+Business Events of the Future +New Venues and Refurbishments

Issue 01 | 2017

+ BUSINESS EVENTS OF THE FUTURE How New Tech is Influencing our Industry + NEW VENUES AND REFURBISHMENTS Great Locations for Your Next Event

www.theevent.co.za CONTENTS 01

02. EXSA and AAXO announce Industry Awards

04. Sun City Relaunches After R1-Billion Upgrade

06. Quality Control in Events Management SUN CITY RE-LAUNCH The Event attended the re-launch of Sun City’s billion-rand upgrade to the 08. Business Events of historic and captivating destination. the Future

12. TGCSA Sees Significant Increase in Graded Establishments In 2016

13. Engage with AfSAE at Meetings Africa

14. Investment in Meetings FUTURE TECH Infrastructure on the Rise Kim Crowie digs deep into the world of technology and explores its impact A Chat with SA Tourism CEO on business events. 20. Sisa Ntshona

22. IBTM: Insights into South Africa’s Meetings Industry Revealed

24. SA Remains Resilient in Innovative Business-Events Offerings NEW VENUES AND REFURBISHMENTS IFES Masterclass 2016 has been a busy year for conference and meeting venues, with a host 26. in CapeTown of new and upgraded establishments. 28. Kenya: East African Meetings Hub

30. KwaZulu-Natal: Conference and Events Paradise

32. Events to Diarise

34. Associations News BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY KwaZulu-Natal is home to the much-lauded Durban ICC, as well as a 36. Directory of Advertisers plethora of other venues and incentive options. 02 NEWS www.theevent.co.za EXSA AND AAXO ANNOUNCE INDUSTRY AWARDS Exhibition and event industry unite for Annual Awards

he Association of African of growth, knowledge sharing and driving aspects in the exhibition and event with Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) standardisation and credibility within the a platform to showcase their portfolio of and the Exhibition and Events exhibition industry, this event is designed work with ample opportunity to network Association for Southern Africa to offer recognition and appreciation with like-minded industry players and T(EXSA) are proud to announce a joint to hardworking and innovative industry a broad selection of suppliers, further awards venture and open first call to players who continue to raise the bar and enabling growth opportunities. nomination of judges for the inaugural contribute to exhibitions’ respected rank Set to take place on 26 January 2016 ROAR and flagship EXSA-llence Awards as an effective marketing tool. Identifying this much anticipated event is only the – two industry awards ceremonies under synergies in focus, EXSA saw it beneficial start of what promises to be an eventful era one banner. An industry first, the ROAR to unite and join efforts with newly for the South African exhibition industry. Organiser and Exhibitor Awards together established AAXO as a way of honoring and “Traditionally, winning a stand award with the EXSA-llence Awards mutually paying homage to members as a whole. has been all about the stand construction, aim at recognising and promoting All ROAR entries will be judged by AAXO aims to change this by ensuring excellence within the local exhibition a panel on their successful exhibition that all ROAR entries will be judged on and events, while uniting, the industry. strategy incorporating marketing, public their successful exhibition strategy In an effort to showcase excellence and relations, operations, activation, social incorporating marketing, activation, drive Respect, Opportunities, Achievements responsibility and sustainability. stand construction and ROI,” explains and Responsibility (ROAR), AAXO and EXSA All EXSA-llence entries will be judged Carol Weaving, AAXO Chairperson. will soon be making its first call for the on their successful incorporation of “This gives all suppliers, agencies and nominations for a panel of independent design, production and manufacture business enterprises involved in the judges for what promises to be an exciting, as well as the incorporation of the activation and the build the opportunity industry-wide, award celebration. In an client’s marketing strategy. to showcase their execution skills innovative move, this judging process will Participating companies may also and promote their businesses.” be facilitated online for the first time ever. submit more than one entrant. Similarly, Phumulani Hlatshwayo, Aimed at promoting the standardisation While details regarding who the EXSA General Manager explains: “By of the South African exhibition and events official ROAR / EXSA-llence judges are collaborating with AAXO, EXSA is able industry as well as acknowledging and still emerging, it has been confirmed to create a larger platform and pool of recognising excellence in exhibition that the panel of judges will consist of opportunities for our members. This organisation, the ROAR Organiser distinguished specialists within exhibitions, ensures that every party within the and Exhibitor Awards together with communication and marketing. Judges exhibitions and events value chain will the EXSA-llence Awards are open will also be selected for their deep enjoy exposure and recognition for going to all AAXO and EXSA members as expertise in Trade, Consumer, Trade above and beyond. In turn, we hope that long as they have been involved in an and Consumer, Confex and Table Top. initiatives such as this will encourage the exhibition or event within 2016. This prestigious awards event will industry to unite and continue to strive In line with AAXO’s strong 2016 focus provide role players who contribute to all for excellence and deliver quality.”

Traditionally, winning a stand award has been all about the stand construction, AAXO aims to change this by ensuring that all ROAR entries will be judged on their successful exhibition strategy incorporating marketing, activation, stand construction and ROI. This gives all suppliers, agencies and business enterprises involved in the activation and the build the opportunity to showcase their execution skills and promote their businesses. www.theevent.co.za JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE 03 JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE: THE VENUE OF CHOICE IN 2017 In over 30 years, the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) has kept pace with the remarkable growth of the local and global exhibitions, conferences and events industry, evolving into a world-class facility that’s unlike any other. Considered one of the top exhibitions and events venues in Southern Africa, the Expo Centre is the ideal venue to host your event in 2017.

Top 10 reasons the JEC four and five star hotels and is unique: accessible from all major highways 1. Multipurpose facilities 6. Located 30 minutes from providing more than 50 000m² both OR Tambo International of indoor space Airport and Lanseria Airport 2. More than 100 000m² of 7. Individual gates and entrances for versatile outdoor space and each hall provide ease of access 20 000 parking bays for event build-up and break-down 3. Smaller upmarket facilities 8. A registered helicopter landing encompassing 4 000m² for base, managed by Capital Air conferences and conventions 9. World-class facilities that have 4. A multipurpose arena that can received the PMR Africa Award in accommodate up to 20 000 people 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2016 5. Prime location situated just 15 10. The JEC is a member of EXSA, minutes from a variety of three, UFI, SAACI and SOJO

n award-winning venue located “We held Sexpo’s 10th anniversary at capacity, experience, resources and just south of Johannesburg, the Expo Centre in October 2016 and we strategic partnerships to host any occasion, the JEC is South Africa’s were determined to make it the biggest regardless of size, across a broad client largest purpose-built exhibition, show yet,” says Sean Newman, Chief base,” says Newman. “As a dedicated and Aconference and events venue. With Executive Officer of Sexpo SA. “Fortunately, award-winning exhibition, conference and multipurpose facilities that provide more the Expo Centre was the perfect venue to events venue, we are more than prepared to than 50 000m² of indoor space and over deliver a memorable performance. There meet the unique demands of every event.” 100 000m² of versatile outdoor space, is ample parking, easy access to and from the Expo Centre offers a unique setting the venue and large exhibition halls that For more information about JEC, that can accommodate any client. satisfy every possible show requirement.” visit www.expocentre.co.za “I think our strength lies in the diversity of In 2016, the JEC also added film Facebook: Expo Centre Nasrec our facilities that enable us to host anything production to its arsenal of services with @jhbexpocentre1 from an international music festival to a the launch of Studio Joburg - a fully- Twitter: @jhbexpocentre1 professional trade exhibition,” says JEC fledged film and television content hub. CEO Craig Newman. “Our unique facilities Studio Joburg is the result of collaboration include a clubhouse that can seat up to between the owners of the Expo Centre and 200 people, which provides the perfect a consortium of leading film practitioners, setting for corporate dinners and events. which will give the city of Johannesburg We also have a monorail, a 4x4 track, a mini - its very own Universal Studios. golf course and a lake that can be used as So why should you choose the JEC a stage area for exhibitions and sets.” to host your next event? “We have the 04 NEWS www.theevent.co.za

The Royal Baths SUN CITY RELAUNCHES AFTER R1-BILLION UPGRADE New suite of major attractions and revamped convention facilities opened.

n a hot December day in performances by A-list international stars After just a year, Sun City had 1979, Sun International like Queen and Frank Sinatra, and the attracted more than 300 000 visitors turned every notion of leisure exhilaration and glamour of gambling. to the Extravaganza and theatre and entertainment in South Dubbed the ‘pleasure palace’ soon shows alone, and had secured more OAfrica on its head with the launch of after its opening, over time the popular international visitors to the Pilansberg Sun City. Rising from the dusty African Sun City Hotel was joined by further in 12 months than had visited the bush, what has now become an icon development at the Cabanas, Cascades, entire country in the same period. of South African tourism instantly Sun Vacation Club and the ultra-luxurious 36 years later, after a five-year R1-billion captured the hearts and imaginations of 5-star fantasy – The Palace of the Lost refurb, Sun City has set its sights on entertainment-starved South Africans. City. Entertainment attractions expanded growing its popularity still further, and Visitors were awed by the lush green to include the massive man-made lake increasing its share of the growing paradise set in a craggy North West at Waterworld large enough for water conventions business in South Africa. backdrop. For the first time, South sports, the Valley of Waves and the world- Michael Farr, Group General Manager Africans were exposed to the previously famous Gary Player Golf Course that for Brand and Communications, says: forbidden delights of showgirls and continues to attract the world’s top golfers “Sun City has remained popular since its risqué topless Extravaganza dancers, at the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge. opening, but we felt it needed a complete www.theevent.co.za NEWS 05

Seers Court - Cabaret set up The Show Lab for conferencing overhaul and took the decision to invest cost of R30-million and inaugurated • A sophisticated new VIP gaming over a billion Rand to do just that. We’ve on 24 July 1981 by Frank Sinatra. experience at The Palace Villa and Salon put this investment into making the • The new, highly flexible Sun Park indoor and an upgraded breakfast buffet. The resort even more attractive to families, events area and outdoor space, capable Grill Room has also been upgraded gamblers, convention visitors and a host of hosting a range of lifestyle events, with a new lakeside terrace. A stylish of new, niche-tourists such as adrenalin- music festivals and corporate launches. new spa will be completed by 2017. seekers, eco-tourists and millennials. • Soho hotel which has been repositioned • A fresh new look at the Cabanas “We are confident that with this as the resort’s ‘always on’ party zone. as well as a new restaurants and massive refurb and upgrade, Sun City Encapsulating the essence of the upgrades to the pool and the pool bar. will not only retain its status as South renowned Soho destinations located in • Adrenalin seekers will love Adrenalin Africa’s favourite leisure destination, London and New York which are known Extreme, the new adventure hub, but will also recapture its place as the for their eclectic vibe and non-stop while the entire family can enjoy the premier convention venue in the country.” action. Soho hotel boasts an exclusive two brand new rides at the Valley of new dance venue, Encore, the chic Waves water park, Noble’s Descent and In addition to the new contemporary and contemporary, with a retro feel, Ovango. Adventure hub comprises a styled rooms and refreshed decor at Vibes, the glamorous new Legends range of outdoor activities including the Cabanas and the self-catering Sun restaurant and the revamped Sun Prive Drift Trikes, Hovercrafts, the Accelerator Vacation Club apartments, visitors will find: and Prive Salon. The Sun City Casino, and the Grizzly 4x4 Quad Challenge. • A brand new Sun Central boasting the casino that started it all was the • More action packed watersports at a suite of new family experiences, first in South Africa to introduce the Waterworld. The venue now offers as well as a South African Hall of concept of million Rand jackpots. the new Kazooma Raceway and Fame honouring South Africa’s • The Luma Bar and Lounge and Rock Venture Mini Golf with its outstanding sportspeople and the new Bocado Mediterranean thrilling Grand-Prix-styled racing performing artists. The original restaurant at the Cascades, which go-karts and an adventure golf entertainment centre was built at a replaces the Santorini restaurant. course that will appeal to all ages.

EXPERIENCE EXPLORE THE STORY OF HUMANKIND DRAMATIC DISCOVERIES Come face to face with your ancestors Explore the Sterkfontein Caves where and experience your human heritage at groundbreaking discoveries, that Maropeng, the world-renowned tourist changed the way we view humanity, attraction. Situated only 45 minutes have been made. away from Johannesburg and Pretoria, and 10kms from Sterkfontein Caves, Maropeng is one of South Africa’s must- see destinations.

WWW.MAROPENG.CO.ZA 06 NEWS www.theevent.co.za QUALITY CONTROL IN EVENTS MANAGEMENT Quality is achieved through project management principles that are the hallmark of successful events.

Scope The majority of projects suffer from scope ‘creep’ and this not only affects the quality but can also severely influence the cost of an event. To reduce this, the scope of the event must be clearly defi ned at the onset of the project. The client’s brief is the single most important document in events management, yet too often, it is not clearly articulated or even recorded. Part of this can relate to the client’s vague terms of reference or brief – most people simply see the polished delivery of a fi rst-class event, without being aware of the amount of effort required to produce such an event, similar to an audience’s unawareness © AlexanderStein | Pixabay of the backstage of a theatre production. Part of this can also be attributed to a failure on the part of the events manager The events manager can advise the client on to elicitate all aspects of an event, programme constraints, fi nancial risks and implications, according to an established project plan. At this stage, the events manager can price dynamics and risk-management factors that will advise the client on programme constraints, add to costs. fi nancial risks and implications, price dynamics and risk-management factors that will add to costs. The element of etc. Professional events managers can work project phases. This can only be done if availability and time constraints of people around short project cycles but this affects there is an offi cial signed order and an and material can be fully explored upfront. costs, if the quality is to be maintained. understanding that this ‘banking’ privilege carries additional costs, as the events Time Cost management company is at risk for Internationally, events are planned anywhere Poor budgeting is one of the key reasons several months leading up to the events from 1-4 years in advance and this allows why events fail to reach the expected quality. and possibly another 60 days later. for better pricing deals and extensive A major misconception about events Gantt charts, detailing every aspect of management costs is that an event can Conclusion the event. However, events are often pay for itself at its conclusion or that ‘free’ A winning event is the combination of a suddenly required – because of a need events only need be settled 30 days after professional events management team, to use up allocated budget or because the event. However, most venues require at fully versed in all aspects of project the client has realised, quite far into the least 50% deposit for a booking, as do the management, and the knowledgeable project, that professional help is required. secondary suppliers of food, drinks, audio- client, who understands that events require When time is squeezed, it can become visual equipment and entertainers. Without expert input to achieve winning outputs. diffi cult to produce a quality event. The most these deposits, no event can be guaranteed. appropriate venue may not be available; the This requires the events management Courtesy of Beaulah du Toit, top entertainers may be booked; the keynote company to create a payment plan, Operations and Logistics Director speaker in the subject may be unobtainable, where tranches are made according to of Litha Communications. Experience Extraordinary

There’s a place where meetings, conferences and corporate events are transformed from ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences. A destination, at the tip of the mighty African continent, where two oceans meet in the shadow of one of earth’s seven natural wonders. Where creativity comes to life, the unforgettable is experienced, and the impressions created last a lifetime.

This place is Cape Town International Convention Centre. And to experience it is to experience extraordinary.

To transform your special event into an extraordinary experience contact CTICC: +27 21 410 5000 sales@cticc.co.za www.cticc.co.za 08 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Modobag introduces the world’s first rideable luggage. © Modobag Captivated by virtual reality (via Huffington Post) BUSINESS EVENTS OF THE FUTURE With the constant evolution of technology, it’s impossible for the business-events sector to remain unchanged. Kim Crowie looks at the tech trends that are influencing the meetings sphere.

ccording to a 2016 XING study ensure the most basic of infrastructure software such as MeetingHand and called Digital Transformation in – Wi-Fi – is available to attendees. WeTrack, while the popularity of event the Event Industry, the sector’s But although transformation within apps will likely continue into the future. movement towards digitalisation the technological sphere is a given, what Renowned tech company Lumi recently Ais reflected in the demand of attendees. movements can we expect in 2017, and released a real-time messaging and polling 81% of attendees want digital solutions to which digital event strategies should Africans app called MeeToo, which encourages be used during events, and it’s crystal clear be focusing their attention on? We’re seeing inclusivity and engagement at events. that the Internet of Things will be part of the area of event marketing absorbing Tech genius Corbin Ball predicted 15 that transformation. Experts say that by the most of these trends in the business- years ago that mobile apps would be widely 2020 about 21 billion end devices will be events industries, with 76% of organisers used at events – and it’s come true. He now connected to the internet, and 68% of event already using digital event management predicts that they will continue to mature organisers believe that digital transformation solutions, 47% using online ticketing options, into full-featured event intelligence and data is both a current and long-term trend. and conversely, networking and event analytic platforms. “They can provide a That said, technology in events is apps making relatively slow progress. goldmine if information about participants’ still considered a risk, particularly when likes, dislike, interests, movements and more it comes to technical problem-solving. The Year in Review that can be used to improve future events.” “We’re looking at event apps, but I’ve been Digital managements that are set to Another trend that’s set to continue to events where the technology hasn’t continue into the next twelve months is RFID, which is making the rounds worked so I get very wary of implementing and beyond are email campaigns, online at a number of South African music it when it could go wrong,” Charles Perkin, marketing and ticketing, event apps, video festivals including DStv Delicious and Event Manager at Defaqto told C&IT streams, and live projections, among others. Rocking the Daisies. In future, we may recently. It is therefore imperative that Some of the tech we’ve covered in the well see new innovations in this field as conference centres and organisers in Africa Event this year was online management RFID technology becomes the norm. In 08 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 09

Modobag introduces the world’s first rideable luggage. © Modobag Captivated by virtual reality (via Huffington Post) MeeToo interactive app on Tthe EHang 184 mega drone was launched at CES (via NBC News) mobile © Lumi

the same vein, Bluetooth Low Energy Virtual reality is another area of (BLE) technology like the iBeacon will visual tech that will continue to impact What the…? continue to evolve and be deployed at eventing – from destination marketing There are also the incredibly BUSINESS EVENTS events, with a range of international trade to experiencing a conference. Belcher imaginative technologies in the shows already making it a staple. says the general consensus is that if world – here’s a look at some of Surprisingly, email marketing continues you’re a larger company or a large event, the more event-related ones. OF THE FUTURE to make an impact on the event tech world, you should be offering VR, particularly • Fancy a helicopter flip? Soon with some of the best and biggest responses if it’s educational. A great example of you might enjoy a ride in an With the constant evolution of technology, it’s impossible for the business-events sector coming from effective email campaigns. this was SA Tourism’s recent marketing autonomous passenger drone, to remain unchanged. Kim Crowie looks at the tech trends that are influencing the Neuromarketing plays a large role in the campaign in the UK where they used VR which looks just like a baby success of these campaigns, with eye headsets that allowed potential travellers copter. The EHang 184 can meetings sphere. tracking research showing that putting to have a virtual tourism experience. travel up to 10 miles and folds products or desirable imagery in specifi c Again, mobile is on the move, and one to fi t in a parking spot. spaces receives more attention or response. of the biggest trends in this environment • The second generation HTC ccording to a 2016 XING study ensure the most basic of infrastructure software such as MeetingHand and According to New Neuromarketing, ‘a cue for we’re going to see is the integration of Vive, a virtual reality headset, called Digital Transformation in – Wi-Fi – is available to attendees. WeTrack, while the popularity of event change’ is a great hook for new products or apps with mobile devices and wearables. has a camera on the front to the Event Industry, the sector’s But although transformation within apps will likely continue into the future. experiences, particularly when social proof QuickMobile recently released the fi rst mobile avoid unpleasant ‘dips’ into movement towards digitalisation the technological sphere is a given, what Renowned tech company Lumi recently or results are shown. Event intelligence and event app with Apple Watch integration, while reality, ensuring you never Ais reflected in the demand of attendees. movements can we expect in 2017, and released a real-time messaging and polling analytics will grow in signifi cance as this and airlines such as British Airways and Emirates have to remove the headset! 81% of attendees want digital solutions to which digital event strategies should Africans app called MeeToo, which encourages other areas of data collection are increasingly have Apple Watch apps for departure, • If waking early for a conference be used during events, and it’s crystal clear be focusing their attention on? We’re seeing inclusivity and engagement at events. used to monitor and better events. arrival and change notifi cations. Hotels, too, is not your thing, maybe the that the Internet of Things will be part of the area of event marketing absorbing Tech genius Corbin Ball predicted 15 are jumping on the bandwagon, with the Sensorwake ‘olfactory’ alarm that transformation. Experts say that by the most of these trends in the business- years ago that mobile apps would be widely Looking Ahead likes of Starwood, Accor, InterContinental can help. It releases scents of 2020 about 21 billion end devices will be events industries, with 76% of organisers used at events – and it’s come true. He now One of the main trends to come out of 2016 – and even Century City Hotel – using ocean, jungle, croissant and coffee connected to the internet, and 68% of event already using digital event management predicts that they will continue to mature was the rise of live streaming of events. mobiles and wearables for room entry. into the room to wake you. organisers believe that digital transformation solutions, 47% using online ticketing options, into full-featured event intelligence and data Conferences like Leadercast have been • Too busy to care about your sleep? is both a current and long-term trend. and conversely, networking and event analytic platforms. “They can provide a running events like this successfully, and The Oura, a wearable ring, can track That said, technology in events is apps making relatively slow progress. goldmine if information about participants’ although the industry initially thought this Virtual reality is your sleep patterns better than the still considered a risk, particularly when likes, dislike, interests, movements and more tech would ruin the offline audience, it’s safe another area of fi tness bands or watches we have it comes to technical problem-solving. The Year in Review that can be used to improve future events.” to say that’s no longer a fear. According to visual tech that will today – plus it adapts to what you “We’re looking at event apps, but I’ve been Digital managements that are set to Another trend that’s set to continue First Sight Media Director Richard Belcher, do during the day to provide advice to events where the technology hasn’t continue into the next twelve months is RFID, which is making the rounds it’s not the future, it’s the now. “Mark continue to impact on getting a better night’s rest. worked so I get very wary of implementing and beyond are email campaigns, online at a number of South African music Zuckerberg, when asked ‘what are you eventing – from • And if those disgustingly long it when it could go wrong,” Charles Perkin, marketing and ticketing, event apps, video festivals including DStv Delicious and most looking forward to?’ he said, ‘I’m most destination marketing airport corridors are getting you Event Manager at Defaqto told C&IT streams, and live projections, among others. Rocking the Daisies. In future, we may excited about live video’. They’re pouring a lot down, Modobag has the answer: recently. It is therefore imperative that Some of the tech we’ve covered in the well see new innovations in this field as of money into live streaming with Facebook to experiencing a introducing the world’s fi rst conference centres and organisers in Africa Event this year was online management RFID technology becomes the norm. In Live, and there’s much more to come.” conference. rideable luggage. You’re welcome. Meetings Africa 2017: Events Programme

DATE EVENT TIME SLOT VENUE ATTENDEES 16 November 2016 Event Greening Forum 08:00 – 13:00 Sandton Convention Centre – Open for registration to all Greening Your Event Workshop Boardroom 1/2/3 exhibitors and visitors. RSVP Lynn McLeod – [email protected] Cost - TBA 26 January 2017 Johannesburg Exhibitor Briefi ng TBC Sandton Convention Centre – Open for registration to all Information-sharing session for Meetings Committee Room 2 exhibitors. RSVP Lorin Bowen – Africa 2017 BONDay and Exhibition [email protected] 27 January 2017 Cape Town Exhibitor Briefi ng TBC TBC Open for registration to all Information-sharing session for Meetings exhibitors. RSVP Lorin Bowen – Africa 2017 BONDay and Exhibition [email protected] 30 January 2017 Durban Exhibitor Briefi ng TBC TBC Open for registration to all Information-sharing session for Meetings exhibitors. RSVP Lorin Bowen – Africa 2017 BONDay and Exhibition [email protected] 23 February 2017 Meetings Africa Golf Day 07:00 – 15:00 Killarney Country Club Open for registration to all Meetings Africa 2017 Meetings Africa participants - Networking Opportunity RSVP Lorin Bowen – [email protected] 26 – 27 February 2017 SITE Educational 09:00 – 17:00 SCC – Committee Room 2 Open for registration to all SITE Educational session for SITE Members (Level 4) members. RSVP Daryl Walthers – [email protected] 27 February 2017 Association Day 09:00 – 17:00 SCC– Boardroom 1/2/3 By invitation only BONDay In conjunction with the ICCA Africa Chapter (Level 2) IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum 09:00 – 17:00 SCC – Boardroom 6/7 By invitation only Top tourism students representing tertiary (Level 2) institutions from the Tourism Educators South Africa, competing for the International University Challenge at Meetings Africa 2017 Event Greening Forum 09:00 – 10:00 SCC – Ballroom 2 Open for registration to EGF WORLD-CLASS EVENTS Annual General Meeting (Level 2) members. RSVP Lynn McLeod – [email protected] Exhibitor Educational 11:00 – 15:00 SCC– Ballroom 2 Open for registration to all WITH AFRICAN Exhibitor educational session in conjunction (Level 2) Meetings Africa exhibitors – with SAACI, SITE, EXSA, ICCA Africa Chapter RSVP Lorin Bowen – [email protected] 28 February 2017 Morning Live 06:00 – 09:00 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 N/A HOSPITALITY Live outside broadcast of SABC’s (Level 0) Morning Live Breakfast Show The Meet-Up Session 09:00 – 13:30 SCC – Ballroom 2 Corporates: Tshepo Maseko – Discover the best of African hospitality and events venues Speed Marketing session (Level 2) [email protected] Exhibitors: Lorin Bowen – at Meetings Africa 2017. With convention centres fi tted with [email protected] cutting-edge technology, hotels where excellence comes Opening Ceremony 09:30 – 10:10 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 Open to all attendees O cial opening ceremony of Restaurant Area standard, and experiences that will give you a taste of African Meetings Africa 2017 (Level 0) culture – Meetings Africa will show you why you should Minister’s Walk-About 10:40 – 11:30 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 N/A The Minister of Tourism does his (Level 0) have your next event in South Africa. o cial walk-about of the Meetings Africa exhibition fl oor Business Talks 14:00 – 15:00 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 Foyer Open to all attendees A panel discussion on key business events (Level 0) matters on the African continent Meetings Africa Offi cial Welcome Function 17:00 – 18:30 SCC – Ballroom 1/70 Open to all attendees (Level 2) (Ts & Cs apply) 27 FEBRUARY 2017: BONDAY The Meet-Up Sessions 09:00 – 15:00 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 Online registration Corporate Buyer interaction with exhibitors (Level 0) 28 FEBRUARY - 1 MARCH 2017: EXHIBITION and a speaker platform Green Stand Awards 15:00 – 16:00 SCC – Exhibition Hall 1 – Open to all attendees SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE Awards Ceremony for the top green stands SANCB Stand JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA at Meetings Africa 2017 (Level 0) Disclaimer: The Events Programme is subject to change Go to www.meetingsafrica.co.za

10021423 Meetings Africa Guide_276x406_2.indd 2 2016/12/09 4:47 PM MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa 2017: 2017: Events Events Programme Programme

DATEDATE EVENTEVENT TIMETIME SLOT SLOT VENUEVENUE ATTENDEESATTENDEES 1616 November November 2016 2016 EventEvent Greening Greening Forum Forum 08:0008:00 – – 13:00 13:00 SandtonSandton Convention Convention Centre Centre – – OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all GreeningGreening Your Your Event Event Workshop Workshop BoardroomBoardroom 1/2/3 1/2/3 exhibitorsexhibitors and and visitors. visitors. RSVPRSVP Lynn Lynn McLeod McLeod – – [email protected]@eventgreening.co.za CostCost - -TBA TBA 2626 January January 2017 2017 JohannesburgJohannesburg Exhibitor Exhibitor Briefi Briefi ng ng TBCTBC SandtonSandton Convention Convention Centre Centre – – OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all Information-sharingInformation-sharing session session for for Meetings Meetings CommitteeCommittee Room Room 2 2 exhibitors.exhibitors. RSVP RSVP Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – AfricaAfrica 2017 2017 BONDay BONDay and and Exhibition Exhibition [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za 2727 January January 2017 2017 CapeCape Town Town Exhibitor Exhibitor Briefi Briefi ng ng TBCTBC TBCTBC OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all Information-sharingInformation-sharing session session for for Meetings Meetings exhibitors.exhibitors. RSVP RSVP Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – AfricaAfrica 2017 2017 BONDay BONDay and and Exhibition Exhibition [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za 3030 January January 2017 2017 DurbanDurban Exhibitor Exhibitor Briefi Briefi ng ng TBCTBC TBCTBC OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all Information-sharingInformation-sharing session session for for Meetings Meetings exhibitors.exhibitors. RSVP RSVP Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – AfricaAfrica 2017 2017 BONDay BONDay and and Exhibition Exhibition [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za 2323 February February 2017 2017 MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa Golf Golf Day Day 07:0007:00 – – 15:00 15:00 KillarneyKillarney Country Country Club Club OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa 2017 2017 MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa participants participants - - NetworkingNetworking Opportunity Opportunity RSVPRSVP Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za 2626 – – 27 27 February February 2017 2017 SITESITE Educational Educational 09:0009:00 – – 17:00 17:00 SCCSCC – – Committee Committee Room Room 2 2 OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all SITE SITE EducationalEducational session session for for SITE SITE Members Members (Level(Level 4) 4) members.members. RSVP RSVP Daryl Daryl Walthers Walthers – – [email protected]@walthers.co.za 2727 February February 2017 2017 AssociationAssociation Day Day 09:0009:00 – – 17:00 17:00 SCC–SCC– Boardroom Boardroom 1/2/3 1/2/3 ByBy invitation invitation only only BONDayBONDay InIn conjunction conjunction with with the the ICCA ICCA Africa Africa Chapter Chapter (Level(Level 2) 2) IMEX-MPI-MCIIMEX-MPI-MCI Future Future Leaders Leaders Forum Forum 09:0009:00 – – 17:00 17:00 SCCSCC – – Boardroom Boardroom 6/7 6/7 ByBy invitation invitation only only TopTop tourism tourism students students representing representing tertiary tertiary (Level(Level 2) 2) institutionsinstitutions from from the the Tourism Tourism Educators Educators SouthSouth Africa, Africa, competing competing for for the the International International UniversityUniversity Challenge Challenge at at Meetings Meetings Africa Africa 2017 2017 EventEvent Greening Greening Forum Forum 09:0009:00 – – 10:00 10:00 SCCSCC – – Ballroom Ballroom 2 2 OpenOpen for for registration registration to to EGF EGF WORLD-CLASSWORLD-CLASS EVENTSEVENTS AnnualAnnual General General Meeting Meeting (Level(Level 2) 2) members.members. RSVP RSVP Lynn Lynn McLeod McLeod – – [email protected]@eventgreening.co.za ExhibitorExhibitor Educational Educational 11:0011:00 – – 15:00 15:00 SCC–SCC– Ballroom Ballroom 2 2 OpenOpen for for registration registration to to all all WITHWITH AFRICANAFRICAN ExhibitorExhibitor educational educational session session in in conjunction conjunction (Level(Level 2) 2) MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa exhibitors exhibitors – – withwith SAACI, SAACI, SITE, SITE, EXSA, EXSA, ICCA ICCA Africa Africa Chapter Chapter RSVPRSVP Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za 2828 February February 2017 2017 MorningMorning Live Live 06:0006:00 – – 09:00 09:00 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 N/AN/A HOSPITALITYHOSPITALITY LiveLive outside outside broadcast broadcast of of SABC’s SABC’s (Level(Level 0) 0) MorningMorning Live Live Breakfast Breakfast Show Show TheThe Meet-Up Meet-Up Session Session 09:0009:00 – – 13:30 13:30 SCCSCC – – Ballroom Ballroom 2 2 Corporates:Corporates: Tshepo Tshepo Maseko Maseko – – DiscoverDiscover the the best best of of African African hospitality hospitality and and events events venues venues SpeedSpeed Marketing Marketing session session (Level(Level 2) 2) [email protected]@southafrica.net Exhibitors:Exhibitors: Lorin Lorin Bowen Bowen – – atat Meetings Meetings Africa Africa 2017. 2017. With With convention convention centres centres fi fi ttedtted with with [email protected]@meetingsafrica.co.za cutting-edgecutting-edge technology, technology, hotels hotels where where excellence excellence comes comes OpeningOpening Ceremony Ceremony 09:3009:30 – – 10:10 10:10 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 OpenOpen to to all all attendees attendees O O cial cial opening opening ceremony ceremony of of RestaurantRestaurant Area Area standard,standard, and and experiences experiences that that will will give give you you a a taste taste of of African African MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa 2017 2017 (Level(Level 0) 0) cultureculture – – Meetings Meetings Africa Africa will will show show you you why why you you should should Minister’sMinister’s Walk-About Walk-About 10:4010:40 – – 11:30 11:30 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 N/AN/A TheThe Minister Minister of of Tourism Tourism does does his his (Level(Level 0) 0) havehave your your next next event event in in South South Africa. Africa. o o cial cial walk-about walk-about of of the the Meetings Meetings Africa Africa exhibitionexhibition fl floor oor BusinessBusiness Talks Talks 14:0014:00 – – 15:00 15:00 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 Foyer Foyer OpenOpen to to all all attendees attendees AA panel panel discussion discussion on on key key business business events events (Level(Level 0) 0) mattersmatters on on the the African African continent continent MeetingsMeetings Africa Africa Offi Offi cial cial Welcome Welcome Function Function 17:0017:00 – – 18:30 18:30 SCCSCC – – Ballroom Ballroom 1/70 1/70 OpenOpen to to all all attendees attendees (Level(Level 2) 2) (Ts(Ts & & Cs Cs apply) apply) 2727 FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 2017: 2017: BONDAY BONDAY TheThe Meet-Up Meet-Up Sessions Sessions 09:0009:00 – – 15:00 15:00 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 OnlineOnline registration registration CorporateCorporate Buyer Buyer interaction interaction with with exhibitors exhibitors (Level(Level 0) 0) 2828 FEBRUARYFEBRUARY -- 11 MARCHMARCH 2017:2017: EXHIBITIONEXHIBITION andand a a speaker speaker platform platform GreenGreen Stand Stand Awards Awards 15:0015:00 – – 16:00 16:00 SCCSCC – – Exhibition Exhibition Hall Hall 1 1 – – OpenOpen to to all all attendees attendees SANDTONSANDTON CONVENTIONCONVENTION CENTRECENTRE AwardsAwards Ceremony Ceremony for for the the top top green green stands stands SANCBSANCB Stand Stand JOHANNESBURG,JOHANNESBURG, SOUTHSOUTH AFRICAAFRICA atat Meetings Meetings Africa Africa 2017 2017 (Level(Level 0) 0) Disclaimer:Disclaimer: The The Events Events Programme Programme is is subject subject to to change change GoGo to to www.meetingsafrica.co.za www.meetingsafrica.co.za

1002142310021423 Meetings Meetings Africa Africa Guide_276x406_2.indd Guide_276x406_2.indd 2 2 2016/12/092016/12/09 4:47 4:47 PM PM 12 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za TGCSA SEES A SIGNIFICANT INCREASE IN GRADED ESTABLISHMENTS IN 2016

016 is set to be the year of grading success for the Tourism Grading Council South Africa (TGCSA), a business unit of South African 2Tourism. The TGCSA Management Information (MI) mid-year reports indicate a significant increase of about 10% in graded establishments and/or rooms. This vast improvement is indicative of the tourism industry’s commitment to quality assurance and also its pledge to contributing in greater means to the South African economy. According to the report, the initial increase in graded establishments and rooms came in May and June 2016. This coincided with the launch of the Tourism Analytics Programme (TAP), an online-based system that collates guest reviews on tourism facilities on travel review platforms such as Bookings.com, Agoda and TripAdvisor. The most significant increase in graded establishments happened in Amanzi Island Lodge in Knysna is a TGCSA graded establishment © Amanzi Island Lodge spring with a net increase of 69 new graded establishments joining the system during September and October 2016. We appreciate the industry’s support and trust in our During the same period, the TGCSA launched its coastal campaign targeted system. Our aim to develop meaning partnerships at establishments based in the coastal with the industry and interact with them much more regions with the promise to partner regularly is bearing fruit. with them in readying themselves for the Summer Holiday Season. The TGCSA also partnered with VIA Tv Channel 147 on DsTV and Ideas Magazine to increasingly recognises TGCSA as the to develop meaning partnerships produce the ‘n Ster vir my Bed reality show official quality assurance body for tourism with the industry and interact with with local production house, Hi Mom. This products in South Africa and is dedicated them much more regularly is bearing 10-episode series showcased just how easy to helping our country achieve the highest fruit. Let us continue towards it is to transform an ordinary guesthouse, level of quality, promote optimal value for positioning South Africa as a quality bed and breakfast or self-catering unit into money and give ‘customer expectation’ assured destination of choice for a quality assured graded establishment by the paramount position it deserves. international and domestic leisure merely meeting the TGCSA minimum entry Chief Quality Assurance Officer Darryl travel and business events.” requirements and quality grading criteria. Erasmus expressed his gratitude to the To have your establishment This mid-year report suggests that industry: “We appreciate the industry’s graded visit the TGCSA website: South Africa’s travel and tourism industry support and trust in our system. Our aim www.tourismgrading.co.za/get-graded www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 13 ENGAGE WITH AFSAE AT MEETINGS AFRICA Connect with a worldwide community of association practitioners.

he prime opportunity for AfSAE hearing alternative ideas and perspectives Questions and Answers and for more to engage with its members, that may help you fi nd an answer that Roundtables for specifi c challenge areas. potential members and other you would not otherwise have had the More of that self-directed time has stakeholders is at the Annual opportunity to hear. As not-for-profi t been built into the schedule for 2017. TEducation Conference held again this year professionals we all have many of the Three Keynote sessions will look at in conjunction with Meetings Africa. There same challenges, though our approaches the value of bidding for International is no better time or place for the industry to may be quite different. We know what Meetings in your fi eld, Top Trends in gather than at the largest business-events works for professional societies may not Association Management worldwide trade show on the continent. Attendees work for trade associations or cause- and an overview of Africa’s political are primed to engage, learn and network related organisations, but elements of their and economic position going into 2017 – and that is what we are all about! solutions may help you fi gure out yours! and the next few critical years. From the formal sessions to the Our 2017 Education Conference topics All this and networking receptions networking time and then to the tradeshow range from Association technology to and lunches to let attendees meet floor, it is about fi nding others who are fi nance, membership to strategy and and share with each other. A great dealing with the same challenges that many things in between. Our 2016 opportunity to extend your professional you are, and then fi nding solutions or attendees asked for more time for network and knowledge.

Who we are

We were created for African Association Managers and Volunteer Leaders by African Association Professionals. Formed in 2015 as the professional society for those within the not for proﬁ t management space and their supplier partners. Membership Beneﬁ ts

1. Connect to the worldwide community of association Our Purpose and not for proﬁ t management practitioners 2. Create and build your own Continent-wide network 1. To provide a forum for the education, training of association management professionals and sharing of knowledge about the practice of 3. Join “communities of interest” and on-line “member association or not-for-proﬁ t management in Africa. only discussion groups” within the AfSAE 2. To promote the association model and value of 4. Receive discounted registration fees to AfSAE events associations to national and continental development. 5. Access to exclusive content throughout the year delivered on-line through AfSAE.org 6. Take advantage of discounts from supplier Contact Details partners made available to AfSAE members 7. Vote as a professional member of AfSAE Telephone: 011 465 0334 | Email: [email protected] 8. Participate in leadership opportunities on Fax: 086 664 9767 | Website: www.afsae.org Committees and Task Forces in AfSAE 14 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Centre Kigali © Carlson Rezidor JSE Cape Town

The Grey Boutique Hotel exterior © The Grey Spier Hotel Terrace

INVESTMENT IN MEETINGS INFRASTRUCTURE ON THE RISE The African continent has seen signiﬁ cant investment in hotel and conferencing infrastructure over the last few years, with a number of venues and hotel chains upgrading their meeting offerings or expanding to accommodate the influx of business event delegates. We bring you a roundup of new and refurbished venues in the region.

frica has seen billions have grown their portfolios, and at Chain Development Pipelines in Africa ploughed into and invested this year’s Africa Hotel Investment 2016, the continent remains attractive into its hospitality and meeting Forum, many more investments were to investors, with the total number of venues sectors in 2016. announced for the years ahead. rooms in the pipeline up by almost 30% ALarge hotel groups such as Marriott, According to a recently released study on 2015 – an extraordinary increase. This Starwood, and Sun International by the W Hospitality Group entitled Hotel is largely due to growth in sub-Saharan 14 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za FEATURE 15

New Venues to Look Forward to Kigali Marriott Hotel In early October, the Kigali Marriott Hotel was completed and opened for business. The international conglomerate has partnered with Akilah Institute for Women so that 40 graduates can work and train in Marriot hotels, and through the Kigali property they have created 500 jobs. It has 254 rooms and 10 conference halls.

Golden Tulip Westlands Nairobi Louvre Hotels Group inaugurated its eighth property in Africa with the Golden Tulip Westlands in April 2016. The hotel offers conference facilities for between Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Centre Kigali © Carlson Rezidor JSE Cape Town Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Centre Kigali © Carlson Rezidor 20 and 600 delegates, and also includes a gym, sports bar, rooftop swimming pool and high-end restaurants.

The Grey A new boutique hotel in De Waterkant, Cape Town, The Grey was launched in December and features 13 double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and stunning views of Table Mountain. Ideal for trendy travellers looking to explore the city, it offers the Pink The Grey Boutique Hotel exterior © The Grey Spier Hotel Terrace Radisson Blu Hotel and Convention Centre Kigali Lobby © Carlson Rezidor Parrot rooftop bar and the famed Piano Bar downstairs for those seeking an intimate live music experience. Africa, which includes AccorHotels’ to 64 231. All except 14 African countries mega-deal in Angola, there they have signed with international chains for JSE Cape Town IN signed with AAA Activos LDA for the new hotels, and many more new venues The Johannesburg Stock Exchange INVESTMENT MEETINGS management of 50 hotels with over can be expected in the next few years. has been one of the most signiﬁ cant 6 200 rooms throughout the country, In this feature, we explore some contributors to the history and economy all under construction and many ready of the jewels in South Africa and the of South Africa since its inception 129 to open. The survey also found that in wider continent to come out of these years ago. And now that this iconic INFRASTRUCTURE 2016, North Africa saw 87 new hotel business deals, and the refurbished company has a Cape Town venue, you developments and 278 in sub-Saharan staple venues that you can expect to can give your next conference space a ON THE RISE Africa, bringing the total of new rooms visit or attend a conference at in 2017. touch of heritage, class and gravitas. The African continent has seen signiﬁ cant investment in hotel and conferencing infrastructure over the last few years, with a number of venues and hotel chains upgrading their meeting offerings or expanding to accommodate the influx of business event This exclusive property offers you an idyllic experience of Namakwaland. We pride ourselves on bringing you the best of both comfort and nature. delegates. We bring you a roundup of new and refurbished venues in the region.

frica has seen billions have grown their portfolios, and at Chain Development Pipelines in Africa ploughed into and invested this year’s Africa Hotel Investment 2016, the continent remains attractive www.namakwaguestfarm.co.za into its hospitality and meeting Forum, many more investments were to investors, with the total number of [email protected] venues sectors in 2016. announced for the years ahead. rooms in the pipeline up by almost 30% Tel: +27 61 426 9945 ALarge hotel groups such as Marriott, According to a recently released study on 2015 – an extraordinary increase. This Starwood, and Sun International by the W Hospitality Group entitled Hotel is largely due to growth in sub-Saharan | Professional boardroom | Large Glass and Aluminum Marquee | Off-Site Marquee | Bar | On and Off-Site Catering| Luxurious Modern Rooms | Beautiful Landscape | Pool and Deck | Event management | Weddings | Corporate Functions and Conferencing | 16 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

According to Carol Crozier, Manager of views and events venues catering to up JSE Company Services, the meeting to 450 guests banquet style. They also space can accommodate 60 people have a lovely boardroom facility for up to CTICC’s world-class for presentations and up to 100 20 and a pool deck for cocktail events. convention space will for cocktail or networking events, double its existing and smaller rooms are available for Fresh, Bold and Iconic Revamps business meetings. “We believe that Bulawayo Continental Hotel exhibition capacity in the location is what sets this venue In October 2016, Bulawayo Continental early 2017 by adding apart. We have ensured that it is close Hotel in Zimbabwe completed a 10 000m2 of flexible to asset managers so that clients are US$80 000 revamp, including an able to attract guests without taking additional 10 rooms, and a conference space. CTICC East will them out of their way. The space is centre extension. The venue can now include a 40 000m2 also completely flexible and lends accommodate 130 delegates, while development alongside itself equally to networking events, plans are underway to establish another as well as full day conferences.” branch in Victoria Falls in 2017. a new hospital.

Namakwa Guest Farm Cape Town International An exclusive property offering an Convention Centre idyllic experience in Namakwaland, CTICC’s world-class convention space majority stakeholders, the City of this guest farm brings the best of will double its existing exhibition capacity Cape Town and the Western Cape comfort and nature to your doorstep. in early 2017 by adding 10 000m2 Provincial Government. CTICC East It is a family-run establishment of of flexible space. The R832-million will include a 40 000m2 development four-star quality offering breath-taking budget is jointly funded by the venue’s alongside a new hospital.

Side view of CTICC East (via Future Cape Town) www.theevent.co.za JSE 17 JSE LAUNCHES A CAPE TOWN EVENTS VENUE Carol Crozier, Manager: JSE Company Services elaborates.

A Cape Town branch of the JSE How is the JSE’s brand reflected events venues is an interesting in the design? concept. What led to the decision We have wanted to make sure that we offer to extend the JSE’s event offering a professional, corporate environment to the Cape Town market? which is accessible to our clients. We The JSE has a number of clients based in believe that the JSE brand is about enabling Cape Town and the move to open our offi ce and facilitating business and that the was to enable more engagement with our venue is designed around this premise. corporate clients. This thinking led us to offer the space to clients for their events. Why should local and international event planners Which sector of the event market choose the JSE’s does this venue appeal to? Cape Town venue? This is ideally suited for clients who wish We believe that the JSE has been one of to engage with their investors, however the most signifi cant contributors to the any corporate client wishing to host a history and economy of South Africa seminar or have a networking cocktail for the past 129 years and that having event will fi nd the venue perfectly located. your event at our venues imparts the JSE gravitas and premier experience. What facilities and amenities do you offer clients? To receive special rates*, use promo code: The Simonsberg room can seat 24 pax EventJan. *Terms and conditions apply. cinema style and 10 pax boardroom style. Promo code is valid until 31 March 2017. The Helderberg dining room can seat 6-8 pax. Table Mountain 1 can seat 60 pax cinema Contact details: style or 32 schoolroom style. Table Mountain Tel: +27 11 520 7131 2 can host 20 pax cocktail style. The Email: [email protected] Cedarberg bar area can accommodate six Website: www.jse.co.za/events- tables and leads onto a picturesque terrace. and-facilities/venues 18 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel and Spa recently completed a massive expansion The 16-bedroom in Tamboerskloof, Cape project with addition of a new 15-storey Town, is being transformed into a 53-room tower. The group has more than doubled its hotel. R80-million has been invested in the accommodation with the addition of 130 new Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel and Spa, which bedrooms and is suited to both corporate connects five heritage properties through a and leisure travellers. Protea Hotel Cape central reception and secluded courtyard. Town Sea Point also recently opened its new The venue also has spectacular views of conference facilities after a refurbishment. the mountain from their rooftop bar. The venue can now seat up to 150 delegates and can also cater to exhibition stands. Fancourt Hotel Fancourt in George, Western Cape, has Spier recently completed refurbishments to its A wine estate that’s been around for the conference facilities. These include fitted better part of two centuries, Spier now carpets and curtains, reupholstered furniture offers a newly refurbished Fair Trade- and new external doors and windows. accredited hotel and conference centre The conference centre can host up to 400 with 12 meeting spaces including a formal delegates and has seven meeting rooms conference space, exquisite boardrooms for smaller groups of 20-70 people. and wine-tasting venues – not to mention the historic Manor House. The estate Hilton Nairobi Upper Hill © Hilton Kenyatta International Convention Centre offers unique, ‘conscious conferencing’ In addition to announcing in September packages, while its hotel has 153 rooms that Kenya will have an official convention clustered around six leafy courtyards, In the Pipeline bureau – currently housed at Kenyatta each with its own swimming pool. • The Zimbabwe International International Convention Centre – the venue Trade Fair (ZITF) is looking for has also announced that an expansion Sun City US$11-million to construct is in the works for 2017. The Ministry of Sun City, situated in the North West province a 500-seater international Tourism plans to build another Tsavo of South Africa, has undergone a five-year convention centre in Bulawayo. Ballroom on the Comesa Grounds, and is makeover that was finally completed in • Hilton is set to open Africa’s also planning another convention centre late November. Up to R1-billion was spent tallest development – the in Mombasa in a 2.5 acre piece of land. on the upgrades, with the theme park and US$110-million Hilton Nairobi resort expecting a million visitors over the Upper Hill – in 2020. The 255 Kigali Convention Centre holidays and beyond. New features include room property will be its 50th President Paul Kagame launched the Kigali a fresh entertainment centre, a SA Hall of in Africa and will have meeting Convention Centre in July of 2016. The Fame, a flexible Sun Park indoor events are rooms of approximately 1 400m2. much-anticipated complex hosted the and outdoor space, a 24 hour Las Vegas- • Starwood Hotels and Resorts African Union Summit, and is operated by style party zone at Soho, and more. have announced the Sheraton Radisson Blu under the brand Radisson Kigali, set to open in Rwanda Blu Hotel and Convention Centre Kigali. The President Hotel in 2018 with 185 rooms and Valued at over US$300 million, the centre Cape Town’s President Hotel announced 15 apartments estimated to includes a five-star hotel with 292 rooms, in November it is undergoing an upgrade cost over US$66-million. a conference hall for up to 2 500 delegates, of facilities. It has just launched a newly • The V&A Waterfront in Cape several meeting rooms and an office park. refurbished conference centre which Town has announced the includes ergonomic wooden furniture construction of a restaurant and Lion Roars Hotels and Lodges from Germany, HD projectors and screens, an event space at the Cruise Lion Roars Hotels and Lodges has added as well as automated sound, lighting Terminal in E Berth of the port. new luxury safari tents to Hlosi Game Lodge and aircon. It also offers access to high- The upgrade totals R50-million. and Bukela Game Lodge in the Amakhala speed internet. “Our conference and event • Peermont will be undertaking Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape. Hlosi facilities lend themselves to an almost multi-million-rand hotel has eight additional tents including four inexhaustible range of adaptations to suit extensions and resort for families, which include full en-suite varying requisites, and the in-house events refurbishments. The group bathrooms, air conditioners, electric blankets team is on hand to smooth organisation announced at INDABA 2016 that and minibars. The venues use energy and preparation,” says Jeremy Clayton, their two key hotels would see an efficient water and room heating facilities. General Manager of the President Hotel. additional 100 rooms added, as The current revamp includes a new Deck well as a variety of other refurbs Protea Hotels Bar and children’s area for dedicated worth R168-million in total. Protea Hotel by Marriot Durban uMhlanga activities and educational toys. 18 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

mandate that I carry out that says the fourth industrial revolution – tourism traditional contributors to GDP, such as will mitigate that. Tourism touches on mining and manufacturing, are going so many other sectors, and has what down. Tourism is our ‘next gold’. So we call a ripple effect. It becomes a we’ll make a business out of this thing nice attraction for many other the and make sure it contributes more. industries in which we operate.

What are your goals and strategic Business events, trade shows, plans, particularly in the following exhibitions play a large role in year, to grow tourism in and to bringing long-term tourists to SA. South Africa? How are you hoping to grow that I think the keyword is inclusive growth. area of the sector? We have one of the world’s widest gaps in Business tourism is huge and we’ve barely income equality, and what tends to happen scratched the surface. If you just look at is that when the economy does well, it Sandton Convention Centre, CTICC, Durban only does well for certain segments of the ICC, they’re usually busy throughout the population – but it leaves a whole lot of year. And it’s up to us to win a lot more others behind. So I’ve got to maintain a convention bids to be held in this country. delicate balance of growing the sector, but In fact, there’s a wonderful term that was also making sure that it becomes inclusive coined, ‘bleisure’, that is, business and Sisa Ntshona, SA Tourism CEO to those that are outside of the economy. leisure. People come here for a conference As things automate – where robots but while they’re here they explore the r Sisa Ntshona is the new literally replace people in the workplace country. What happens next is they want to head of SA Tourism, and in something that’s being called the come back with their family. he’s entirely up for the challenge. Although he Mcomes from a strong banking background, he’s already set his sights on further promoting tourism in South Africa from a holistic, economic point of view. He speaks to the Event about this and more.

How have things been so far in your new role as CEO? It’s been awesome – very different from what I’ve traditionally done, having moved from banking into tourism. But it was a great decision and environment. I think something that’s really attracted me to this position was its potential to contribute more to GDP than where it’s currently at. And when you contribute more to GDP, you also end up lowering the unemployment rate, economic prosperity, and, and, and… There is a very clear Treasury Indaba at the Durban ICC © SA Tourism www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 21

Another thing we’ve found is that business tourism brings numbers. So with one conference we’d have 2 000, 3 000, 4 000 delegates, and that in itself keeps a healthy volume of foot traffic. It also touches on other economic areas such as retail, restaurants, etc.

What about pre- and post- event tours and incentive travel industries? This again is an extension of business tourism. We’ve got to make South Africa an aspirational place for people to want to come and spend their holidays or travel to. It requires that we position this country as idealistic, as a country that offers so many different experiences Meetings Africa © SA Tourism – in the same way that the likes of Mauritius has done with incentive travel.

Are there any other sectors As things automate – where robots literally replace that you’re hoping to focus people in the workplace in something that’s being on in 2017? Oh, right across the board! But sports called the fourth industrial revolution – tourism will tourism has become something mitigate against that. Tourism touches on so many that we really want to focus on, both other sectors, and has what we call a ripple effect. domestic and internationally. For example, our PSL is the richest soccer league on the African continent yet our stadiums are mostly empty. So how do we use that as part of the tourism experience where you basically follow your team around the country? We’ve also got wonderful golf courses that are on par with any course in the world. We know Americans and South Asians are crazy about golf, so it’s looking at how we use that as a magnet to bring people to our golf courses. There’s also medical tourism in the sense that because of exchange rates, we’re very affordable for the rest of the world, yet we’ve still got quality private care facilities across the country. So we have people coming here for a ‘nip and tuck’, who spend another week recovering in the bush and then go back happy – and no one knows where they’ve been. View of Cape Town’s stunning beaches ‘beach, bush and berg’ of South Africa So it’s in the packaging of all we have to © SA Tourism offer that will drive more tourism to SA. you’re a beginner or a seasoned traveller. stays away from the hustle and bustle In this holiday season which If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to find and chooses a secluded safari or trip to places would you recommend something you’re comfortable with or are the mountain. It really depends – and for going a Sho’t Left? curious about. If you’ve never been to the that’s the beauty of South Africa. It offers Sho! It’s like asking me to choose who beach, you have so many options on our something for everyone, from a one-star my favourite child is! I think it depends if fantastic coast. The seasoned traveller camping tent to a six-star experience. 22 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 23

he South Africa National Data collected so far reveals bearing in mind South African Tourism’s Convention Bureau (SANCB) fascinating delegate and market strategy to convert more international unveiled the preliminary results of behaviour patterns that are emerging in business travellers into leisure tourists. its three-year study into the South relation to the international association Accommodation market “disruptors” TAfrican business events industry at the conferences hosted in South Africa. such as peer-to-peer homestay websites IBTM World conference in Barcelona, Spain. “We are so excited about this study have not yet had a significant effect on the Extracts from the study, based on because it contains insights which will South African business-events industry, two years of research, were shared with prove to be invaluable to planners looking with traditional accommodation options ibtm world welcome reception © ibtm world 2016 Opening ceremony at ibtm world © ibtm world 2016 key decision-makers and media at the at South Africa as a potential destination still dominating. Between 69% and 85% leading global event for the meetings for their business events. It will enable of international delegates are still booking and events industry, ahead of the final them to organise quality events armed with into hotels and a growing number are findings being released in 2017. a closer, more intimate knowledge of our opting for guesthouses, game lodges Using methodology employed by the country,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief and bed-and-breakfast establishments United Nations World Tourism Association Convention Bureau Officer at the SANCB. while attending business events. as a benchmark, the study is aimed at The places that were visited most gaining a broader understanding of the Among the insights gleaned during the period under review were South African meetings industry and its so far are: the urban centres of Johannesburg, contribution to the local tourism economy. In 2014 and 2015, the main source markets Cape Town and Durban, but Sandton, The research, commissioned by the for business events closely mirrored South Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, SANCB and conducted by Ground Control Africa’s core leisure tourism markets. Polokwane and Pietermaritzburg were Research in conjunction with Grant Delegates chiefly hailed from the United also in the mix. Tourist destinations Thornton auditors, is being compiled States, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Turkey, such as the Drakensberg, Pilanesberg, using information from interviews with India, Australia, Germany, China, France Soweto, Sun City, Parys, Rustenburg, the delegates, organisers and venues. and Kenya. This is a significant finding, Kruger Park, Hermanus, Franschhoek ibtm world 2016 © Natalia Cedres A session at ibtm world 2016 © ibtm world 22 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 23

and Stellenbosch also featured strongly in delegates’ itineraries, suggesting an overlap of business and leisure tourism Whilst the business-events industry has a significant Approximately half of the delegates economic contribution, the impact thereof is way interviewed spent between six and 10 days beyond that of tourism, with an even stronger effect in South Africa on their business trip during the two years under review. During the same on the knowledge economy. period, a significant proportion stayed for between three and five days, but only about 10% visited for 11 to 15 days. This data suggests that efforts need to be redoubled of research data and insights, will be made on the knowledge economy. Through to extend delegates’ length of stay by available at Meetings Africa at the Sandton this industry, sharing and distribution of formulating and promoting attractive Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South knowledge, as well as collaborations, South leisure tourism add-ons to business trips. Africa, from 27 February to 1 March 2017. Africans attending these events gain new About half of business delegates are “This research, together with our knowledge which generates new ideas that accompanied by one other person on their performance numbers, is proof that South lead to innovation and further growth in trips to South Africa, and a significant Africa has a capable business events our economy,” concludes Kotze-Nhlapo. number are joined by three or more fellow industry. The insights from this research South Africa hosted 90 international © ibtm world travellers. Whether they are accompanied allow us to further cater to conference and regional association conferences by colleagues or family members, these delegates,” adds Kotze-Nhlapo. between January and October 2016. The delegates could be encouraged to extend “Whilst the business-events industry estimated economic impact of these their stay in order to experience South has a significant economic contribution, conferences is over a billion rand (about Africa’s leisure tourism attractions. the impact thereof is way beyond that $70-million), with the total number INSIGHTS INTO SOUTH AFRICA’S The full report, containing three years of tourism, with an even stronger effect of delegates estimated at 60 911. MEETINGS INDUSTRY REVEALED AT IBTM CONFERENCE he South Africa National Data collected so far reveals bearing in mind South African Tourism’s Convention Bureau (SANCB) fascinating delegate and market strategy to convert more international unveiled the preliminary results of behaviour patterns that are emerging in business travellers into leisure tourists. its three-year study into the South relation to the international association Accommodation market “disruptors” TAfrican business events industry at the conferences hosted in South Africa. such as peer-to-peer homestay websites IBTM World conference in Barcelona, Spain. “We are so excited about this study have not yet had a significant effect on the Extracts from the study, based on because it contains insights which will South African business-events industry, two years of research, were shared with prove to be invaluable to planners looking with traditional accommodation options ibtm world welcome reception © ibtm world 2016 Opening ceremony at ibtm world © ibtm world 2016 key decision-makers and media at the at South Africa as a potential destination still dominating. Between 69% and 85% leading global event for the meetings for their business events. It will enable of international delegates are still booking and events industry, ahead of the final them to organise quality events armed with into hotels and a growing number are findings being released in 2017. a closer, more intimate knowledge of our opting for guesthouses, game lodges Using methodology employed by the country,” says Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, Chief and bed-and-breakfast establishments United Nations World Tourism Association Convention Bureau Officer at the SANCB. while attending business events. as a benchmark, the study is aimed at The places that were visited most gaining a broader understanding of the Among the insights gleaned during the period under review were South African meetings industry and its so far are: the urban centres of Johannesburg, contribution to the local tourism economy. In 2014 and 2015, the main source markets Cape Town and Durban, but Sandton, The research, commissioned by the for business events closely mirrored South Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, SANCB and conducted by Ground Control Africa’s core leisure tourism markets. Polokwane and Pietermaritzburg were Research in conjunction with Grant Delegates chiefly hailed from the United also in the mix. Tourist destinations Thornton auditors, is being compiled States, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Turkey, such as the Drakensberg, Pilanesberg, using information from interviews with India, Australia, Germany, China, France Soweto, Sun City, Parys, Rustenburg, the delegates, organisers and venues. and Kenya. This is a significant finding, Kruger Park, Hermanus, Franschhoek ibtm world 2016 © Natalia Cedres A session at ibtm world 2016 © ibtm world 24 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za SOUTH AFRICA REMAINS RESILIENT IN OFFERING INNOVATIVE BUSINESS EVENTS AND INCENTIVES

outh Africa has always led continental partnerships aimed at growing local industries. This Meetings Africa has in turn contributed towards generated quick wins Sgrowing continental capacity and ultimately spearheaded substantial transformation for the business- in Africa, so said Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, events industry on Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the the entire continent. South Africa National Convention Bureau. “As a country, we may have experienced numerous challenges in recent times. But, it is such challenges that fundamentally make our country a vibrant and innovative leading host destination for international environment,” Kotze-Nhlapo elaborates. association meetings is well established “Such experiences stimulate us to come in spite of the 2015 drop in rankings. up with real solutions to address real Kotze-Nhlapo said: “The international challenges that one will not necessarily association industry is a very competitive get in first world countries. This is market, and it is driven by membership- how we, as a country, remain resilient growth opportunities. Many of these in innovation and breakthroughs.” rotating conferences have never been to Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo Accordingly, South Africa has developed the African continent, and Africa offers ground-breaking approaches to business them a growth opportunity that cannot be events, amongst which is Meetings but an experience that is packed with matched by any other continent. This is Africa 2017, facilitating the conversion insightful discussions and opportunities a powerful endorsement of our country’s of its gains into long-term economic to network with industry players.” professionalism and excellent infrastructure.” stability and sustainable growth. Not For 2017, Meetings Africa will ensure To date, Meetings Africa has generated only for itself however, but for the African that all attending buyers are exposed to quick wins for the business-events industry continent as a whole. More so, the global products and services which prove that on the entire continent. Furthermore, meetings industry now recognises Africa Africa is a great place to host meetings, the South Africa National Convention as a sought-after destination. In light of incentives, conferences and exhibitions. This Bureau developed dedicated corporate this, Meetings Africa showcases Africa’s will then leave room for African countries buyers’ programmes at the event. diverse offering of services and products to work together to become a strategic “These are aimed at strengthening and where African associations and African international force, pioneering coherent and growing collaboration on the continent meetings industry professionals can inclusive development plans for the world. and this created new opportunities for partner to help transform the continent. While Africa hosts hundreds of the industry. This was in keeping with the “The business-events industry is a international association meetings held global trend that national and corporate great driver of economic development and around the world, on a yearly basis, this is meetings events are just as important as South Africa’s business-events strategy still a very small percentage of the global international business events in growing the is focused on building and accelerating meetings market. Therefore, the continent industry. As a result, seeing Africa as of little its knowledge,” she added. “Meetings is not yet globally competitive. From a consequence will turn out to be a disastrous Africa is not just another trade show, South African perfective, the stature as the mistake.” Kotze-Nhlapo concluded. 24 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za SPOTLIGHT 25 SOUTH AFRICA REMAINS UNPACKING THE HOSTED RESILIENT IN OFFERING BUYERS ADVANTAGE

INNOVATIVE BUSINESS EVENTS programme has three categories; International hosted buyers, Local Corporate Hosted Buyers and African Associations AND INCENTIVES Hosted Buyers. These buyers will have the unique opportunity to meet key industry suppliers from over 15 African countries; receive invitations to exciting networking outh Africa has always led events; educational events with a line-up of continental partnerships aimed thought provoking speakers and facilitators at growing local industries. This Meetings Africa has and a personalised diary of meetings in turn contributed towards generated quick wins enabling the buyers to have one-on-one Sgrowing continental capacity and ultimately meetings with key African suppliers, spearheaded substantial transformation for the business- Convention Bureaus and Tourism Bodies. in Africa, so said Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, events industry on All buyers receive complimentary economy- Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the the entire continent. class flights and transfers as well as South Africa National Convention Bureau. complimentary 4* and 5* accommodation. “As a country, we may have experienced The Media Face Off event at Meetings Africa 2016 © Reg Caldecott They will be accommodated in the VIP numerous challenges in recent times. But, Hosted Buyers Lounge on the trade floor it is such challenges that fundamentally where continental lunches will be provided. make our country a vibrant and innovative leading host destination for international n recent years, hosted buyer programmes scheduled to maximise their time and African Associations, also receive the environment,” Kotze-Nhlapo elaborates. association meetings is well established have become popular in the meeting value at the exhibition. Relationships are opportunity to attend that will enhance “Such experiences stimulate us to come in spite of the 2015 drop in rankings. and event industry. It’s a concept that established pre event so onsite face-to- individual and associations’ knowledge. up with real solutions to address real Kotze-Nhlapo said: “The international was designed by Ray Bloom, founder face appointments are productive. The Perhaps the ultimate benefit of being challenges that one will not necessarily association industry is a very competitive Iand director of the IMEX Group as a more key benefit for both parties is the time a hosted buyer at Meetings Africa is that get in first world countries. This is market, and it is driven by membership- structured way for buyers to engage sellers efficiency with real business on the line. the meeting is hosted by the South Africa how we, as a country, remain resilient growth opportunities. Many of these during the trade show, based on their needs Generally the qualified buyer will have National Convention Bureau and buyers in innovation and breakthroughs.” rotating conferences have never been to and requirements. Keeping up with best most of his or her travel expenses paid are invited on a complimentary pre or Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo Accordingly, South Africa has developed the African continent, and Africa offers practices in meetings and conferencing for by the show planner. That is where post tour where they can explore the ground-breaking approaches to business them a growth opportunity that cannot be industry, in 2013 Meetings Africa the name “hosted buyer” comes from. In destination offerings of South Africa. events, amongst which is Meetings but an experience that is packed with matched by any other continent. This is introduced the first qualification process most cases, the buyer receives dedicated If you would like to be invited to apply as a Africa 2017, facilitating the conversion insightful discussions and opportunities a powerful endorsement of our country’s to improve the quality of the programme. face time with supplier participants, buyer, then visit Meetings Africa 2017 website of its gains into long-term economic to network with industry players.” professionalism and excellent infrastructure.” Exhibitors know that the traditional attends the entire exhibition for free and and give your future meetings the advantage. stability and sustainable growth. Not For 2017, Meetings Africa will ensure To date, Meetings Africa has generated trade show isn’t the easiest way to provide experiences valuable education, earning only for itself however, but for the African that all attending buyers are exposed to quick wins for the business-events industry measurable sales ROI so they do not want clock hours to enhance his or her career. Courtesy of the South Africa continent as a whole. More so, the global products and services which prove that on the entire continent. Furthermore, to stand in a booth all day hoping for a Meetings Africa’s hosted buyers National Convention Bureau meetings industry now recognises Africa Africa is a great place to host meetings, the South Africa National Convention buyer that may have business to stroll by. as a sought-after destination. In light of incentives, conferences and exhibitions. This Bureau developed dedicated corporate Exhibiting becomes more worthwhile if this, Meetings Africa showcases Africa’s will then leave room for African countries buyers’ programmes at the event. they can schedule meetings with buyers diverse offering of services and products to work together to become a strategic “These are aimed at strengthening and they know for certain want and need where African associations and African international force, pioneering coherent and growing collaboration on the continent their specific product and services. Perhaps the ultimate benefit of being a hosted buyer meetings industry professionals can inclusive development plans for the world. and this created new opportunities for Hosted buyers are selected from at Meetings Africa is that the meeting is hosted by partner to help transform the continent. While Africa hosts hundreds of the industry. This was in keeping with the applications of prospective buyers. The the South Africa National Convention Bureau and “The business-events industry is a international association meetings held global trend that national and corporate pre-selection criteria include categories great driver of economic development and around the world, on a yearly basis, this is meetings events are just as important as such as geographical representation, buyers are invited on a complimentary pre or post South Africa’s business-events strategy still a very small percentage of the global international business events in growing the purchasing power and the potential for tour where they can explore the destination offerings is focused on building and accelerating meetings market. Therefore, the continent industry. As a result, seeing Africa as of little business. Once confirmed as a buyer, of South Africa. its knowledge,” she added. “Meetings is not yet globally competitive. From a consequence will turn out to be a disastrous online matchmaking appointments with Africa is not just another trade show, South African perfective, the stature as the mistake.” Kotze-Nhlapo concluded. sellers (i.e. registered exhibitors) are 26 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE 27 SCC WELCOMES NEW STAFF MEMBERS AHEAD OF JAM-PACKED YEAR Nasrin Hoosen and Daksha Vallabh have joined the SCC team.

016 has been a year of positive maintaining good relationships with change and growth at Sandton exhibition organisers whose exhibitions Convention Centre with two are hosted by the SCC, while also sourcing new key appointments: Nasrin new exhibitions. “It’s exciting to promote IFES MASTERCLASS 2016 2Hoosen, has been appointed as Sandton the SCC as a venue because it is ideal with Convention Centre’s new International all the world-class facilities necessary Almost 40 marketing professionals, architects, designers and project managers gathered for Sales Manager; while Daksha Vallabh for exhibitions, as well as its location in the first IFES Masterclass in Cape Town. joined the Sandton Convention Centre the heart of Sandton, the business hub of team as Exhibition Sales Manager. South Africa, and close to many reputable Says SCC General Manager, Shaun hotels, including several Tsogo Sun hotels.” he Masterclass aimed to and hold leading positions with high Andrew, “Communications and marketing Bird of these appointments: “These Her years of varied experience in the support networking, exchange responsibility. The theme of the need to break through the clutter just to dynamic women will breathe new life industry, the relationships she has built knowledge, and enhance Masterclass was ‘Translating Marketing be seen. The modern consumer wants into these key positions. We are excited up over the years, as well as her passion professionalism in cooperation Messages into Exhibitions and Events’, to contribute, demands attention, has to tap into the wealth of knowledge for the industry, have prepared her well for Twith local exhibition industry associations. which encompassed a 360-degree opinions, wants to feel engaged, and has they are bringing with them.” her position at SCC. Meeting her clients’ The IFES Masterclass, held in late view from different perspectives linked a voice. 80% of consumers don’t care Nasrin is positive about the industry needs and working side-by-side with a November at the Cape Town International to the exhibitions industry, explaining if a brand disappears from their lives. and enthusiastic about her sojourn at great and highly efficient team of people in Convention Centre, comprised keynote how to translate marketing content Shift happens, and there needs to be Sandton Convention Centre: “My approach such a prestigious venue makes her new presentations, best practice examples into relevant industry messages. disruption in exhibitions and live events.” to my new role at SCC will involve working role even more appealing and exciting. and interactive workshops, punctuated Andrew Ross gave an enthralling Other keynote speakers included with internal and external stakeholders to Daksha Vallabh — SCC’s newly appointed Vallabh acknowledges that the industry by memorable dinners at some of presentation entitled ‘The Future of Events Karla Juegal, Stefan Ebling, Klara Tiyani, develop international business for SCC, to Exhibition Sales Manager. in South Africa does face the challenges the Cape’s finest restaurants. and Exhibitions – The Missing Link’, Eddie Choi, and Allesandro Barbisotti. the benefit of the greater metropolitan area. of overcoming international perceptions The target group of the IFES which focused on information overload A tremendous thank you goes to Scan I intend to work closely with local tourism event organiser and run their exhibitions. of safety and security issues here as well Masterclass is IFES members and and the impact of real time messages on Display, and IFES Treasurer Justin associations and convention bureaus to She studied further and achieved a as a turbulent political climate, but “we friends of the exhibition industry, that exhibitions and events. “Start from the Hawes for making the IFES Masterclass bring international conferences to Sandton.” national diploma in Exhibitions, Events have a very dynamic team that has fresh are experienced and well educated, assumption that people don’t care”, says in Cape Town such an excellent event. As an avid follower of industry trends and and Conference Management from and innovative ideas on how to grow our developments, Nasrin is passionate about Damelin in 2006 and a certificate in Project respective portfolios – and I have no doubt international travel, and the thriving MICE Management from Wits University in 2009. that the SCC will continue to be a leading industry. She is hooked by the never-ending She identifies highlights in her career as host venue for major international events.” challenge of selling space and is - by her “planning and project managing Meetings For more information on Sandton own admission - always looking for better Africa, one of the biggest business tourism Convention Centre, log on to ways to prospect, engage people, overcome exhibitions in Africa; the exhilarating www.sandtonconventioncentre.com, obstacles, and beat tough competitors. opportunity to travel abroad to manage the join the Facebook page on www.facebook. Every day is an adventure in her diary! South African Tourism Pavilion at various com/SandtonConventionCentre or Daksha Vallabh joined the Sandton international exhibitions; my position as follow on Twitter at @SandtonEvents. Convention Centre team as Exhibition Key Accounts Manager for Associations Sales Manager in October 2016 bringing at Sun International; and more recently, with her many years of experience in the my new position at Sandton Convention industry, as well as in other sectors. Centre. I have always admired the Her interest in the exhibition industry culture at SCC and I regard this position took root when she was approached by as a major highlight in my career.” Kagiso Exhibitions and Events to be an Vallabh’s position at SCC entails www.theevent.co.za SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE 27 SCC WELCOMES NEW STAFF MEMBERS AHEAD OF JAM-PACKED YEAR Nasrin Hoosen and Daksha Vallabh have joined the SCC team.

Safari Park Hotel spaces in the country, and offers The Safari Park Hotel, also located up to 20 meeting spaces, each with in Nairobi, is an African gem with a breakout areas. It can hold up to 1 000 wide selection of conference venues. delegates theatre style. For more info, It is one of the largest conferencing visit www.safaripark-hotel.com.

Safari Park Hotel

Meeting Place Specifications Plenary

Jambo Conference 630m2 with partitions accommodating smaller 1 200 maximum pax, 1 000 cocktail/ Centre (Tsavo, functions including a dedicated holding room theatre, 550 banquet Amboseli, Samburu) and integrated selection of syndicate rooms

Mt Elgon D 184m2 150 cocktail/theatre, 100 banquet

Kumbaya Room 156.75m2 150 theatre, 100 cocktail, 60 banquet

Boragia Room 78.5m2 50 theatre, 40 banquet, 35 classroom

Mount Longonot Kenya © Lisa H, Unsplash Incentive Travel Products best places in Africa to come up close and As the land of safaris, it’s not uncommon personal with free-ranging elephants. KENYA for DMCs to arrange game experiences in Kenya also has a number of coastal Kenya. Lake Nakuru offers observers the water-sport options such as scuba-diving, A hub of tourism in East Africa and home to some of the most famed natural settings on the delight of viewing up to a million flamingos snorkelling, water skiing or surfing. Ali continent, Kenya has a strong business-events industry to match. in the greatest bird spectacle on earth, Barbour’s Cave Restaurant in Diani offers while the Amboseli National Park at the a unique dinner experience ten metres foot of Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the below ground in an open air coral cave. enya has long been known as the announced in September 2016 the International Conference, Power and Energy go-to country in East Africa for formation of a special task force to Kenya, and the Oil, Gas and Mines Africa meetings, incentives, conferences establish a Kenya Convention Bureau. Exhibition and Conference. Kenya is also and events. Located near the This is under the purview of the working to solicit new events and will be Access Climate KHorn of Africa and flanked by Somalia, Kenyatta International Convention bidding for the 2018 SKAL Global Congress. Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, Centre and the Kenya Tourism Board. Thanks to its location on the equator, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport it is a tourism leader in the region. “Incoming conferences will be Key Venues Kenya has a hot climate with a in Nairobi is the main gateway to The nation has been plagued in recent positive for tourism, and will also create Kenyatta International Convention Centre rainy season and a dry season. The East Africa. It services both local years by terror attacks, most notably confidence,” Jacinta Nzioka Mbithi, CEO An internationally renowned venue within country’s coastal climate ranges and international carriers and offers the Westgate Mall saga. These days, of the KTB, told Oxford Business Group walking distance of several five-star hotels, from tropical along the coast to connections to other cities in the however, stronger brand recognition, an recently. “Significant improvements Kenyatta International Convention Centre hot and arid in the interior. region. Airlines flying to Nairobi improved security climate and higher have been made in terms of security, hosts over 40 exhibitions annually. It is Kenyatta International Convention Centre include: impact capacity are driving growth while media spending has also surged, equipped with world-class infrastructure © via mapio.net in the business-events sector. It saw which has helped perceptions.” to host small, medium and large events of 117 630 foreign arrivals in 2015 which In 2016, it hosted the UN Conference up to 4 000 delegates in its 17 conference • Air Arabia Currency took part in business-events activities – on Trade and Development, the Tokyo and meeting venues. KICC also has • Air India 15.6% of all international tourist International Conference on African Simultaneous Interpretation Equipment • Air Mauritius • Air Seychelles Kenya South US Euro Chinese arrivals for the year. Development, and the Africa Green with a capability of up to seven languages, Shilling African Dollar (EUR) Yuan • Air Tanzania, Saudi Arabia Airlines Rand (USD) To further boost the sector, Najib Revolution Forum 2016. 2017 will see as well as a modern business centre. (ZAR) Balala, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Kenya host the Africa Health Agenda For more info, visit www.kicc.co.ke. • British Airways 50.00 6.69 0.49 0.46 3.67 • Egypt Air • Emirates • Ethiopian Airlines Kenyatta International Convention Centre Located near the Horn • Etihad Airways Contacts Meeting Place Specifications Plenary • Gulf Air of Africa and flanked Tsavo Ballroom A and B 2 666m2 5 000 theatre, 4 000 cocktail, 3 200 classroom, 2 500 banquet • Kenya Airways Kenya Tourism Board by Somalia, Ethiopia, • KLM Royal Dutch Amphitheatre 2 666m2 800 tiered seating Tel: +254 20 2711 262 • Qatar Airways Rwanda, Tanzania and Aberdare and 355m2 and 295m2 500 maximum pax, 300 theatre, 200 classroom, 150 banquet Email: [email protected] Lenana Halls • South African Airways Website: www.magicalkenya.com / Uganda, it is a tourism • SwissAir Shimba Hills Room 205.41m2 150 theatre, 120 classroom www.ktb.go.ke leader in the region. • Turkish Airlines Balloon over the Serengeti in Kenya Comesa Grounds 7 497m2 N/A (outdoor venue) © Wajahat Mahmood www.theevent.co.za BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY 29

Safari Park Hotel

Meeting Place Specifications Plenary

Mt Elgon D 184m2 150 cocktail/theatre, 100 banquet

Kumbaya Room 156.75m2 150 theatre, 100 cocktail, 60 banquet

Boragia Room 78.5m2 50 theatre, 40 banquet, 35 classroom

Mt Kenya D 67.5m2 40 cocktail, 30 theatre, 25 classroom

Access Climate

Thanks to its location on the equator, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Kenya has a hot climate with a in Nairobi is the main gateway to rainy season and a dry season. The East Africa. It services both local country’s coastal climate ranges and international carriers and offers from tropical along the coast to connections to other cities in the hot and arid in the interior. region. Airlines flying to Nairobi Kenyatta International Convention Centre include: © via mapio.net

• Air Arabia • Air India Currency • Air Mauritius • Air Seychelles Kenya South US Euro Chinese Shilling African Dollar (EUR) Yuan • Air Tanzania, Saudi Arabia Airlines Rand (USD) (ZAR) • British Airways 50.00 6.69 0.49 0.46 3.67 • Egypt Air • Emirates • Ethiopian Airlines • Etihad Airways Contacts • Gulf Air • Kenya Airways Kenya Tourism Board • KLM Royal Dutch Tel: +254 20 2711 262 • Qatar Airways Email: [email protected] • South African Airways Website: www.magicalkenya.com / • SwissAir www.ktb.go.ke • Turkish Airlines Balloon over the Serengeti in Kenya © Wajahat Mahmood 30 BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY www.theevent.co.za KWAZULU-NATAL A region of unparalleled and diverse natural beauty, KZN also offers a paradise of venues and hotels to accommodate all kinds of conference and event needs.

ne of SA’s tourism capitals, KwaZulu-Natal is an adventure paradise. It offers a myriad panoramas and Onatural attractions that lend themselves to some incredible outdoor activities. From Durban’s popular Golden Mile of excellent beaches to the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park – its beauty is breath-taking. Coupled with some fantastic tourism options is the province’s strength as a business-events leader. Not only has Durban won many accolades for its exceptional services in the conferencing sector, but the world-renowned Durban Durban ICC against the city’s skyline © Wan Ifra ICC ranks among the top 15 convention centres in the world, and was a finalist in the 2016 AIPC Apex Awards for Best Client Rated Convention Centre. “It is a great honour for our dedicated and passionate team to receive this tribute. This accolade emphasises our position as Africa’s leading convention centre, a title which we strive to live up to every day,” says Durban ICC CEO Lindiwe Rakherebe. The World Travel Awards also honoured the ICC for the 15th time in 2016, demonstrating their ability to deliver remarkable, memorable events of any kind consistently. It has ICC hosted a number of high-profile conferences, awards and events such as the 21st International View from the pool of Durban © Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani AIDS Conference in July last year that saw over 18 000 delegates in attendance. Durban International Convention Centre

Key Venues Meeting Place Specifications Plenary

Durban International Convention Centre Main Convention Hall 11 600m² (Can be subdivided into 22 separate 12 000 maximum pax Durban ICC is an award-winning venue halls of various sizes using operable walls) with world-class facilities. It caters to the Hall 1 (Hall of Stars) 1 448m² (divisible into Halls 1A – 1B) 1 000 theatre, 750 classroom 500 banquet (plated) needs of local and international conferences, Hall 2 2 760m² (divisible into Halls 2A – 2H) 2 500 theatre, 2 200 cocktail special events and exhibitions, and has 1 350 classroom

an intelligent design with flexibility for all Hall 3 2 346m² (divisible into Halls 3A – 3C) 2 000 cocktail, 1 800 theatre sorts of meeting needs. All convention 1 000 banquet halls are multi-purpose, while the centre Hall 4 1 628m² (divisible into Halls 4A – 4D) 1 400 theatre, 960 classroom 640 banquet (plated) also offers internet connectivity and Hall 5 1 656m² (divisible into Halls 5A – 5D) 1 500 cocktail, 1 400 theatre caters to up to 12 000 delegates for 600 banquet (plated) plenary sessions and 5 000 banquet style. Hall 6 612m² (divisible into Halls 6A – 6B) 400 cocktail, 300 theatre 230 classroom For more info, visit www.icc.co.za. 30 BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za BUSINESS EVENTS MADE EASY 31

Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani conferencing needs. Elangeni & Maharani Southern Sun offers a number of quality offer a number of meeting spaces with its Access KWAZULU-NATAL meeting spaces in their hotels in Durban, largest plenary being 500 theatre style. however the best known venue is the It hosts Durban FilmMart and various As one of SA’s busiest port cities, Elangeni & Maharani, situated on Durban’s events for the annual Loerie Awards in A region of unparalleled and diverse natural beauty, KZN also offers a paradise of venues Durban is both an air and sea beachfront, and is well-versed in catering to August. For more info, visit www.tsogosun. gateway to South Africa. King Shaka and hotels to accommodate all kinds of conference and event needs. a large conference’s accommodation and com/southern-sun-elangeni-maharani. International Airport connects both local and international carriers to Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani the region. Airlines flying to Durban ne of SA’s tourism capitals, Meeting Place Specifications Plenary include: KwaZulu-Natal is an Great Ilanga 420m² 500 theatre/cocktail, 400 classroom, 350 banquet adventure paradise. It offers • South African • Turkish Small Ilanga 258m² 150 cocktail, 100 theatre, 80 banquet a myriad panoramas and Airways Airlines Onatural attractions that lend themselves Suites 1-5 564m² 500 cocktail, 400 banquet • Mango Airlines • Qatar Airlines to some incredible outdoor activities. Umgeni and Congella 142m² 100 cocktail, 80 theatre, 60 classroom/banquet • Kulula Airlines • Ethiopian From Durban’s popular Golden Mile of Sky 293m² 150 cocktail, 120 banquet • British Airways Airlines excellent beaches to the uKhahlamba • Emirates Drakensberg Park and iSimangaliso Wetland Park – its beauty is breath-taking. Incentive Travel Products KwaZulu-Natal is full to the brim with Coupled with some fantastic tourism As home to the historic Battlefields, the natural wonders that will keep any incentive options is the province’s strength as a Valley of a Thousand Hills, iSimangaliso traveller content. From game experiences Climate business-events leader. Not only has Wetland Park – a World Heritage Site to adventure tourism, deluxe shopping Durban won many accolades for its – blue flag beaches and the incredible malls to health and wellness spas, KwaZulu-Natal has a sub-tropical exceptional services in the conferencing natural beauty the Wild Coast holds, there’s something for everyone in KZN. climate with a hot, humid summer sector, but the world-renowned Durban Durban ICC against the city’s skyline © Wan Ifra and rainfall from September to April. ICC ranks among the top 15 convention It is ideal for year-round holidays and centres in the world, and was a finalist in events thanks to its warm weather. the 2016 AIPC Apex Awards for Best Client Rated Convention Centre. “It is a great honour for our dedicated and passionate team to receive this tribute. This accolade emphasises our position as Africa’s leading Currency convention centre, a title which we strive to live up to every day,” says Durban ICC South US Dollar Euro Chinese African (USD) (EUR) Yuan CEO Lindiwe Rakherebe. The World Travel Rand (ZAR) Awards also honoured the ICC for the 15th 50.00 3.71 3.36 25.16 time in 2016, demonstrating their ability to deliver remarkable, memorable events of any kind consistently. It has ICC hosted a number of high-profile conferences, awards Contacts and events such as the 21st International View from the pool of Durban © Southern Sun Elangeni and Maharani © SA Tourism AIDS Conference in July last year that saw Durban KwaZulu-Natal over 18 000 delegates in attendance. Durban International Convention Centre Convention Bureau Head Office: 29 Canal Quay Key Venues Meeting Place Specifications Plenary The World Travel Road, Ithala Trade Centre, Durban International Convention Centre Main Convention Hall 11 600m² (Can be subdivided into 22 separate 12 000 maximum pax Awards also Durban Waterfront, 4001 Durban ICC is an award-winning venue halls of various sizes using operable walls) honoured the ICC Tel: +27 (0) 31 366 7548 with world-class facilities. It caters to the Hall 1 (Hall of Stars) 1 448m² (divisible into Halls 1A – 1B) 1 000 theatre, 750 classroom 500 banquet (plated) th Email: [email protected] needs of local and international conferences, for the 15 time in Hall 2 2 760m² (divisible into Halls 2A – 2H) 2 500 theatre, 2 200 cocktail Web: www.durbankzncb.co.za special events and exhibitions, and has 1 350 classroom 2016, demonstrating an intelligent design with flexibility for all Hall 3 2 346m² (divisible into Halls 3A – 3C) 2 000 cocktail, 1 800 theatre their ability to Tourism KwaZulu-Natal sorts of meeting needs. All convention 1 000 banquet Head Office: halls are multi-purpose, while the centre Hall 4 1 628m² (divisible into Halls 4A – 4D) 1 400 theatre, 960 classroom deliver remarkable, 640 banquet (plated) Tel: +27 (0) 31 366 7500 also offers internet connectivity and Hall 5 1 656m² (divisible into Halls 5A – 5D) 1 500 cocktail, 1 400 theatre memorable events of Email: [email protected] caters to up to 12 000 delegates for 600 banquet (plated) any kind consistently. Website: www.zulu.org.za plenary sessions and 5 000 banquet style. Hall 6 612m² (divisible into Halls 6A – 6B) 400 cocktail, 300 theatre 230 classroom For more info, visit www.icc.co.za. Durban ICC © SVA International 32 EVENTS TO DIARISE www.theevent.co.za

AFRICA MARKETING WEEK JANUARY FEBRUARY 15 – 16 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA MEETINGS MOROCCO INVESTING IN AFRICAN MINING 12 – 13 INDABA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE MARRAKECH, MOROCCO 6 – 9 ON CLIMATE CHANGE CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 16 – 17 IITM COCHIN COLOMBO, SRI LANKA 12 – 14 IBTM ARABIA KOCHI, INDIA 7 – 9 CAPE TOWN ART FAIR ABU DHABI, UAE 17 – 19 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA ACUTE CARDIAC CARE ICT 2017 15 – 17 7 – 9 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH TEL AVIV, ISRAEL LEUVEN, BELGIUM LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE AFRICA 19 – 25 WORLD FUTURE ENERGY SUMMIT ESMO SUMMIT AFRICA 2017 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 16 – 19 10 – 12 ABU DHABI, UAE CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA SOLUTION FOR AFRICA CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION INTERNATIONAL TOURISM TRADE AFRICABUILD LAGOS 21 – 22 FAIR (FITUR) 14 – 16 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 18 – 22 LAGOS, NIGERIA MADRID, SPAIN AFRICA ENERGY INDABA SIGN AFRICA EAST LONDON 21 – 22 SYTA SUMMIT 15 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 22 – 25 EAST LONDON, SOUTH AFRICA ALBERTA, CANADA SOLAIRE EXPO MOROCCO MY BUSINESS EXPO JOBURG 21 – 23 MULTIMODAL WEST AFRICA 15 – 16 CASABLANCA, MOROCCO 24 – 26 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA LAGOS, NIGERIA WAIPEC NSBC SUMMIT 21 – 23 AGRITECH EXPO TANZANIA 15 – 16 LAGOS, NIGERIA 26 – 27 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA ARUSHA, TANZANIA AIR CARGO AFRICA SATTE 2017 21 – 23 EMITT 15 – 17 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 26 – 29 NEW DELHI, INDIA ISTANBUL, TURKEY ECOMMERCE MONEY AFRICA CONFEX ADVANCES IN CEMENT AND 22 – 23 CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY IN AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 27 – 29 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

AVIATION AFRICA OPEN EDUCATION GLOBAL 22 – 23 MARCH CONFERENCE KIGALI, RWANDA 8 – 10 DESIGN INDABA CONFERENCE CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 1 – 3 ACE OF MICE EXHIBITION CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 22 – 24 SIGN AFRICA CAPE TOWN ISTANBUL, TURKEY 15 – 16 THE BLOCKCHAIN AFRICA CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA CONFERENCE JOHANNESBURG HOMEMAKERS 1 – 3 EXPO CSAE CONFERENCE JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 23 – 26 19 – 21 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA OXFORD, UNITED KINGDOM SAMSIG 2017 5 – 12 ULTRA SOUTH AFRICA SACPM 2017 SERENA SERENGETI, TANZANIA 24 – 25 27 – 31 CAPE TOWN AND JOHANNESBURG, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA TRADE SUMMIT AND EXPO SOUTH AFRICA 6 – 8 POWER AND ELECTRICITY CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA AFRICA REGION CONFERENCE WORLD AFRICA 24 – 1 MARCH 28 – 29 AFRICA NEW ENERGY OUAGADOUGOU, BURKINA FASO JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 7 – 8 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA MEETINGS AFRICA THE SOLAR SHOW AFRICA 27 – 1 MARCH 28 – 29 PROPAK EAST AFRICA JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA 7 – 9 NAIROBI, KENYA AID AND INTERNATIONAL THE WATER SHOW AFRICA DEVELOPMENT FORUM AFRICA 28 – 29 AFRICA HEALTH AGENDA SUMMIT JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 28 – 1 MARCH 7 – 9 NAIROBI, KENYA NAIROBI, KENYA WORKING WORLD EXHIBITION EAST AFRICAN PETROLEUM 28 – 2 MARCH CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION PORT ELIZABETH, SOUTH AFRICA 8 – 10 BUJUMBURA, BURUNDI 31ST HPV 2017 28 – 4 MARCH CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA 34 ASSOCIATIONS NEWS www.theevent.co.za

was carried by all members who Adriaan Liebetraau cast their vote, with no objections.” Carol SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau will Weaving Outgoing Chief leave the organisation at the end of Executive Officer January 2017 to take up a new role Chairperson at SAACI of AAXO as Sales and Marketing Manager Sandton for Tsogo Sun. “We wish to SAACI 2016 HIGHLIGHTS thank Adriaan for his passion, drive AAXO: EXPONENTIAL and commitment to the business GROWTH IN 2016 The Southern African Association for events industry and for his leadership the Conference Industry (SAACI) is in the association, Adriaan has been Since its launch in February 2016, AAXO celebrating a very successful 2016 a member of the SAACI board since has grown exponentially – consistently and is excited about what the new year 2010 and will remain on the board proving itself as a trailblazer by hosting will bring – another big year for the until the next election run in 2018. ground-breaking training events such association as they’ll be celebrating “SAACI would like to extend as the vastly popular Organiser and 30 years of professionalising the gratitude towards our collaboration Exhibitor training days and creating business events industry in Southern partners: Avis, British Airways, a platform for industry members Africa and their 31st congress. Greenpop, ICAS, Price Forbes and to showcase their talent, like at the From 5 to 7 June, the 30th SAACI South African Airways. SAACI wishes inaugural Exhibition of Exhibitions. Congress took place within the to thank all our members for their Today, AAXO boasts an impressive wonderful surrounds of Mangaung/ support during 2016. We look forward 80% share of SA’s organising Bloemfontein with the theme “With to a great 2017 and the continued community as its members, Knowledge, it’s Possible” running like strengthening of our industry. We wish compounding its ability to provide a golden thread through proceedings. everyone a happy, peaceful and joyous opportunities for world-class training, During September Spier Wine Farm holiday season – see you all in 2017!” networking and knowledge-sharing. hosted the first ever Business Events 2017 is set to be another eventful Future Focus Conference. The year for AAXO, its members and the conference was a massive success exhibition industry at large. AAXO with over a 100 participants, and will continue to provide targeted as noted by SAACI CEO Adriaan research of global trends and Liebetrau, “If this is what the future of provide our members with pertinent the business-events industry looks information in digestible formats. like, then we are in good hands.” One ground-breaking event that is 2016 saw five new SAACI branches being spearheaded by AAXO in 2017 launched: North West, Mpumalanga, is the AAXO ROAR Organiser and Northern Cape, Limpopo and the Free Exhibitor Awards. For the first time State. And during their AGM, members ever, a platform is being created for were asked to vote to change our exhibitors to enjoy recognition for their financial year to be aligned with substantial contribution to the industry. the South African Tax year, which As an industry champion, AAXO stretches from 1 March – 28 February. is also working hard to further create “We are happy to share that the motion opportunity for its members to showcase their upcoming exhibitions and attend training sessions at the second annual Exhibition of Exhibitions to be held in the second half of 2017. 34 ASSOCIATIONS NEWS www.theevent.co.za www.theevent.co.za ASSOCIATIONS NEWS 35 © Pixabay was carried by all members who The deadline for entries is 12h00 Adriaan Liebetraau cast their vote, with no objections.” Carol Phumulani on Tuesday, 10 January 2017. The Craig Newman SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau will Weaving Hlatshwayo final review process will then be Outgoing Chief leave the organisation at the end of held on Thursday, 12 January 2017 UFI Vice Chair: Executive Officer EXSA Africa and January 2017 to take up a new role Chairperson by a panel of senior designers and at SAACI of AAXO General Manager Middle East as Sales and Marketing Manager design professionals. All entries that Sandton for Tsogo Sun. “We wish to achieve a Gold Level Status from SAACI 2016 HIGHLIGHTS thank Adriaan for his passion, drive AAXO: EXPONENTIAL ENTRIES FOR THE the first round of judging will be UFI HOST RECORD- and commitment to the business GROWTH IN 2016 EXSA-LLENCE AWARDS judged by an external panel of design BREAKING CONGRESS The Southern African Association for events industry and for his leadership ARE OPEN experts to find a category winner. the Conference Industry (SAACI) is in the association, Adriaan has been Since its launch in February 2016, AAXO To find out more about the The Global Association of the celebrating a very successful 2016 a member of the SAACI board since has grown exponentially – consistently Celebrate success with the Exhibition and judging process, awards evening, Exhibition Industry, UFI, saw over 600 and is excited about what the new year 2010 and will remain on the board proving itself as a trailblazer by hosting Events Association of Southern Africa or to have your stand judged, events professionals from more than will bring – another big year for the until the next election run in 2018. ground-breaking training events such (EXSA) at the Annual EXSA-LLENCE please email [email protected]. 50 countries gather in Shanghai for association as they’ll be celebrating “SAACI would like to extend as the vastly popular Organiser and awards, taking place on 26 January 2017 the 83rd UFI Global Congress. CEOs, 30 years of professionalising the gratitude towards our collaboration Exhibitor training days and creating at the Ticketpro Dome, in collaboration young leaders, and international business events industry in Southern partners: Avis, British Airways, a platform for industry members with the Association of African experts showed how businesses Africa and their 31st congress. Greenpop, ICAS, Price Forbes and to showcase their talent, like at the Exhibition Organisers’ ROAR Awards. can thrive in today’s fast-changing From 5 to 7 June, the 30th SAACI South African Airways. SAACI wishes inaugural Exhibition of Exhibitions. The selection process for the 2016 exhibition industry environment, Congress took place within the to thank all our members for their Today, AAXO boasts an impressive stand EXSA-LLENCE Awards includes with UFI Leaders meeting to review wonderful surrounds of Mangaung/ support during 2016. We look forward 80% share of SA’s organising pre-screening, followed by deliberation the organisation’s work in 2016, and Bloemfontein with the theme “With to a great 2017 and the continued community as its members, from a panel of judges with expertise set out plans for the year ahead. Knowledge, it’s Possible” running like strengthening of our industry. We wish compounding its ability to provide in design. The awards call companies UFI’s 2016 goals included a golden thread through proceedings. everyone a happy, peaceful and joyous opportunities for world-class training, to submit evidence of their own top involving more active members and During September Spier Wine Farm holiday season – see you all in 2017!” networking and knowledge-sharing. quality projects via the format of a new drawing a broader audience to UFI hosted the first ever Business Events 2017 is set to be another eventful PowerPoint template. The template events. Besides its ambitious awards Future Focus Conference. The year for AAXO, its members and the allows for the inclusion of reference programme, UFI launched new conference was a massive success exhibition industry at large. AAXO photographs, renders and plans, as projects such as the Next Generation with over a 100 participants, and will continue to provide targeted well as a supporting rationale to fully Leadership Grant (NGL), research as noted by SAACI CEO Adriaan research of global trends and represent design stand projects that publications on exhibition visitors Liebetrau, “If this is what the future of provide our members with pertinent have been realised during the 2016 year. and sustainable development, and, the business-events industry looks information in digestible formats. This process has also been opened up together with associations around the like, then we are in good hands.” One ground-breaking event that is to non-EXSA Members so as to allow world, Global Exhibitions Day – which 2016 saw five new SAACI branches being spearheaded by AAXO in 2017 for total industry inclusion and ensure will run again on 7 June 2017. The 84th launched: North West, Mpumalanga, is the AAXO ROAR Organiser and that the best are rated against the best. UFI annual Global Congress, to be held Northern Cape, Limpopo and the Free Exhibitor Awards. For the first time in South Africa on 1-4 November 2017. State. And during their AGM, members ever, a platform is being created for were asked to vote to change our exhibitors to enjoy recognition for their financial year to be aligned with substantial contribution to the industry. the South African Tax year, which As an industry champion, AAXO stretches from 1 March – 28 February. is also working hard to further create “We are happy to share that the motion opportunity for its members to showcase their upcoming exhibitions and attend training sessions at the second annual Exhibition of Exhibitions to be held in the second half of 2017. 36 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za ADVERTISERS CONTACTS

AAXO Maropeng Cover Image: Courtesy of Johannesburg Expo Centre PAGE 34 PAGE 05 T. +27 11 549 8300 T. +27 11 577 9000 Publisher: Lance Gibbons lance@fi lmeventmedia.co.za E. [email protected] E. [email protected] W. www.aaxo.co.za W. www.maropeng.co.za Executive Editor: Katie Reynolds-Da Silva katie@fi lmeventmedia.co.za Faircity Hotels offers a selection of Cape Town International Namakwa Guest Farm Head of Design: Sheree Steenkamp sheree@fi lmeventmedia.co.za Convention Centre PAGE 15 conference facilities in Gauteng. With PAGE 07 T. +27 61 426 9945 Writer: Kim Crowie attention to detail and experienced kim@fi lmeventmedia.co.za T. +27 21 410 5000 E. [email protected] empathetic staff to assist companies Special Projects Designer / Illustrator: E. [email protected] W. www.namakwaguestfarm.co.za in organising a conferencing event, Lauren Smith W. www.cticc.co.za lauren@fi lmeventmedia.co.za delegates will be motivated and pampered SAACI from the moment they arrive. All Faircity Business Manager: Coleen Tapson EXSA PAGE 34 coleen@fi lmeventmedia.co.za Hotels’ conference venues are air conditioned and PAGE 35 T. +27 11 880 5883 Brand Manager: Redoh Kimmie equipped to host both half day and full day functions. T. +27 11 805 7272 E. [email protected] redoh@fi lmeventmedia.co.za E. [email protected] W. www.saaci.org Brand Manager: Jerome Dyson Conferences that run over two or more days, allow delegates jerome@fi lmeventmedia.co.za W. www.exsa.co.za to enjoy our selection of three and four star accommodation. Sandton Convention Centre Production and Traffi c Manager: Conference venue packages are available and include a variety of Faircity OUTSIDE BACK COVER, 27 Natasha O’Connor natasha@fi lmeventmedia.co.za meals, depending on the length of the conference. INSIDE BACK COVER T. +27 11 779 0000 T. +27 11 429 2600 E. [email protected] Data Capturer: Ricky Ortell info@fi lmeventmedia.co.za E. [email protected] W. www.sandtonconventioncentre.com W. www.faircity.co.za 57 2nd Avenue, Harfi eld Village, Claremont, 7708, South Africa National Cape Town, South Africa Tel: +27 21 674 0646 Johannesburg Expo Centre Convention Bureau OUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 03 PAGE 10 - 11 T. +27 11 494 1920 T. +27 11 895 3000 E. [email protected] E. [email protected] W. www.expocentre.co.za W. www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Johannesburg Stock Exhange Spier Wine Farm PAGE 17 PAGE 19 FAIRCITY Quatermain Hotel FAIRCITY Mapungubwe Hotel Morningside, Sandton - 011 290 0900 Johannesburg, Marshalltown - 011 429 2600 T. +27 11 520 7000 T. +27 21 809 1100 JOIN US E. [email protected] E. [email protected] www.ﬁ lmeventmedia.co.za W. www.jse.co.za W. www.spier.co.za www.theevent.co.za Faircity Hotels and Apartments is a young, innovative and DISCLAIMER: Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa Talley Management Group (AfSAE) Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the ofﬁ cial vibrant hotel group with hotels, viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/ advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product INSIDE FRONT COVER PAGE 13 or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has conference venues and serviced been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this T. +27 21 876 8900 T. +27 11 465 0334 publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or apartments which form Faircity’s responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including E. [email protected] a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore E. [email protected] accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a primary service offering. reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication. W. www.lefranschhoek.co.za W. www.afsae.org

FAIRCITY Falstaff Hotel FAIRCITY Roodevallei Hotel Morningside, Sandton - 011 784 8580 Pretoria - 012 845 5000 www.faircity.co.za 36 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za ADVERTISERS CONTACTS

FAIRCITY Falstaff Hotel FAIRCITY Roodevallei Hotel Morningside, Sandton - 011 784 8580 Pretoria - 012 845 5000 www.faircity.co.za A SPACE TO SHAPE IDEAS

Welcome to Africa’s preferred multi-purpose venue, the Sandton Convention Centre. Our state-of-the- art venue provides a platform for people to share new ideas, inspire progressive thinking and project innovative solutions regarding local and global issues.

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