the event issue 9

ISSUE 09 | 2014

+ LOERIES CREATIVE WEEK Creative Minds Collide

+ ASSOCIATION BUSINESS IN AFRICA Exploring Untapped Markets

+ LOERIES CREATIVE WEEK Creative Minds Collide

+ ASSOCIATION BUSINESS IN AFRICA Exploring Untapped Markets

CONTACT SUE-ANNE MAREE / SHANNON ATKINSONtel: 021 674 0646 | email: [email protected] | [email protected]

THE EVENT PLANNER’S GUIDE TO AFRICA IS THE WIDELY ACCLAIMED PREMIER MARKETING TOOL FOR AFRICA’S BUSINESS EVENTS INDUSTRY.

MEETING IN AFRICA?

MEET

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2015

CONTACT SUE-ANNE MAREE / SHANNON ATKINSONtel: 021 674 0646 | email: [email protected] | [email protected]

THE EVENT PLANNER’S GUIDE TO AFRICA IS THE WIDELY ACCLAIMED PREMIER MARKETING TOOL FOR AFRICA’S BUSINESS EVENTS INDUSTRY.

MEETING IN AFRICA?

MEET

EPG

2015

CONTACT SUE-ANNE MAREE tel: 021 674 0646 | email: [email protected]

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The Business behind African AssociationsWhy African associations are a pivotal part of the business events industry.

Interview with Andrew HumanOn what to expect from the Loeries 2014.

It’s Tourism Month in South AfricaWe have the scoop on what to do and where to be seen.

IT&CM IndiaEditor Katie Reynolds reports from one of the biggest travel trade shows in the world.

CONTENTS | 01www.theevent.co.za

4. Giant Consumer Tech Show Headed for Jozi

5. Soweto Festival Expo – Ziyakhipha!

6. Tech Talk - Ticket, Please!

7. A Chat with Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom

10. The Business Behind African Associations

12. It’s Tourism Month in South Africa – But Why?

22. Creative Minds Collide at The Loeries

24. Andrew Human Unpacks Loeries Creative Week

26. IT&CM India 2014 Review

28. Mpumalanga – Bringing Events Closer to Nature

30. Mega Sporting Events – The New Cash Cow

32. Industry Moves

33. Event Greening Forum: Visit to Robinson Deep

36. Associations

38. Events

40. Directory

JEC has become one of Johannesburg’s best known landmarks. Today some of SA’s most renowned trade and consumer shows have found a permanent home at the venue, including: The Rand Show, Automechanika, Johannesburg International Motor Show, Electra Mining, Interbuild Africa and Propak.

Now the Expo Centre aims to build on its list of achievements and maintain

its reputation for delivering world-class exhibitions.

Celebrating in styleThe JEC welcomed some of its longest standing industry partners, stakeholders and colleagues to join in the celebration of the JEC’s 30th year in business.

The lunch, provided by JEC’s Main Event Catering, was accompanied by entertainment

by magic-man, Dustin Oliver, Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, as well as DJ CJ. JEC sponsors also provided a multitude of prizes to the value of R40 000.00.

The JEC also used this event, to support its ongoing CSI initiatives, including Letsema La Bana and the Inkwenkwezi Primary School. With this in mind, each and every guest brought a blanket along to the event for a child in need.

JOHANNESBURG EXPO CENTRE – CELEBRATING

30 YEARS OF SERVICE EXCELLENCEThe Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC) is in its prime, as 2014 sees this world-class venue celebrate its 30th birthday with innovative launches and exciting new global partnerships.

Ultrafest EXSA Awards

Classic Car Show Boat Show Boat Show

Meeting Demands“Over the years, we have done our best to keep up with the demands of a growing exhibition, conference and events industry,” explains JEC CEO, Craig Newman. “It became more and more critical as South Africa became a destination of choice for business tourism both locally, in the rest of Africa and abroad.”

Following its multi-million rand makeover, the JEC became a multi-purpose facility, offering exhibition halls with over 50,000 square metres of covered space, as well as over 100,000 square metres of outdoor space, with an arena that can comfortably accommodate up to 20,000 people.

Exceeding ExpectationsThe JEC recently announced the launch of a new Mobile App, which will provide a range of benefits to all of its exhibition, conference and event organisers, and visitors.

“The JEC Mobile App is an extension of our website with extended capabilities,” says Karabo Moikangoe, marketing and sales executive of the Johannesburg Expo Centre. “We are very proud of this latest launch and

hope that all of our stakeholders will take full advantage,” he added.

The Mobile App will provide detailed information on all of the events being held at the venue, as well as the dimensions and capacity of all indoor and outdoor facilities. The GPS-enabled facility maps can be integrated with event organisers’ existing conference or exhibition floor plan. With multiple logins for organisers, visitors and delegates, it also provides notifications of upcoming events, special offers, rates and galleries.

World-class events coming to JECThe remainder of the 2014 events calendar sees the JEC host some of its most well-known exhibitions and events, that have helped earn the venue its reputation as a world-class, exhibitions, conferences and events venue. These include Electra Mining, the Annual Soweto Festival, the Soweto Marathon, as well as the return of the Trans Africa Trade Show. In 2015, JEC will for the first time host the BAUMA CONEXPO AFRICA, an International Trade

Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines and Construction Vehicles

So what can be expected from the JEC over the next 30 years? An unerring determination to remain the African venue of choice. “We will always do our best to give each event the hospitality, professionalism, and attention it deserves,” says Newman. “We are confident that the future of the exhibition and events industry is positive and we will always aim to exceed the expectations of our clients,” he concluded.

AMID Bike Show

Expo Centre 30 year celebration Craig Newman, CEO AMID Bike Show

to adapt and utilise technology to make a positive impact in their lives, but also creating platforms for them to share how they see the future impact of technology on our continent.”

MWOT Africa will take place from 6-18 October 2014. For more details or to register, visit www.mwot.co.za.

“We have a firm understanding of our role as African leaders in the industry, and we’re stretching our relationships with our eco-system of leading technology vendors and thought leaders to deliver a unique, world-class empowering experience for the continent,” says Blewett. “The continent’s access to technology is growing, and we know that the real power of interactive technology lies with people, particularly the youth, so we will also be engaging the youth of the continent, not only to ensure that they have the necessary knowledge and ability

04 | NEWS www.theevent.co.za

The continent’s access to technology is growing, and we know that the real power of interactive technology lies with people, particularly the youth.

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The Sandton Convention Centre will be hosting a giant tech show this October – Business Connexion’s (BCX) MyWorld of Tomorrow

Africa (MWOT) Expo. It gives brands and businesses a platform to market themselves and allow visitors to experience new technology first hand.

The three-day event will be divided into different sections including the Demo and Launch Zone, the Experience Zone, the Conference Zone, the Connexion Zone, which will host inspirational technology, new ideas and possibilities, and the Community Zone, where a number of technology organisations will be representing the enterprise, consumer, public sector SMME and other communities.

“Our target audience has mainly been large enterprises, however, this event has a distinct customer and end-user focus,” says Matthew Blewett, Business Connexion COO.

According to a recent press release, the MWOT Africa Expo is a “manifestation of Business Connexion’s mission statement: To enrich communities by making the impossible possible, through technology”. Although Business Connexion’s target audience is currently large enterprises, the expo is aimed at consumers in order to bridge the “already narrowing gap between large technology producers and the man on the street.”

Giant Consumer Tech Show Headed for Jozi

A recent Business Connexion keynote session

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usiness Connexion

Business Connexion MWOT Press Conference, with Business Connexion’s new CEO Isaac Mophatlane on the left

the Saturday, showcasing some of Soweto’s finest talent in different art forms. Performances include nationally-renowned musicians, traditional dancers, gumboot dancers, body builders and many more creative acts.

NEWS | 05www.theevent.co.za

Soweto is South Africa’s biggest township with a wealth of history and what better time to host a festival than during South Africa’s Heritage

and Tourism month? The 10th annual Soweto Festival Expo, taking place from 26-28 September 2014, has been running successfully since 2005 and has seen more than 200,000 people attending over the past nine years. Organised by Adele Lucas Promotions, it was first called the Homemakers Expo and was the first of its kind in Soweto in the 1980s. These days, however, it is known by all as the Soweto Festival Expo.

Managing Director of Adele Lucas Promotions, Rehaad James, says that the aim of the expo is “to celebrate Soweto’s heritage, which was built up over a century, spawned many landmark events in South Africa’s history

and was home to icons such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.” He goes on to say that it is also for “government, sponsors, partners, exhibitors and the media to interact directly with the Soweto people as well as tourists from South Africa, Africa and overseas and thereby achieve their marketing, communications and corporate citizenship objectives”.

The Soweto Festival Expo has made a remarkable impact on the local economy with over one hundred locally sourced SMMEs set to participate in this year’s expo. The main mission of the festival expo is “to contribute to the long term development of Soweto and the broader Gauteng economy and community. To position the Soweto Festival Expo as a platform,” said James. This gives visitors a better experience as well. One of the most popular activities to look forward to is the concert happening on

Soweto Festival Expo –

Ziyakhipha!Giant Consumer Tech Show Headed for Jozi

Courtesy of Sow

eto Festival Expo

TICKET, PLEASE!

As the business events industry across Africa continues to blossom, we are faced with a wonderful problem – wonderful

in the sense that so many people are taking interest in African events. But how does one manage the sheer numbers at exhibitions and conferences? Are companies still developing new technology for ticket management or are we on a plateau where the Computickets of this world dominate the scene? The answer, quite simply, is no. Ticketing technology has morphed behind-the-scenes to incorporate some nifty applications that benefit your entire event. Below is a countdown of the cream of the crop in ticketing tech.

1. BookitbeeBookitbee is a unique platform that allows event organisers to set up an event and sell tickets online in minutes. Once users register for your event, they are sent their e-tickets, which can then be checked at the door with Bookitbee’s ticket scanning system. But that’s not the best part. Bookitbee will help promote your event for you on social media channels like Facebook and Twitter, ensuring that you get an extra bang for your buck.

2. Eventbrite This little company has been making waves in the ticketing world. Not only does it have a catchy name, but it also has an effective and easily navigable layout – bringing you one step closer to organise your ticketing

system. With Eventbrite you can track attendance with some handy analytics, email personalised invitations and go paperless with the mobile app. The company also has an At The Door mobile box office app for iPads which allows organisers to collect money at the entrance.

3. NuticketsEstablished in 2011 in response to demand in the events sector, Nutickets is a South African ticketing system that provides online tools for organisers who want complete control of the sales, promotion and management of their events on a single platform. Nutickets offers bespoke solutions for all events from festivals to exhibitions, with options such as a ticket shop integrated into your own website, guest list, door entry and event promotion management, data analysis, cashless payments and even help with managing the event itself.

4. City SoireeCity Soiree is the perfect platform for event organisers with tight budgets. Once the event page is set up, a target is set for the amount of fans needed for it to happen. In order to reach the target, fans (or delegates) pledge money. This is like buying a pre-sale ticket except for the fact that this particular ticket has the power to make an event happen! Once the target is reached, the event is confirmed. If it isn’t reached, the event doesn’t take place and all pledges are refunded in full – 100% money back guarantee.

Courtesy of bookitbee

Courtesy of Eventbrite

Courtesy of nutickets

Courtesy of C

ity SoireeC

ourtesy of Eventbrite06 | TECH TALK WITH KIM www.theevent.co.za

TICKET, PLEASE!

As the business events industry across Africa continues to blossom, we are faced with a wonderful problem – wonderful

in the sense that so many people are taking interest in African events. But how does one manage the sheer numbers at exhibitions and conferences? Are companies still developing new technology for ticket management or are we on a plateau where the Computickets of this world dominate the scene? The answer, quite simply, is no. Ticketing technology has morphed behind-the-scenes to incorporate some nifty applications that benefit your entire event. Below is a countdown of the cream of the crop in ticketing tech.

1. BookitbeeBookitbee is a unique platform that allows event organisers to set up an event and sell tickets online in minutes. Once users register for your event, they are sent their e-tickets, which can then be checked at the door with Bookitbee’s ticket scanning system. But that’s not the best part. Bookitbee will help promote your event for you on social media channels like Facebook and Twitter, ensuring that you get an extra bang for your buck.

2. Eventbrite This little company has been making waves in the ticketing world. Not only does it have a catchy name, but it also has an effective and easily navigable layout – bringing you one step closer to organise your ticketing

system. With Eventbrite you can track attendance with some handy analytics, email personalised invitations and go paperless with the mobile app. The company also has an At The Door mobile box office app for iPads which allows organisers to collect money at the entrance.

3. NuticketsEstablished in 2011 in response to demand in the events sector, Nutickets is a South African ticketing system that provides online tools for organisers who want complete control of the sales, promotion and management of their events on a single platform. Nutickets offers bespoke solutions for all events from festivals to exhibitions, with options such as a ticket shop integrated into your own website, guest list, door entry and event promotion management, data analysis, cashless payments and even help with managing the event itself.

4. City SoireeCity Soiree is the perfect platform for event organisers with tight budgets. Once the event page is set up, a target is set for the amount of fans needed for it to happen. In order to reach the target, fans (or delegates) pledge money. This is like buying a pre-sale ticket except for the fact that this particular ticket has the power to make an event happen! Once the target is reached, the event is confirmed. If it isn’t reached, the event doesn’t take place and all pledges are refunded in full – 100% money back guarantee.

Courtesy of bookitbee

Courtesy of Eventbrite

Courtesy of nutickets

Courtesy of C

ity SoireeC

ourtesy of Eventbrite

06 | TECH TALK WITH KIM www.theevent.co.za

women doing extraordinary things. They do other things, but they also take care of the environment, they are serious ambassadors for South Africa. And they were talking about the hosting of the Global Miss Earth in South Africa. Their immediate and strongest point of contact is the Department of Environmental Affairs, but I said I would certainly support them in whatever way that I can. It’s not the Olympics and it’s not the Commonwealth Games, but you don’t need new infrastructure built to host it. It’s a simple event but it will profile South Africa beautifully.

NEWS | 07www.theevent.co.za

SAACI Congress came to an end on a hopeful note; delegates leaving with inspiration and innovative ideas. Not least of these delegates was the newly

appointed Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom. The Event’s Publisher, Lance Gibbons, sat down with him to find out what’s in store for the industry.

Lance Gibbons: Where is SA Tourism headed in the next few years?Minister Derek Hanekom: Well, we opened an SA Tourism office in Nigeria recently and we want to open one in Angola and Kenya in the not too distant future. We are also intensifying our marketing efforts in the African continent.

Lance: What is your vision for the sector and what would you like to bring to the business events arena?Minister: The immediate impact would be to

bring people to South Africa, having people come to the country during the off-peak seasons and spreading the tourism inflow throughout the year. If you look at Cape Town for example, the hotels hugely benefit – if not dependent on the CTICC. So the ICC expansion is going to bring business to Cape Town and its suburbs. I do believe that the bigger benefit lies in the return rate, when people come here for a conference and they want to return for a holiday. Getting people here is half the battle won. They will bring other people once they’ve had a good experience.

Lance: If there was one event that in your personal capacity as Minister of Tourism that you could attract to the country, what would it be?Minister: That would be revealing too much, so I will tell you just based on the last event I went to in Cape Town – the Miss Earth finalist event. It’s not a beauty pageant, its extraordinary

A Chat with Minister of Tourism

Derek Hanekom

Lance Gibbons and Derek Hanekom

08 | SAACI www.theevent.co.za

The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry’s (SAACI) Annual Congress and Exhibition from 17-19 August at St Lucia in

KwaZulu-Natal ended on an exciting note this year. Zelda Coetzee, SAACI’s National Chairperson, said in her address at the Congress that boldness is what the business events industry needs right now. “It is heartening to learn that – nationally and internationally – the economic downturn of the past few years is slowly turning the corner,” she said, “I believe South Africa was fortunate in hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup – it has definitely assisted in softening the international economic slump. And besides the magnificent exposure that our country received in hosting the best world cup ever, we are left with an incredibly upgraded infrastructure, which is serving our economy well. This all had to do with business events tourism, in the form of sports tourism, with a spin-off for leisure tourism.”

Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom officially opened the Congress, saying that business travel and conferencing had significantly contributed to the tourism industry. “In 2013, tourism in South Africa contributed 9.5% to the country’s gross domestic product, translating into more than 1,4 million jobs,” he said. “South Africa as a business events destination is fast becoming a serious contender globally. The country gained three places in the International Congress and Convention Associations’ global ranking - from 37th place in 2012 to 34th in 2013, and all indications are that we are poised to continue to gain in this ranking. South Africa is also the number one convention destination in Africa and the Middle East.

“Two South African cities – Durban and Cape Town – are ranked among the top 100 cities in the world for conventions. The 118 International Congress and Convention Association-ranked meetings that South Africa hosted last year brought over 94,000 association professionals to South Africa. It contributed an estimated R1.2 billion to the

country’s economy. Add to this the further 200,000 business event delegates visiting South Africa, this sub-sector contributed some R6 billion to the economy.”

The Congress’ theme was ‘To the Beat of a Different Drum’ and its speaker line-up was an ideal match. Delegates were addressed by an array of renowned speakers from near and far, not least of all was Juan Jose Garcia, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barcelo Congresos, one of the leading Professional Conference Organisers in Europe. His talk was centred on smart business meetings and destinations, especially focusing on the topic of moving from suppliers to strategic partners. Other speakers included Tshifhiwa Mamaila, who spoke on advancing Africa and the challenges of associations and conferencing in Africa, sought-after trends analyst Dion Chang, who uses a global perspective to source new ideas and identify cutting-edge trends, and motivational speaker Mark Berger, who has been described as a prodigy of the human potential movement. Other speakers were Conrad Travis David of Hashtag South Africa, Nicci Diederichs Mander, Managing Director of FutureWorks, and Jason Xenopoulos, CEO of Native VML.

SAACI CONGRESS Concludes on Positive Note

“Our Congress destination and venue were unusual and we trust that our speakers have inspired delegates to try new approaches when conducting business,” Congress Chairperson Merryl Fairfoot said. “After all, to achieve different results, you must do something different.”

“We must manage the fact that we are a long-haul destination, offering potential tourists value for money and an awesome and safe destination that is easy to access – these are factors we need to concentrate on…Real innovation, lateral thinking and revolutionary ideas are what make modern-day winners,” Coetzee added.

The Congress’ locale itself was a unique choice. St Lucia is the only town in the world that is surrounded by a World Heritage Site – the iSimangaliso Wetland Park – the only park in the world where the rhino and elephant share the same ecosystem with the whale and the coelacanth.

Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom

© SA

ACI

Association ranking from 37th to 34th position. Today South Africa is still the number one preferred business events destination in Africa and the Middle East,” she said. “Up to 2018, bids for 150 association events have been secured with an estimated economic impact of R3.2 billion. This equates to about 670 combined conference days involving nearly 244,000 delegates.”

But the effects of hosting an association event are far-reaching. The newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, recently said that South Africa’s tourism industry, indirectly stimulated by the business events industry, accounted for 9.5% of the country’s GDP, which translates to over 1.4 million jobs. “It is a well-known fact that business travel exceeds global averages for tourism spending,” he said.

“It represents a segment of higher end spenders and contributes greatly to breaking seasonality patterns. Add to this the positive publicity that it generates for the country, the image boost and the high level of return visits, it is clear that it contributes significantly to the economy.”

Hanekom gave an example of the Global Consumer Goods Forum, to be held in South Africa in 2016. The event will host up to 1,000 CEO and senior managers from over 400 retailers, manufacturers and others, representing companies with combined sales worth of around R36 trillion. “The immediate estimated economic impact of R11.2 million will include some 4,000 room nights spread over four conference days, excluding the spending by delegates who decide to stay longer, visit other parts of the country, or to return with their families

10 | FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

Everyone has heard of at least one association, whether they are related to the business events industry or not. But these are

not organisations that simply aggregate members. Associations are a vital part of the events industry, helping to create better working standards and encouraging both international and local trade in the industry. Numbers in South Africa alone are proof of this. Addressing members of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry at the SAACI Congress in August, Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, SANCB Chief Convention Bureau Officer, said that the country had hosted 94,000 business events in 2013, generating business with an estimated R2.1 billion economic impact.

“In 2013, South Africa also improved its International Congress and Convention

THE BUSINESS BEHIND AFRICAN ASSOCIATIONS

Announcement of a new Convention Centre in Calabar, Nigeria at WTM Africa 2014

FEATURE | 11www.theevent.co.za

“We in the exhibitions industry are a critical weapon in the arsenal available to both business and government as they look to build momentum in their economies, increasing the capacity of companies to generate more jobs,” Paul Woodard, Managing Director of UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, wrote in Exhibition World recently. “Firstly, exhibitions are a powerful tool for expanding distribution networks…

in a year or two. This does not include the potential business and investment in our country that a conference of this kind could bring.”

But it’s not only the hospitality and tourism sectors that benefit from associations. Members of these organisations are in an ideal position to create business. Not only are they able to use the contacts they have through these associations, but companies are now beginning to realise that members are more likely to adhere to a higher standard of conferencing than the average events company or PCO. This can only be good news for the African industry as it continues to reach for world-class appeal. And, with new convention centres going up in both East and West Africa in the near future, South African associations have the added advantage of sharing their expertise with other countries on the continent in order to create a regional rotation network for business events.

Secondly, and related to this, we are a strong generator of exports. UFI’s organiser members are all running international fairs…Finally our events are a marvellous catalyst for innovation. Whether it’s testing new designs and technologies, finding new collaborators, or matching ideas with other industry leaders, the best companies use the community of expertise that comes together at a trade fair to ensure that they are at the cutting edge of their business.”

The continent of Africa is a diverse and multi-cultural place, and as such, African associations have one tremendous benefit: knowledge of the outside world. Simply put, association members can only create successful rotating conferences on the continent if they understand the customs, languages and prerequisites of the chosen country. Larry Kulchawik, former IFES and EDPA President, recently said that our awareness of the different exhibitions and meeting industry associations is key to reaching unity and understanding. “Many

associations are beginning to measure and expand their reach with the services they offer, and thus overlap their services with other association services,” he says. “As market experts, we cannot be members of all these groups, so consolidation is a good way of getting dual benefits from membership to a single association.” He goes on to say that sharing information between associations in areas such as sustainability, safety, and exhibit or meeting space layout are good for dialogue.

SAACI’s Congress this year echoed that sentiment, with speaker Juan Jose Garcia, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barcelo Congresos, one of the leading professional conference organisers in Europe, saying that smart business meetings and destinations should be moving away from the role of suppliers to strategic partners. SAACI’s National Chairperson, Zelda Coetzee agreed, saying, “Real innovation, lateral thinking and revolutionary ideas are what make modern-day winners.”

Up to 2018, bids for 150 association events have been secured with an estimated economic impact of R3.2 billion. This equates to about 670 combined conference days involving nearly 244,000 delegates.

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IFES Golf Day 2013

Left to Right: Adriaan Liebetrau (CEO of SAACI), Zelda Coetzee (SAACI National Chairperson), Derek Hanekom (Ministerof Tourism), Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo (SANCB Chief Convention Bureau Officer), Thulani Nzima (CEO of SA Tourism)

the Voting Line sculpture in Port Elizabeth. Alternatively, meander through Alexandra Yard Precinct, a township where he lived briefly before moving to Vilakazi Street.

But why is it so important for both domestic and international tourists to know about Madiba? Is it still vital that we showcase these poignant parts of our history? And are tourism authorities simply ‘riding the Mandela wave’ to get the most out of publicity this year?

The National Department of Tourism said in 2012 that the nation had earmarked tourism as a key sector with excellent potential for growth. The government’s aims were to increase tourism’s contribution to the economy, both directly and indirectly, to R499-billion by 2020. The sector was naturally given a boost with the hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2010, and the subsequent focus on regional tourism contributed over 73% of total

tourist arrivals and more than R50-billion in revenue in 2011.

Fast-forward to 2014 and SA’s new Minster of Tourism, Derek Hanekom, who has only been in office for around three months, has a wary outlook on things to come. In his address at the annual Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) conference, he said that there are a number of ‘threats’ to the nation’s tourism economy. “While the growth forecasts are positive, we must remain realistic about potential wild cards – fickle outbound growth from some regions, potential airlift disruptions due to the spread of epidemics, and volatile and rising jet fuel prices come to mind,” he said. “Furthermore, domestic tourism flows could be moderated by high fuel prices and sluggish growth in disposable income. If we add to this the more value-conscious post-recession


“But why is it so important for both domestic and international tourists to know about Madiba? Is it still vital that we showcase these poignant parts of our history?

“As we celebrate twenty years of democracy, the recent passing of our beloved former president Nelson Mandela is still heavy on

our minds. A conglomeration of events and tours around his life have formed and taken on lives of their own, and not least of these are the many options in the tourism sector. For a true overview of Tata Madiba in all phases of his life, folks can visit the Nelson Mandela Museum located in three structures in the Eastern Cape – the Bhunga Building in Mthatha, the Qunu component, and his birthplace, now an open-air museum at Mvezo. From there, history buffs can travel south to Robben Island, where he was held during apartheid for eighteen of his twenty-seven years of imprisonment, and then on to Johannesburg to find the Mandela House in Soweto. The house in Vilakazi Street has become one of the most famous addresses in South Africa, and visitors can experience the significance of the nation’s heritage through sound, film, interpretive panels and guided tours through the restored building. There are a number of other sites commemorating Mandela, including Constitution Hill and the Nelson Mandela Bridge, both in Joburg, and

Nelson Mandela Monument

© SA

Tourism

IT’S TOURISM MONTH IN SOUTH AFRICA!by Kim Muller

Visit Jozi in SeptemberAs September is designated Tourism Month in South Africa – culminating with the UNWTO’s International Tourism Day taking place annually on 27 September – Maboneng Precinct will be launching festivities in its exciting and artistic urban community. In addition to this, Joburg’s calendar of signature lifestyle events takes off in September every year. The number of events celebrating music, food, fashion, entertainment and living the good life is mind-boggling, with its hectic pace continuing until the end of summer. Arts Alive, Joy of Jazz, Joburg Day, Soweto Wine Festival and the Joburg City Festival are just some of the events to look forward to in September, with plenty to follow and plenty more to come in the months ahead! - Source: Joburg Tourism

the growth and development of a vibrant second economy.” She goes on to say that Johannesburg Tourism’s strategy mission is to “attract visitors to Joburg, encourage them to stay longer, spend more, and improve seasonality patterns and the spread of visitors across the city.”

Some of Johannesburg’s most popular attractions include Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, SAB World of Beer, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens and Liliesleaf Farm to name a few. One of the reasons for these sites’ popularity is their universal appeal. Who doesn’t remember the apartheid struggle? Who doesn’t want to drink inordinate amounts of beer – in any country? Other reasons include fierce competition in marketing and further investment in the sector’s market share.

Vercueil says that Joburg Tourism’s ongoing local and international promotional campaigns include exhibiting at business and leisure trade shows where the organisation


consumer, shortening booking cycles, the trend towards so-called ‘staycations’ and shorter trips, and intensifying rivalry between destinations to attract the lucrative millennial traveller segment – we do have our work cut out for us.”

“With these cautionary notes,” he went on to say, “which all underline the importance of innovation in the industry, one thing is undeniable: the tourism sector in South Africa is in good shape! During the last ten years, while global tourism expanded only 4.5% per year on average, the compound annual growth in our foreign arrivals was 9.3%.”

The importance of tourism in South Africa is neatly outlined in Johannesburg’s Growth and Development Strategy (GDS), with tourism remaining an economic growth imperative on the city’s agenda. Joburg Tourism PR and Communication Manager Laura Vercueil says, “It is an important catalyst to encourage the development of the SMME sector in order to stimulate

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Tourism

Soweto, Johannesburg

© SA

Tourism

Constitution Hill, Johannesburg


been promoting domestic, regional and international tourism. Cape Town was the centre of attention this year as it took on the mantle of World Design Capital, creating hundreds of unique, design-related projects across the city. In addition to this, the city was named one of the top places to visit in 2014 by both the New York Times and Lonely Planet, while South Africa’s wildlife got a rather public nod recently when it was voted the best wildlife destination for the third year in a row by Lonely Planet’s Indian audience. Durban has also long been known for its ability to

shares its plans to maintain, defend and grow its market share. “As the City of Johannesburg’s destination marketing organisation, Joburg Tourism promotes Joburg not only as the continent’s leading business hub, but also as an exciting, vibrant year-round destination for signature events, lifestyle, the arts, culture, fashion, sports – not forgetting mega-events. In addition to this, the city’s leadership works to promote the plentiful opportunities Joburg offers as a base for tourism investments.”

Johannesburg isn’t the only city that has

Party in JoburgEver wondered where the best spots were to get down and have some fun? Johannesburg has the answer, with a vibrant hub of five-star eateries, bars and entertainment options across the city.

Here are some of it’s unique offerings:• Four Seasons Group has decided

that Joburg is the place to be! It will operate its first hotel in South Africa here following refurbishments to The Westcliff. The iconic property will open its doors on December 2014 – although bookings have already commenced.

• The Sky Table and events facility allows up to 22 seated guests to experience dinner from a thrilling height of 60m in the air! Currently situated at the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, this spectacular facility moves locations when required and can be booked for special events.

• Maboneng Precinct is a privately developed urban neighbourhood on the east side of Johannesburg’s central business district. Maboneng, meaning ‘Place of Light’, is home to several independent restaurants, retail and entertainment venues

and hosts dome unique events like the Art Week, which took place

in mid-August. • Just eight kilometres from the centre

of Joburg lies the world- renowned Gold Reef City. Its magnificent theme park offers the widest

range of features and attractions in Africa, while the exhilarating

casino complex is where Jozi residents comes to play, relax

and much more.

Nelson Mandela Bridge, Johannesburg

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism

The Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng

© SA

Tourism

The South Africa National Convention Bureau (SANCB) has announced that it will once again be creating a South African Pavilion at CIBTM in

Beijing, China. The trade show, which is set to take place from 17-19 September 2014, will provide the ultimate platform for the world’s leading business events industry suppliers to meet top level buyers with strong purchasing power. Many of the delegates attending are responsible for organising and planning meetings, events and business travel in China, Asia and across the globe.

“Following the first South African Pavilion at CIBTM 2012, the SANCB will again be creating a platform for the South African business events industry at CIBTM 2014. The successful format that the SANCB implements in creating pavilions at international business events trade fairs will be utilised for CIBTM 2014,” the SANCB recently told business partners.

Organisations that will be sharing the SA Pavilion with the SANCB this year are Mpumalanga Tourism, Johannesburg Convention Bureau, Cape Town International Convention Centre, South African Airways and Sun International. As in previous years, service providers have contributed a small percentage toward the cost of their individual desks and pre-scheduled appointment systems, but the value that comes from being part of the Pavilion is more than worth it. The stand package includes public liability insurance, translation services, access to a stand networking function where sharers can invite their clients, and a prime location right at the entrance of the exhibition hall.

Having a stand at CIBTM is a unique opportunity for any stand sharers. The SANCB’s partnership with China has an immense amount of untapped potential. As of 2014, the five BRICS countries represent a market of almost 3 billion people – that’s 40% of the world’s population, with a combined GDP of US$ 16.039 trillion and an estimated US$4 trillion in combined foreign reserves. The BRICS nations also represent about 18% of the world’s economy and as such, those in the business events industry stand to benefit tremendously

from partnering with these countries, all of whom will be represented at CIBTM 2014. In addition to this incredible opportunity, CIBTM’s vibrant exhibition hall offers high-value face-to-face meetings, while a three-day Knowledge Programme provides cutting edge, professional learning opportunities.

The MICE industry in China is emerging, dynamic, fast-growing and is worth an estimated US$150 billion and is growing annually by 20%. This means that it continues to offer a wealth of business opportunities for international and regional suppliers alike. Now in its ninth year, CIBTM has provided unrivalled prospects for suppliers who continue to build leads and generate business from China. In March 2013 President Jacob Zuma and his Chinese counterpart President

Xi Jinping concluded an agreement heralding 2014 as the year of South Africa in China. Be part of this cultural and business exchange with the SANCB at the South African Pavilion.

For more information on the South Africa Pavilion at CIBTM 2014 or for destination expertise and convention planning support, visit www.businessevents.southafria.net or email [email protected]. Alternatively, call +27 (0)11 895 3000 for further info.

SANCB and South African Pavilion Set

FOR CIBTM 2014

SANCB / CIBTM | 15www.theevent.co.za

status for their unique qualities. You might be surprised to find that one of these sites, Robben Island – best known as the place where Madiba was held for eighteen years – was once a leper colony, a mental hospital and then a defence training base.

Other sites include uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, which is a treasure trove of an estimated 35,000 examples of San rock paintings hidden within the mighty mountain range. These mountains have peaks which exceed 3000m in height and are also home to protected plant and animal species, as well as a fascinating, high-altitude, wetland system. The Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng is another one of the eight World Heritage Sites; its landscapes dotted with subterranean limestone caves that have turned up a rich fossil record for human evolutionary studies, lending credence to the ‘Out of Africa’ theory. Mapungubwe World Heritage Site was once the capital of a country as large as Swaziland, surrounded by over 200 satellite towns.


Shark cage diving, Cape Town

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Tourism

successfully host mega-events, from the Durban International Film Festival which took place in July, to the many sporting crowds and business event delegates that annually congregate in this sunny city year on year.

South Africa’s Many Heritage OfferingsSouth Africa has a vast array of exciting tourism activities and attractions, from voluntourism to scenic beauty, adventure and historical landmarks. Nowhere else in the world can you surf along golden beaches, explore wild and untamed coastlines, go shark cage diving in the Indian Ocean and bungee off one of the highest bridges in the world – all in the same province. South Africa’s nine provinces are each unique in their own right. Limpopo, better known as the Gateway to Africa, is home to one of the most popular reserves on the planet, the Kruger National Park, which shares its borders with sister-province Mpumalanga. Further

south are Gauteng and the North West, home to Sun City and the Pilanesberg Reserve, where visitors can catch a game drive, a round of golf and try their luck at the nearby casino – in one easily accessible location. The Northern Cape is best of stargazing and has some stunning desert flora that springs up seasonally, while the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal have the largest expanse of untouched coastline in the country. The Free State, situated at the heart of South Africa, is the breadbasket of the nation, but is also a vibrant historical hub, while the Western Cape offers the world the best wines, fascinating and diverse fauna and flora, and plenty of creativity for all.

But perhaps the most captivating attractions are those which point to our past, whether that past leads to a great leader, or signifies events that have taken place millions of years ago. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa are eight such places. They have been given special international

Saint Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal

© SA

Tourism

Surf along golden beaches, explore wild and untamed coastlines, go shark cage diving in the Indian Ocean and bungee off one of the highest bridges in the world.

““

© SA

Tourism

The Royal Court at Mapungubwe in Limpopo once welcomed traders and men of influence from Arabia and the Far East and only in recent decades has this ancient city been uncovered. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is one of the largest estuary systems in Africa, and is acclaimed for its exceptional biodiversity and over 520 bird species. Here you will find the world’s highest sand dunes, gold beaches,


coral reefs and mangrove swamps. The Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical

Landscape is a remarkable mountainous desert in the north-west of the country and is uniquely owned and managed by the local Nama Communities. The Western Cape’s Floral Region, or fynbos, is also a Heritage Site. It is one of the richest and most diverse floral areas in the world, with about 70% of

its floral species occurring nowhere else on the planet. The Table Mountain National Park has more plant species in its 22,000 hectares than Britain or New Zealand. The Vredefort Dome in the North West is the world’s biggest meteor crater. Dating back to when a gigantic meteorite 10km in diameter hit the earth, this area is now the oldest and largest clearly visible meteorite impact site on earth.

The Protea, found in Table Mountain National Park Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Province

20 | MCI-GROUP www.theevent.co.za

Watch this space!

MCI IS MAKING

A SPLASH on the African

Continent

Tamlynne Wilton (MCI Director of Business Development & Marketing) and Rashid Toefy (MCI Managing Director)

should not be based on expediency, but rather – relevancy of subject matter. When looking at the burden of disease in Africa and its political and economic landscape, associations are vital for the economic and social transformation of Africa as a continent. Moreover, it provides a platform for knowledge transfer and research into key areas such as HIV, TB and other communicable and non-communicable diseases that are so prevalent on the continent. African associations should generate their own content and their own rotating conferences because we have different priorities and we can’t be following the linear, ‘west is best’ approach to ‘development’. I look forward to the day that the rest of the World travels to an African congress to hear what we have to say and learn from their African counterparts,” said Wilton.

Toefy shares this vision and is particularly passionate about the training and growth of African associations. This year, MCI is hosting two executive educational programmes for associations – one in Nairobi and the other in Cape Town. As previous chair of ICCA Africa, Toefy believes this is the next step to taking African associations to the next level. Toefy says “It is imperative that we provide a platform for the events industry to connect with association executives and ensure that this interaction proves invaluable for all parties. While we are committed to increasing the number of international association conferences that come to Africa, we are also committed to the development of associations, and to ensure that after a conference or event has left the continent, a legacy remains long into the future.”

As we grow the footprint of MCI on the African continent, we look forward to establishing strategic relationships with key industry partners that share our vision of delivering high quality and meaningful event experiences that make an impact.

Africa is going PINK – watch this space!

MCI SOUTH AFRICA | 21www.theevent.co.za

MCI in AfricaMCI opened its Africa office in February 2013 spearheaded by Tamlynne Wilton, Director of Business Development & Marketing. Tamlynne was responsible for building the brand on the African continent and has already secured various international and local conferences in addition to international incentives and corporate events that flow from the MCI global network.

Wilton joined MCI from a local organisation where she headed the PCO division. She has 14 years’ experience in the industry, locally and internationally, and is passionate about helping associations to grow and achieve their objectives – particularly those related to Development, Health and Education. She believes that conferences provide a platform from which to effect change and shape policy. Wilton holds a degree in Psychology as well as various industry related qualifications and continues to further her studies in African Sociology and Psychology in addition to various marketing and fundraising activities.

After a 7 year stint as CEO of the Cape Town International Convention Centre - Africa’s leading convention centre, Rashid Toefy joined MCI as its Managing Director for Africa in July 2014. Toefy, has worked extensively in the travel and tourism industry, both in South Africa and abroad. He spent a significant time abroad developing business and marketing strategies for travel companies and tourism businesses in over 30 countries, working extensively in Central Europe and Latin America. Toefy currently serves on the board of several local and international organizations and is a thought leader on sustainability practices. He is a member of the United Nations Global Compact Advisory Board and previously served as the Chairperson of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) African Chapter. Toefy has an economics degree and an MBA from the University of Cape Town, with his Masters thesis having focused on the power of Collaborative Leadership within organisations.

Toefy and Wilton lead a dynamic team of professionals working across the various MCI product practices which include Professional Conference Organisation, Destination Management, Association Management & Consulting and Event & Communication Management.

“The selection of a destination for a congress

About MCIMCI is the world’s leading provider of strategic engagement and activation solutions and has been a key driver of innovation in the meetings, events, association and congress industries since 1987. Through creative live experiences and digitisation, globalisation, brand enhancement and content strategies, MCI helps multinational companies and international associations to enhance organisational performance, grow globally, energise communities and drive business results. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MCI’s 1,600 experts across 30 countries help clients across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and India, the Middle East and Africa to unlock their potential and deliver real change.

Industry Insights:MCI drives dialogue across a variety of industries, bringing specialised knowledge, best practices and unique insights to companies, associations, brands, federations and government bodies working in the following industries: basic materials & agriculture; business, management & administration; luxury, FMCG, automotive & consumer services; education & arts, human & social services; energy & utilities; finance; healthcare & life sciences; ICT; professional services, capital goods & transportation; law, public safety & security; science, technology, engineering & mathematics; sports; and sustainability.

Some Of MCI’s Past Projects Include• Global Food Safety Initiative Focus Days 2013• SAPA National Conference 2013• Britehouse Group Hackathon, 2013• Abbvie Allstars Incentive 2014• Produce Marketing Association Fresh Connections Conference & Expo 2014• International Press Institute World Congress 2014• International Pulse Trade Industry Congress 2014• Takeda Incentive 2014• Niall Mellon Township Trust Incentive• Symantec Roadshow 2014

MCI has arrived in Africa…and is set to transform the meetings, conference and events industry on the African continent.

should not be based on expediency, but rather – relevancy of subject matter. When looking at the burden of disease in Africa and its political and economic landscape, associations are vital for the economic and social transformation of Africa as a continent. Moreover, it provides a platform for knowledge transfer and research into key areas such as HIV, TB and other communicable and non-communicable diseases that are so prevalent on the continent. African associations should generate their own content and their own rotating conferences because we have different priorities and we can’t be following the linear, ‘west is best’ approach to ‘development’. I look forward to the day that the rest of the World travels to an African congress to hear what we have to say and learn from their African counterparts,” said Wilton.

Toefy shares this vision and is particularly passionate about the training and growth of African associations. This year, MCI is hosting two executive educational programmes for associations – one in Nairobi and the other in Cape Town. As previous chair of ICCA Africa, Toefy believes this is the next step to taking African associations to the next level. Toefy says “It is imperative that we provide a platform for the events industry to connect with association executives and ensure that this interaction proves invaluable for all parties. While we are committed to increasing the number of international association conferences that come to Africa, we are also committed to the development of associations, and to ensure that after a conference or event has left the continent, a legacy remains long into the future.”

As we grow the footprint of MCI on the African continent, we look forward to establishing strategic relationships with key industry partners that share our vision of delivering high quality and meaningful event experiences that make an impact.

Africa is going PINK – watch this space!

MCI SOUTH AFRICA | 21www.theevent.co.za

MCI in AfricaMCI opened its Africa office in February 2013 spearheaded by Tamlynne Wilton, Director of Business Development & Marketing. Tamlynne was responsible for building the brand on the African continent and has already secured various international and local conferences in addition to international incentives and corporate events that flow from the MCI global network.

Wilton joined MCI from a local organisation where she headed the PCO division. She has 14 years’ experience in the industry, locally and internationally, and is passionate about helping associations to grow and achieve their objectives – particularly those related to Development, Health and Education. She believes that conferences provide a platform from which to effect change and shape policy. Wilton holds a degree in Psychology as well as various industry related qualifications and continues to further her studies in African Sociology and Psychology in addition to various marketing and fundraising activities.

After a 7 year stint as CEO of the Cape Town International Convention Centre - Africa’s leading convention centre, Rashid Toefy joined MCI as its Managing Director for Africa in July 2014. Toefy, has worked extensively in the travel and tourism industry, both in South Africa and abroad. He spent a significant time abroad developing business and marketing strategies for travel companies and tourism businesses in over 30 countries, working extensively in Central Europe and Latin America. Toefy currently serves on the board of several local and international organizations and is a thought leader on sustainability practices. He is a member of the United Nations Global Compact Advisory Board and previously served as the Chairperson of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) African Chapter. Toefy has an economics degree and an MBA from the University of Cape Town, with his Masters thesis having focused on the power of Collaborative Leadership within organisations.

Toefy and Wilton lead a dynamic team of professionals working across the various MCI product practices which include Professional Conference Organisation, Destination Management, Association Management & Consulting and Event & Communication Management.

“The selection of a destination for a congress

About MCIMCI is the world’s leading provider of strategic engagement and activation solutions and has been a key driver of innovation in the meetings, events, association and congress industries since 1987. Through creative live experiences and digitisation, globalisation, brand enhancement and content strategies, MCI helps multinational companies and international associations to enhance organisational performance, grow globally, energise communities and drive business results. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MCI’s 1,600 experts across 30 countries help clients across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and India, the Middle East and Africa to unlock their potential and deliver real change.

Industry Insights:MCI drives dialogue across a variety of industries, bringing specialised knowledge, best practices and unique insights to companies, associations, brands, federations and government bodies working in the following industries: basic materials & agriculture; business, management & administration; luxury, FMCG, automotive & consumer services; education & arts, human & social services; energy & utilities; finance; healthcare & life sciences; ICT; professional services, capital goods & transportation; law, public safety & security; science, technology, engineering & mathematics; sports; and sustainability.

Some Of MCI’s Past Projects Include• Global Food Safety Initiative Focus Days 2013• SAPA National Conference 2013• Britehouse Group Hackathon, 2013• Abbvie Allstars Incentive 2014• Produce Marketing Association Fresh Connections Conference & Expo 2014• International Press Institute World Congress 2014• International Pulse Trade Industry Congress 2014• Takeda Incentive 2014• Niall Mellon Township Trust Incentive• Symantec Roadshow 2014

MCI has arrived in Africa…and is set to transform the meetings, conference and events industry on the African continent.

All things creative collide this September at the annual Loeries Creative Week Cape Town. Across the continent people are leaving

their boardrooms and cramped offices to converge on the city. Some come looking for inspiration, while others are bringing their innovations with them, eager and hopeful to earn a coveted Loerie Award for excellence in brand communication. The Loeries is the biggest celebration of creativity in Africa and the Middle East, with an eclectic programme that incorporates a variety of speakers from across the globe, the latest thinking from Facebook and Unilever, the best new work in the industry and much, much more.

Andrew Human, CEO of the Loeries, travelled to Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana earlier this year both to educate the brand communication industry and to encourage more entries from further


afield. “The Loeries African Roadshow has definitely raised awareness of the Loeries across the continent,” he says “I expect that we will have more delegates from outside South Africa attending this year, and each year going forward.”

Creative Week will see award finalists announced every day from the 15th - 18th September, with the Loeries Expo opening on Thursday the 18th. There are 14 categories this year, including a new one called Branded Content. This category includes the integration of a brand into a content platform – either pre-existing or created specifically for the purpose of promoting the brand. This could be through feature films, mini-series made for television, cinema releases, DVDs or online releases, and includes all genres. Google, the world’s most valuable brand, will also be joining the party this year for the first time.

Google will be sponsoring the Digital and Interactive Communication category and has also launched the Loeries to Loeries YouTube Ads Leaderboard – a celebration of the most popular ads on YouTube since the last Loeries.

Judges are also looking forward to being part of the Loeries this year, with a unique variety of people hailing from brand communication agencies from around the world. Gareth Leck, Managing Director of Joe Public, will be leading the Effective Creativity judging panel, and Patrick Baron, Executive Creative Director at McCann Australia will chair the Radio, Television, Film and Video panel, while Caroline Pretorius, Group Creative Director at VWV, will head up the Events and PR category. The Loeries Digital and Interactive Communications judging panel will be chaired by the Emmy Award-winning PJ

CREATIVE MINDS COLLIDE At The Loeries 2014

Saturday Night on Long Street

© The Loeries


Pereira, Chief Creative Officer at Pereira O’Dell in San Francisco, while Stephen Doyle of New York-based agency Doyle Partners will lead the Communication Design panel. A new highlight for this year is that for the first time ever, all delegates will receive a complimentary one-year access to the Loeries Archive. The archive is a great resource for anyone looking to review winning campaigns dating back to 1978, but also for those looking for added inspiration in years to come.

Friday the 19th will see the much-anticipated DStv Seminar of Creativity take place, with a “stellar line-up” of speakers. These include Facebook’s Rob Newlan, who heads up Facebook Creative Shop

in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Unilever Nigeria’s Managing Director, Yaw Nsarkoh, will be speaking about Afrocentric approaches to marketing, while other speakers will offer compelling insights into the link between creativity and the impact on business results. Others on the bill include McCann Sydney’s Executive Creative Director, Patrick Baron; PJ Pereira, CEO and co-founder Pereira and O’Dell, San Francisco; the indomitable Stephen Doyle, Creative Director, Doyle Partners, New York City, and Ali Ali, the acclaimed commercial’s director from Egypt and former Executive Creative Director and Founder of Elephant.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Delegates can shake off any stress

accumulated during the week at the unmissable YFM Chairman’s Party on Friday night. According to the Loeries, the beats will “resonate through the rest of the weekend and set the tone for a celebration of truly African innovation”.

On Saturday the 20th the creative industry’s rising stars will introduce themselves at the Adams & Adams Student Portfolio Day, which takes place at Cape Town City Hall. Visitors will have one last chance to see the Loeries Expo before heading off to the V&A Waterfront for the Unilever Brunch. Saturday evening will see the first Loerie Awards announced at an official ceremony at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) complete with live music, canapés, cocktails and an exciting red carpeted entrance.

The awards will culminate on Sunday the 21st, allowing delegates some time for rest and recovery from a busy weekend before another evening of partying. Both nights have legendary programmes, with exclusive access to Saturday Night on Long for Creative Week ticket holders. As the name suggests, it will take place in Cape Town’s renowned Long Street, featuring a variety of VIP events and local venues like Julep, SGT Pepper and Fiction. Sunday evening’s ceremony will be followed by the unforgettable Channel O Party at Shimmy Beach Club – giving delegates the chance to connect one more time.

Saturday evening will see the first Loerie Awards announced at an official ceremony at the Cape Town International Convention Centre complete with live music, canapés, cocktails and an exciting red carpeted entrance.

“

“

DStv Seminar of Creativity The Loeries Exhibition 2014

Egg Films Judges Wrap

© The Loeries

© The Loeries

© The Loeries


The Loerie Awards inspire creativity, stimulate competition and gather all of Africa’s latest and greatest advertising professionals in one

city for an amazing experience. Creative Week Cape Town, now in its fifth year, is an annual celebration of innovation, culture, design, and of course, brand communication. Thousands from across the continent and the globe come to experience the energy, the diversity and the excitement, which culminates in the Loerie Awards ceremony – a showcase of Africa and the Middle East’s finest brand communication. The Event sat down with Andrew Human, Chief Executive Officer of the Loeries, to find out what’s in store this year.

How did you first get involved with the Loeries?I worked in New York City as a strategic director and creative director for a digital agency, marchFirst. Part of my work involved developing Internet-based systems to optimise business processes. During this period, I worked with several advertising awards, including the Art Directors Club, Andy Awards, the One Show, and the London International Advertising Awards. Around 2005 the Loeries were undergoing a major transition and I was asked to get involved. The rest is history and here I am…

Since becoming CEO, what have your goals been to ensure that the Loeries grows better with each year?I would say that my main focus has been to promote the value of creativity. Not simply pretty pictures – but how ideas and innovation can add real business value that impacts the bottom line.

What kind of legacy do you hope to leave?A Loerie is without a doubt the most difficult industry award to win in our region, and commands a lot of respect. It has become a measure of success, and I hope that this respect will continue to grow, both in South Africa and across our continent.

Where do you see Africa’s brand communication industry in the next two to five years?Africa is growing off a relatively small base, and disposable income must still grow for brand and product growth to follow. At the moment the biggest advertisers are the mainstay FMCG products (Fast Moving Consumer Goods), beverages, telecommunications and finance – I expect this will gradually change as the economies grow.

Many industry professionals have said that Africa has not yet found its own unique, creative voice. What’s your opinion?Advertising, or brand communication, has a simply role and that is to fulfil the brand’s aims. There is no need for a “creative voice” merely for the sake of it. Rather, localised advertising can tailor a brand message to its intended audience and that’s where a relevant voice is important. If one takes time to review the recent winners at the Loeries, it’s clear that there is actually very strong localisation of our advertising – at least when looking at the best examples. This is perhaps something that other brands can learn from.

Which parts of the Loeries Creative Week programme are you most looking forward to?The big change in Creative Week has been the growth in the programme outside of the actual awards. Perhaps what I look forward

to mostly is the DStv Seminar of Creativity which offers such a fascinating and unique opportunity to listen to world leaders. Also, the ability to network with the entire industry – including the many marketers who now attend – is a definite highlight.

Ensuring that a massive event like the Loeries runs smoothly is stressful. What are your secrets for success?I think keeping everyone inspired and excited is important. We work with so many partners now that it’s really critical that they each put everything they have into their activities. This year we have the DStv Seminar, Unilever Brunch, Egg Films Judges Wrap, Chairmans Party with YFM, Google Pop-up Restaurant, Facebook Workshop, Channel O Party, Adams & Adams Student Portfolio Day, The Times cocktails, Wolves of Long Street Party, and even the Loeries Expo with a number of exhibitors – just to name the official events and excluding the actual awards ceremonies! Each of these is an event on its own with our partners; so each one relies on a separate input and stimulation to make it successful. Of course a near-maniacal attention to detail doesn’t hurt.

Any last words?From 15-21 September, anybody who’s anyone in the industry should be no other place than at Loeries Creative Week Cape Town!

ANDREW HUMAN Unpacks Loeries Creative Week

Andrew Human, CEO of the Loeries

© The Loeries

GEARHOUSE | 25www.theevent.co.za

Renowned equipment rental company Gearhouse will be supplying all technical equipment and crew at the Loeries for the tenth year running. As

a Major Sponsor of the Awards, they provide everything from staging, set and structures to lighting, audio and visuals.

“We have a great business relationship with the Loeries team,” says Robyn D’Alessandro, National Marketing Manager at Gearhouse. “It’s always a project that stretches us in one way or another. This year’s Loeries will have a taste of most of our services across the Group. Attendees can look forward to an enhanced visual experience as our projector specification increases from last year, the allocated media server is the very latest version and we will be adding some of our 6mm high resolution LED screens into the mix. So this year is all about raising the bar in terms of quality and visual impact.”

Gearhouse has the widest range of services

currently available in South Africa under one roof. “Our competitive advantage lies in the fact that we provide a turnkey technical solution with specialists in each field,” says D’Alessandro. But that’s not all. They also offer a variety of cutting-edge, portable venues. Gearhouse In2Structures, one of the Group subsidiaries, is a specialist in design and manufacturing, producing custom-designed, portable venues in South Africa. “We have brought a range of unique structures to the local market and many have been exported as well,” says Robyn. “It is an extremely popular product and has been used on many high-profile projects including the VVIP venue for the Presidential Inauguration and the State Funeral of Mr Mandela.” In2Structures also provides domes for hire. “Our Dome venues offer an alternative solution to erecting conventional venues at a fraction of the cost. All structural elements are manufactured to the highest standards from high tensile steel which uses

GEARHOUSE(hot dip) galvanizing to prevent corrosion.”

Gearhouse recently opened a West African operation after experiencing a steady increase in demand for cross-border services. This is as a result of interest in the African continent as an event destination. Gearhouse Ghana offers a full technical solution with a fast turnaround and professional delivery – something that’s proving attractive to professional conference organisers. “The biggest single barrier to growth of the events market here is the lack of venues,” says Bill Lawford, who will be heading up the new company. “There is an enormous gap for a venue of +/-5000 capacity. A Gearhouse In2Structures Dome could open up new possibilities here.”

Group to Sponsor Loerie Awards for 10th Year

26 | IT&CM INDIA www.theevent.co.za

IT&CM INDIA 2014 ‘The Event’ was there to capture all the highlights of India’s best MICE event.

meetings industry has moved over the last 10 years from a tourism/cultural approach towards new strategies built upon economic development and intellectual capital objectives, what are leading destinations around the world now doing to keep ahead?” In this ever-increasing and more sophisticated competitive environment, it is essential to address the practical and even philosophical implications for the meetings industry in India and the local association community.

IT&CM India kicked off with a pre-show tour of Delhi for international buyers and media, the highlights of which included Jama Mazjid, Red Fort, India Gate, Parliament House, and

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. The leading business event on India’s calendar was held at the luxurious Kempinski Ambience hotel, where staff gave a master-class in discretion, helpfulness and professionalism. It is easy to understand why the Kempinski name is held in such high esteem the world over.

A welcome reception was held at the opulent Cherry Bar, where exhibitors, buyers, media and invited guests mingled and relaxed before the serious business of meetings began the next day. Cocktails were shaken and stirred while delegates enjoyed some world-famous Indian hospitality.

Association Day began in earnest with a compelling talk by ICCA CEO Martin Sirk entitled ‘The Third Wave of Destination Marketing Competitiveness’. He addressed the question “If destination marketing in the

IT&CM INDIA | 27www.theevent.co.za

the lower cost of goods and services; the value and popularity of tourism attractions; and the wide use and knowledge of English.

Highlight of Corporate Performance DayTechnology and Incentive Travel – A Presentation by David SandCEO of Uwin Iwin, David Sand, gave an inspiring and interactive presentation on using technology to amplify incentive programmes for companies. “Incentives can be used on all levels of human interaction; they are a part of human behaviour, and we have formalized incentives as a profession”.

Understanding your customers’ needs is key. Business leaders need to understand what they want to achieve by using incentives. Do you want to increase strategic growth? Increase the quality of customer service? Boost sales? Incentives can be used to address the human aspect of your business, and the first step is communication that is clear, consistent, but above all, caring.

David used the example of an Indian cellphone company with 11 000 sales staff actively selling cellphones, from sales-people in sophisticated mall outlets to tiny hole-in-the-wall shops. These sales-people need to be actively communicated to by their employers in a manner that is consistent and engaging, be it through text messages or interactive emails. Technology is vital to this process. No one want to receive a printed memo that is laborious to read and generic; i.e. written to address every staff member as the same. Technology allows us to rapidly and inexpensively communicate with a mass audience, and the advent of social media allows those staff members to communicate back to their employers, their colleagues, and their customers.

Davis stressed the importance of companies

Highlight of Association DayBenefits of Attracting Meetings to IndiaAn absorbing panel discussion on the “Benefits of Attracting Meetings to India” was given by Dr Ashok Johari (National Delegate, SICOT India), Dr Bhaskar Pal (Secretary of the Bengal Chapter of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaelogical Societies of India) and Dilip Puri (Managing Director, India and Regional Vice President, South Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts India). The session was moderated by Monimitar Sarkar (Managing Director, KW Conference). The benefits of hosting meetings and other business events in India are immense, as detailed by Dr Johari. He says “It’s a win-win situation for everybody”.

Benefits to the nation include: Recognition of India’s capability to host large events; showcasing the nation; and the obvious economic implications.

Benefits to the organisers and associations include: Publicising the association and its objectives; the feeling of achievement that stems from knowing a successful event has been hosted; international collaborations and partnerships; and the fact that many things are much cheaper in India than in the rest of the world.

Benefits to the industry include: Exposure; the chance to showcase latest research and products; finding niche areas; sales; interaction and idea generation; and understanding Indian markets.

It was immediately apparent that meetings have evolved over the past decade, and there is a much stronger focus on knowledge exchange. Dr Johari also presented India’s key points of strength over competitor countries. He put particular emphasis on India’s accessibility, easy availability of manpower; the captive audience;

being tech-savvy, and actively exploring new dynamic avenues of communication. He went on to say that incentives do not have to be radically expensive. Sometimes, recognition in front of peers, can be perceived as very high value.

In closing, David stated that “to be loved is a fundamental human need, and recognition is a huge part of that need”.

Buyers and ExhibitorsThis year’s show delivered more Indian buyers to the event, with an increased focus on Association buyers. The ratio stood at 80% Indian buyers, with the remaining 20% made up of buyers from around the globe. Exhibitors hailed from Belgium, Egypt, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates. International buyers hailed from Belgium, Cambodia, China, Denmark, France, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Poland, Russia, South Africa, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Coming UpMark your calendars, as IT&CM Asia takes place from the 30th of September to the 2nd of October in Bangkok; IT&CM China takes place from the 14th to the 16th of April 2015 in Shanghai; and IT&CM India takes place from the 18th to the 20th of August 2015 in Delhi.

For more information please visit www.itcmindia.com

28 | REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

mpumalanga: Bringing Events Closer to Nature

Meaning ‘land of the rising sun’, Mpumalanga is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. It offers some

unique safari experiences from the Kruger National Park, The Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon in the world – and Sudwala Caves. Mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests characterise the Mpumalanga landscape, but its incredible safari options and fascinating tribal legends are just the beginning. Mpumalanga offers a wide choice when it

comes to event venues, and whether those events are large, medium or small, a variety of venues lend themselves perfectly to any occasion. One world-class venue worth noting is the magnificent Mbombela Stadium, which played host to a number of matches for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and has now become a ‘must see’ attraction thanks to its mesmerising architectural design.

Key VenuesGraceland Hotel and CasinoGraceland Hotel Casino and Country Club

is located in Secunda. Its state-of-the-art facilities are ideal for banquets, product launches, conferences and seminars. The main conference room can seat up to 1,200 delegates, and it also has several breakaway rooms for small group sessions within a conference or workshop. Breakfasts, lunches, teas and refreshments are also served at The Palm Terrace overlooking the pool area and a stunning golf course.

Umbali Conference Venue The Umbali Conference Venue is located

© SA

Tourism

by Siyanda Bani

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT | 29www.theevent.co.za

5km from the central business district in Nelspruit. This world-class locale can seat up to 500 delegates and offers safe parking spaces for up to 200 cars. The venue was named winner of ABSA Business Banking Hospitality Small Enterprise Award 2012/2013. It is equipped with flip-charts, white boards, screens, video recording facilities and everything necessary for staging a successful event. There are also a number of hotels and bed and breakfastoptions in close proximity to Umbali.

Lion Sands Private Game ReservePerfect for hosting any internal company conferences, board meetings and group incentives, this reserve offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Its small, boardroom style conference rooms can sit up to twelve delegates and conference packages can be tailor-made according to any specifications. Lion Sands Private Game Reserve is situated

in the Southern portion of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, offering an exclusive experience for all in attendance.

Population4.4 million people (Census 2011)

ClimateDue to its proximity to the warm Indian Ocean, the Lowveld has a moist, sub-tropical climate with moderate temperatures averaging 25 degrees Celsius. The Lowveld is ideal for mosquitoes to thrive in, and it is therefore advised to see your doctor or pharmacist about anti-malaria treatments before traveling through this area. The Highveld is comparably cooler, with the high-lying escarpment experiencing summer rainfall during the months of October to February, and contrasting temperatures of 8 to 26 degrees Celsius during this time.

Did You Know?Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of 19,633 square kilometres spreading between two provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Getting to Mpumalangaby AirThe Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) is a privately owned airport and has recently gone through extensive upgrades, making it more efficient and convenient for visitors. It is located 25km from Nelspruit, the capital city of Mpumalanga. South African Airways is the domestic and international carrier, with regular flights in and out of the province.

You Need to Know AboutApart from tourism, Mpumalanga’s economy is heavily reliant on the forestry sector. SAPPI has a paper mill west of the city which was recently upgraded to produce cellulose fibres for various applications. Nelspruit is the global headquarters of KISHUGU which is the parent company of Working on Fire. KISHUGU is also a major player in the forestry sector. The region has many timber related industries such as lumber and saw mills as well as furniture, crate and carton manufacturing industries.

© Juana A

lberto Riviera

© Shutterstock

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT | 29www.theevent.co.za

5km from the central business district in Nelspruit. This world-class locale can seat up to 500 delegates and offers safe parking spaces for up to 200 cars. The venue was named winner of ABSA Business Banking Hospitality Small Enterprise Award 2012/2013. It is equipped with flip-charts, white boards, screens, video recording facilities and everything necessary for staging a successful event. There are also a number of hotels and bed and breakfastoptions in close proximity to Umbali.

Lion Sands Private Game ReservePerfect for hosting any internal company conferences, board meetings and group incentives, this reserve offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Its small, boardroom style conference rooms can sit up to twelve delegates and conference packages can be tailor-made according to any specifications. Lion Sands Private Game Reserve is situated

in the Southern portion of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, offering an exclusive experience for all in attendance.

Population4.4 million people (Census 2011)

ClimateDue to its proximity to the warm Indian Ocean, the Lowveld has a moist, sub-tropical climate with moderate temperatures averaging 25 degrees Celsius. The Lowveld is ideal for mosquitoes to thrive in, and it is therefore advised to see your doctor or pharmacist about anti-malaria treatments before traveling through this area. The Highveld is comparably cooler, with the high-lying escarpment experiencing summer rainfall during the months of October to February, and contrasting temperatures of 8 to 26 degrees Celsius during this time.

Did You Know?Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of 19,633 square kilometres spreading between two provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Getting to Mpumalangaby AirThe Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) is a privately owned airport and has recently gone through extensive upgrades, making it more efficient and convenient for visitors. It is located 25km from Nelspruit, the capital city of Mpumalanga. South African Airways is the domestic and international carrier, with regular flights in and out of the province.

You Need to Know AboutApart from tourism, Mpumalanga’s economy is heavily reliant on the forestry sector. SAPPI has a paper mill west of the city which was recently upgraded to produce cellulose fibres for various applications. Nelspruit is the global headquarters of KISHUGU which is the parent company of Working on Fire. KISHUGU is also a major player in the forestry sector. The region has many timber related industries such as lumber and saw mills as well as furniture, crate and carton manufacturing industries.

© Juana A

lberto Riviera

© Shutterstock


Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of the World Cup? Who watches the tournament and why so many people are interested in it?

Well, wonder no more. Mega events became a regular occurrence in the latter part of the 20th century and have subsequently grown into one of the largest money makers in the world. But these cash cows need serious investment and planning to be successful, says Rene Staack, General Manager at Thebe Reed Exhibitions. The company has had a steady run organising the Sports and Events Tourism Exchange (SETE) over the last four years. “The event is aimed at promoting South Africa as a sports and events destination. We host international buyers who have an interest in bringing events to the country. This will sustain not only our event venues, but the hospitality industry that depends on events and sports tour groups as well,” she says. “Through SASCOC’s participation we have the presence of all national sports federations that have the opportunity to engage with the hospitality

industry about their needs and opportunities for collaboration.”

Mega Sporting Events (MSE) can have an enormous impact on the host’s larger economy and as such are increasing in demand. Let’s take Nigeria for example. The only thing more important to an average Nigerian than the English Premier League is a pint of Guinness. In fact, Guinness is so popular that Nigeria is one of the largest consumers of the beverage the world over. Guinness realised this and turned the simple act of watching the game into a massive, ongoing sponsorship deal with SuperSport, DStv and other African media outlets over the football season.

MSE’s effects are not only felt in the advertising realm, but in the media itself. Whether you’re online, watching television or reading the papers, you’re bound to catch a whiff of the World Cup action – even if you’ve done your best to ignore it. In Africa, the imminent digital switchover means that there will be a number of added possibilities around MSEs. “TV is now the most dynamic

channel,” says Charles Nartley of Unilever Ghana, “Fragmentation of audiences is leading to a need for syndicated broadcast of content via multiple partnerships with stations.” The 2014 FIFA World Cup itself is testament to this, with its final match reporting an estimated one billion watching across the world, with 26.5 million people in the US, and 20 million in Britain, primarily on BBC One.

According to FIFA’s official site, the company ploughs millions into tournaments like these. “The 2010 event in South Africa was broadcast to 204 countries on 245 different channels. Inside the stadiums, a total of 3,170,856 spectators attended the 64 matches – an average of 49,670 per match,” FIFA said. “177,853 accreditations for the last FIFA World Cup were printed, while the hospitality programme attracted almost a quarter of a million guests. Over three quarters of a million litres of beer were sold in the stadiums and 390,600 hot dogs were sold in the public catering concessions; many to the half a million international visitors who

MEGA SPORTING EVENTS The New Cash Cow

©C

heryl Roberts

Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban


descended on South Africa.” Social media plays a large role in the

broadcast of MSEs, says Staack. “Social media platforms are increasingly becoming more important as sources of information for visitors and fans to sporting events. Over the past few years the SETE conference has been discussing this trend and it seems that whilst mobile technology is important, most fans still attend live events or watch sport on TV due to the value of their experience.” According to FIFA, over a billion fans worldwide accessed information about the tournament through its digital platforms, while Facebook said that 88 million people made a total of 280 million posts or ‘likes’ about the final. But it’s not only broadcasters, media outlets and social media that can benefit from MSEs. These events also have

a lasting effect on tourism, something that plays a large role in sub-Saharan Africa’s economy. South Africa reported growth of more than 70% in regional tourism in the twelve months subsequent to the World Cup. It also saw a spike in large-scale, international cultural acts and business events. Durban has also recently announced that it will be bidding for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, while the government plans to bid for more international events over the next decade, according to Staack. This in turn allows sectors like security, hospitality, waste management and others sustain local business. Although consistently bidding for and hosting mega events can be a long, arduous process, the economic possibilities are endless. MSE’s are here to stay – so make sure you get a front row seat to all the action.

South Africa reported growth of more than 70% in regional tourism in the twelve months subsequent to the World Cup. It also saw a spike in large-scale, international cultural acts and business events.

““

©Joe R

onzio

Courtesy of SouthAfrica.info

Vuvuzelas taking over the world South Africa at the 2010 Expo Shanghai

32 | INDUSTRY MOVES www.theevent.co.za

Following the resignation of the Chairperson of the Board of South African Tourism, Mr Frank Kilbourn, Minister of Tourism Mr Derek

Hanekom has appointed Mr. Zwelibanzi Mntambo as the new Chairperson of the Board with immediate effect.

Minister Hanekom congratulated the new Chairperson on his appointment: “I am very pleased to have Zweli as the new leader of the board. His vast experience in the tourism industry coupled with his strategic leadership and management skills will certainly ensure that South African Tourism achieves its mandate. Tourism is a very important sector in our economy and as we put all our efforts in ensuring that we achieve the goals as set out in the National Development Plan (NDP), we need a capable leader who is innovative and results driven. I know that in Zweli, the board has all these qualities and that he will guide the organisation in better serving the industry and ensuring that this sector continues to grow.”

Mntambo will lead the following SA Tourism Board members who were appointed for a period of three years:1. Ms. Siza Mzimela: Executive

Chairperson, Blue Crane Aviation2. Mr. Kananelo Makhetha: Managing

Director (MD) of Connex Travel3. Ms. Tumi Makgabo: Executive Producer

of Tumi &Co, a Broadcast and Media Production Company

4. Mr. Graham Wood: Deputy Chairperson of the Tourism Grading Council of South

Africa (TGCSA)5. Dr Ayanda Ntsaluba: Executive Director

of Discovery Holdings6. Mr. Monwabisi Kalawe: Chief Executive

Officer at South African Airways7. Mr. Allan Moore: Former Chief Executive

Officer (CEO) of the Board of Airline Representatives of South Africa (BARSA)

8. Mr. Thebe Ikalafeng: Founder and CEO of Brand Leadership Group,

South Africa9. Mr. Dirk van Schalkwyk: Chief Operating

Officer at the National Department of Tourism

10. Mr. Thulani Nzima: The Chief Executive Officer of South African Tourism, is an ex officio member of the board

11. Mr. Tom Bouwer: as the Chief Finance Officer, of South African Tourism is an ex officio member of the board.

© SA

Tourism

The new Chairperson on the South African Tourism Board, Mr Zwelibanzi Mntambo

Appoints New Chairperson

SA Tourism Board

Zweli will guide the organisation in better serving the industry.

““

EVENT GREENING FORUM | 33www.theevent.co.za

On 24th June 2014, the Event Greening Forum hosted a visit to the Robinson Deep Landfill in Turffontein. The day started

with an introduction by the Chairman of the Event Greening Forum, Justin Hawes, followed by a very informative speech by Simphiwe Mbuli, Assistant Director of Integrated Waste Management for the City of Johannesburg.

Reducing methane gasesSimphiwe introduced us to the gas-to-energy project which is running at the landfill. The objective of the project is to extract gas from the waste, through cylinders which have been installed in the landfill. Gases such as nitrogen, oxygen and methane are extracted and methane is converted into carbon dioxide. The reason for the conversion is that methane is a far more environmentally detrimental greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

Currently, the carbon dioxide is released into the air, minimising the greenhouse effect of the methane. However, the end goal of this project is to generate electricity from the gases’ heat. This electricity will then be put back into the grid, simultaneously relieving pressure on Johannesburg’s energy grid and reducing the negative effect of the waste gases.

Landfill crisis loomingSimphiwe made us aware of the current landfill situation in Johannesburg - within the next five to 15 years there will be no more space for waste in our current landfills. He explained that the ultimate solution is alternative waste management technology which is not yet in South Africa but is something to consider in the future.

It is difficult to comprehend the frightening implications of this information but it does encourage one to consider the need for sustainable solutions in everyday life, such as recycling and reusing, and turning off appliances which are not in use.

The details of the impending landfill crisis reminded us how important it is that we continue our efforts to implement greening practices in our potentially wasteful event industry. It reinforced the important role the Event Greening Forum has to play in continuing to drive sustainability in this sector.

Gas extraction processOn the way to view the gas extraction machinery, we saw large volumes of trucks coming into the landfill area carrying vast quantities of waste. This was quite shocking and emphasised the urgent need for an

effective solution for waste management in Johannesburg.

We were shown briefly how the machines work, with a sensor indicating the amounts of the different gases being extracted. The presence of too much oxygen would cause the system to shutdown to prevent the combustion of that oxygen.

The demonstrations generated discussion amongst different groups of individuals. Topics debated included how much power the machines use and whether this is off-set by the energy created from the gas, and the part that the City plays in informing the public and carrying out waste management strategies.

ConclusionThe event was a great opportunity for environmentally-conscious individuals to network. The information and demonstrations encouraged participants to think about what can be done in our everyday lives, as well as in the events industry, to minimise the impact we make on the environment.

Article courtesy of Tim Nel: Event Greening Forum member and Scan Display account executive.

EGF visit to

ROBINSON DEEP LANDFILL SITE

EVENT GREENING FORUM | 33www.theevent.co.za

On 24th June 2014, the Event Greening Forum hosted a visit to the Robinson Deep Landfill in Turffontein. The day started

with an introduction by the Chairman of the Event Greening Forum, Justin Hawes, followed by a very informative speech by Simphiwe Mbuli, Assistant Director of Integrated Waste Management for the City of Johannesburg.

Reducing methane gasesSimphiwe introduced us to the gas-to-energy project which is running at the landfill. The objective of the project is to extract gas from the waste, through cylinders which have been installed in the landfill. Gases such as nitrogen, oxygen and methane are extracted and methane is converted into carbon dioxide. The reason for the conversion is that methane is a far more environmentally detrimental greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

Currently, the carbon dioxide is released into the air, minimising the greenhouse effect of the methane. However, the end goal of this project is to generate electricity from the gases’ heat. This electricity will then be put back into the grid, simultaneously relieving pressure on Johannesburg’s energy grid and reducing the negative effect of the waste gases.

Landfill crisis loomingSimphiwe made us aware of the current landfill situation in Johannesburg - within the next five to 15 years there will be no more space for waste in our current landfills. He explained that the ultimate solution is alternative waste management technology which is not yet in South Africa but is something to consider in the future.

It is difficult to comprehend the frightening implications of this information but it does encourage one to consider the need for sustainable solutions in everyday life, such as recycling and reusing, and turning off appliances which are not in use.

The details of the impending landfill crisis reminded us how important it is that we continue our efforts to implement greening practices in our potentially wasteful event industry. It reinforced the important role the Event Greening Forum has to play in continuing to drive sustainability in this sector.

Gas extraction processOn the way to view the gas extraction machinery, we saw large volumes of trucks coming into the landfill area carrying vast quantities of waste. This was quite shocking and emphasised the urgent need for an

effective solution for waste management in Johannesburg.

We were shown briefly how the machines work, with a sensor indicating the amounts of the different gases being extracted. The presence of too much oxygen would cause the system to shutdown to prevent the combustion of that oxygen.

The demonstrations generated discussion amongst different groups of individuals. Topics debated included how much power the machines use and whether this is off-set by the energy created from the gas, and the part that the City plays in informing the public and carrying out waste management strategies.

ConclusionThe event was a great opportunity for environmentally-conscious individuals to network. The information and demonstrations encouraged participants to think about what can be done in our everyday lives, as well as in the events industry, to minimise the impact we make on the environment.

Article courtesy of Tim Nel: Event Greening Forum member and Scan Display account executive.

EGF visit to

ROBINSON DEEP LANDFILL SITE

36 | ASSOCIATIONS www.theevent.co.za

ABTA Announces African Business Travel ConferenceThe African Business Travel Association (ABTA) is extending an invitation to travel professionals in Africa and beyond to attend their first African Business Travel Conference. The launch of the conference is an exciting networking and learning opportunity for delegates in the travel and tourism industry.

ABTA’s key focus is to provide a neutral platform for discussion, understanding, best practice and idea sharing across all travel sectors. The sessions included in the conference

will help attendees to keep up to date with trends in the industry and join various discussions about air and hotel industry updates, travel data, technology, service delivery, skills development and payment trends, to name a few.

The much-anticipated Neema African Business Travel and Buyer Benchmarking Research Paper will also be released during the conference. This definitive document outlines the challenges of sending travellers into Africa and the benchmarking solutions for achieving success. This conference will be taking place from 2-4 November 2014 at the Sheraton Hotel, Pretoria. Space for this event is limited to 220 delegates and registration is now open at www.abta.co.za.

2013 European Fair Statistics Provide Certified Figures for 22 CountriesEuro Fair Statistics released a report which contained 2,181 exhibitions from 22 European countries for 2013. These statistics, which were compiled by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, were collected by thirteen official national bodies and include exhibitions covering over 22.1 million m of registered rented space. UFI Managing Director Paul Woodward said in a press statement, “We are pleased to have been able to draw together this certified data from most of the big exhibition markets in Europe. We estimate that the trade fairs included in this report represents around half of the European exhibition market in terms of net rented space and this good quality, reliable data is aimed at helping marketers ensure that their budgets are spent effectively.”

In the report, 35% of the exhibitions were targeted at trade visitors, 29% at public visitors and 36% at both target groups. In 2013, the events covered in the report had 601,323 exhibitors and registered a total attendance of 60.5 million visitors. In 2009 UFI used the “Crisis Barometer” to measure the impact of the economic down turn based on their members’ perceptions. Today the survey has become the global barometer for UFI member in 83 countries.

2

ASSOCIATIONS | 37www.theevent.co.za Aerial of golf course, Pinnacle Point B

each and Gold R

esort, Garden R

oute, Western C

ape Province © SA Tourism

38 | EVENTS www.theevent.co.za

SEPTEMBERCAPE HOMEMAKERS EXPO4 - 7 September 2014Cape Town, South Africa

THE WEDDING EXPO6 - 7 September 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

LOERIES CREATIVE WEEK15 - 21 September 2014Cape Town, South Africa

ELECTRA MINING AFRICA15 - 19 September 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

PRETORIA HOMEMAKERS EXPO18 - 21 September 2014Pretoria, South Africa

SA HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO19 - 21 September 2014Cape Town, South Africa

AFRICA PETROLEUM STORAGE AND TRANSPORT CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION (APESTRANS 2014)23 - 25 September 2014Yaoundé, Cameroon

SOWETO FESTIVAL EXPO26 - 28 September 2014Soweto, South Africa

CLOUD & VIRTUALISATION AFRICA SUMMIT 201430 September - 1 October 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

THE OFFICE MANAGER SHOW AFRICA30 September - 2 October 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

GAUTENG FARMERS CONFERENCE & EXPO2 - 3 October 2014Pretoria, South Africa

2014 DURBAN HOMEMAKERS EXPO3 - 5 October 2014Durban, South Africa

AFRICA OIL & GAS CONFERENCE AND EXPO9 - 10 October 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW10 - 12 October 2014Cape Town, South Africa

SOUTH AFRICAN AUTOMOTIVE WEEK13 - 17 October 2014Johannesburg, South Africa

THE DURBAN GOOD FOODAND WINE SHOW24 - 26 October 2014Durban, South Africa

SPORTS & EVENTS TOURISMEXCHANGE28 - 30 October 2014Durban, South Africa

OCTOBER

Dune Boarding ©

SA Tourism

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Documents

association business

interbuild africa

loeries creative week26

event planners guide

events closer

industry moves33

event greening forum

jecs main event catering