meetings africa 2013 day 2
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Meetings Africa 2013TRANSCRIPT
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Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
The developing world is leading growth in the
number of international conventions hosted,
giving every indication that this is going to be
the ‘African century’ in business events.
This is what Gary Grimmer, Chief Executive Officer at
Gaining Edge, the facilitator of the Association Forum at
the Meetings Africa 2013 BOND (Business Opportunities
Networking Day), told delegates yesterday morning.
Africa is currently experiencing compound an-
nual growth rate of 7.7 percent in meetings host-
ed, more than a percent higher than growth ex-
perienced in Europe and two percent higher than
growth in North America.
This is exciting, and significant, for a number of rea-
sons, Grimmer said. Emerging markets and their grow-
ing status as business event destination hosts drive glo-
ASSOCIATIONS PREPARE FOR THE “AFRICAN CENTURY”
Emerging markets and their
growing status as business event destination hosts
drive globalisation, creating interest in (and hunger
for) business event experiences that are
culturally diverse.
““
balisation, creating interest in (and hunger for) business
event experiences that are culturally diverse.
Associations are vital for this continent, he said. They
drive economic and social transformation, playing a vital
role in continuing education across a gamut of profes-
sions and contributing significantly to the development
of trade, to the knowledge economy, to trade links be-
tween countries, and to research and development.
“It is impossible to overestimate the importance of
the knowledge transfer that is driven by regional and
global associations,” Grimmer said. “Associations attract
thought leaders, showcase innovation, generate media
attention and deliver access to technologies and idea
exchange.”
The Association Forum BOND day was attended
by about 100 delegates, representing a wide variety of
local and African associations. The day-long workshop
featured a number of interactive sessions, giving del-
egates an opportunity to compare challenges, strengths
and to learn from each other.
John Peacock, General Manager of the Associations
Forum, an entity that brings associations together to
boost their performance, provide training and educa-
tion. The interactive sessions were moderated by Linda
Pereira, Executive Director of CPL Events in Portugal.
They share the same insight -- whereas previously trade
shows such as Meetings Africa would provide a simple
platform where supply could meet demand, the ‘new
thinking’ is that trade shows now are being used as a fo-
rum where associations and meetings industry profes-
sionals meet and partner to effect profoundly positive
change for a destination’s positioning, economy and job
creation capacity.
02 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
EVENTS
BY INVITATION ONLY
HOSTED BUYERS AND MEDIA
OPEN TO ALL
Today’s Top
TipsEasy RegistrationFor quick and easy registration, there are laptops in the foyer. After registering you can collect your lanyard from the registra-tion booths - this will ensure no queues.Green TipReduce waste by using Poken (www.poken.com) to exchange contact details, and re-quest information in an electronic rather than printed format.Rest StopThere is a Public Meeting Room in the centre of the exhibition floor with comfy couches. This is meant to be a relaxed area to meet informally and can be used as a lo-cator if anyone gets lost.Connect!Meetings Africa’s Facebook page will keep you up to date on all the latest news, includ-ing photos and competitions. Visit www.facebook.com/meetingsafrica and like the page so you’re in the loop.
1
2
3
4
NOT TO MISS!
SITE AGM Followed by Educational Session
O8h00 – 10h00, Bill Gallagher Room
Registration for Meetings Africa
Opens – 09h00, Entrance Foyer, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Opening Ceremony
10h00 – 11h00, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Exhibition
11h00-17h00, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Stand Awards
17h00 – 18h30, Hall 1, SCC
Hosted Buyers Dinners
18h30-24h00, Off site
Hosted Buyers & Media Lunch
12h00-14h00, Bill Gallagher, SCC
Be There!
ISSUE 2 MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 / 03
The South African and regional African busi-
ness events industry is better represented
at Meetings Africa this year than ever be-
fore, and exhibitors and visitors from the
continent are brimming with excitement over the op-
portunities that will arise during the next three days.
“The numbers of quality buyers and exhibitors is
impressive this year, and the African continent is par-
ticularly well represented, so we are hoping for excel-
lent and lucrative results, in line with our pan-African
strategy to encourage associations throughout the
continent to rotate on a regular basis,” says Amanda
Kotze-Nhlapo, executive manager at the South Afri-
can National Convention Bureau (SANCB).
Of the 145 exhibitors at Meetings Africa 2013,
just over 20 percent represent destinations other
than South Africa on the continent. There are 30 ex-
hibitors from regional and continental Africa in total
at Meetings Africa this year. Lesotho, Zambia, Kenya,
Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Mauritius, Mozam-
bique, Swaziland are among the regional destina-
tions exhibiting here for the first time in 2013. In pre-
vious years the number of destinations from outside
of SA was negligible.
“Continental collaboration is central to the
strategy to grow business event arrivals. Meetings
Africa 2013 provides the ideal platform to initiate
better and more inclusive continental partnerships
that will work to realise the untapped potential
of the continent as a business event destination,”
says Kotze-Nhlapo.
Daily News chatted to some exhibitors from the
rest of the continent to harvest a few insights into
their expectations at Meetings Africa 2013:
LUCY MACRIDIS, VILLA ROSA KEMPINSKI – NAIROBI,
KENYA
“I’m hoping to attract good business from the inter-
national MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences,
exhibitions) market. This is our strongest focus,” says
Lucy. Meetings Africa, she says, is an ideal platform
to do this. “It maximizes our exposure,” she says.
The Meetings Africa online diary, she adds, has re-
ally helped her a lot this year. “I’m looking forward
to making and meeting new contacts, and doing the
best business I can do,” she adds.
SOLISTER CHEELO, ZAMBIA TOURISM BOARD (stand
1015) – ZAMBIA
“Zambia is predominantly a leisure destination, but we
are now trying to build our Business Events industry.
Meetings Africa is the perfect platform to do this,” says
Solister. South Africa is one of the main source markets
for Zambian business events. “So we really want to posi-
tion ourselves optimally at Meetings Africa, and we are
very confident this week will deliver excellent results
through the great networking opportunities available
here, and the excellent calibre of buyers,” he says.
AFRICAN EXHIBITORS ANTICIPATE BEST MEETINGS AFRICA EVERPORTIA MADOKA – ZIMBABWE TOURISM AUTHORITY
(stand 1016)
“We have good business event facilities in Zimbabwe,
and we are hoping to showcase them here at Meetings
Africa to good buyers,” says Portia. “Meetings Africa is
the biggest business events show on the continent and
it’s important that we are here.” Portia has represented
the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority at previous Meet-
ings Africas and did “good business” each time. “We
are sharing our stand with a number of private tourist
products like the Vic Falls Hotel and Holiday Inns, and
all are anticipating good results over the next few days,”
says Portia.
MARTHA YERONIMO – TANZANIA CONFERENCE SER-
VICES LTD, TANZANIA
Tanzania Conference Service LTD is a leading Pro-
fessional Conference Organizer in Tanzania. “Meet-
ings Africa has become a very important event in
our calendar at Tanzania Conference Services Ltd.
I wanted to exhibit at Meetings Africa last year
but there was no space. We are very excited to be
here this year. “This year it’s important for us to
attend Meetings Africa, because there are plenty
of business opportunities at such a big, interna-
tional show. As a visitor (not an exhibitor), I will go
through the list of buyers carefully, particularly the
technology companies, which is our target mar-
ket,” says Martha.
02 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
EVENTS
BY INVITATION ONLY
HOSTED BUYERS AND MEDIA
OPEN TO ALL
Today’s Top
TipsEasy RegistrationFor quick and easy registration, there are laptops in the foyer. After registering you can collect your lanyard from the registra-tion booths - this will ensure no queues.Green TipReduce waste by using Poken (www.poken.com) to exchange contact details, and re-quest information in an electronic rather than printed format.Rest StopThere is a Public Meeting Room in the centre of the exhibition floor with comfy couches. This is meant to be a relaxed area to meet informally and can be used as a lo-cator if anyone gets lost.Connect!Meetings Africa’s Facebook page will keep you up to date on all the latest news, includ-ing photos and competitions. Visit www.facebook.com/meetingsafrica and like the page so you’re in the loop.
1
2
3
4
NOT TO MISS!
SITE AGM Followed by Educational Session
O8h00 – 10h00, Bill Gallagher Room
Registration for Meetings Africa
Opens – 09h00, Entrance Foyer, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Opening Ceremony
10h00 – 11h00, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Exhibition
11h00-17h00, Hall 1, SCC
Meetings Africa Stand Awards
17h00 – 18h30, Hall 1, SCC
Hosted Buyers Dinners
18h30-24h00, Off site
Hosted Buyers & Media Lunch
12h00-14h00, Bill Gallagher, SCC
Be There!
ISSUE 2 MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 / 03
The South African and regional African busi-
ness events industry is better represented
at Meetings Africa this year than ever be-
fore, and exhibitors and visitors from the
continent are brimming with excitement over the op-
portunities that will arise during the next three days.
“The numbers of quality buyers and exhibitors is
impressive this year, and the African continent is par-
ticularly well represented, so we are hoping for excel-
lent and lucrative results, in line with our pan-African
strategy to encourage associations throughout the
continent to rotate on a regular basis,” says Amanda
Kotze-Nhlapo, executive manager at the South Afri-
can National Convention Bureau (SANCB).
Of the 145 exhibitors at Meetings Africa 2013,
just over 20 percent represent destinations other
than South Africa on the continent. There are 30 ex-
hibitors from regional and continental Africa in total
at Meetings Africa this year. Lesotho, Zambia, Kenya,
Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Mauritius, Mozam-
bique, Swaziland are among the regional destina-
tions exhibiting here for the first time in 2013. In pre-
vious years the number of destinations from outside
of SA was negligible.
“Continental collaboration is central to the
strategy to grow business event arrivals. Meetings
Africa 2013 provides the ideal platform to initiate
better and more inclusive continental partnerships
that will work to realise the untapped potential
of the continent as a business event destination,”
says Kotze-Nhlapo.
Daily News chatted to some exhibitors from the
rest of the continent to harvest a few insights into
their expectations at Meetings Africa 2013:
LUCY MACRIDIS, VILLA ROSA KEMPINSKI – NAIROBI,
KENYA
“I’m hoping to attract good business from the inter-
national MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences,
exhibitions) market. This is our strongest focus,” says
Lucy. Meetings Africa, she says, is an ideal platform
to do this. “It maximizes our exposure,” she says.
The Meetings Africa online diary, she adds, has re-
ally helped her a lot this year. “I’m looking forward
to making and meeting new contacts, and doing the
best business I can do,” she adds.
SOLISTER CHEELO, ZAMBIA TOURISM BOARD (stand
1015) – ZAMBIA
“Zambia is predominantly a leisure destination, but we
are now trying to build our Business Events industry.
Meetings Africa is the perfect platform to do this,” says
Solister. South Africa is one of the main source markets
for Zambian business events. “So we really want to posi-
tion ourselves optimally at Meetings Africa, and we are
very confident this week will deliver excellent results
through the great networking opportunities available
here, and the excellent calibre of buyers,” he says.
AFRICAN EXHIBITORS ANTICIPATE BEST MEETINGS AFRICA EVERPORTIA MADOKA – ZIMBABWE TOURISM AUTHORITY
(stand 1016)
“We have good business event facilities in Zimbabwe,
and we are hoping to showcase them here at Meetings
Africa to good buyers,” says Portia. “Meetings Africa is
the biggest business events show on the continent and
it’s important that we are here.” Portia has represented
the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority at previous Meet-
ings Africas and did “good business” each time. “We
are sharing our stand with a number of private tourist
products like the Vic Falls Hotel and Holiday Inns, and
all are anticipating good results over the next few days,”
says Portia.
MARTHA YERONIMO – TANZANIA CONFERENCE SER-
VICES LTD, TANZANIA
Tanzania Conference Service LTD is a leading Pro-
fessional Conference Organizer in Tanzania. “Meet-
ings Africa has become a very important event in
our calendar at Tanzania Conference Services Ltd.
I wanted to exhibit at Meetings Africa last year
but there was no space. We are very excited to be
here this year. “This year it’s important for us to
attend Meetings Africa, because there are plenty
of business opportunities at such a big, interna-
tional show. As a visitor (not an exhibitor), I will go
through the list of buyers carefully, particularly the
technology companies, which is our target mar-
ket,” says Martha.
WHAT YOU’RE THINKING AT MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 Twitter
follow us
04 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
We ask you what the most important topics, meetings and networks are that you’ve been involved in at Meetings African 2013
“The concept of Meetings Africa is wonderful and that they are investing so much in The Future Leaders Forum is so important for the industry in Africa. We need to encourage the brightest stu-dents to join the industry because companies need good people, so this is really important for the industry.” Dale Hudson, Knowledge and Events Director, IMEX Group
“Good to hear about how associations should be run and the structure to support that, Great advice and outcomes to match the ultimate goal of advancing Africa Together.” Megan Arendse, General Manager Commercial & Business Development, CTICC
“Terrific bunch of students from all around South Africa, en-joying the pearls of wisdom presented by really great speakers. This kind of forum assists in developing their careers in the right direction, it’s terrific.” David Sands, SITE Global President, commenting on the Future Leaders Forum
“Africa needs this focal point, Meetings Africa is the starting point. Africa needs a home base to bring clients to showcase Africa’s offering to the global meetings industry. It’s good to see other African countries represented at Meetings Africa. With world class infrastructure and services people recognise South Africa is the market leader in Africa. As a leader, South Africa has an important role to play in stimulating growth on the continent and as a leader should benefit from this proportionately.” Martin Sirk, ICCA CEO
“Meetings Africa is a great platform for us to expose all that we are and can be to the Business Events sector.” Lerisha Mudaliar, Western Cape Convention Bureau
“So far it’s nice to see how everything comes together. Nor-mally I’m at a function and I see everything once it’s already put together. So to see everything built from scratch is really exciting. And at the end how everything comes together at an international affair.” Leanne Margo, Sales Executive at Kievits Kroon Country Estate & Spa
#MeetingsAfrica@MeetingsAfrica
What You’ve Been Saying
@VickiRothman: “@MeetingsAfrica: #MeetingsAfrica gift bags - made from recycled plastic bottles. @SandtonEvents” thank you it’s lovely!
@Tezzmania (Monde Mateza): “@MeetingsAfrica: Share knowl-edge, strategise and gain insights from the industry’s leading experts, at the #MeetingsAfrica 2013 BOND DAY.”
@bayofgracetours: “@MeetingsAfrica 1 of my favourite events of the year #meetingsafrica”
@MeetingsAfrica: “Share knowledge, strategise and gain insights from the industry’s leading experts, at the #MeetingsA-frica 2013 BOND DAY”
@johnarv (John Arvanitakis): “It’s BOND DAY at Meetings Africa 2013, a day of amazing speakers, top-ics and lots to learn.... all rounded off...”
@william_price (William Price): “Just look up to see #MeetingsAfrica has taken over #Sandton CBD pic.twitter.com/hjAEFdyt”
@adriaanjl (Adriaan J Liebetrau): “I see lots of excitement mounting as people from all over are arriving in Jozi for #MeetingsAfrica see you all on Tuesday!”
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
WHAT YOU’RE THINKING AT MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 Twitter
follow us
04 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
We ask you what the most important topics, meetings and networks are that you’ve been involved in at Meetings African 2013
“The concept of Meetings Africa is wonderful and that they are investing so much in The Future Leaders Forum is so important for the industry in Africa. We need to encourage the brightest stu-dents to join the industry because companies need good people, so this is really important for the industry.” Dale Hudson, Knowledge and Events Director, IMEX Group
“Good to hear about how associations should be run and the structure to support that, Great advice and outcomes to match the ultimate goal of advancing Africa Together.” Megan Arendse, General Manager Commercial & Business Development, CTICC
“Terrific bunch of students from all around South Africa, en-joying the pearls of wisdom presented by really great speakers. This kind of forum assists in developing their careers in the right direction, it’s terrific.” David Sands, SITE Global President, commenting on the Future Leaders Forum
“Africa needs this focal point, Meetings Africa is the starting point. Africa needs a home base to bring clients to showcase Africa’s offering to the global meetings industry. It’s good to see other African countries represented at Meetings Africa. With world class infrastructure and services people recognise South Africa is the market leader in Africa. As a leader, South Africa has an important role to play in stimulating growth on the continent and as a leader should benefit from this proportionately.” Martin Sirk, ICCA CEO
“Meetings Africa is a great platform for us to expose all that we are and can be to the Business Events sector.” Lerisha Mudaliar, Western Cape Convention Bureau
“So far it’s nice to see how everything comes together. Nor-mally I’m at a function and I see everything once it’s already put together. So to see everything built from scratch is really exciting. And at the end how everything comes together at an international affair.” Leanne Margo, Sales Executive at Kievits Kroon Country Estate & Spa
#MeetingsAfrica@MeetingsAfrica
What You’ve Been Saying
@VickiRothman: “@MeetingsAfrica: #MeetingsAfrica gift bags - made from recycled plastic bottles. @SandtonEvents” thank you it’s lovely!
@Tezzmania (Monde Mateza): “@MeetingsAfrica: Share knowl-edge, strategise and gain insights from the industry’s leading experts, at the #MeetingsAfrica 2013 BOND DAY.”
@bayofgracetours: “@MeetingsAfrica 1 of my favourite events of the year #meetingsafrica”
@MeetingsAfrica: “Share knowledge, strategise and gain insights from the industry’s leading experts, at the #MeetingsA-frica 2013 BOND DAY”
@johnarv (John Arvanitakis): “It’s BOND DAY at Meetings Africa 2013, a day of amazing speakers, top-ics and lots to learn.... all rounded off...”
@william_price (William Price): “Just look up to see #MeetingsAfrica has taken over #Sandton CBD pic.twitter.com/hjAEFdyt”
@adriaanjl (Adriaan J Liebetrau): “I see lots of excitement mounting as people from all over are arriving in Jozi for #MeetingsAfrica see you all on Tuesday!”
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
08 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Kievits Kroon
Seen at Meetings Africa 2013
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
ISSUE 2 MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 / 09
NEED TO KNOW• Youcanbookameetingroomforanappoint-
ment-contacttheGenienePrestonatGenie-
• Asanexhibitioryoucanaccess free internet.
SendDaneaGuthrieansmson0825604202
fortheaccesscodes.
• For emergencies, you can contact Genevieve
the paramedics on 083 307 6800. The para-
medicsarelocatednearthemedialoungeon
theexhibitionfloor.
• OnWednesdayonly,theshowstartsat9am,not
10am(theexhibitionfloorshow).
• Parking vouchers are not included in the ex-
hibitors packet. If youdidn’t order beforehand,
pleasevisittheorganisersoffice.
• AllExhibitors:onWednesday,aftertheshow(af-
ter7),ifyoubreakdownyourstandafter7,you
cangothroughthenight-noclosingdowntime.
• Visitthe“What’sOn”tabatmeetingsafrica.com
forthelatesteventshappening!
Meetings Africa is being followed closely by
readers of the International Meetings Review
Network (IMRN). Film & Event Media, pub-
lishers of The Event, have a partnership with
IMRN that puts meetings in Africa in strategic
focus. “We’re really excited…for two rea-
sons,” says James Latham, Publisher, IMRN,
“the quality of the content and the distribu-
tion – Film & Event Media’s investment in dis-
tribution and working with key stakeholders
like the South African Convention Bureau.”
IMRN – Eye on Africa
08 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Kievits Kroon
Seen at Meetings Africa 2013
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
ISSUE 2 MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 / 09
NEED TO KNOW• Youcanbookameetingroomforanappoint-
ment-contacttheGenienePrestonatGenie-
• Asanexhibitioryoucanaccess free internet.
SendDaneaGuthrieansmson0825604202
fortheaccesscodes.
• For emergencies, you can contact Genevieve
the paramedics on 083 307 6800. The para-
medicsarelocatednearthemedialoungeon
theexhibitionfloor.
• OnWednesdayonly,theshowstartsat9am,not
10am(theexhibitionfloorshow).
• Parking vouchers are not included in the ex-
hibitors packet. If youdidn’t order beforehand,
pleasevisittheorganisersoffice.
• AllExhibitors:onWednesday,aftertheshow(af-
ter7),ifyoubreakdownyourstandafter7,you
cangothroughthenight-noclosingdowntime.
• Visitthe“What’sOn”tabatmeetingsafrica.com
forthelatesteventshappening!
Meetings Africa is being followed closely by
readers of the International Meetings Review
Network (IMRN). Film & Event Media, pub-
lishers of The Event, have a partnership with
IMRN that puts meetings in Africa in strategic
focus. “We’re really excited…for two rea-
sons,” says James Latham, Publisher, IMRN,
“the quality of the content and the distribu-
tion – Film & Event Media’s investment in dis-
tribution and working with key stakeholders
like the South African Convention Bureau.”
IMRN – Eye on Africa
veteran Dirk Elzinga.
Members can register online on www.saaci2013.
co.za. Early bird registration closes on 28 May.
The conference is open to anyone with an in-
terest in the conference industry – including venue
owners and managers, professional conference
organisers, corporate marketing and event profes-
sionals, event planners, public relations practitio-
ners, exhibition organisers and suppliers of prod-
ucts and services.
For more information contact Eastern Sun Events
on tel 041 374 5654 or [email protected].
The Meetings Africa team is encouraging all ex-
hibitors and visitors to follow its green initiatives. On a
simple level, that campaign is designed to reduce the
amount of waste produced by the event, cut down on
water consumption and to use less electricity.
Yet the green campaign has a wider impact too,
since many organisations seeking suitable cities and
venues in which to stage their business conferences and
exhibitions strongly support going green. They are look-
ing locations that share their commitment, so Johan-
nesburg’s ability to prove it is the greenest city in Africa
– in several ways – can only be good for business.
The Meetings Africa team produced an Event Green-
ing Strategy ahead of the show setting out objectives and
suggesting ways to achieve them. They included:
• Requesting exhibitors to reduce their packaging
materials to cut down on waste. Rubbish is be-
ing separated to reduce the amount that ends up
in landfill, with an aim of recycling 80% of waste
rather than sending it to landfill.
• Energy efficiency: Stands are encouraged to use
energy efficient lights and audio-visual displays,
and to use natural light and ventilation where
possible.
• Water conservation: Participants are encouraged
to implement water conservation principles and
use water in a responsible manner.
12 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
I t’s full steam ahead for the Southern Afri-
can Association for the Conference Industry
(SAACI) on the heels of their Special General
Meeting yesterday.
Going green is no longer a catch phrase or a
passing fad for tree huggers. It’s a crucial
part of everything we do, influencing our
lives every day.
If going green isn’t already part of your life, it should
be, delegates to Meetings Africa heard yesterday, or our
negligence will damage the lives of our children and our
children’s children.
Efforts by Meetings Africa to make its event as
environmentally friendly as possible now include a
seminar dedicated to going green. That’s in addition
to the strong messages sent to all exhibitors, speakers
and visitors to make sure their own participation is as
green as possible.
While stalls were being set up downstairs in com-
pliance to certain green requirements, the seminar up-
stairs was staged by the Event Greening Forum.
The first thing the audience noticed were water
jugs on the tables, replacing the usual bottled water
that contributes to global warming by its creation
and destruction. The keynote speaker was Jeunesse
Park, the founder of Food and Trees for Africa, who
presented Al Gore’s Climate Change speech. It’s full
of startling facts to shake up complacence and hope-
fully put an end to doubts about whether humans
are damaging the environment. There are still some
climate doubters, yet every major academic insti-
STAY TUNED TO SAACI!
SPREADING THE WORD ON GOING GREEN
The 2013 national congress and
exhibition of the SAACI will be held at the Boardwalk
Convention Centre in Port Elizabeth from
28 to 30 July.
“
“
The 2013 national congress and exhibition of
the SAACI will be held at the Boardwalk Convention
Centre in Port Elizabeth from 28 to 30 July.
Themed ‘Create. Debate. Innovate.’, the con-
gress will present an opportunity for delegates to
address many of the challenges faced by the indus-
try in 2013.
“In addition to our top class venue and facili-
ties we are working with a very strong programme
committee that is putting together an incredibly
relevant programme that will not only inform, but
challenge us to find the best path forward. ‘Take
home value’ is what it is about,” says congress
chairman Andrew Stewart.
Stewart says the congress committee, made up
of representatives of the different sub-sectors of
the conference industry, is hard at work to make it
a benchmark event.
“SAACI members have already received cor-
respondence from us, calling for abstracts by 29
March and we will release regular updates over the
next few months.”
Speakers already confirmed for the congress
include Matthew Lester, Associate Professor at the
Rhodes Business School, who will deliver the key-
note address, Alec Gilbert, Chief Executive Officer
of the Adelaide Convention Centre and industry
tute that had investigated the issue concluded that
humans are harming the climate, Jeunesse stressed.
“Surely all of us clever people who organise meetings
and events can come up with some solutions,” she
said. “Ignorance is going to leave a terrible life for our
children and their children.” Yet despite South Af-
rica’s ideal position to take advantage of wind, solar
and wave power, very little is being invested to capi-
talise on that. Jeunesse’s presentation showed maps
highlighting areas of severe droughts and devastating
floods, and other events of ‘extreme weather’ that
have become almost commonplace.
Scientists have been measuring the global climate
since about 1880, and the last 10 years have been the
hottest on record. As temperatures rise, so does the fre-
quency of severe storms and heavy snows. “The more
carbon pollution we put into the atmosphere the more
we alter our climate, and the more we are at risk of
extreme weather,” Jeunesse said. “The days of switch-
ing on a tap and water coming out are coming to a fast
end,” she warned.
Jeunesse was followed by Matthew Rosmarin
speaking on bio-mimicry, and how taking lessons from
nature can help you to improve and innovate your busi-
ness. The Event Greening Forum also staged its AGM
at Meetings Africa, as well as spreading the message
about everybody doing their bit to protect the planet.
- By Lesley Stones
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
Andrew Stewart
SPREADING THE WORD ON GOING GREEN
veteran Dirk Elzinga.
Members can register online on www.saaci2013.
co.za. Early bird registration closes on 28 May.
The conference is open to anyone with an in-
terest in the conference industry – including venue
owners and managers, professional conference
organisers, corporate marketing and event profes-
sionals, event planners, public relations practitio-
ners, exhibition organisers and suppliers of prod-
ucts and services.
For more information contact Eastern Sun Events
on tel 041 374 5654 or [email protected].
The Meetings Africa team is encouraging all ex-
hibitors and visitors to follow its green initiatives. On a
simple level, that campaign is designed to reduce the
amount of waste produced by the event, cut down on
water consumption and to use less electricity.
Yet the green campaign has a wider impact too,
since many organisations seeking suitable cities and
venues in which to stage their business conferences and
exhibitions strongly support going green. They are look-
ing locations that share their commitment, so Johan-
nesburg’s ability to prove it is the greenest city in Africa
– in several ways – can only be good for business.
The Meetings Africa team produced an Event Green-
ing Strategy ahead of the show setting out objectives and
suggesting ways to achieve them. They included:
• Requesting exhibitors to reduce their packaging
materials to cut down on waste. Rubbish is be-
ing separated to reduce the amount that ends up
in landfill, with an aim of recycling 80% of waste
rather than sending it to landfill.
• Energy efficiency: Stands are encouraged to use
energy efficient lights and audio-visual displays,
and to use natural light and ventilation where
possible.
• Water conservation: Participants are encouraged
to implement water conservation principles and
use water in a responsible manner.
12 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
I t’s full steam ahead for the Southern Afri-
can Association for the Conference Industry
(SAACI) on the heels of their Special General
Meeting yesterday.
Going green is no longer a catch phrase or a
passing fad for tree huggers. It’s a crucial
part of everything we do, influencing our
lives every day.
If going green isn’t already part of your life, it should
be, delegates to Meetings Africa heard yesterday, or our
negligence will damage the lives of our children and our
children’s children.
Efforts by Meetings Africa to make its event as
environmentally friendly as possible now include a
seminar dedicated to going green. That’s in addition
to the strong messages sent to all exhibitors, speakers
and visitors to make sure their own participation is as
green as possible.
While stalls were being set up downstairs in com-
pliance to certain green requirements, the seminar up-
stairs was staged by the Event Greening Forum.
The first thing the audience noticed were water
jugs on the tables, replacing the usual bottled water
that contributes to global warming by its creation
and destruction. The keynote speaker was Jeunesse
Park, the founder of Food and Trees for Africa, who
presented Al Gore’s Climate Change speech. It’s full
of startling facts to shake up complacence and hope-
fully put an end to doubts about whether humans
are damaging the environment. There are still some
climate doubters, yet every major academic insti-
STAY TUNED TO SAACI!
SPREADING THE WORD ON GOING GREEN
The 2013 national congress and
exhibition of the SAACI will be held at the Boardwalk
Convention Centre in Port Elizabeth from
28 to 30 July.
“
“
The 2013 national congress and exhibition of
the SAACI will be held at the Boardwalk Convention
Centre in Port Elizabeth from 28 to 30 July.
Themed ‘Create. Debate. Innovate.’, the con-
gress will present an opportunity for delegates to
address many of the challenges faced by the indus-
try in 2013.
“In addition to our top class venue and facili-
ties we are working with a very strong programme
committee that is putting together an incredibly
relevant programme that will not only inform, but
challenge us to find the best path forward. ‘Take
home value’ is what it is about,” says congress
chairman Andrew Stewart.
Stewart says the congress committee, made up
of representatives of the different sub-sectors of
the conference industry, is hard at work to make it
a benchmark event.
“SAACI members have already received cor-
respondence from us, calling for abstracts by 29
March and we will release regular updates over the
next few months.”
Speakers already confirmed for the congress
include Matthew Lester, Associate Professor at the
Rhodes Business School, who will deliver the key-
note address, Alec Gilbert, Chief Executive Officer
of the Adelaide Convention Centre and industry
tute that had investigated the issue concluded that
humans are harming the climate, Jeunesse stressed.
“Surely all of us clever people who organise meetings
and events can come up with some solutions,” she
said. “Ignorance is going to leave a terrible life for our
children and their children.” Yet despite South Af-
rica’s ideal position to take advantage of wind, solar
and wave power, very little is being invested to capi-
talise on that. Jeunesse’s presentation showed maps
highlighting areas of severe droughts and devastating
floods, and other events of ‘extreme weather’ that
have become almost commonplace.
Scientists have been measuring the global climate
since about 1880, and the last 10 years have been the
hottest on record. As temperatures rise, so does the fre-
quency of severe storms and heavy snows. “The more
carbon pollution we put into the atmosphere the more
we alter our climate, and the more we are at risk of
extreme weather,” Jeunesse said. “The days of switch-
ing on a tap and water coming out are coming to a fast
end,” she warned.
Jeunesse was followed by Matthew Rosmarin
speaking on bio-mimicry, and how taking lessons from
nature can help you to improve and innovate your busi-
ness. The Event Greening Forum also staged its AGM
at Meetings Africa, as well as spreading the message
about everybody doing their bit to protect the planet.
- By Lesley Stones
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
Andrew Stewart
SPREADING THE WORD ON GOING GREEN
10 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Excellent advice was given to youngsters
planning a career in the meetings industry
at the Future Leaders Forum yesterday.
A group of 24 university students
studying tourism and event management were
chosen for the two-day educational programme. It
gives them insight into areas they could specialise
in, new networks of contacts and advice on how to
stand out from the crowd.
The Future Leaders Forum is organised by IMEX
(The Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel,
Meetings and Events group), runs in partnership
with MPI (Meeting Professionals International) and
MCI, an independent communications and event
management company.
Meetings Africa is the perfect partner for its
South African activities, says Dale Hudson, the Events
and Projects Director with IMEX. “The programme
has been going for 10 years in 15 countries around
the world. The industry needs the best and bright-
est students so we are introducing them to real live
events rather than the academic environment.”
Spending two days at Meetings Africa gives stu-
dents plenty of opportunities to meet movers and
shakers in the industry, collect their business cards
and have conversations about opportunities within
the sector. It also gives them the chance to meet
and impress potential future employees.
The 24 students were chosen for showing the
most potential to have a successful career in the in-
dustry after universities across the country encour-
aged them to apply for the Future Leaders Forum.
As part of the programme, the youngsters held
roundtable discussions with representatives from
various sectors of the meetings industry, including
FOCUS ON THE FUTURE
ICCA AFRICA
The industry needs the best and brightest
students so we are introducing them to
real live events rather than the academic
environment.
“
“
hotels, venues, travel agents and event organisers.
They also heard from David Sand, the CEO of Uwin
Iwin and president of SITE, and from Rashid Toefy,
CEO of the Cape Town Convention Centre, who spoke
about the qualities that make a good leader.
None of the students could fail to be motivat-
ed by Linda Pereira, the Executive Director of CPL
Events. A fiery bundle of energy, she encouraged
them to stand out from the crowd through their ac-
tions, their appearance, their enthusiasm and their
professionalism. She berated those who had not
researched her company before hearing her speak,
condemning that as lazy and unprofessional. She
urged them to research any company well before
they think of applying for a job there, so they can
make sure they will fit into its culture and represent
that organisation well.
Linda also told them not just to gather business
cards randomly, but to target those people they
have already researched as potentially useful con-
tacts. Then they should write down notes from the
conversations so they remember the details of the
person, and follow up with them by email.
They should volunteer for work experience, join
associations and be a giver, not a taker, she urged.
Her inspiring talk was useful even to the older and
experienced people sitting in on the event.
As part of the Future Leaders Forum, six of the
students took part in a speaking competition that
will win one of them a place at the International Uni-
versity Challenge in Frankfurt. The six were asked to
prepare a 10 minute presentation about staging a
meeting with cultural relevance. Judges selected the
most impressive three entries and those students
made their presentations yesterday during the Fu-
ture Leaders Forum.
The winner will attend the final in Germany in
May to compete against winners selected from the
other Future Leaders Forums.
Since its launch in 2003 the Future Leaders Fo-
rum has given 5,400 students insight into their cho-
sen industry in countries including Korea, Thailand
and China, as well as South Africa.
Of those students, 90% have said they are more
likely to enter the industry as a result. The students
can also benefit from the Future Leaders Network,
which offers the former attendees a network of
peers from across the world, as well as continued
career guidance and opportunities.
ICCA Africa’s Chapter Meeting put the
continent in the spotlight. “We want to
host more sessions assisting Africa and
showing what support is available from
ICCA. We want to focus on growing in South
Africa and the African continent,” says Nina
Freysen-Pretorius, ICCA Board Representa-
tive for Africa and the Middle East, Senior
Vice President. Join the conversation on
Twitter: #MeetingsAfrica.
- By Lesley Stones
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us
10 / MEETINGS AFRICA 2013 ISSUE 2
Excellent advice was given to youngsters
planning a career in the meetings industry
at the Future Leaders Forum yesterday.
A group of 24 university students
studying tourism and event management were
chosen for the two-day educational programme. It
gives them insight into areas they could specialise
in, new networks of contacts and advice on how to
stand out from the crowd.
The Future Leaders Forum is organised by IMEX
(The Worldwide Exhibition for Incentive Travel,
Meetings and Events group), runs in partnership
with MPI (Meeting Professionals International) and
MCI, an independent communications and event
management company.
Meetings Africa is the perfect partner for its
South African activities, says Dale Hudson, the Events
and Projects Director with IMEX. “The programme
has been going for 10 years in 15 countries around
the world. The industry needs the best and bright-
est students so we are introducing them to real live
events rather than the academic environment.”
Spending two days at Meetings Africa gives stu-
dents plenty of opportunities to meet movers and
shakers in the industry, collect their business cards
and have conversations about opportunities within
the sector. It also gives them the chance to meet
and impress potential future employees.
The 24 students were chosen for showing the
most potential to have a successful career in the in-
dustry after universities across the country encour-
aged them to apply for the Future Leaders Forum.
As part of the programme, the youngsters held
roundtable discussions with representatives from
various sectors of the meetings industry, including
FOCUS ON THE FUTURE
ICCA AFRICA
The industry needs the best and brightest
students so we are introducing them to
real live events rather than the academic
environment.
“
“
hotels, venues, travel agents and event organisers.
They also heard from David Sand, the CEO of Uwin
Iwin and president of SITE, and from Rashid Toefy,
CEO of the Cape Town Convention Centre, who spoke
about the qualities that make a good leader.
None of the students could fail to be motivat-
ed by Linda Pereira, the Executive Director of CPL
Events. A fiery bundle of energy, she encouraged
them to stand out from the crowd through their ac-
tions, their appearance, their enthusiasm and their
professionalism. She berated those who had not
researched her company before hearing her speak,
condemning that as lazy and unprofessional. She
urged them to research any company well before
they think of applying for a job there, so they can
make sure they will fit into its culture and represent
that organisation well.
Linda also told them not just to gather business
cards randomly, but to target those people they
have already researched as potentially useful con-
tacts. Then they should write down notes from the
conversations so they remember the details of the
person, and follow up with them by email.
They should volunteer for work experience, join
associations and be a giver, not a taker, she urged.
Her inspiring talk was useful even to the older and
experienced people sitting in on the event.
As part of the Future Leaders Forum, six of the
students took part in a speaking competition that
will win one of them a place at the International Uni-
versity Challenge in Frankfurt. The six were asked to
prepare a 10 minute presentation about staging a
meeting with cultural relevance. Judges selected the
most impressive three entries and those students
made their presentations yesterday during the Fu-
ture Leaders Forum.
The winner will attend the final in Germany in
May to compete against winners selected from the
other Future Leaders Forums.
Since its launch in 2003 the Future Leaders Fo-
rum has given 5,400 students insight into their cho-
sen industry in countries including Korea, Thailand
and China, as well as South Africa.
Of those students, 90% have said they are more
likely to enter the industry as a result. The students
can also benefit from the Future Leaders Network,
which offers the former attendees a network of
peers from across the world, as well as continued
career guidance and opportunities.
ICCA Africa’s Chapter Meeting put the
continent in the spotlight. “We want to
host more sessions assisting Africa and
showing what support is available from
ICCA. We want to focus on growing in South
Africa and the African continent,” says Nina
Freysen-Pretorius, ICCA Board Representa-
tive for Africa and the Middle East, Senior
Vice President. Join the conversation on
Twitter: #MeetingsAfrica.
- By Lesley Stones
Meetings Africa 2013@MeetingsAfrica #MeetingsAfricawww.meetingsafrica.com South African Tourism South African TourismContact us