The Event Issue 12

Issue 12 | 2015

+ REFLECTING ON BUSINESS EVENTS IN 2015 Experts Unpack the Lessons they Learned this Year

+ THE EVENT PLANNER’S TOOLKIT Do You Have What You Need to Stand Out?

+FNB Conference Centre Indulge in Comfort and Style.

www.theevent.co.za 01CONTENTS

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THE EVENT PLANNER’S TOOLKITDo you have the tools you need to plan a successful event? Kim Muller has the list.

ICONS AND GEMSImogen Campbell shares her 10 most iconic attractions and 10 hidden gems for your incentive group.

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: KNYSNAThis tourist town has festivals and entertainment galore, and is an ideal getaway for the business traveller.

A GUIDE TO HOSTING INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCESThe SANCB shares part 2 in their 6 part series on bidding for and hosting a successful conference.

02. Visa Regulations Adjusted for Ease of Entry

03. Tech Talk: Trends for 2016

04. When Aquila Beckons, Give in!

05. Houston awarded 2019 ICCA Congress

06. SAACI Tshwane Branch Launch Event

07. Movers and Shakers

08. Ten Things You Need in Your Event Toolkit

12. Meetings Africa 2016: Event Programme Highlights

14. The 2015 EXSA Industry Awards

16. Lessons Learned in 2015

20. Minister Derek Hanekom Outlines the Next Decade

21. SANCB: A Guide to Hosting International Conferences

27. Event Greening Forum: Sustainable Initiatives at Meetings Africa

28. Iconic Attractions and Hidden Gems

32. Country Spotlight: Uganda

34. Regional Spotlight: Knysna

36. Events to Diarise

38. Association News

40. Directory of Advertisers

of the regulations. Delegate numbers have already dropped since June last year. “The last two congresses hosted in South Africa dropped 45% and 71% respectively in delegate numbers,” he told Tourism Update.

According to Liebetrau, the number of attendees for next year’s AIDS Conference – an estimated 20 000 delegates – are at risk. “Moreover, because the bidding process occurs four to eight years in advance, the effect we are currently sitting with is not just hurting us now but it is going to affect us for many years to come.”

On average, delegates who conference in SA spend R3 200 per day on pre-tours and post-tours, and a further 60% of them would return to the country to holiday with their families.

In other news, applying for passports will get easier for South Africans. Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba announced in September that locals would soon be able to apply for their Smart IDs and passports at banks around the country. After a pilot programme in November, a national roll-out will commence at certain FNB, Standard Bank and Nedbank branches.

02 NEWS www.theevent.co.za

he Cabinet approved recommendations by the Inter Ministerial Committee (IMC) in late October.

Introduced in June 2014, the new rules required visitors to apply for visas in person at South African embassies to have their biometric information taken. Children travelling in and out of the country needed to produce an unabridged birth certifi cate.

The IMC recommendations will see South African children still travelling with unabridged birth certifi cates, while foreign children will need to travel with a “birth certifi cate containing parental details”. Details of parents will also be printed in SA children’s passports so those parents will not be required to carry certifi cates.

Visitors travelling from countries where no visa facilitation centres exist will be allowed to submit their application to the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) by post. Individuals are required to submit biometrics including fi ngerprints upon arrival at ports of entry. Current biometric pilot sites are OR Tambo Airport, King Shaka Airport and Cape Town International Airport. Additionally, the IMC recommended that the DHA continue issuing long-term multiple visas to frequent travellers.

DHA will implement these concessions over the next three months in the following ways: • Implement the capturing of

biometrics at ports of entry, starting with the pilot programme

• Look at introducing an accredited tourism company programme for countries like China, India and Russia

• Consider a long-term multiple entry visa for a period exceeding three months and up to three years for frequent travellers (for business meetings), business people and academics

• Principals will issue letters confi rming permission for children to travel on school tours

• Extend the validity of the parental consent affi davit to six months

Within the next year, the DHA will add visa facilitation centres in countries including Zimbabwe, UAE and Botswana, consider a visa waiver for countries like India, China and Russia, look at issuing visas on arrival for persons travelling to SA, having their passports checked by any other country that applies stringent checks, consider granting African frequent flyers a 10 year multiple entry visa, and open multiple business visa application centres across the country.

Tourism and travel organisations have welcomed the concessions, although some critics believe it’s still not enough. Before the IMC announcement in early October, Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) voiced fears that they may lose international bids to host major congresses to other countries as a result

VISA REGULATIONS ADJUSTED FOR EASE OF ENTRYSouth Africa has overhauled its controversial visa regulations, which saw a 6% decrease in arrivals since implementation – the worst industry performance since 2009.

The last two congresses hosted in South Africa dropped 45% and 71% respectively in delegate numbers.

Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism and Katie Reynolds

www.theevent.co.za 03TECH TALK

1. Augmented Reality and Virtual RealityA few Tech Talks ago, I mentioned some exciting things SA Tourism was doing with VR tech, as well as holographic tech taking over the media realm. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are set to see major growth at exhibitions and events and will create another exciting experience for visitors to immerse themselves in. Facebook, Samsung, Sony, Google and GoPro have all invested in VR and AR technology in 2015, so we’re bound to see some fascinating gadgets soon.

2. The Internet of ThingsWe are more connected to technology now than we’ve ever been, and the Internet of Things (IOT) is set to connect people and objects in unprecedented ways. The events industry is sure to benefi t from this as senor chips connect all sorts of things to provide seamless convenience. 2015 examples of this tech includes iBeacons, smart TVs, and ‘smart’ hotel rooms – the type of tech Century City Conference Centre and Hotel will use on completion.

3. Second Screen TechnologyMobile participation in tradeshows is already taking off across the continent, and this trend is set to continue, with second-screen technology using participants’ mobile devices to help them focus on presentations, to enhance the viewing experience, and to drive delegate excitement. Images and videos are also set to dominate social channels at events, as the rise in social walls and exhibition ‘leaderboards’ have already shown us.

4. Wearables It’s true. After exploring the world of wearables in late 2014, here we are – wearable technology is going to revolutionise the way we attend exhibitions and events, with the likes of Near Field Communication (NFC) taking the ticketing

industry by storm. These include smart watches, smart bracelets, name badges, wearable beacons, and will, of course, link us to IOT on a new level. Wearables will soon help attendees with any of the following: receive GPS directions, open guestroom doors, receive conference alerts, make e-wallet transactions, exchange contact information, use as admission tickets, and make audience polling responses and much more.

5. Intelligent Data Event intelligence will be huge next year. In days gone by, event data management was at zero when it came to onsite meetings, but these days it’s possible to track every touch on a mobile event app or interaction on social media channels. Likes and polling can be scored in real time and meeting planners can fi nd out almost immediately what trending topics are, who top speakers

As we gallop into the New Year, it’s high time we look at what’s in store. Kim Muller explores what global technology trends we can look forward to in business events.

TRENDS FOR 2016

are, which exhibition booths have the most attendance, who key influencers are and what attendees’ ratings are on specifi c polls or surveys. This will help planners improve events, make midcourse corrections, engage participants, and provide more targeted marketing, among other things.

5. Intelligent Data © Clear Data

1. Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality © Bleen

2. The Internet of Things: A beacon in action © iBeacons

3. Second Screen Technology © Primus Inter Pares

4. Wearables: The Martian Notifi er © Martian

04 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

WHEN AQUILA BECKONS, GIVE INBy Katie Reynolds

We are soon treated to the sight of giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, elephant, plentiful buck and a warthog, before melting at the sight of a magnificent white rhino and her tiny baby.

This is my second visit to Aquila Private Game Reserve, and my fiancé’s first. I have purposefully not told him anything about our

destination because I want to live the first-time experience vicariously through him. The two-hour drive flies by and by midday we are crunching along the dirt road and past a small paddock of horses. Our bags are whisked away and tall flutes of sparkling wine are thrust into our grateful paws. I’m told that we will be staying in lodge number 10, which has me fizzing more than my wine because Lodge 10 is the most divine structure ever to grace the local landscape. My fiancé is suitably awed as we make our way past the two swimming pools and the restaurant with the sublime food, and onwards to the lodge, where we settle on the deck and watch two elephants stroll by.

The afternoon is spent lazing by the main pool and drinking G&Ts, while we remark that for all Aquila’s transcendent beauty, it serves a very practical function too. It is in fact a wonderful conferencing venue, with spacious meeting rooms and plentiful accommodation, thanks to the recent addition of a hotel block adjacent to the main building. If I were a delegate,

much of my time would be spent gazing out the floor-to-ceiling windows and day-dreaming about the morning game drive, but thankfully corporate meeting types don’t have the attention span of tadpoles, as I do.

Dinner comprises all food ever made, at first glance. I happily abandon my diet as I move from table to table, scooping heaps of fresh-off-the-braai lamb, pasta, salad and roast potatoes onto my plate. When the food is as good as this, it just won’t do to be frugal.

Dawn breaks on an already toasty day, and we haul our sleepy selves onto the game-drive vehicles and begin the two hour drive. Our mission is to find as many of the reserve’s species of fauna as possible. We are soon treated to the sight of giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, elephant, plentiful buck and a warthog, before melting at the sight of a magnificent white rhino and her tiny

baby. The lions were disdainful to say the least, but obliged our requests for photos by rolling over and yawning at us.

We ended the game drive with a trip to the Animal Rehabilitation Centre (ARC) where numerous animals, including predators, are recuperating from injuries or adjusting to life after being saved from appalling conditions. A trip to Aquila is not complete without visiting the ARC, as it serves to highlight the excellent conservation work that is so sorely needed globally.

We ended our trip to Aquila with a hearty breakfast, and listened to the excited chattering of the numerous families surrounding us, as well as the buzz of incentive travel groups, both local and foreign. Aquila has made a name for itself nationally and abroad, and for good reason. For work or play, it’s a winner on all fronts.

www.theevent.co.za 05NEWS

Daniel Palomo from Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau, who is also North American representative on the ICCA Board of Directors, reacted to the news: “This is the fourth time Houston has bid to host ICCA’s global community, so I’m really delighted that our commitment has been recognised, and that we finally have the opportunity to turn our creative ideas into reality. We are determined to generate real business opportunities not just in our own city but for our colleagues across the region, and to introduce delegates to the many reasons why Houston is such a

successful meetings destination, as well as giving them a warm Texas welcome!”

The last time ICCA met in the US was in 1987 in Albuquerque, NM. Therefore by 2019 it will be 32 years since an ICCA Congress came to the US.

The ICCA Congess is taking place 1-4 November in Buenos Aires, Argentina with 766 delegates from 66 countries; a record number for any ICCA Congress in the Americas. After this year’s Congress in Buenos Aires, ICCA will move to Sarawak, Malaysia in 2016, Prague in 2017, and Dubai in 2018.

HOUSTON AWARDED 2019 ICCA CONGRESSICCA President Nina Freysen-Pretorius announced at the 54th ICCA General Assembly in Buenos Aires that the city of Houston will host ICCA’s 2019 Congress.

Never has a bidding city received so much support from members in other countries within their region, and this, coupled with this bid’s

technical excellence and creativity, meant that the Board had no hesitation in making this decision”, stated Nina Freysen-Pretorius.

Numerous ICCA members and destinations in Mexico and Canada wrote letters of support, as well as other US destinations, demonstrating that the whole region was strongly behind Houston’s latest campaign to represent the North American region in ICCA’s global rotation cycle.

“

06 NEWS www.theevent.co.za

The launch took place on 29 October at the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria, just days after the launch of

the SAACI Academy in Johannesburg.The event marks the latest step in

SAACI’s efforts to establish a presence in major urban centres around the country, to reinforce its position as the defi nitive organisation representing excellence in the conferencing and events industry. A Tshwane branch has long been in the works, and it is very encouraging that it is fi nally a reality!

SAACI has partnered with the City of Tshwane to bring the organisation’s efforts to a wider range of potential clients and events. Deputy City Manager Lindiwe Kwele spoke about how SAACI is a partner in realising the Tshwane Vision 2055, which aims to improve the city in a variety of ways, so that residents “experience tangible socio-economic and spatial transformation in their lifetime”. With business tourism rapidly becoming a critical part of this vision, SAACI is an ideal partner to ensure that the goals laid out are achievable and concrete.

Ms Kwele made no secret of the fact that growth in the business tourism sector is being accelerated to drive city development. One major part of the investment in the sector is the currently-under-construction Tshwane International Convention Centre, the fi rst phase of which is scheduled for completion in 2018. Much business development is being centred on the Centurion region; the area falls directly under the jurisdiction of the Tshwane SAACI branch, and we can now position ourselves centrally in all of these exciting developments. As Ms Kwele rightly pointed out in terms of the SAACI/City of Tshwane partnership, “Your success is our success” – and it works both ways.

SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau spoke to the delegates at the launch, highlighting the importance of the organisation being an active part of the expansion of the business tourism and conferencing sector in the Tshwane region. He noted that it is important that each SAACI branch have its own individual identity, since the organisation is swiftly moving to expand into the rest of southern Africa,

particularly SADC member states. Each branch will add signifi cant value to the local conferencing and events scene, and the Tshwane division is poised to become one of the most important.

A big thank you must go to the National Zoological Gardens for hosting the launch event, and to all of the partners who provided their time and services. We also congratulate all the members of the Tshwane branch leadership, as well as the City of Tshwane for partnering with us on this venture. We look forward to seeing the great work the new branch will do!

SAACI TSHWANE BRANCH LAUNCH EVENTIn keeping with the South African Association for the Conference Industry’s vision for expanding within South Africa and the larger Southern African Development Community region, we are proud to announce the successful launch of the SAACI Tshwane Branch.

Each branch will add signifi cant value to the local conferencing and events scene, and the Tshwane division is poised to become one of the most important.

www.theevent.co.za 07MOVERS AND SHAKERS

South African born Bangu Masisi, the new US Country Manager, has more than 15 years’ experience in the travel

industry, working primarily on developing and implementing marketing initiatives for South African Tourism globally.

She started her journey with South African Tourism after being appointed Country Manager for Australia in 2004 where, for six years she led and managed the team in Sydney, developed and implemented key strategic marketing campaigns, created integrated communication strategies, and established strategic partnerships with the trade. In 2010 Bangu moved to Amsterdam after being appointed South African Tourism

Country Manager for the Netherlands. She brought innovative ways of selling South Africa as a destination of choice to the Dutch market, and led a team that ensured that the Netherlands stays in the top fi ve position of international tourists into South Africa.

Commenting on Bangu’s position, South African Tourism’s Chief Executive Offi cer, Mr. Thulani Nzima said: “Bangu understands the organisational values and aspirations, and is able to lead a team in achieving them. These elements have made her the ideal candidate to head an offi ce in

SAT APPOINTS NEW COUNTRY MANAGER

ONE GROUP - ONE SPIRIT - ONE SOLUTION

EXHIBITIONSShell scheme infrastructure

Bespoke stands

Modular stands

Furniture hire

Electrical hire

“Design, manufacture, build”

Event branding

On-line organiser and exhibitor services

IN- STOREShowrooms

Point of sale

Mall displays

Motor showrooms

Shop fitting

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For a COMPLETE IN-HOUSE TURNKEY SOLUTION +27(0) 11 608 1588 | www.3ddesign.co.za

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“Conceptualise, Manage, execute”EVENTS

Confexes

Golf days

Launches

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Gala Dinners

Sports events

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EXHIBITIONS“Design, manufacture, build”

On-line organiser and exhibitor services

“Conceptualise, Manage, execute”EVENTS

Confexes

Golf days

Conferences

Gala Dinners

our second largest market for international tourists outside of the African continent.”

Bangu remarked: “I am delighted for the opportunity to lead the South African Tourism US team to build on the momentum of promoting further awareness and changing perceptions of South Africa in this market. I look forward to working with the trade, stakeholders and other partners, as we develop new campaigns, focus on training and seek to develop existing – and forge new joint marketing agreements as the team and I take the destination to the next level.”

I look forward to working with the trade, stakeholders and other partners, as we develop new campaigns.

08 FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

2016 is your year. You have high hopes and big plans, and that’s why you should be prepared with an arsenal of weapons! Kim Muller brings you a listicle that’s sure to tickle your every fancy.

10 THINGS YOU NEED IN YOUR EVENT TOOLKIT

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Illustration © Lauren Smith


2016 is your year. You have high hopes and big plans, and that’s why you should be prepared with an arsenal of weapons! Kim Muller brings you a listicle that’s sure to tickle your every fancy.

10 THINGS YOU NEED IN YOUR EVENT TOOLKIT

@

Illustration © Lauren Smith

www.theevent.co.za 09FEATURE

With so many facets of an event to keep track of and so many wonderful offerings on the market,

one can often be left at a loss as to what to include and what to leave. No more! Here’s a list of all the cool things an event planner should have in their pocket to ensure and excellent and entertaining function takes place every single time.

1. A Ride Home…Or To The AirportIt’s no joke when you’re stuck at a conference or ending a busy night of networking only to find you have no ride home. Enter the amazing taxi cab! Yes, it’s pretty simple, but transportation and accessibility are imperative for creating a successful event experience. Plus companies like Uber often partner with major events to offer discounts or ‘first ride free’ for attendees. Be sure to keep numbers like SACab, Good Fellas or Uber on speed dial.

2. Make Your Speaker CountThese days, it’s all about experiences, so when you’re tailoring your event, be sure to pair the right speakers with it. From MC to keynote address, there is nothing more awkward than a speaker that simply doesn’t excite the crowd. The good news is you don’t have to search for too long. Companies like Unique Speaker Bureau, Conference Speakers International and Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa are great at handling your every need.

3. Going Green is GreatSustainability is a hot topic at the moment, and with good reason. The world’s

climates are changing – and added to this is the drought South Africa could suffer in the coming summer months. Be careful about the materials you use to organise your event, be vigilant about waste management, and opt for venues with the greener footprints. Green trends are also changing rapidly, says Laurette Sibiya, Marketing Exective at SSQ Exhibitions. “We’re seeing a gradual move or shift from green dominant stand design, to more of a collaboration between green and contemporary.”

The Event Greening Forum is available to help you along your way, and they offer a heap of resources on their website (www.eventgreening.co.za) for best practices, training courses and more. You can even enter your fabulous event in the various Green Awards!

4. Risk Management“Manage your risks and be aware of them,” says Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry. His advice is sound, and applies to every occasion. From loss of reputation and financial loss, to damage to facilities, injury on the property, loss of equipment and more, this is a minefield that you might just want some help with. Companies like the Institute of Risk Management South Africa offer a range of resources and facilities, while the governments and municipalities are happy to furnish you with information on what’s required in this department.

5. Local Is Always Lekker(er)“Always find a local partner that knows suppliers,” Adriaan offers. Someone who knows all the local suppliers can be a massive resource for a planner. In addition, supporting local suppliers pushes our economy forward, all the while promoting greater collaboration across the industry. Local events attract both SA and international delegates, which could lead you to your next client, says Laurette of SSQ. “Bauma Africa was a rather notable and inspiring event for us as we broke our own record with a total of nine international and local clients at this single event,” she explains before offering these valuable tips: “Do your homework, partner with the right suppliers, create a credible network.”

6. Branding, Branding, Branding“Industry players and clients are beginning to acknowledge and truly understand the importance of creating brand experiences, and maintaining consistency in this element,” Laurette says. She believes

The Event Greening Forum is available to help you along your way, and they offer a heap of resources on their website (www.eventgreening.co.za) for best practices, training courses and more. You can even enter your fabulous event in the various Green Awards!


strong and visible branding married with strategic technology integration that works hand in hand with calculated marketing strategies is one of the main elements in creating a beautiful stand, but this advice can be used for so many other elements of event planning – from sponsors or endorsements to the event’s actual branding.

7. Pre or Post Tour, Anyone?Not all events offer you a conference package with bed and breakfast options, let alone pre- and post-event tours – but this is a great way to wow your delegates, especially if they haven’t travelled much or are visiting your event for the first time. From the Big Five at Kruger National Park to a whirlwind trip to Sun City in the North West, South Africa has a myriad options to choose from. And don’t forget, a tour around the city works just as well. Citysightseeing offer a delicious tourist view of urban sprawls, with Cape Town’s branch even offering canal trips from the CTICC to the highly popular V&A Waterfront.

8. Social Media and TechnologyIn this day and age, it’s impossible to organise an event without using some kind of technology. Not only does the internet offer an affordable way to market your conference to a wider audience, but these days, social media plays a huge role in creating hype and sharing experiences at an event, while data and analytics also influence an event’s success. Things like social walls, event apps and charging stations have become trends, while companies like Lumi and eTouches

Top Tips for an Excellent EventIf you’re planning an exhibition or simply attending one in 2016, preparation is key. Here are a few tips to ensure your next expo is exceptional.

Know Your AudienceIt’s a no-brainer, yes, but knowing who will attend the event helps you tailor your message and presence. Request a delegate and exhibitor list to maximise your opportunities.

Supporting ActivityThe event itself is simply the shell around what truly happens, your presence and support both pre- and post-event are crucial for promoting yourself. Contact press reps, tell your own audience and be a strong voice amongst the crowd.

Stand Out and Select Your Best ProductsAs an exhibitor, your stand should be appealing, open and inviting. The rule of thumb is always quality over quantity. In the same way, product focus is important. Even the best brands don’t showcase their whole line, so it’s best to tailor yours to your audience.

LeadsTracking leads for follow up is crucial. Although large exhibition tend to offer electronic scanners to record delegate info, often you’re left with a long list of people but no notes on them. Combat this by bringing a notepad along – it will be invaluable.

Have a Clear MessageThe message you communicate at an event should be concise, consistent and efficient. What best describes you and what you do in a way the audience can comprehend? Keep in mind that delegates are less likely to hang onto something that weighs them down so keep your literature light.

offer an incredible range of conferencing technology that will not only streamline your event, but make the planning and reporting phases a breeze, too.

9. Entertainment, Food and HospitalityThere’s nothing more exciting than the glitz and glamour of entertainment – and your guests are sure to notice if your event lacks in this department! From music and games to delicious foods and impeccable hospitality, nothing tells a guest they are welcome more than an entertaining time. Depending on your event, the programme will obviously differ. For instance, Zip Zap artists offer a fascinating leap (quite literally) into acrobatics, while the Oyster King and his companions – the Bubbly Queen, the Caviar Queen and many others – take food theatre to a whole new level. Themed events are hugely popular. An ideal example of this was the latest SAACI Conference dinner, which had a ‘Great Gatsby’ theme.

10. Creativity and Innovation Go Hand in Hand“Most importantly be creative and innovative – we have so many unique things on offer,” Liebetrau says, “Don’t go for same old tried and tested.” This rings true across the board, no matter what kind of event you’re planning – be it a wedding, gala, exhibition or conference. “The success of a trade or exhibition show is purely determined on what each participant reaps from the experience in its entirety,” Sibiya adds, “so creating a genuine and engaging experience is the most important element.”

There’s nothing more exciting than the glitz and glamour of entertainment! From music and games to delicious foods and impeccable hospitality, nothing tells a guest they are welcome more than an entertaining time. Depending on your event, the programme will obviously differ. For instance, Zip Zap artists offer a fascinating leap (quite literally) into acrobatics, while the Oyster King and his companions – the Bubbly Queen, the Caviar Queen and many others – take food theatre to a whole new level.


strong and visible branding married with strategic technology integration that works hand in hand with calculated marketing strategies is one of the main elements in creating a beautiful stand, but this advice can be used for so many other elements of event planning – from sponsors or endorsements to the event’s actual branding.

7. Pre or Post Tour, Anyone?Not all events offer you a conference package with bed and breakfast options, let alone pre- and post-event tours – but this is a great way to wow your delegates, especially if they haven’t travelled much or are visiting your event for the first time. From the Big Five at Kruger National Park to a whirlwind trip to Sun City in the North West, South Africa has a myriad options to choose from. And don’t forget, a tour around the city works just as well. Citysightseeing offer a delicious tourist view of urban sprawls, with Cape Town’s branch even offering canal trips from the CTICC to the highly popular V&A Waterfront.

8. Social Media and TechnologyIn this day and age, it’s impossible to organise an event without using some kind of technology. Not only does the internet offer an affordable way to market your conference to a wider audience, but these days, social media plays a huge role in creating hype and sharing experiences at an event, while data and analytics also influence an event’s success. Things like social walls, event apps and charging stations have become trends, while companies like Lumi and eTouches

Top Tips for an Excellent EventIf you’re planning an exhibition or simply attending one in 2016, preparation is key. Here are a few tips to ensure your next expo is exceptional.

Know Your AudienceIt’s a no-brainer, yes, but knowing who will attend the event helps you tailor your message and presence. Request a delegate and exhibitor list to maximise your opportunities.

Supporting ActivityThe event itself is simply the shell around what truly happens, your presence and support both pre- and post-event are crucial for promoting yourself. Contact press reps, tell your own audience and be a strong voice amongst the crowd.

Stand Out and Select Your Best ProductsAs an exhibitor, your stand should be appealing, open and inviting. The rule of thumb is always quality over quantity. In the same way, product focus is important. Even the best brands don’t showcase their whole line, so it’s best to tailor yours to your audience.

LeadsTracking leads for follow up is crucial. Although large exhibition tend to offer electronic scanners to record delegate info, often you’re left with a long list of people but no notes on them. Combat this by bringing a notepad along – it will be invaluable.

Have a Clear MessageThe message you communicate at an event should be concise, consistent and efficient. What best describes you and what you do in a way the audience can comprehend? Keep in mind that delegates are less likely to hang onto something that weighs them down so keep your literature light.

offer an incredible range of conferencing technology that will not only streamline your event, but make the planning and reporting phases a breeze, too.

9. Entertainment, Food and HospitalityThere’s nothing more exciting than the glitz and glamour of entertainment – and your guests are sure to notice if your event lacks in this department! From music and games to delicious foods and impeccable hospitality, nothing tells a guest they are welcome more than an entertaining time. Depending on your event, the programme will obviously differ. For instance, Zip Zap artists offer a fascinating leap (quite literally) into acrobatics, while the Oyster King and his companions – the Bubbly Queen, the Caviar Queen and many others – take food theatre to a whole new level. Themed events are hugely popular. An ideal example of this was the latest SAACI Conference dinner, which had a ‘Great Gatsby’ theme.

10. Creativity and Innovation Go Hand in Hand“Most importantly be creative and innovative – we have so many unique things on offer,” Liebetrau says, “Don’t go for same old tried and tested.” This rings true across the board, no matter what kind of event you’re planning – be it a wedding, gala, exhibition or conference. “The success of a trade or exhibition show is purely determined on what each participant reaps from the experience in its entirety,” Sibiya adds, “so creating a genuine and engaging experience is the most important element.”

There’s nothing more exciting than the glitz and glamour of entertainment! From music and games to delicious foods and impeccable hospitality, nothing tells a guest they are welcome more than an entertaining time. Depending on your event, the programme will obviously differ. For instance, Zip Zap artists offer a fascinating leap (quite literally) into acrobatics, while the Oyster King and his companions – the Bubbly Queen, the Caviar Queen and many others – take food theatre to a whole new level.


On the Event Day When the frenetic organising is over, it’s show time – but your ever-expanding well of patience can easily evaporate when things don’t go according to plan. Here are a few items to keep handy on the day. • Exacto knife, Leatherman

or a small tool kit• Packaging tape and labels• Emergency first aid kit• Notepads, scissors and

other stationery• Permanent markers• Cash for emergency purchases• Lots of bottled water and snacks• Directions to the

nearest bathroom• Chargers, power banks,

batteries and adaptors• Floorplans, seating charts

and guest lists• Two way radios• Promotional material for requests

• Camera for PR purposes• Full change of clothes• A contact list of all key personnel• Contracts, certificates

of insurance• Directions to the nearest hospital• Flash drive with backups

of important info• Envelopes and thank you cards • Extra of everything!• A massage booking or cold

beer for post event

Meetings Africa 2016 will kick off

with the annual BONDAY (Business

Opportunity Networking Day) on

Monday, 22 February 2016. BONDAY

is designed to provide educational and networking

opportunities for the African business events industry.

EUROPEAN CITIES MARKETING (ECM) – SUMMER

SCHOOL

The European Cities Marketing Summer School

is a learning opportunity not to be missed for all

professionals working in convention bureaus,

tourist offices, congress centres, airlines, hotels,

destination marketing companies, professional

conference organisers and meeting planners. ECM

provides professionals within the MICE industry an

opportunity to develop a network with colleagues

and peers while gaining knowledge and skills for a

successful career within the meetings industry.

Educational and Training Workshop

Enquiries: Mmabatho Sikhakhane

[email protected]

ASSOCIATION DAY – in conjunction with

ICCA African Chapter

This is a day exclusively for association executives

from around Africa who are invited to participate in

Meetings Africa 2016. Association Day is specifically

designed for executives to gain some insight into the

latest trends, network with industry colleagues and

form new relationships. Educational Workshop for

African Association Executives Enquiries: Mdu Biyela

[email protected]

IMEX-MPI-MCI FUTURE LEADERS

FORUM AFRICA

The IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum is

a programme jointly run by IMEX, Meetings

Professionals International (MPI) and MCI. Final

year students studying meetings and conventions,

tourism or hospitality at university or colleges

associated with the Tourism Educators of South

Africa are invited to attend this programme.

Educational Workshop for Tourism Students

Enquiries: Nico Vilakazi [email protected]

AIPC AFRICA SUMMIT

AIPC represents a global network of more than

175 leading convention centres in 57 countries

with the active involvement of more than 900

management-level professionals. This one

day event features a combination of formats

to address key topics of interest, drawing

on the knowledge and expertise that will be

participating in Meetings Africa supplemented by

specialist presenters. Educational Workshop for

Convention Centre and Meeting Venue Staff

Enquiries: [email protected] / www.aipc.org

EVENT GREENING FORUM AGM

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is hosting

their annual general meeting during BONDAY

at Meetings Africa 2016. EGF is a non-profit

organisation that aims to promote sustainability

within the events sector. Enquiries: Lynn McLeod

[email protected]

BUSINESS EVENTS ASSOCIATIONS

JOINT CONFERENCE

Advancing Africa Together by inspiring an

industry. This full day workshop is a collaboration

between EXSA, EGF, IFEA Africa and SAACI

bringing together top international and local

speakers offering a new and exciting glimpse

in on their field of interest and expertise.

Education Workshop for Business

Events Personnel Enquiries: Lorin

Bowen [email protected]

MORNING LIVE

Morning Live is SABC2’s longest running

television breakfast show and they have

participated in Meetings Africa for many years

by conducting a live outside broadcast from

the exhibition hall on Tuesday morning.

CORPORATE B2B SPEED MARKETING SESSION

Meetings Africa will host yet another meaningful

opportunity for exhibitors to participate in the

VIP Local Corporate “B2B” Session at the 2016

edition. Meetings Africa 2016 has partnered

with Unique Speaker Bureau to host local

corporate buyers at the 2016 show targeting

45 VIP Local Corporate Hosted Buyers to

meet up with 45 participating exhibitors.

Each participating exhibitor will have an

opportunity to meet with each Local Corporate

VIP in one day at Meetings Africa 2016.

Space is limited and only one person from each

participating exhibitor can attend the session.

It is imperative that this person is available for

the full two days to take full advantage of on this

great platform. Due to the interest expressed

by the exhibitors, we will be allocating spaces

on a fully paid, first come, first served basis.

To register for this this great B2B Speed Marketing

Session with the VIP Local Corporate Hosted

Buyers, contact Viv on [email protected].

OPENING CEREMONY

The proceedings include presentations by key

stakeholders including an address by Minister of

Tourism, Mr Derek Hanekom who also officially

opens Meetings Africa by the symbolic ringing of

the bell which is a tradition at Meetings Africa.

MINISTER’S WALK ABOUT

Minister of Tourism, Mr Derek Hanekom,

accompanied by other dignitaries and the media

will walk through the exhibition hall interacting with

the exhibitors across the sectors and from Africa.

MEDIA FACE OFF

The global media face-off will take place on

Tuesday afternoon and all Meetings Africa

participants are welcome to attend. This platform

examines issues affecting the business events

industry in Africa. Industry leaders will be

available to answer questions from the media.

MEETINGS AFRICA GALA DINNER

The Meetings Africa Gala Dinner is a much

anticipated event bringing together exhibitors,

international and local hosted buyers and

other key stakeholders. This event is the

perfect opportunity to make contacts and

to celebrate another successful edition of

Meetings Africa. Date: 23 February 2016

Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Ballroom

Tickets: R490.00 ex VAT per person

Dress: Smart. Enquiries: Lorin Bowen

[email protected]

LOCAL CORPORATE BUYER EVENT

Unique Speaker Bureau’s flagship event at Meeting

Africa 2016, showcasing exciting new local talent

as well as International speakers who are today’s

thought leaders. In addition, Unique Speaker

Bureau will be leading the speaking industry by

launching exciting new emerging speakers.

Hosted by Unique Speaker Bureau (USB)

Attendees: Events and function coordinators

of local corporate companies.

GREEN STAND AWARDS

These awards seek to acknowledge and

commend those exhibitors and stand builders

who have successfully applied sustainable

practices to their stands. Exhibitors are

required to enter their stands in order to

qualify and judging is managed independently.

The three categories that are acknowledged

are small, medium and large stands.

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 EVENTS PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

19 - 21 February 2016

Time & Venue: SCC Event Attendees

09h00 - 17h00 Sandton Convention Centre

European Cities Marketing (ECM) – Summer School www.europeancitiesmarketing.com Business events training workshop

Open for Registration. Registration Cost: R1500Enquiries: Mmabatho SikhakhaneEmail: [email protected]

Monday, 22 February


09h00 - 17h00 Boardroom 1,2 & 3 (Level 2)

Association Day - In conjunction with ICCA African ChapterAssociation Workshop.

By Invitation Only: African Associations

09h00 - 15h00Boardroom 6 & 7 (Level 2)

IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leader Forum AfricaTop Tourism students representing tertiary institutions from the Tourism Educators of South Africa competing for the International University Challenge at Meetings Africa 2016.

By Invitation Only: Tourism Students

09h00 - 15h00 AIPC Africa SummitAIPC – the International Association of Convention Centres – is the industry association for professional convention and exhibition centre managers world wide.

Open for registration.Registration: [email protected] Cost: [email protected]

08h00 - 09h00Bill Gallagher (Level 2)

Event Greening Forum AGMAnnual General Meeting for Event Greening Forum.

Members Only


Business Events Associations Joint ConferenceFull day programme with local and international speakers.

Open for registration. Registration Cost: R100RSVP Lorin Bowen:[email protected]

Tuesday, 23 February


08h00 - 17h00Exhibition Hall 1 (Level 0)

Registrations Open to all


Morning LiveA live outside broadcast of Morning Live at Meetings Africa

Open to all

08h00 - 17h00Ballroom 2 (Level 2)

Corporate B2B Speed Marketing Session

By Invitation OnlyEnquiries: [email protected]

09h00 - 10h10 Restaurant, Exhibition Hall 1(Level 0)

Opening CeremonyOfficial opening of Meetings Africa 2016 – Keynote address by the Minister of Tourism

Open to all


Exhibition Day 1 Open to all


Minister’s Walk AboutPre-scheduled media walk about of the Meetings Africa exhibition with photo opportunities with key stakeholders and exhibitors.

By Invitation Only

TBCSCC foyer (Level 0)

Media Face OffA panel discussion focusing on the business events industry in South Africa and the African continent

Open to all


Hosted Buyers Lunch By Invitation Only

18h30 - 19h00Ballroom Foyer (Level 2)

Welcome drinks – Gala dinner Registration open

19h00 - 24h00Ballroom 1/70

Meetings Africa - Gala Dinner Registration open

Wednesday, 24 February



Registrations Open to all


Exhibition Day 2 Open to all

07h00 - 16h00Ballroom 1/70 (Level 2)

Local Corporate Buyer EventHosted by Unique Speaker Bureau (USB) Attendees: Events and function coordinators of local corporate companies.

By Invitation OnlyEnquiries:[email protected]

12h00 - 13h00NCB stand

Green stand awardsAwards ceremony for the top green stands at Meetings Africa

Open to all


Hosted Buyers Lunch By Invitation Only

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 EVENTS PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

MEETINGS AFRICA 2016 PROGRAMME

Best Stand Awards in the Custom 12 m2 and under was awarded to Scan Display Solutions for ABSA @ Exporter.

The Chairman’s Award 2015 went to Nigel Walker of Compex.

The EXSA industry awards took place on 25th November 2015 at the Monte Casino Ballroom with the exhibition industry positively

glittering in their “denims and diamonds” which was the theme for the night.

“This really is a celebration of the best companies and individuals in the industry and a chance to come together to network and finish the year on a high” said EXSA’s GM Sue Gannon. “Sincere thanks goes to all our sponsors, including: 3d Design; 3d

Events; Unlimited Events Group ; as well as the Sandton Convention Centre; Dogan Exhibitions and Events; Johannesburg Expo Centre; and DK design, who made it all possible for this event to happen. And to our media partners for donating ad space for our Auction, together with Tsogo Sun who donated a weekend away. A great time was had by all.”

Brad Alder, the EXSA Chairman, opened proceedings for the evening together with the MC for the night Andy Klee. Brad

gave his annual Chairman’s award to Nigel Walker, for being the unsung hero who tirelessly promotes the exhibition industry, and contributes both his time and expertise without expecting anything in return to tasks that often go unnoticed. Two industry stalwarts were inducted into the EXSA Hall of Fame - Dawn Olivier and Conrad Kullman. Rubber Duc certainly got the party going!

Thank you to all who attended the Awards, and who helped to pull off this spectacular event.

THE 2015 EXSA INDUSTRY AWARDS– the “Oscars” of the industry!

2 Avalon RdWestlake ViewExt 14Tel. +27 11 608 1588www.3ddesign.co.za

Congratulations to all the EXSA Awards Winners.

www.expocentre.co.za

Best Stand Awards in the Custom 12 m2 and under was awarded to Scan Display Solutions for ABSA @ Exporter.

The Chairman’s Award 2015 went to Nigel Walker of Compex.

The EXSA industry awards took place on 25th November 2015 at the Monte Casino Ballroom with the exhibition industry positively

glittering in their “denims and diamonds” which was the theme for the night.

“This really is a celebration of the best companies and individuals in the industry and a chance to come together to network and finish the year on a high” said EXSA’s GM Sue Gannon. “Sincere thanks goes to all our sponsors, including: 3d Design; 3d

Events; Unlimited Events Group ; as well as the Sandton Convention Centre; Dogan Exhibitions and Events; Johannesburg Expo Centre; and DK design, who made it all possible for this event to happen. And to our media partners for donating ad space for our Auction, together with Tsogo Sun who donated a weekend away. A great time was had by all.”

Brad Alder, the EXSA Chairman, opened proceedings for the evening together with the MC for the night Andy Klee. Brad

gave his annual Chairman’s award to Nigel Walker, for being the unsung hero who tirelessly promotes the exhibition industry, and contributes both his time and expertise without expecting anything in return to tasks that often go unnoticed. Two industry stalwarts were inducted into the EXSA Hall of Fame - Dawn Olivier and Conrad Kullman. Rubber Duc certainly got the party going!

Thank you to all who attended the Awards, and who helped to pull off this spectacular event.

THE 2015 EXSA INDUSTRY AWARDS– the “Oscars” of the industry!

2 Avalon RdWestlake ViewExt 14Tel. +27 11 608 1588www.3ddesign.co.za

Congratulations to all the EXSA Awards Winners.

www.expocentre.co.za

www.scandisplay.co.za

Congratulations to all the EXSA award winners on their achievements.

Results:Best Stand Awards• Custom 12 m2 and under – Scan

Display Solutions for ABSA @ Exporter• Custom 13 – 24 m2- DK Design

for Endiama at Mining Indaba• Custom 25 – 50 m2- Two way

Exhibition & Events for HP- Hewlett Packard at My World of Tomorrow

• Custom 51 – 100 - Scan Display Solutions for Alcon at SASCRS

• Custom 101 – 200 – ConCept G for Banking Channels at FNB Leadership Conference

• System 13 – 24 m2- 3d Design for Cisco at AfriCom

• System 25 – 50 m2 – 3d Design for Big lift trucks at Africa Rail

• Outdoor – Sugo Projects for Bell Equipment at Bauma

• Mixed - 3D Design for Neotel at Govtech• External – ConCept G for

CCRC at Africa Rail

Best Exhibition AwardsConsumer Exhibitions over 10 000 m2

Gold Awards were presented to:• The Rand Show – organised

by Dogan Exhibitions, • Gauteng Homemakers – organised

by Homemakers; and • Rage – organised by Logik

and The Lime Envelope. • A Platinum Award was presented

to the SA Cheese Festival – organised by Agri Expo.

Trade Show – up to 6 000 m2:• A Platinum Award was presented

to Meetings Africa – owned by

SA Tourism and operationally run by Synergy Business Events

Trade Shows over 10 000 m2:• A Gold Award was presented

to Automechanica – owned by Dogan in association with SA Shows/Messe Frankfurt

• A Platinum Award went to Indaba – owned by SA Tourism and operationally run by Pure Grit

Green Awards:• Best Green Exhibition - Meetings Africa

organised by Synergy Business Events and the SA National Convention Bureau

• Best Green Stand – Greenstuff for the ECO Guest Suite at Inspire Décor and Design Expo

Best Company Awards• Best Supplier Company – Stand Design

and Construction: Expo Solutions• Best Supplier Company – Security:

Lodge Events Security• Best Supplier Company – AV:

Gearhouse South Africa• Best Supplier Company – General:

Plant Inn - Hire plants and flowers• LA Rouxnelle Logistics and Consulting• Best Supplier Company – Cleaning

Contractor: ZF Cleaning Services• Best Supplier Company – Project

Management: The Conference Company• Best Venue: Sandton Convention Centre• Best Organiser: MMI South Africa

Best Company Employee Awards• Best Supplier Employee – Stand

Design and Construction: Jennifer Gibson - The Exhibitionist

• Best Supplier Employee – Security: Bongani Khosa - Lodge Events Security

• Best Supplier Employee – AV: Graeme Marshall - INHOUSE Venue Technical Management

• Best Supplier Employee – General: Melissa Crafford -2 Way Exhibition Services

• Best Supplier Employee – Logistics: Jerome Jacobs - LA Rouxnelle Logistics and Consulting

• Best Supplier Employee– Cleaning Contractor: Zaid Khan - ZF Cleaning Services

• Best Supplier Employee– Project Management: Natalie Kensley - The Conference Company

• Best Venue Employee: Lorraine Strydom – Sandton Convention Centre

• Best Organiser Employee: Liezle Bothma - Conker Exhibitions

• Young Professional of the year: Gemma Drynan – Expo Solutions

Chairman’s AwardNigel Walker – Compex• Special Award: Dean Gunningham

for his CEM Qualification, IAEE, USA

Inducted into The EXSA Hall of Fame:• Dawn Olivier• Conrad Kullman

For more information, please visit: www.exsa.co.za or call +27 11 805 7272. Twitter: @EXSA_SA Facebook: facebook.com/EXSA.SA

Unit 11aBlock 1 Northgate ParkBrooklyn, 7405Tel. +27 21 510 7776 www.resourcedesign.co.za


Much has been afoot in local and international business events in 2015, and as a result we look expectantly

towards the new year. Not only have some of our most popular trade shows seen growth, but we have seen new associations formed, partnerships forged, new venues emerge and, of course, awards being won. That said, the industry has gone through some growning pains, according to Justin Hawes, Managing

Director at Scan Display. “2015 was a tough year with clients expecting more and more value for their money,” he explains. “We have seen certain marginal shows losing exhibitors, however, we have also seen some growth from shows such as Meetings Africa, AfricaCom and Mining Indaba.”

Craig Newman, CEO of theJohannesburg Expo Centre and African Board Member at UFI, agrees with Hawes. “The year 2015 has been an

eye-opener in terms of revealing exactly what we can achieve as an industry,” he says. “South Africa’s exhibitions, conferences and events industry is fast becoming one of the country’s most important sectors to attract foreign visitors and investment and we have realised that South Africa, in particular, has the experience, the expertise, the knowledge and the infrastructure to become the official channel for large global companies into Southern Africa.”

LESSONS LEARNED IN 2015As we head into a new year, full of positivity and expectation, Kim Muller looks back at the milestones the industry has undergone and the lessons we will take with us into the future.

A view of the entrance to Meetings Africa © Event Greening Forum

Minister Hanekom outside Indaba 2015 © Reg Caldecott

SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau shares the association’s movements with delegates at the annual Congress.

Thulani Nzima of SA Tourism, Nina Freysen-Pretorius of ICCA, Zelda Coetzee of SAACI, Minister Derek Hanekom, SAACI CEO Adriaan Liebetrau, and Mmatšatši Ramawela of TBCSA

EXSA Green Stand Awards at Meetings Africa

An artist’s rendering of the stories told and lessons learned at SAACI Congress 2015.


Here’s a look at the highlights we’ve experienced, the trends taking shape, and our industry experts’ outlook for 2016.

Association MovementsLocal and international associations have been on a rollercoaster in 2015. Perhaps the most notable change was the founding of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) earlier this year. Since its inception in August, the body has been hard at work with an Exhibitor Training Day in September and a digital marketing training session set for 10 February 2016.

Most importantly, however, is their newly-formed strategic partnership with the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI). AAXO was created to be the voice of exhibition organisers, and, according to the organisation, “the synergy between the two bodies and their interactions within the exhibition industry presented an opportunity for cooperation and resource sharing.” Says Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of SAACI: “The key messages and take-aways from our congress this year was the need to collaborate. This collaboration is not just for our members’ individual

businesses, but also for all the associations in the business events sector.”

SAACI has grown in leaps and bounds this year. The organisation launched the Council of Events Professionals (CEP Africa), they established relationships in SA’s neighbouring countries of Botswana, Namibia and Zambia, they launched the Hall of Honour and Long Service Awards, and created a stakeholder database of about 6 000 companies. “SAACI membership grew and a lot of new and innovative things were launched such as our new interactive website and the SAACI Academy,” Liebetrau explains.

South Africa once again rose in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings, as well as saw one of their own take the position of President. Nina Freysen-Pretorius of The Conference Company was elected late in 2014, and is the first African president of ICCA. “Having two South Africans on the ICCA Board, one at the helm, is a major boost for South Africa’s reputation as a business-events destination. It is proof that we have the skills, insight and leadership capability to grow and develop the business events sector,” SA Tourism CEO Thulani Nzima said in a statement.

Last year SA’s global ranking as a business-events destination went from 34th place to 32nd, making it the highest-ranked destination on the continent. Cape Town remains the most successful

city for business events, ranking 41st on the ICCA list, while Johannesburg improved its rankings by a remarkable 35 places to 101st. Durban ranked 125th, tied with the cities of Auckland, Basel, Bordeaux and Montpellier.

ICCA recently released their new five-year strategic plan with six goals:• To develop new business opportunities

and competitive advantage• Achieving full engagement with,

and participation of, associations• To be a global knowledge hub• To expand their advocacy work• To develop a truly world-class,

highly specialised Congress• Build an effective and

sustainable organisation

In other news, The Exhibition and Event Association of Southern Africa (EXSA) has also been busy. The organisation recently held the annual EXSA Awards, and will be covering a number of aspects of the industry at their upcoming conference on 31 January - 2 February. SSQ Exhibitions, a member of EXSA, broke its own record at Bauma Africa with a total of nine international and local clients at a single event. Their Marketing Executive, Laurette Sibiya, has been nominated as Young Professional of the Year alongside Exhibition Stands and Events, ConCept G and Expo Solutions.

AAXO was created to be the synergy between the two bodies and their interactions within the exhibition industry presented an opportunity for cooperation and resource sharing.

Having two South Africans on the ICCA Board, one at the helm, is a major boost for South Africa’s reputation as a business events destination.

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NH_The Lord Charles_Adv_203x72_nov2015.indd 1 25/11/15 08:24


The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) held their Global Conference in late October, where seven companies were recognised at the Crystal Awards – two of which were South African: Dragonfly, awarded for Excellence in Incentive Travel – Africa/Middle East, and Walthers DBS, who took home the award for Most Impactful Effort Toward Corporate Social Responsibility in an Incentive Programme. SITE also announced their 2016 International Board of Directors, with Rajeev Kohli as the first SITE Board President from Asia, and Aoife Delaney as President-elect.

“It has been very encouraging to see MICE development in various African countries during the past few years. New convention centres opened in Nigeria and Rwanda and a few leading South African incentive houses even opened offices in these regions. Zambia has done really well in recent times, and Zimbabwe has been making a marked effort in encouraging MICE business by creating hosted buyer programmes around relevant expos,” shared Tes Proos, SITE President Southern Africa and Owner of Crystal Events & Incentives.

Association executives across the continent have come together to form the African Society of Association Executives, which will launch at the upcoming Meetings Africa show. It is aimed at raising the profile of member-based organisations and improving skills in the sector. 25 members will represent every region of Africa, especially since it’s estimated that more than 700 associations operate on the continent.

The CTICC announced in August that CEO Julie-May Ellingson was the first ever African representative to be voted onto the board of the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC). “In a highly competitive global market we need to think differently with collaboration being the key to success,” she said.

Going Green with GustoThere’s been a strong trend towards greening events and exhibitions in 2014, which continued into 2015 and will, no doubt, play an increasingly important role in the industry. From a stand-building perspective, there’s been an increase in the use of wood rather than aluminium

systems, as well as a greater use of fabric on exhibition stands, says Hawes. “We have been involved in developing a variety of green product offerings. For example, we can now offer LED lighting for shell scheme projects.” The fabic shell scheme is fast-becoming a popular and affordable alternative to conventional options. SSQ Exhibitions’ Laurette Sibiya adds that they are “seeing a gradual move or shift from green dominant stand design to more of a collaboration between green and contemporary. We’re also seeing an increased use of abstract and creative furniture and custom stand elements.”

Hotel Verde scooped up a number of awards this year for their green building design, the most pretigious

being a second Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum Green Building Certification by the US Green Building Council – the first hotel globally to achieve a double certification.

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is constantly pushing the industry to greener pastures, through education, awards and awareness programmes, as well as the development of guidelines. In 2015 the Forum has been developing a set of minimum standards for responsible events. “The reality is that each of the different role players, from organisers and exhibitors through to client and visitor, each play an important role and can each contribute towards the overall success of a sustainable event,” the EGF explains.

It has been very encouraging to see MICE development in various African countries during the past few years. New convention centres opened in Nigeria and Rwanda and a few leading South African incentive houses even opened offices in these regions.

Event Greening Forum founding members © Event Greening Forum

We need to be more mindful of our environment in 2016 © Event Greening Forum

World Travel Market Africa 2015


The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) held their Global Conference in late October, where seven companies were recognised at the Crystal Awards – two of which were South African: Dragonfly, awarded for Excellence in Incentive Travel – Africa/Middle East, and Walthers DBS, who took home the award for Most Impactful Effort Toward Corporate Social Responsibility in an Incentive Programme. SITE also announced their 2016 International Board of Directors, with Rajeev Kohli as the first SITE Board President from Asia, and Aoife Delaney as President-elect.

“It has been very encouraging to see MICE development in various African countries during the past few years. New convention centres opened in Nigeria and Rwanda and a few leading South African incentive houses even opened offices in these regions. Zambia has done really well in recent times, and Zimbabwe has been making a marked effort in encouraging MICE business by creating hosted buyer programmes around relevant expos,” shared Tes Proos, SITE President Southern Africa and Owner of Crystal Events & Incentives.

Association executives across the continent have come together to form the African Society of Association Executives, which will launch at the upcoming Meetings Africa show. It is aimed at raising the profile of member-based organisations and improving skills in the sector. 25 members will represent every region of Africa, especially since it’s estimated that more than 700 associations operate on the continent.

The CTICC announced in August that CEO Julie-May Ellingson was the first ever African representative to be voted onto the board of the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC). “In a highly competitive global market we need to think differently with collaboration being the key to success,” she said.

Going Green with GustoThere’s been a strong trend towards greening events and exhibitions in 2014, which continued into 2015 and will, no doubt, play an increasingly important role in the industry. From a stand-building perspective, there’s been an increase in the use of wood rather than aluminium

systems, as well as a greater use of fabric on exhibition stands, says Hawes. “We have been involved in developing a variety of green product offerings. For example, we can now offer LED lighting for shell scheme projects.” The fabic shell scheme is fast-becoming a popular and affordable alternative to conventional options. SSQ Exhibitions’ Laurette Sibiya adds that they are “seeing a gradual move or shift from green dominant stand design to more of a collaboration between green and contemporary. We’re also seeing an increased use of abstract and creative furniture and custom stand elements.”

Hotel Verde scooped up a number of awards this year for their green building design, the most pretigious

being a second Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum Green Building Certification by the US Green Building Council – the first hotel globally to achieve a double certification.

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) is constantly pushing the industry to greener pastures, through education, awards and awareness programmes, as well as the development of guidelines. In 2015 the Forum has been developing a set of minimum standards for responsible events. “The reality is that each of the different role players, from organisers and exhibitors through to client and visitor, each play an important role and can each contribute towards the overall success of a sustainable event,” the EGF explains.

It has been very encouraging to see MICE development in various African countries during the past few years. New convention centres opened in Nigeria and Rwanda and a few leading South African incentive houses even opened offices in these regions.

Event Greening Forum founding members © Event Greening Forum

We need to be more mindful of our environment in 2016 © Event Greening Forum

World Travel Market Africa 2015

services using the traditional PCO for certain services that require advanced skills,” he explains. “I think 2016 is going to be a very tough trading year and business as normal is not going to work. Association budgets are very tight and it is only going to add more pressure on congresses and events. Government is cutting back on spending specifically when it comes to travel.”

Meanwhile, speaking at ibtm world in Barcelona this November, Minister Derek Hanekom outlined South Africa’s promising outlook for the future. The South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) has secured 163 bids for the country between 2016 and 2020 from diverse industry sectors. Collectively they are expected to bring over 150 000 delegates to the country, and contribute approximately R3.1-billion to the economy. “The potential for Africa for the business-events industry is exponential,” he said, “The tide has turned; we can see that our growth opportunities are now within the African market. There are 770 registered African associations on the ICCA database. 178 of these are based in South Africa and 592 on the rest of the continent and 218 regional conferences were registered on the continent in 2014 resulting in 610 events over the last five years.”

Expo Centre’s Craig Newman has a positive outlook for the twelve months ahead: “I believe that international exhibitions and events companies will continue to look at new opportunities and partnerships here, having recognised the growth potential of the African market. Those companies that are looking to alternative markets to grow their income, companies, their footprint and their revenue should only be looking in the direction of Africa.”


Innovation and growth in the IndustryTourism took a knock with the Ebola outbreak in West Africa impacting travel to the entire continent. We have, however, seen a silver lining with stronger marketing and education around the subject – and the situation has mostly cleared up. Local businesses were also affected by the visa regulations introduced last year, with Tsogo Sun reporting a dip in demand as a result. According to September figures from ForwardKeys, a travel data intelligence company, international arrivals declined by 6.8% between September 2014 and May 2015. The Inter-Ministerial Committee is now handling the situation and has put interim changes in place to support tourism despite visa issues.

In the conferencing and exhibition sectors, a number of new and refurbished venues have become operational, with some opening their doors in the new year. These include Century City Conference Centre, Aquila, Lanzerac, Rustenburg International Convention

Centre and Tshwane International Convention Centre. South Africa has also been moving towards creating better accessibility for people with disabilities.

The digital world has taken the continent by force. This was apparent simply in the sheer size and interest in telecommunications and broadcast sectors at AfricaCom this November. Many local companies have joined the worldwide web – or have revamped their digital offerings to appeal to a greater, younger and more tech-savvy audience. Eventing apps and event technology have also seen a marked increase in innovation, with parts of South Africa launching free wifi pilot programmes. As ICCA President Freysen-Pretorius said in a recent letter to members, “the communication has become constant, and the communities are virtual as well as face-to-face”.

A Peek At 2016SAACI CEO Liebetrau says we can expect a challenging year ahead. “Corporates are shifting to an in-house model, or splitting up

Those companies that are looking to alternative markets to grow their income, companies, their footprint and their revenue should only be looking in the direction of Africa.

Century City Conference Centre will open in early 2016 © Rabie Properties

Aquila upgraded its facilities this year © Aquila Game Reserve

20 SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism for South Africa outlined how South Africa, as a world-class business events destination,

will respond to the next decade in the face of rising interest in the African continent.

Speaking at ibtm world in Barcelona, Minister Hanekom outlined how South Africa hosted 124 international association conferences in 2014 alone which attracted just under 70 000 industry professionals. Of these 124 conferences, 81% were international rotating events. He also reminded all that the South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) has only been in existence for three years.

Looking to the future, SANCB has secured 163 bids for South Africa between 2016 and 2020, from industry sectors as diverse as mining, health and agriculture. Collectively they are expected to bring over 150,000 delegates to South Africa and contribute approximately R3.1billion to the economy.

“The potential of Africa for the MICE industry is exponential. The tide has turned, we can see that our growth opportunities are now also within the African market. There are 770 registered African Associations on the ICCA database. 178 of these are based in South Africa and 592 on the rest of the continent and 218 regional conferences were registered on the continent in 2014 resulting in 610 events over the last five years. South Africa only hosted 63 of these events in the past 5 years,” said Minister Hanekom.

The first African Association Society of Executives, which was formed this year, will hold its first AGM at Meetings

Africa 2016, SANCB’s signature business events trade shows held annually in February at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Other new developments include identifying and collaborating with a key strategic partner to oversee the management of the tradeshow going forward.

The Minister also announced the SANCB is most excited that the European Cities Marketing (ECM) programme is coming to South Africa. This will be the first time that this initiative takes place in South Africa just ahead of the 2016 edition of Meetings Africa.

Speaking at the press conference, alongside Minister Hanekom, ECM President Ignasi de Delàs, said, “We are really thrilled to have our first ECM Academy organised in South Africa. It’s a new landmark in ECM development to host the derived version of our successful ECM Summer School. The ECM Academy is a tailor-made course for partner organisations outside Europe. We will do our maximum to guarantee the success of the ECM Academy in Johannesburg by maintaining the highest

standard of course content, recruiting the best speakers, and giving the latest examples showcasing the most up-to-date trends in the Meetings Industry.”

Hanekom also outlined how the Government is helping small businesses in the tourism sector by including them in shows like ibtm world.

“We have invited 4 of these enterprises with us here to exhibit at ibtm world this year – it’s an important trade show and gives them access to an international business platform,” added Minister Hanekom.

The South African National Government supports over 1.4 million jobs and investment continues in its climate change research and management of ocean resources as well as science and technology, minerals and gas exploration.

Summing up, Minister Hanekom said: “South Africa offer the business events industry excellent value for money, deliver authentic, memorable and enriching experiences in one of the most captivating, safest and beautiful countries that I am proud to call my home.”

DEREK HANEKOM OUTLINES NEXT BUSINESS-EVENTS INDUSTRY DECADE

The potential of Africa for the MICE industry is exponential. The tide has turned, we can see that our growth opportunities are now also within the African market. Derek Hanekom at ibtm world Barcelona.

Courtesy of ibtm world

PREPARING FOR INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the

Part 2 of 6

© C

ourtesy of Durban IC

C

Site Inspection Support

Site inspections are a means to

showcase the elements included

in the destination’s bid. Site

inspections are part of the SANCB’s

service offering. The South Africa

National Convention Bureau (the

SANCB) in conjunction with the

city and province convention

bureaux organises and facilitates

site inspections to assist Association

Heads with business-event decision

making, and introduce them to the

event professionals that will bring

their meeting, conference, event or

incentive to life.

The SANCB will invite key decision

makers to view options to help

confirm the conference venues and

pre and post-show opportunities.

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the Part 2 of 6

Site Inspections are a crucial part of the

decision-making process for business

events. The venue must be conveniently

situated close to transport routes and

important amenities, and must boast the

facilities and luxuries that befit a business

traveller and conference delegate.

The venue must be secure and attractive,

with state-of-the-art infrastructure and

technology, as well as excellent cuisine

and a wide-range of culinary and

beverage options.

Site Inspections also serve to reinforce

positive aspects of hosting a conference

in South Africa, and dispel negative

preconceived notions.

These positive aspects are:• South Africa is a cost-effective

destination with attractive

exchange rates

• Reassurance that South Africa is a

world-class destination

South Africa boasts myriad purpose built venues that cater for groups of up to tens of thousands. Some of the biggest and most well-known are:• Sandton Convention Centre (Gauteng)

• Cape Town International Convention

Centre (Western Cape Province)

• Expo Centre Johannesburg (Gauteng)

• Century City Conference Centre

(Western Cape Province)

• Sun City (North West Province)

• Durban International Convention

Centre.

• CSIR International Convention Centre

(Gauteng Province)

• Tshwane Events Centre (Gauteng

Province)

• East London International Convention

Centre (Eastern Cape Province)

• Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre

(Kimberley, Northern Cape)

Case Study: UIA 2014

The International Union of Architects

held their 15th World Congress in Durban

in 2014. UIA 2014 brought architects

from around the world to debate their

common concerns and interests – through

an unashamedly African lens. African

knowledge, African challenges and African

opportunities thus entered into a dialogue

with the world.

UIA 2014 commissioned the support of

the SANCB and the Durban KZN Convention

Bureau in preparation for the 2014 event.

Airlines, hotels, and the relevant

government offices were briefed timeously

in order to co-ordinate an impactful and

successful site inspection. Durban KZN

Convention Bureau handled the complex

logistics, because of the bureau’s extensive

experience in planning and rolling out high-

profile visits. The planning committee of

the International Union of Architects were

treated to the best that South Africa has to

offer, which led to increased confidence in

Durban as a worthy host city.

Karen Eicker, UIA 2014 Commissary

General, said that “Through our conference

• Delivery of world-class services and

experiences that are on time and bring

the WOW factor

• South Africa is a secure and

harmonious nation

• The opportunity to leave a lasting

impression

• Political / Economic stability

• South Africa is an innovative and

advanced nation

• The South African people are warm,

welcoming and professional

Furthermore, well-coordinated Site

Inspections give decision makers key

insights into the myriad venues available

in the chosen city. This allows decision

makers to make their choices based on the

facilities, location and incentive options

that best suit the conference attendees.

Getting the most out of your Site Inspection

It is essential to ask pertinent questions

so that the venues, hotels, and incentive

programmes add the utmost value to your

delegates. For instance:

Venue

• Are the reception staff professional and friendly?

• Is the entrance and lobby clean and well-maintained?

• Is there enough reception staff to handle a group?

• Is the registration desk easy to find?

• Are there ATMs, restaurants and shops selling essentials?

• Is there Wi-Fi? Is it free?• What are the guarantee and

deposit rules?• Do the meeting rooms and

conference halls allow for disabled access?

• Are there smoke detectors and fire escapes?

• What is the refund policy for cancellations?

• Are there plans for refurbishment?• Can rooms be arranged in the

configurations required?• Are there breakaway rooms?• Is the quality of food and

beverages sufficient?

Location

How far is the venue from the airport?

Is it close to major transport routes?

Is it close to shopping and nightlife?

Is there a shuttle service?

Site Inspection Support

Site inspections are a means to

showcase the elements included

in the destination’s bid. Site

inspections are part of the SANCB’s

service offering. The South Africa

National Convention Bureau (the

SANCB) in conjunction with the

city and province convention

bureaux organises and facilitates

site inspections to assist Association

Heads with business-event decision

making, and introduce them to the

event professionals that will bring

their meeting, conference, event or

incentive to life.

The SANCB will invite key decision

makers to view options to help

confirm the conference venues and

pre and post-show opportunities.

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL CONVENTION BUREAU in partnership with the Part 2 of 6

Site Inspections are a crucial part of the

decision-making process for business

events. The venue must be conveniently

situated close to transport routes and

important amenities, and must boast the

facilities and luxuries that befit a business

traveller and conference delegate.

The venue must be secure and attractive,

with state-of-the-art infrastructure and

technology, as well as excellent cuisine

and a wide-range of culinary and

beverage options.

Site Inspections also serve to reinforce

positive aspects of hosting a conference

in South Africa, and dispel negative

preconceived notions.

These positive aspects are:• South Africa is a cost-effective

destination with attractive

exchange rates

• Reassurance that South Africa is a

world-class destination

South Africa boasts myriad purpose built venues that cater for groups of up to tens of thousands. Some of the biggest and most well-known are:• Sandton Convention Centre (Gauteng)

• Cape Town International Convention

Centre (Western Cape Province)

• Expo Centre Johannesburg (Gauteng)

• Century City Conference Centre

(Western Cape Province)

• Sun City (North West Province)

• Durban International Convention

Centre.

• CSIR International Convention Centre

(Gauteng Province)

• Tshwane Events Centre (Gauteng

Province)

• East London International Convention

Centre (Eastern Cape Province)

• Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre

(Kimberley, Northern Cape)

Case Study: UIA 2014

The International Union of Architects

held their 15th World Congress in Durban

in 2014. UIA 2014 brought architects

from around the world to debate their

common concerns and interests – through

an unashamedly African lens. African

knowledge, African challenges and African

opportunities thus entered into a dialogue

with the world.

UIA 2014 commissioned the support of

the SANCB and the Durban KZN Convention

Bureau in preparation for the 2014 event.

Airlines, hotels, and the relevant

government offices were briefed timeously

in order to co-ordinate an impactful and

successful site inspection. Durban KZN

Convention Bureau handled the complex

logistics, because of the bureau’s extensive

experience in planning and rolling out high-

profile visits. The planning committee of

the International Union of Architects were

treated to the best that South Africa has to

offer, which led to increased confidence in

Durban as a worthy host city.

Karen Eicker, UIA 2014 Commissary

General, said that “Through our conference

• Delivery of world-class services and

experiences that are on time and bring

the WOW factor

• South Africa is a secure and

harmonious nation

• The opportunity to leave a lasting

impression

• Political / Economic stability

• South Africa is an innovative and

advanced nation

• The South African people are warm,

welcoming and professional

Furthermore, well-coordinated Site

Inspections give decision makers key

insights into the myriad venues available

in the chosen city. This allows decision

makers to make their choices based on the

facilities, location and incentive options

that best suit the conference attendees.

Getting the most out of your Site Inspection

It is essential to ask pertinent questions

so that the venues, hotels, and incentive

programmes add the utmost value to your

delegates. For instance:

Venue

• Are the reception staff professional and friendly?

• Is the entrance and lobby clean and well-maintained?

• Is there enough reception staff to handle a group?

• Is the registration desk easy to find?

• Are there ATMs, restaurants and shops selling essentials?

• Is there Wi-Fi? Is it free?• What are the guarantee and

deposit rules?• Do the meeting rooms and

conference halls allow for disabled access?

• Are there smoke detectors and fire escapes?

• What is the refund policy for cancellations?

• Are there plans for refurbishment?• Can rooms be arranged in the

configurations required?• Are there breakaway rooms?• Is the quality of food and

beverages sufficient?

Location

How far is the venue from the airport?

Is it close to major transport routes?

Is it close to shopping and nightlife?

Is there a shuttle service?

For destination expertise and convention planning support, contact the South Africa National Convention Bureau.T: +27 (0)11 895 3000 E: [email protected] W: www.businessevents.southafrica.net

SANCB Support Services

DELEGATE / CONSUMER FOCUSED

SANCB SUPPORT SERVICES

BIDDING SUPPORT• Bid Strategy• Bid Document• Lobbying• Bid Promotion• Bid Presentations

SITE INSPECTION SUPPORT• Bidding Site

inspection• Convention

Planning Site Inspections

CONVENTION PLANNING SUPPORT• Planning support• Venue and supplier

recommendations Final decision with client

DELEGATE BOOSTING SUPPORT• Marketing support

to promote the SA conference

• Delegate attendance promotion

ON SITE SERVICES• Support toward

on site elements of the event

ORGANISER / KEY DECISION MAKER FOCUSED

© C

ourtesy of Durban IC

C

26 FNB CONFERENCE CENTRE www.theevent.co.za

FNB: A PRESTIGIOUS CONFERENCING EXPERIENCE

Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg’s premier business district, the FNB Conference Centre is surrounded

by beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a tranquil and secure experience in the busy metropolis.

Ideally located, the conference centre allows easy access to the Gautrain station, Johannesburg Stock Exchange, global banking institutions and some of Africa’s most renowned tourism destinations such as Sandton City and the Nelson Mandela Square, with a string of some of the finest dining and entertainment spots. Shuttle services to any of these destinations are available on request.

Wifi is available throughout the conference centre and complimentary parking is provided on premises.

Distinguished FacilitiesThe facility has a 140-seater auditorium with access to an outdoor patio and the gardens, 17 conference rooms and three executive boardrooms, each fully equipped with AV and presentation technologies. Spacious public lounge areas are also available for networking sessions between meetings.

Depending on the seating style, our conference rooms comfortably seat up to 170 delegates, whilst the boardrooms

comprise the very royal uBukhosi Suite seating 20 people, the Executive Boardroom that seats 30 people and our third boardroom, the Executive Dining Room seating 20 people. Three Syndicate rooms seating five – eight people respectively are available and perfectly suitable for interviews and break away sessions.

Both the uBukhosi and the Executive Boardroom are suitable for private dining functions with the uBukhosi further offering a personalised butler service and a private lounge.

Designed ExcellenceThe FNB Conference Centre team believe that each experience should be personal and, as such, tailor each event to suit specific needs. Our in-house events management team can assist with décor, entertainment, gifts and special flower arrangements.

To cater for active guests as well as supply facilities for adventurous team- building events, we have a swimming pool and tennis and volleyball courts.

We pride ourselves in consistent efficiency and high levels of service. Our service offerings are not only flexible and innovative, but also competitive in pricing.

Stay in StyleThe award-winning building architecture

offers 120 contemporary en-suite rooms, fully equipped with coffee stations, a fridge, DSTV and hair dryers for modern convenience. For guests seeking longer term accommodation, three fully furnished self-catering apartments are available, each with their own private garden.

Free, secure parking is available for all our guests. We offer daily laundry services and Room Service is available for lunch and supper.

Sophisticated DiningOur restaurant team is passionate about providing our signature high levels of service and flexibility. Unique delicious menus are crafted for each event, depending on our clients’ exact needs and dietary preferences, including vegan and vegetarian.

Kosher and Halaal requirements do not get prepared on premises. Our catering team orders this through external providers and require a 48-hour period notice to have the meals prepared on time.

A popular venue for post-event drinks and snacks or for hosting braais and outdoor events is the Liquid Lounge bar next to the pool.

Indulge in comfort and style. Make the FNB Conference Centre your destination for your next event: FNB Conference Centre114 Grayston Drive, Sandown, SandtonTel: +27 87 032 8000 / +27 11 269 8000www.fnbconferencecentre.co.za

www.theevent.co.za 27EVENT GREENING FORUM

Meetings Africa is regarded as one of the most sustainable shows in the exhibition industry and it continues

to build on its greening strategies each year. With Meetings Africa 2016 fast-approaching, the Event Greening Forum thought it would be worthwhile to highlight a few of the successful initiatives that have been implemented at the show.

Recycling ProgrammeIn 2013, Futurelink, a small local business, was brought on board at Meetings Africa to manage the waste separation, along with the cleaning of the show. A three-bin system was implemented throughout the venue and waste was separated back-of-house into clear plastic bags which were weighed before they were taken down to Sandton Convention Centre’s waste management area.

In 2015, Meetings Africa partnered with Earth Probiotic Recycling Solutions to take the food waste management a step further. This year they were able to divert 29% of the food waste from landfill sites which was up from the 12% in 2014.

Green Stand and Hotel AwardsFor the last three years, Meetings Africa

has hosted the Green Stand Awards, which recognise exhibitors who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through their exhibition stand design and management. In preparation for the show, exhibitors are invited to attend a free work-shop where they are provided with informa-tion and ‘how-to’ tips to ensure that the execution of their stands is sustainable. In 2015 the Meetings Africa team introduced the Green Hotel Award to recognise the official Meetings Africa hotels that are committed to supporting sustainable practices.

Energy ConsumptionSouth Africa’s coal energy contributes significantly to the greenhouse gas emissions in our country. Therefore Meetings Africa encourages energy efficiency by promoting the use of energy-efficient technologies (LED lights and AV equipment) and the responsible use of electricity. Exhibitors are encouraged to switch off the power to their stands at the end of the day. Since 2011, the Meetings Africa team has purchased renewable energy to power the show. This year, the renewable energy for the event was sourced from the Friedenheim Micro Hydro Plant in Mpumalanga.

Water ConsumptionWater dispensers are provided throughout the venue for exhibitors and visitors to use. This year, the Meetings Africa team discouraged the consumption of bottled water by imposing a R5 levy on the sale of bottled water. This initiative was a first for Meetings Africa. Thirty-eight bottles of water were sold during the event, raising R190 which was donated to the tree purchasing programme for offsetting the environmental impact of the event.

New to Meetings Africa 2016The current worldwide movement towards sustainability means that the event industry needs to start taking action. With the draft version of the Event Industry Sustainability Minimum Standards completed, the Meetings Africa team is excited to be able to benchmark the 2016 show against these new standards.

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES AT MEETINGS AFRICA

www.theevent.co.za 27EVENT GREENING FORUM

Meetings Africa is regarded as one of the most sustainable shows in the exhibition industry and it continues

to build on its greening strategies each year. With Meetings Africa 2016 fast-approaching, the Event Greening Forum thought it would be worthwhile to highlight a few of the successful initiatives that have been implemented at the show.

Recycling ProgrammeIn 2013, Futurelink, a small local business, was brought on board at Meetings Africa to manage the waste separation, along with the cleaning of the show. A three-bin system was implemented throughout the venue and waste was separated back-of-house into clear plastic bags which were weighed before they were taken down to Sandton Convention Centre’s waste management area.

In 2015, Meetings Africa partnered with Earth Probiotic Recycling Solutions to take the food waste management a step further. This year they were able to divert 29% of the food waste from landfill sites which was up from the 12% in 2014.

Green Stand and Hotel AwardsFor the last three years, Meetings Africa

has hosted the Green Stand Awards, which recognise exhibitors who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through their exhibition stand design and management. In preparation for the show, exhibitors are invited to attend a free work-shop where they are provided with informa-tion and ‘how-to’ tips to ensure that the execution of their stands is sustainable. In 2015 the Meetings Africa team introduced the Green Hotel Award to recognise the official Meetings Africa hotels that are committed to supporting sustainable practices.

Energy ConsumptionSouth Africa’s coal energy contributes significantly to the greenhouse gas emissions in our country. Therefore Meetings Africa encourages energy efficiency by promoting the use of energy-efficient technologies (LED lights and AV equipment) and the responsible use of electricity. Exhibitors are encouraged to switch off the power to their stands at the end of the day. Since 2011, the Meetings Africa team has purchased renewable energy to power the show. This year, the renewable energy for the event was sourced from the Friedenheim Micro Hydro Plant in Mpumalanga.

Water ConsumptionWater dispensers are provided throughout the venue for exhibitors and visitors to use. This year, the Meetings Africa team discouraged the consumption of bottled water by imposing a R5 levy on the sale of bottled water. This initiative was a first for Meetings Africa. Thirty-eight bottles of water were sold during the event, raising R190 which was donated to the tree purchasing programme for offsetting the environmental impact of the event.

New to Meetings Africa 2016The current worldwide movement towards sustainability means that the event industry needs to start taking action. With the draft version of the Event Industry Sustainability Minimum Standards completed, the Meetings Africa team is excited to be able to benchmark the 2016 show against these new standards.

SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES AT MEETINGS AFRICA

10 ICONIC ATTRACTIONSImogen Campbell set out to discover South Africa’s most iconic attractions and uncover the captivating hidden gems.

Table Mountain


Table Mountain Table Mountain is the icon synonymous with Cape Town, situated on a national park and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This flat-topped mountain has been named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. At 1 086 metres high, it presents the prospect to take a cable-car ride or hike to the top. Whilst ascending in the cable car, one is captivated by panoramic views of the resplendent city and ocean from the rotating floors and colossal windows. Refreshments can be purchased at the self-service restaurant whilst appreciating the scenery at the top. It hosts approximately 800 000 visitors annually.

Robben Island This prison-island is about 9km from Cape Town, where political prisoners during the Apartheid era were incarcerated. It is infamous for imprisoning the revered icon, Nelson Mandela, who served 18 years of his sentence for his role in the struggle for liberation. Emotive three-and-half hour tours - beginning with a ferry ride departing from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront - are undertaken daily of

this maximum-security prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are usually led by a former political prisoner with first-hand knowledge of the conditions. The highlight of the tour is actually viewing Mandela’s cell, as well as quarries dug out by inmates and other relics illustrating their plight.

Kruger National ParkThe Kruger National Park, located in Limpopo Province, is the country’s top game reserve and one the main tourist attractions in South Africa. The park boasts the Big Five, cheetahs, giraffes and more. Kruger is a self-drive destination, but also has some guided tours. Its infrastructure is very good and has accommodation options ranging from tented camps to luxury lodges. One will be able to observe 336 types of trees, 49 kinds of fish, 34 types of amphibians, 114 different reptiles, 507 species of birds and 147 kinds of mammals.

Durban’s Golden Mile and uShaka Marine World Durban Beachfront on the warm Indian Ocean, also known as the Golden Mile, extends from North Beach, starting from

Blue Lagoon, to Addington on South Beach. The balmy weather is a colossal attraction for tourists who flock to swim, surf and tan on the beach. The traditional rickshaw ride is requisite and visitors can shop or enjoy a fiery curry that Durban is renowned for. Located on Addington Beach is the largest aquatic theme park in Africa, uShaka Marine World. Amongst all it has to offer is the “Wet ‘n Wild”, the highest slide in the Southern Hemisphere, which promises an aqua adrenaline rush for the adventure junkie.

Cradle of Humankind This is the site where it is believed our earliest ancestors evolved. Vested with much pride, it is also a World Heritage Site, an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Explore Sterkfontein Caves where hominid and animal fossils were found, and are owned by the University of the Witwatersrand. Maropeng means “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana and it aptly illustrates this meaning by its exhibitions housed in the entrance, the Tumulus, a burial mound. The complex permits visitors to view exhibits of the various stages of Earth’s

Soweto © SA Tourism

Soweto and Township Tours Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, two of South Africa’s Nobel Prize laureates once lived on Vilakazi Street, Soweto. The latter still owns a home there and the former Mandela residence was converted to the Mandela Family Museum. The Vilakazi Street precinct is about a kilometre long, in the shape of a triangle, historically important due to the anti-apartheid icons representative of the struggle narrative and also as the site of the student uprisings of 1976; where student Hector Pietersen was killed. Visitors can also sample some local food and interact with the residents.

Big Hole in Kimberley Amazingly, the world’s largest hand-dug excavation site, the Big Hole, is situated in the centre of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. It was mined to approximately 800 metres and formerly had yielded 2.7 tons of diamonds. The mine closed in 1914. It is now a water-filled crater, viewed from a viewing deck that is part of the Open Mine Museum. The museum has many artefacts and a wide selection of original houses, offices, and shops from the heyday of the mine relocated from earlier sites. The diamond mining in Kimberley meant that it was initially the industrial hub in South Africa, in what had hitherto been an agrarian society. The city also housed South Africa’s first stock exchange and was the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to install electric street lighting.

formation on an underground boat. The most famous among the fossils are the skull ‘Mrs. Ples’ and the skeleton ‘Little Foot’. In September this year, a new species Homo Naledi, was unveiled at Maropeng.

The Palace of the Lost City The Palace of the Lost City is a premier hotel, built in a crater of an extinct volcano in the action-packed Sun City luxury resort complex. It comprises casinos, restaurants and other entertainment options. Two hours from Johannesburg, this sophisticated playground can be accessed by car or the new aerial route via Pilansberg Airport. The Palace was inspired by a lost African kingdom fantasy. It is one of the leading hotels of the world and has accommodated celebrities galore. The Gary Player Golf Course is host to the Nedbank Golf Challenge. It is also known for the Waves water park and the crocodile sanctuary housing 7 000 crocs.

Cango Caves outside Oudtshoorn The Caves are about 30km outside of Oudtshoorn - the underground spectacle of the Klein Karoo. The caves comprise of dripstone caverns and formations and offer the tourist a choice of standard or adventure tours. The caves are spread over 4km but the standard tour is only 1.2km long. The standard tour includes the Cleopatra’s Needle and its completion is the beginning of the adventure tour. This tour takes about half hour to complete and involves moving through a confined space called the chimney. A woman held up a tour for hours when she became stuck in 2007. A claustrophobic facet of the adventure tour is reached when attempting to access the Devils’ Chimney, when one needs to crawl through the Tunnel of Love, a 74cm passageway, which constricts to 30cm.

The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT)SALT was opened in 2005 near Sutherland - about 400km from Cape Town - in the Northern Cape. The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) is the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere. The 82-ton telescope, eleven metres in diameter, operates at 1 800 metres above sea level. Sutherland is ideal as it a small village situated in the relatively remote, semi-desert region. Its emptiness is ideal for astronomical observations. The Southern Hemisphere sees more sky than the Northern Hemisphere and is therefore ideal.


Cango Caves © SA Tourism

Two hours from Johannesburg, this sophisticated playground can be accessed by car or the new aerial route via Pilansberg Airport. The Palace is one of the leading hotels of the world.

Soweto and Township Tours Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, two of South Africa’s Nobel Prize laureates once lived on Vilakazi Street, Soweto. The latter still owns a home there and the former Mandela residence was converted to the Mandela Family Museum. The Vilakazi Street precinct is about a kilometre long, in the shape of a triangle, historically important due to the anti-apartheid icons representative of the struggle narrative and also as the site of the student uprisings of 1976; where student Hector Pietersen was killed. Visitors can also sample some local food and interact with the residents.

Big Hole in Kimberley Amazingly, the world’s largest hand-dug excavation site, the Big Hole, is situated in the centre of Kimberley in the Northern Cape. It was mined to approximately 800 metres and formerly had yielded 2.7 tons of diamonds. The mine closed in 1914. It is now a water-filled crater, viewed from a viewing deck that is part of the Open Mine Museum. The museum has many artefacts and a wide selection of original houses, offices, and shops from the heyday of the mine relocated from earlier sites. The diamond mining in Kimberley meant that it was initially the industrial hub in South Africa, in what had hitherto been an agrarian society. The city also housed South Africa’s first stock exchange and was the first city in the Southern Hemisphere to install electric street lighting.

formation on an underground boat. The most famous among the fossils are the skull ‘Mrs. Ples’ and the skeleton ‘Little Foot’. In September this year, a new species Homo Naledi, was unveiled at Maropeng.

The Palace of the Lost City The Palace of the Lost City is a premier hotel, built in a crater of an extinct volcano in the action-packed Sun City luxury resort complex. It comprises casinos, restaurants and other entertainment options. Two hours from Johannesburg, this sophisticated playground can be accessed by car or the new aerial route via Pilansberg Airport. The Palace was inspired by a lost African kingdom fantasy. It is one of the leading hotels of the world and has accommodated celebrities galore. The Gary Player Golf Course is host to the Nedbank Golf Challenge. It is also known for the Waves water park and the crocodile sanctuary housing 7 000 crocs.

Cango Caves outside Oudtshoorn The Caves are about 30km outside of Oudtshoorn - the underground spectacle of the Klein Karoo. The caves comprise of dripstone caverns and formations and offer the tourist a choice of standard or adventure tours. The caves are spread over 4km but the standard tour is only 1.2km long. The standard tour includes the Cleopatra’s Needle and its completion is the beginning of the adventure tour. This tour takes about half hour to complete and involves moving through a confined space called the chimney. A woman held up a tour for hours when she became stuck in 2007. A claustrophobic facet of the adventure tour is reached when attempting to access the Devils’ Chimney, when one needs to crawl through the Tunnel of Love, a 74cm passageway, which constricts to 30cm.

The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT)SALT was opened in 2005 near Sutherland - about 400km from Cape Town - in the Northern Cape. The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) is the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere. The 82-ton telescope, eleven metres in diameter, operates at 1 800 metres above sea level. Sutherland is ideal as it a small village situated in the relatively remote, semi-desert region. Its emptiness is ideal for astronomical observations. The Southern Hemisphere sees more sky than the Northern Hemisphere and is therefore ideal.


Cango Caves © SA Tourism

Two hours from Johannesburg, this sophisticated playground can be accessed by car or the new aerial route via Pilansberg Airport. The Palace is one of the leading hotels of the world.


Clarens Clarens, sometimes described as the Jewel of the Free State, is a village nestling at the foot of the Maluti Mountains. It is located centrally for visitors from Johannesburg, Durban and Bloemfontein (300km from each of these cities) and makes an ideal weekend getaway for urban visitors seeking some solace and serenity. It is en-route to the popular Golden Gate National Park, picturesque, and presents an opportunity for fly fishing, a hike and some abseiling. If you like craft beers then Clarens Brewery is an interesting stop. It even has a Dinosaur Tour and recently fossils of a dino larger than a T-Rex was discovered nearby. Its village square is a hive of activity with various galleries, eateries and gift shops. Golf lovers can also play a round at the Clarens Golf Club.

Baobab in Limpopo The Sunland ‘Big Baobab’ is situated on a mango farm in Modjadjiskloof in Limpopo Province. It is an internationally renowned baobab tree that even featured in the Wall Street Journal. Normally, when these trees reach a thousand years old, they hollow out in the middle. The Sunlands Baobab has had its hollows filled with a gem of a little bar, indeed an unusual and quite remote place to stop for a drink. The bar has been serving drinks since 1933.

Shamwari Volunteerism The Shamwari Conservation Experience is an opportunity to get behind-the-scenes and involved with the conservation efforts of a team recognised globally for their conservation at the renowned Shamwari Game Reserve. It appeals to guests from the adventure, corporate, sabbatical, volunteer and gap-year travel sectors. Their experience is focused on wildlife, conservation and ecology. They are given light theoretical subject matter and they can participate in tasks and projects that include restoration and rehabilitation of reserve landscapes, alien plant control, general reserve maintenance and animal rehabilitation. Guests will experience many facets of caring for animals; although contact with the animals is limited and work can be challenging.

Tsitsikamma ZiplineZiplining is when a rider is pulled along by gravity on a piece of equipment consisting of cable joined between points of different elevation, as well as a pulley, harness and a bar for attaching a rider. One is able to do this across the Kuils River in the Tsitsikamma region, 8km from the Storms River Bridge. Of the eight slides, the longest is 211m in length and the courageous can zip over the gorge 50m above the water. The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour® takes place in the indigenous rainforest and many of its platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees.

Maboneng Precinct Maboneng means ‘place of light’ and is located in the eastern part of Johannesburg’s former city centre. Providing light and modernity, this artsy gentrified area serves to uplift the surrounds. Main Street Life, a transformed 1970s industrial building’s top floor is taken up by the 12 Decades Johannesburg Art Hotel. Each bespoke room represents one of the past 12 decades of Johannesburg’s history. It also includes apartments, a rooftop events venue and retail stores. The precinct’s forerunner development, Arts on Main, combines creative office spaces with studios galleries and shops.

BeaverlacFor those relishing an outdoor adventure at a camp site with a fire, then Beaverlac near Porterville is the place. It is approximately two hours’ drive from Cape Town, on the Grootfontein farm, a natural heritage site. Owned by the Olivier brothers, it adjoins the Groot Winterhoek Mountain Catchment Area and the Cederberg Leopard Conservation Area. It is a place to unwind surrounded by fynbos, waterfalls and pools. An idyllic family spot to hike, swim and relax; even pets are welcome. Cottages are available if camping is not quite your thing. It also has mountain bike trails.. There is also a shop onsite, catering to basic needs.

TOP 10 HIDDEN GEMSLesedi Cultural village Clarens © Ian van Straaten


Clarens Clarens, sometimes described as the Jewel of the Free State, is a village nestling at the foot of the Maluti Mountains. It is located centrally for visitors from Johannesburg, Durban and Bloemfontein (300km from each of these cities) and makes an ideal weekend getaway for urban visitors seeking some solace and serenity. It is en-route to the popular Golden Gate National Park, picturesque, and presents an opportunity for fly fishing, a hike and some abseiling. If you like craft beers then Clarens Brewery is an interesting stop. It even has a Dinosaur Tour and recently fossils of a dino larger than a T-Rex was discovered nearby. Its village square is a hive of activity with various galleries, eateries and gift shops. Golf lovers can also play a round at the Clarens Golf Club.

Baobab in Limpopo The Sunland ‘Big Baobab’ is situated on a mango farm in Modjadjiskloof in Limpopo Province. It is an internationally renowned baobab tree that even featured in the Wall Street Journal. Normally, when these trees reach a thousand years old, they hollow out in the middle. The Sunlands Baobab has had its hollows filled with a gem of a little bar, indeed an unusual and quite remote place to stop for a drink. The bar has been serving drinks since 1933.

Shamwari Volunteerism The Shamwari Conservation Experience is an opportunity to get behind-the-scenes and involved with the conservation efforts of a team recognised globally for their conservation at the renowned Shamwari Game Reserve. It appeals to guests from the adventure, corporate, sabbatical, volunteer and gap-year travel sectors. Their experience is focused on wildlife, conservation and ecology. They are given light theoretical subject matter and they can participate in tasks and projects that include restoration and rehabilitation of reserve landscapes, alien plant control, general reserve maintenance and animal rehabilitation. Guests will experience many facets of caring for animals; although contact with the animals is limited and work can be challenging.

Tsitsikamma ZiplineZiplining is when a rider is pulled along by gravity on a piece of equipment consisting of cable joined between points of different elevation, as well as a pulley, harness and a bar for attaching a rider. One is able to do this across the Kuils River in the Tsitsikamma region, 8km from the Storms River Bridge. Of the eight slides, the longest is 211m in length and the courageous can zip over the gorge 50m above the water. The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour® takes place in the indigenous rainforest and many of its platforms are built around giant Outeniqua Yellowwood trees.

Maboneng Precinct Maboneng means ‘place of light’ and is located in the eastern part of Johannesburg’s former city centre. Providing light and modernity, this artsy gentrified area serves to uplift the surrounds. Main Street Life, a transformed 1970s industrial building’s top floor is taken up by the 12 Decades Johannesburg Art Hotel. Each bespoke room represents one of the past 12 decades of Johannesburg’s history. It also includes apartments, a rooftop events venue and retail stores. The precinct’s forerunner development, Arts on Main, combines creative office spaces with studios galleries and shops.

BeaverlacFor those relishing an outdoor adventure at a camp site with a fire, then Beaverlac near Porterville is the place. It is approximately two hours’ drive from Cape Town, on the Grootfontein farm, a natural heritage site. Owned by the Olivier brothers, it adjoins the Groot Winterhoek Mountain Catchment Area and the Cederberg Leopard Conservation Area. It is a place to unwind surrounded by fynbos, waterfalls and pools. An idyllic family spot to hike, swim and relax; even pets are welcome. Cottages are available if camping is not quite your thing. It also has mountain bike trails.. There is also a shop onsite, catering to basic needs.

TOP 10 HIDDEN GEMSLesedi Cultural village Clarens © Ian van Straaten

equipped with the requisite amenities.

Further afield: Reunion IslandIf you’d like to drift slightly further afield, our Indian Ocean neighbours offer bliss a mere three hour flight away. From the moment Air Austral touches down on Reunion Island on one of their twice weekly flights out of SA, Reunion captivates the senses and the soul. With a selection of world brand-name hotels to choose from, relaxation is always close at hand.

If a coach ride climbing up the central mountain through the hillside villages isn’t enough to give you a feel for this island’s laid back, yet industrious life, then a helicopter flip up and over into the verdant valleys of tropical forests alighting on the top of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site of Salazie Caldera.Couples, families and incentive groups - none will be disappointed by a destination so tres magnifique !


whole family – both at the base and at the top. Bugatti Express, a restaurant at the top has light meals whilst the Bugatti restaurant at the base can even cater for functions. Children can enjoy the Dassie Loop walkway or play at the KidZone.

Lesedi African LodgeIn Sotho, Lesedi means light. Lesedi African Lodge is 45 minutes from Johannesburg and can be found in the Magaliesburg Hills. This multi-cultural village developed as a tourist attraction in 1995 ,and showcases tribal villages, their traditions, culture and history. There are currently five cultural villages, including the Zulus, the renowned warriors of the KwaZulu-Natal province, Xhosas, Pedi, Basotho and the Ndebele. The latter are renowned for their colourful homes and beadwork. Families live traditionally in their homesteads with visitors able to interact whilst living in nearby huts. The visitors’ huts, however, are comfortably

Mzoli’s Mzoli’s Place, situated just outside Cape Town in Gugulethu was established in 2003. At Mzoli’s the meat is the star of the show. Locals and tourists alike pack this rustic, township venue to savour the amazing meat braaied (barbecued) over the fire with their special marinade. It is endorsed by celebrities and has been frequented by famous entertainers and is renowned as live music jaunt. It also has a bar, you do, however, need to provide your own cutlery and crockery as it is functionally a butchery. The best time to go is on a Sunday. Due to long queues it is advisable to make a reservation.

Hartebees Aerial cablewayThe longest mono-cableway in Africa extends to the top of the Magaliesberg mountain range at the Hartbeespoort Dam. The ‘Harties Cableway’ proffers views of both and offers a variety of fun for the

Clarens © Ian van StraatenShamwari Volunteerism © www.shamwariconservationexperience.com Beaverlac

32 COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Take the opportunity to trek into this East African abode of the gorilla, observe the genesis of the Nile, explore

Lake Victoria - Africa’s largest lake by area - and be delighted by magnificent and exceptional experiences.

Uganda is a landlocked East African country bordered by Lake Victoria in the east and surrounded by Kenya, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania. It is twice as large as Malawi and comparable in size to the United Kingdom. Winston Churchill is attributed for naming Uganda the ‘Pearl of Africa’; tourists today visit it for gorilla safaris, notably in Bwindi Forest, chimpanzees, business events and meetings.

Getting around the city:International hire companies are based near Entebbe International Airport and

UGANDA Imogen Campbell explores the verdant landscape of this East African paradise and burgeoning business destination.

Key Venues The Kampala Serena HotelThe impressive venue comprises: The Victoria Auditorium, a multi-functional hexagonal layout facility that can host 1 500 delegates. The Nile Gallery, which also functions as an exhibition area, can accommodate a broad range of banquet and social functions.

Kopano Nokeng

Venue Theatre Classroom Banquet Cocktail

Victoria 1500 400 350 500

Achwa 168 96 80 100

Katonga 300 250 250 300

Foyer bar 70 40 50 70

Nile 130 60 50 84

Speke Resort & Conference CentreThis is a 5-star hotel with impeccable conference and meeting venues. It is situated in Munyonyo on Lake Victoria, built for the Commonwealth Conference in 2007. It offers 10 state-of-the-art conference rooms including the ballroom.

Speke Resort & Conference Centre

Venue Seating Capacity

Acacia, Ebony, Mahogany and Jacaranda 70 - 130

Speke Ballroom 250 - 1500

Royal Palm 80 - 200

Albert Hall 120 - 200

Mount Gahinga © Uganda Tourism Board

Baganda Culture © Uganda Tourism Board

www.theevent.co.za 33COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT

in the centre of Kampala. A four-wheel drive is recommended for rural areas.

Pre and post tour opportunities The gorilla trekking is, of course, a major lure to East Africa and Uganda in particular. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is a sanctuary for more than half of the remaining gorilla population. Also of tremendous interest are the tree-climbing lions to be observed at the Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha Plains. They are indigenous to the park and few other African locales, notably Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park.

Airlines and major airports

Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport is its transport hub and serviced by:

• South African Airways• Emirates• Ethiopian Airline • Turkish Airlines• Kenya Airways, • Egypt Air• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines• Qatar Airways• Fly Dubai

Population37,101,745- Source: World Factbook

Currency The official currency is the Ugandan shilling and the exchange rate against major currencies on 10 November 2015 is as follows:

Major Currencies Ugandan Shilling1 ZAR (Rand) 241.481 US dollar 3439.971 GBP 5196.471 Euro 3701.24

Climate

Rainy Season: Two rainy seasons,one during April andMay and the otherbetween Septemberand November.

It has a tropicalclimate modified byaltitude. Temperaturesvary across the countryHowever, it stillexperiences plentyof sunshine.

Besides the awe-inspiring animal viewing opportunities; visit the source of the Nile at Jinja. Bungee jumping, white-water rafting and kayaking trips down the Nile are also popular attractions. Before embarking on straddling the Equator - literally having both feet in different hemispheres - savour a taste of their Arabica coffee.

ContactUganda Tourism Board P.O. Box 7211, Kampala, Uganda.Tel: +256 (414) 342 196/7E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.visituganda.com

Hills from Air © Uganda Tourism Board

Crowned Cranes in Full Splendor © Uganda Tourism Board

34 REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Knysna is a picturesque town on the south coast in the Western Cape, situated midway between George

and Plettenberg Bay. A possible derivation of the name is from a Khoi word ‘Xthuys Xna’, meaning ‘the place where the wood is’. This is in reference to the indigenous, impenetrable forests characteristic of the world-renowned, awe-inspiring Garden Route, of which is it part.

This lush, tourist haven’s premier attraction is the Tsitsikamma National Park where one can do a myriad of activities. The quaint town is splendid for a relaxing meander, meal or souvenir shopping. The town and the surrounds also present opportunities to explore exquisite beaches, forests and cruise on the tranquil Knysna Lagoon - home to the world’s only estuarine seahorse species. It is also the undisrupted domain of the few remaining forest elephants and the Knysna Loerie, the green bird with a short bill and red wings.

KNYSNA Imogen Campbell takes a trip to this lush, picturesque sanctuary on the Garden Route.

Premier Hotel Knysna

Venue Capacities

U-Shape Schoolroom Cinema Banquet Cocktail M2

Spinnaker 100 120 220 100 200 240

Gennaker 80 60 100 80 100 160

Genoa 50 60 80 70 90 112

Jib 25 40 50 30 50 74


Venue Capacities

Classroom Theatre Bannquet

Outenique 100 125 140

Outeniqua North - Lagoon View 60 75 90

Outeniqua South - Sea View 42 50 50

Pezula Clubhouse 80 100 120

Key Venues Premier Hotel Knysna - The Mooring Conference Facilities Situated in the sensational Garden Route, it is built on the banks of the Knysna Lagoon and promises an unforgettable stay. Its capacity is as follows:

Conrad Pezula Resort & SpaThis venue offers an impeccable setting with spectacular vistas to accommodate even the most discerning taste. The capacity is as follows:

Knysna presents opportunities to explore exquisite beaches, forests and cruise on the tranquil Knysna Lagoon. © Knysna Tourism

34 REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Knysna is a picturesque town on the south coast in the Western Cape, situated midway between George

and Plettenberg Bay. A possible derivation of the name is from a Khoi word ‘Xthuys Xna’, meaning ‘the place where the wood is’. This is in reference to the indigenous, impenetrable forests characteristic of the world-renowned, awe-inspiring Garden Route, of which is it part.

This lush, tourist haven’s premier attraction is the Tsitsikamma National Park where one can do a myriad of activities. The quaint town is splendid for a relaxing meander, meal or souvenir shopping. The town and the surrounds also present opportunities to explore exquisite beaches, forests and cruise on the tranquil Knysna Lagoon - home to the world’s only estuarine seahorse species. It is also the undisrupted domain of the few remaining forest elephants and the Knysna Loerie, the green bird with a short bill and red wings.

KNYSNA Imogen Campbell takes a trip to this lush, picturesque sanctuary on the Garden Route.


Venue Capacities

U-Shape Schoolroom Cinema Banquet Cocktail M2

Spinnaker 100 120 220 100 200 240

Gennaker 80 60 100 80 100 160

Genoa 50 60 80 70 90 112

Jib 25 40 50 30 50 74


Venue Capacities

Classroom Theatre Bannquet

Outenique 100 125 140

Outeniqua North - Lagoon View 60 75 90

Outeniqua South - Sea View 42 50 50

Pezula Clubhouse 80 100 120

Key Venues Premier Hotel Knysna - The Mooring Conference Facilities Situated in the sensational Garden Route, it is built on the banks of the Knysna Lagoon and promises an unforgettable stay. Its capacity is as follows:

Conrad Pezula Resort & SpaThis venue offers an impeccable setting with spectacular vistas to accommodate even the most discerning taste. The capacity is as follows:

Knysna presents opportunities to explore exquisite beaches, forests and cruise on the tranquil Knysna Lagoon. © Knysna Tourism

www.theevent.co.za 35REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT

Population68 659- Source: 2011 Census

Airlines and major airports:

Knysna is served locally by both George and Plettenberg Bay Airports. Internationally, the aerial hub is Cape Town International Airport. Domestic flights carriers include: • Airlink• Kulula• SA Express• CEM Air

Climate

Rainy Season: It is in the wettest part of South Africa and rainfall is experiencedyear-round.

It has a Mediterraneanclimate and is generally mild. In the summertemperatures rangebetween 24° and 30°.Once the sun sets inwinter, the eveningsare chilly.

Getting around the city:The town can be explored by walking or renting a bicycle, but cars are available to rent at reputable car rental companies in the surrounds. Car hire can be arranged online.

Pre and post tour opportunitiesFor the outdoor enthusiast, Knysna and its surrounds are idyllic for pursuits like golf, canoeing, mountain biking, surfing, whale watching, bungee jumping and hiking. For the golf-enthusiast, Knysna has two world-class courses, Pezula Championship Course and Simola Golf and Country Estate; Jack Niklaus’ signature golf course.

The lagoon also presents canoeing opportunities or a ferry trip to the Featherbed Nature Reserve. The Heads - two cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon - is a must-see to immerse the soul and indulge the eye with resplendent views of this fabled lagoon. The famous ten-day oyster festival occurs in late June or early July annually, and is a veritable smorgasbord of cuisine and lifestyle activities.

ContactKnysna TourismTel: +27 (0)44 382 5510 Email: [email protected]: www.visitknysna.co.za/

Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa © Conrad Pezula (Hilton Worldwide)

For the outdoor enthusiast, Knysna and its surrounds are idyllic for pursuits like golf, canoeing, mountain biking, surfing, whale watching, bungee jumping and hiking. For the golf-enthusiast, Knysna has two world-class courses.

The golf course at Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa © Conrad Pezula (Hilton Worldwide)

36 EVENTS TO DIARISE www.theevent.co.za

TECH EXPO INNOVATORS AFRICA1Melrose Arch, Johannesburg

VW CAR SHOW @ NASREC EXPO CENTRE6Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

CLASSIC CAR SHOW6Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

BET EXPERIENCE AFRICA12Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg

UNWTO 4TH GLOBAL SUMMIT ON CITY TOURISM14 - 15Marrakesh, Morocco

DECEMBER

www.theevent.co.za 37EVENTS TO DIARISE

CAPE MINSTRELS SECOND NEW YEAR STREET PARADE2 Cape Town, South Africa

L’ORMARINS QUEEN’S PLATE AT KENILWORTH RACE COURSE9Cape Town, South Africa

MEETINGS MOROCCO14 - 15 Marrakech, Morocco

JANUARY IITM COCHIN14 - 16Kerala, India

FITUR 201620 - 24Madrid, Spain

SYTA SUMMIT21 - 24Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW23 - 24Cape Town, South Africa

OFFSHORE WEST AFRICA26 - 28Lagos, Nigeria

Durban ©

Diriye Am

ey

ADVANCES IN CEMENT AND CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY IN AFRICA 201627 - 29Johannesburg, South Africa / Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

UP THE CREEK MUSIC FESTIVAL28 - 31Swellendam, South Africa

EMITT28 - 31Istanbul, Turkey

SATTE 201629 - 31New Delhi, India

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE 31 - 2 FebruaryCape Town, South Africa

36 EVENTS TO DIARISE www.theevent.co.za

TECH EXPO INNOVATORS AFRICA1Melrose Arch, Johannesburg

VW CAR SHOW @ NASREC EXPO CENTRE6Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

CLASSIC CAR SHOW6Johannesburg Expo Centre, Johannesburg

BET EXPERIENCE AFRICA12Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg

UNWTO 4TH GLOBAL SUMMIT ON CITY TOURISM14 - 15Marrakesh, Morocco

DECEMBER

www.theevent.co.za 37EVENTS TO DIARISE

CAPE MINSTRELS SECOND NEW YEAR STREET PARADE2 Cape Town, South Africa

L’ORMARINS QUEEN’S PLATE AT KENILWORTH RACE COURSE9Cape Town, South Africa

MEETINGS MOROCCO14 - 15 Marrakech, Morocco

JANUARY IITM COCHIN14 - 16Kerala, India

FITUR 201620 - 24Madrid, Spain

SYTA SUMMIT21 - 24Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW23 - 24Cape Town, South Africa

OFFSHORE WEST AFRICA26 - 28Lagos, Nigeria

Durban ©

Diriye Am

ey

ADVANCES IN CEMENT AND CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY IN AFRICA 201627 - 29Johannesburg, South Africa / Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

UP THE CREEK MUSIC FESTIVAL28 - 31Swellendam, South Africa

EMITT28 - 31Istanbul, Turkey

SATTE 201629 - 31New Delhi, India

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE 31 - 2 FebruaryCape Town, South Africa

38 ASSOCIATIONS www.theevent.co.za

SAACI

SAACI is the umbrella body of the business-events industry in Southern Africa, dedicated to effi ciency and professionalism in the industry since 1987.

The work we do is guided by four key principles:1. SAACI Community – where

we interact with our members and stakeholders.

2. SAACI Intelligence – where we gather and publish information that helps our members to grow their business.

3. SAACI Academy – where we professionalise the industry through certifi cation, education and training.

4. SAACI Into Africa – where we expand our network into all South African provinces and all Southern African Countries.

Four key tributary pillars support them:5. Branding and Communication

– where we communicate innovatively and grow the SAACI brand.

6. Stakeholder Engagement - where we keep everyone with a stake in the industry informed and involved.

7. Sustainability – where we provide guidance for ‘sustainable best practice’, both in terms of business and the enviroment in which we operate.

8. Future Focus – where we encourage and support industry members younger then 35.

With nearly 30 years of being your partner in the business events industry, we have a great track record of 1500 individual, corporate and patron members representing all sectors.

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE

Date: 31 January 2016Venue: Spier, Cape Town The full programme is still to follow. It will cover a number of the aspects of the South African Exhibition industry and various sponsorship opportunities.

EXSA invites all EXSA members to participate in the Conference and share in the knowledge and networking opportunity.

For further information, please call the EXSA offi ce on 011 805 7272 or email: [email protected]

www.theevent.co.za 39ASSOCIATIONS

STATEMENT ON THE INTER-MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS

South African Tourism welcomes the recommendations of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Immigration Regulations which was led by the Deputy President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa.

SAT believes that the recommendations will go a long way in easing tourism into South Africa as well as ensuring that the security of our nation is not compromised.

SAT would like to thank the task team, under the leadership of the Director-General in the Presidency, for the work they have done to ensure a thorough assessments of all concerned parties and reaching conclusions to allay all concerns.

SAT believes that the recommendations reached a balance between promoting the tourism industry as an economic driver, through the ease of travel into South Africa and addressing the safety and security of our children, and securing our national borders.

South African Tourism will work closely with the Departments of Home Affairs, Tourism and the Tourism Bodies in South Africa to communicate the recommendations as simply as possible to it’s tourism stakeholders around the world.

South African Tourism will make available its overseas offi ces to communicate with industry, trade and media the decisions of the Inter-Ministerial Committee.

SAT welcomes the opportunity to move together and work steadfastly with it’s stakeholders towards it’s primary mandate of marketing South Africa as a preferred leisure and business destination.

ACTE AND CAPA ANNOUNCE COOPERATION

The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) is a global association with executive-level members in 100 countries. It has a reputation for leading in the way corporate travel is conducted. It was also the fi rst global association to identify traveller centricity as a pivotal variable in the business travel market. The Centre for Aviation (CAPA) is renowned for its depth and strategic aviation and travel intelligence and data.

It has been announced that they will jointly host nine education forums and full-day strategy summits in Australasia in 2016. This also represents the most ambitious joint educational program, they have structured in their three-year alliance. Other 2016 events are still to be announced.

Programme agendas will be announced soon. These programmes are geared for senior executives from across Australasia’s corporate travel community.

The scheduled forums and travel summits will be relevant to the following industry players: • Leading full-service and boutique

travel management companies• Technology providers• Expense management

and payment providers• Hoteliers• Airlines • Travel insurance and car hire• OBT• Consulting companies.

© D

avide Ragusa

38 ASSOCIATIONS www.theevent.co.za

SAACI

SAACI is the umbrella body of the business-events industry in Southern Africa, dedicated to effi ciency and professionalism in the industry since 1987.

The work we do is guided by four key principles:1. SAACI Community – where

we interact with our members and stakeholders.

2. SAACI Intelligence – where we gather and publish information that helps our members to grow their business.

3. SAACI Academy – where we professionalise the industry through certifi cation, education and training.

4. SAACI Into Africa – where we expand our network into all South African provinces and all Southern African Countries.

Four key tributary pillars support them:5. Branding and Communication

– where we communicate innovatively and grow the SAACI brand.

6. Stakeholder Engagement - where we keep everyone with a stake in the industry informed and involved.

7. Sustainability – where we provide guidance for ‘sustainable best practice’, both in terms of business and the enviroment in which we operate.

8. Future Focus – where we encourage and support industry members younger then 35.

With nearly 30 years of being your partner in the business events industry, we have a great track record of 1500 individual, corporate and patron members representing all sectors.

EXSA 2016 CONFERENCE

Date: 31 January 2016Venue: Spier, Cape Town The full programme is still to follow. It will cover a number of the aspects of the South African Exhibition industry and various sponsorship opportunities.

EXSA invites all EXSA members to participate in the Conference and share in the knowledge and networking opportunity.

For further information, please call the EXSA offi ce on 011 805 7272 or email: [email protected]

www.theevent.co.za 39ASSOCIATIONS

STATEMENT ON THE INTER-MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE ON IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS

South African Tourism welcomes the recommendations of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Immigration Regulations which was led by the Deputy President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa.

SAT believes that the recommendations will go a long way in easing tourism into South Africa as well as ensuring that the security of our nation is not compromised.

SAT would like to thank the task team, under the leadership of the Director-General in the Presidency, for the work they have done to ensure a thorough assessments of all concerned parties and reaching conclusions to allay all concerns.

SAT believes that the recommendations reached a balance between promoting the tourism industry as an economic driver, through the ease of travel into South Africa and addressing the safety and security of our children, and securing our national borders.

South African Tourism will work closely with the Departments of Home Affairs, Tourism and the Tourism Bodies in South Africa to communicate the recommendations as simply as possible to it’s tourism stakeholders around the world.

South African Tourism will make available its overseas offi ces to communicate with industry, trade and media the decisions of the Inter-Ministerial Committee.

SAT welcomes the opportunity to move together and work steadfastly with it’s stakeholders towards it’s primary mandate of marketing South Africa as a preferred leisure and business destination.

ACTE AND CAPA ANNOUNCE COOPERATION

The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) is a global association with executive-level members in 100 countries. It has a reputation for leading in the way corporate travel is conducted. It was also the fi rst global association to identify traveller centricity as a pivotal variable in the business travel market. The Centre for Aviation (CAPA) is renowned for its depth and strategic aviation and travel intelligence and data.

It has been announced that they will jointly host nine education forums and full-day strategy summits in Australasia in 2016. This also represents the most ambitious joint educational program, they have structured in their three-year alliance. Other 2016 events are still to be announced.

Programme agendas will be announced soon. These programmes are geared for senior executives from across Australasia’s corporate travel community.

The scheduled forums and travel summits will be relevant to the following industry players: • Leading full-service and boutique

travel management companies• Technology providers• Expense management

and payment providers• Hoteliers• Airlines • Travel insurance and car hire• OBT• Consulting companies.

© D

avide Ragusa

40 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za

ADVERTISERS3D Design &

Furniture Hire

PAGE 05, 07, 14

T. +27 11 608 1588

E. [email protected]

W. www.3ddesign.co.za

Ace of Mice

INSIDE BACK COVER

T. +90 216 465 95 56-57


W. www.ameistanbul.com

Event Greening Forum

PAGE 27

T. +27 74 369 6369


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Expo Centre

INSIDE FRONT COVER, 14

T. +27 11 494 1920


W. www.expocentre.co.za

EXSA

PAGE 14-15, 38

T. +27 11 805 7272


W. www.exsa.co.za

FNB Conference Centre

OUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 26

T. +27 011 269 8010


W. www.fnbconference.fnbweb.co.za

Leading Incentives

PAGE 31

T. +27 11 022 9264


W. www.leadingincentives.co.za

Lord Charles Hotel

PAGE 17

T. +27 21 855 1040


W. www.nh-hotels.co.za

Resource Design

PAGE 15

T. +27 21 510 7776


W. www.resourcedesign.co.za

SAACI

PAGE 38

T. +27 41 374 5654


W. www.saaci.org

South Africa National

Convention Bureau

PAGE 12-13, 21-25

T. +27 11 895 3000


W. www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Scan Display Solutions

PAGE 15

T. +27 11 447 4777


W. www.scandisplay.co.za

Sensation Lab

PAGE 11

T. +27 83 608 3336


W. www.sensationlab.co.za

Tshwane Events Centre

OUTSIDE BACK COVER

T. +27 12 327 1487


W. www.tshwane-events.co.za

www.fi lmeventmedia.co.zawww.theevent.co.za

JOIN US

DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the offi cial viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication.

Cover Image: Courtesy of FNB Conference Centre

Publisher: Lance Gibbonslance@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Executive Editor: Katie Reynoldskatie@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Head of Design: Sheree Steenkampsheree@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Writer: Kim Mullerkim@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Assistant Designer / Illustrator: Lauren Smithlauren@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Editorial Assistant: Imogen Campbellinfo@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Brand Manager: Rhoda Farrant rhoda@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Brand Manager: Philip Gordonphilip@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Production and Traffi c Manager: Nazeera Hartley Roachnazeera@fi lmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffi c Co-ordinator: Basheera Hartleybash@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

57 2nd Avenue, Harfi eld Village, Claremont7708, Cape Town, South AfricaTel: +27 21 674 0646

CONTACTS

40 DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS www.theevent.co.za

ADVERTISERS3D Design &

Furniture Hire

PAGE 05, 07, 14

T. +27 11 608 1588


W. www.3ddesign.co.za

Ace of Mice

INSIDE BACK COVER

T. +90 216 465 95 56-57


W. www.ameistanbul.com

Event Greening Forum

PAGE 27

T. +27 74 369 6369


W. www.eventgreening.co.za

Expo Centre

INSIDE FRONT COVER, 14

T. +27 11 494 1920


W. www.expocentre.co.za

EXSA

PAGE 14-15, 38

T. +27 11 805 7272


W. www.exsa.co.za

FNB Conference Centre

OUTSIDE FRONT COVER, 26

T. +27 011 269 8010


W. www.fnbconference.fnbweb.co.za

Leading Incentives

PAGE 31

T. +27 11 022 9264


W. www.leadingincentives.co.za

Lord Charles Hotel

PAGE 17

T. +27 21 855 1040


W. www.nh-hotels.co.za

Resource Design

PAGE 15

T. +27 21 510 7776


W. www.resourcedesign.co.za

SAACI

PAGE 38

T. +27 41 374 5654


W. www.saaci.org

South Africa National

Convention Bureau

PAGE 12-13, 21-25

T. +27 11 895 3000


W. www.businessevents.southafrica.net

Scan Display Solutions

PAGE 15

T. +27 11 447 4777


W. www.scandisplay.co.za

Sensation Lab

PAGE 11

T. +27 83 608 3336


W. www.sensationlab.co.za

Tshwane Events Centre

OUTSIDE BACK COVER

T. +27 12 327 1487


W. www.tshwane-events.co.za

www.fi lmeventmedia.co.zawww.theevent.co.za

JOIN US

DISCLAIMER: Opinions expressed in The Event do not necessarily represent the offi cial viewpoint of the editor or the publisher, while inclusion of adverts/advertising features does not imply endorsement of any business, product or service. Copyright of this material is reserved. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, The Event and/or its employees may not be held liable or responsible for any act or ommission committed by any person, including a juristic person, referred to in this publication. It and they furthermore accept(s) no responsibility for any liability arising out of any reliance that a reader of this publication places on the contents of this publication.

Cover Image: Courtesy of FNB Conference Centre

Publisher: Lance Gibbonslance@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Executive Editor: Katie Reynoldskatie@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Head of Design: Sheree Steenkampsheree@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Writer: Kim Mullerkim@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Assistant Designer / Illustrator: Lauren Smithlauren@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Editorial Assistant: Imogen Campbellinfo@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Brand Manager: Rhoda Farrant rhoda@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Brand Manager: Philip Gordonphilip@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

Production and Traffi c Manager: Nazeera Hartley Roachnazeera@fi lmeventmedia.co.za Production and Traffi c Co-ordinator: Basheera Hartleybash@fi lmeventmedia.co.za

57 2nd Avenue, Harfi eld Village, Claremont7708, Cape Town, South AfricaTel: +27 21 674 0646

CONTACTS

Date post:	24-Jul-2016
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The Event Issue 12

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