For those who do not know, a 365-engagement strategy refers to a plan whereby the event organiser continues to engage a community beyond a single event. This strategy utilises multiple touch points and event experience types to allow for continued audience interaction.

This strategy feeds off event communities, event user-generated content and the creation of event platforms.

• Event communities: We are likely to see brands and event companies create followings and online communities around certain themes or ideas. This will facilitate ongoing conversations and generate ideas for future events around topical themes and conversational points.

• Event user-generated content will play an increasingly significant role in driving engagement at events and this trend is likely to become ingrained at physical, hybrid and online events.

User-generated content is created through encouraging users to share their journey with the event at different stages in the event’s life cycle. For instance, encouraging attendees to share on social media that they are attending an event after purchasing a ticket.

• All-in-one event platforms: We are seeing a move towards brands wanting to own their communities and control the content generated because these communities are an exceptionally valuable resource. This means that brands are spending more time and money nurturing valuable client relationships and niche communities than ever before, Mr Lysko said.

“Many companies want to host events through their own branded event platform rather than hosting their events on a network such as LinkedIn. Brands want to manage their audience and communicate with them through clear avenues that provide the possibility of monetization. Additionally, hosting an event through a single all-in-one platform allows the company to control security and privacy, which is a growing area of concern with data privacy laws,” Mr Lysko explained.

The events industry will be forever changed, digital and hybrid events are likely to evolve and adapt with technological developments and physical

events will incorporate digital aspects and utilise innovative ideas to retain the same impact which they had pre-pandemic.

We live in dynamic, exciting and often challenging times, so take the time to research and invest in event technologies and tools to stay ahead of the game, is Mr Lysko’s advice.

Who is Mike Lysko?

Mike Lysko is the chief executive officer and founder of Flock Eventing Platform.

Mike has always been interested in the entertainment industry, which drove him to eventing — has been an entrepreneur since a young age and began his first events business whilst obtaining a BCom degree. He recognised a gap in the market after learning about people’s frustrations and difficulties while attending exhibitions, seminars and conferences. Some of those problems included long queues at events, carrying print materials handed out at seminars and presentations, and wasting delegates’ time. Mr Lysko has experience in all areas of business having managed multiple teams across operations, business development and sales, software development, marketing and customer support. In 2013, he combined his passion for technology and events, through the development of App Your Event and Flock Event Management, which allow event organisers to better engage with attendees.

Business Events Africa September 2021 47

DIGITAL

DIRECTORY

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AFRICA’S LEADING

BUSINESS EVENTS DIRECTORY

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Business Events Africa is known for having the most comprehensive directory of venues, service providers, speakers and conference organisers in Africa. We have been a trusted source of information for more than 40 years, and now offer this valuable resource online.

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