the event issue 5

CASINO CONFERENCE VENUESMixing Business and Fun is a Sure Bet

INCENTIVE TRAVEL WITH A TWISTSafari Trips are Winners with Delegates

SPOTLIGHT ON INDABA 2015All Eyes on Durban for this Incredible Event







ISSUE 05 | 2015

CONTENTS | 01www.theevent.co.za

02. Tech Talk: Oculus Rift

04. 2015 African Responsible Tourism Awards Winners

06. SA Tourism in Talks to Secure More Funding

07. INDABA 2015: Bringing African Exhibitors Together

08. The Best of SA Pre and Post- Event Tour Opportunities

10. A Chat with PRISM Award Winner Monica Braganca

11. SA Visas Blamed for Drop in Tourists from China, India

12. Let’s Go on Safari! Incentive Travel with an Adventurous Twist

14. A Chat with Andrew Human

15. 17th World Conference on Tobacco or Health

16. Casino Conventions – The New Industry Vogue

20. Movers and Shakers

21. How to Add Value to Your Conference – or Not?

22. A Chat with the Heads of SAACI and SITE

24. IT&CM China 2015 Wins Industry Praise

26. EGF Celebrates Rocking the Daisies Award

27. Markex 2015: The Ultimate Expo in Promotions and Marketing!

28. Namibia: Desert Splendour

30. North West: The Platinum Province

32. Events

34. Associations

36. Directory

THE LOERIES 2015 We chat to Loeries Founder and CEO Andrew Human, and he dishes the dirt on these must-attend awards.

COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT: NAMIBIAFlip to page 28 for everything you need to know about hosting a business event in our northerly neighbour, Namibia.

LET’S GO ON SAFARI!Turn to page 12 for an overview of safari conferencing. Why not reward productivity with a walk on the wild side?

CASINO CONFERENCINGKim Muller finds a sure bet in casino conferences. When the business of the day is over, it’s time to play.

12 14

16

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

In April, South African Tourism (SAT) made an impressive technological step forward in marketing the country abroad through Oculus Rift. The tech is being used in the

United Kingdom, targeting bars in London and Manchester. The new campaign allows pub-goers to experience typical, exciting SA attractions – shark diving, and abseiling down Table Mountain, to name a few.

For those who aren’t in the know, Oculus Rift is a next-generation virtual-reality headset that allows the wearer to step into their favourite games or virtual worlds. It uses custom tracking technology with ultra-low latency 360-degree head tracking, allowing you to check out the virtual world in the same way as you do the real world. With its stereoscopic 3D view, excellent depth, scale and parallax, the Oculus Rift offers a virtual world that stretched well beyond peripheral vision, creating an

absolutely immersive, virtual-reality experience. “As far as we know, this is the fi rst time

a tourism board based in the UK has used Oculus Rift to showcase their destination in such a varied and immersive way, using this state-of-the-art technology to create an interactive and immersive experience,” said SAT UK Country Manager, Tolene van der Merwe. The footage showcases six scenes in SA, such as kite surfi ng, feeding elephants in a sanctuary and strolling through Neighbourgoods Market in Johannesburg. The shark-cage-diving footage was shot underwater using a special 3D printed underwater camera rig that had to be tested by the London Scuba School, according to Visualise Creative Ltd, the company in charge of creating the virtual reality experience for SA Tourism.

Marcia Siebers, Ideation Manager at Universal McCann, says that it was a funny

project because they didn’t have a specifi c brief to work on. “It all started when Visualise came into our offi ce and showed us Oculus Rift, and we were looking at it, experiencing it. We were all very impressed…and we thought, South African Tourism – that is the client we need to use this for.”

The demo lasts about fi ve minutes and is a fantastically original idea. “We want to surprise the UK travelling public and Oculus Rift is the ideal partner for us to reach a young, tech-savvy market,” says SAT’s UK Manager of Marketing Juan Herrada. “This is the fi rst time Oculus Rift and binaural sound have been combined to create a unique, immersive holiday experience for the UK public.” Hopefully we’ll see more innovation like this in 2015.

For more info on Oculus Rift, visit www.oculus.com/rift.

Sa Tourism Leaps Forward with

OCULUS RIFT

© Oculus Rift and Visualise Creative Ltd.

Palmer Luckey

Virtual Reality

TourismOculusRift

2015

African ResponsibleTourism Awards:Winners

04 | NEWS www.theevent.co.za

A community of tourism businesses working together to make better places to live in and great places to visit were announced Overall Winners at the

African Responsible Tourism Awards 2015 in Cape Town, sponsored by Wesgro.

In a special ceremony at World Travel Market Africa, Gansbaai took the coveted position of Overall Winner from a selection of 22 finalists gathered from around Africa.

“It is exciting to bring the World Responsible Tourism Awards family to Cape Town and Africa” says Harold Goodwin, Chair of the Judging Panel. “There are many world-class winners being announced today. Since 2004, African businesses from 14 countries have won awards, and 20% of the Awards winners have been from Africa.”

Full List of Winners:1. Overall Winner - sponsored by WesgroGansbaai: www.gansbaaiinfo.com @GansbaaiTourismContact: Brenda du Toit, [email protected]’ reasons for winning: “This is a remarkable group of tourism businesses, many of which have won Responsible Tourism Awards individually, including Grootbos for its conservation of the fynbos and its poverty reduction impact, and Marine Dynamics for conservation and local economic development. The judges want to recognise them for the overall award for the way in which they have worked together to create a destination, with outstanding products, memorable experiences and brought local economic development and communal facilities to the local community. They have demonstrated what tourism can do

to make better places to live in and great places to visit.”

2. Best for Beach Tourism - supported by BulkSMS and Shark SpottersGold Winner: Chumbe Island Coral Park, www.chumbeisland.com/ @ChumbeIslandContact: Kevin Macdonald, [email protected]’ reasons for winning: “Chumbe was highly commended for water conservation in the World Responsible Tourism Awards in 2013 and they won the marine environment category in 2004. This time the judges wanted to recognise them for their careful review of progress to 2006 and the development of the new Management Plan 2006-2016. The judges saw this as an example of good practice and one which others should emulate.” Silver Winner: Nuarro Lodge, www.nuarro.com/en/ @Nuarro Contact: Kim Rossi, [email protected]

3. Best Blog for Responsible Tourism - sponsored by Cape Town TourismGold Winner: The Good Holiday, thegoodholiday.com @the_goodholidayContact: Dee Lourens, [email protected] Judges’ reasons for winning: “The Good Holiday has authenticity, a real sense of care and a true desire to facilitate experiences that are beneficial to all it comes in contact with at the heart of stories told. Interactive and visually appealing, the blog inspires travellers to journey to African places with a unique cultural heritage, places that inspire people to consider a life seeking simple pleasures that tread lightly on the earth.”

Silver Winner: My Slow Journey, myslowjourney.com @KatarinaMancamaContact: Katarina Mancama, [email protected]

4. Best Destination for Responsible Tourism, sponsored by the V&A WaterfrontGold Winner: Gansbaai, www.gansbaaiinfo.com @GansbaaiTourismContact: Brenda du Toit, [email protected]’ reasons for winning: “Since 1995, Gansbaai Tourism has worked to create awareness of and market the area as a tourism destination. The cluster of businesses in the area, some of them with international reputations, have worked together to develop an exemplary destination, a quality guest experience which has conserved fynbos and marine wildlife, created significant direct and indirect employment and they are now working together to quantify their environmental impacts.”Silver Winners: Bigodo Wetlands Sanctuary, www.bigodi-tourism.org/6601.htmlContact: Tinka John, [email protected] Town: www.responsiblecapetown.co.za @RespCPT Contact: Nombulelo Mkefa, [email protected]

5. Best for engaging people and cultures, sponsored by Gauteng Tourism AuthorityGold Winner: Coffeebeans Routes, Cape Town, South Africa, coffeebeansroutes.com @coffeebeansrout Contact: Iain Harris, [email protected]

NEWS | 05www.theevent.co.za

Judges’ reasons for winning: “Setting an example that could be replicated in other destinations, Cape Town-based Coffeebeans Routes creates travel experiences around urban stories. These are contemporary, urban, African experiences that provide deep insights, and plenty of fun. The experiences bring visitors and locals together across boundaries. Unapologetic about pushing a social justice agenda, Coffeebeans Routes employs tourism as a tool to unlock economic potential and address societal inequalities through exploring cultural diversity and legacy”.Silver Winners: !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre www.khwattu.orgContact: Michael Daiber, [email protected] @KhwattuSanNkwichi Lodge: www.nkwichi.comContact: Kim Rossi, [email protected] @nkwichiTFPD Foundation, for the work done at Baleni Camp www.africanivoryroute.co.zaContact: Eleanor Muller, [email protected] @TFPD_SA

6. Best for Poverty Reduction, sponsored by Marine DynamicsJoint Gold Winner: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in partnership with the Grootbos Foundation, www.grootbosfoundation.orgContact: Julie Cheetham, [email protected] @GrootbosNGOZATransfrontier Parks Destinations: www.tfpd.co.zaContact: Eleanor Muller, [email protected] @TFPD_SAJudges’ reasons for winning: ”Here we have two winners working at different scales – each in their own way using tourism as a vehicle for poverty reduction. Grootbos is no stranger to winning Responsible Tourism Awards. What

stands out is the long history of interventions that amplify each other. The programmes of the Grootbos Foundation focus on improved livelihoods through self-reliance, development of viable enterprise development, gender balance and empowerment of women. Impacts are well quantified and information about projects easily accessible to the willing reader. The scale and ambition of the Transfrontier Parks Destination’s work is truly remarkable. To actively seek out failing tourism businesses in areas of very high unemployment is very admirable but to them turn them round into viable businesses again employing many locals on a living wage giving them long term stability and income displays true leadership.” Silver Winner: Stormsriver Adventures, www.stormsriver.comContact: Anneline Wyatt, [email protected] @Tsitsikamma

7. Best for resource management, supported by the National Cleaner Production Centre of South AfricaGold Winner: Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana www.chobegamelodge.co.bwContact: Johan Bruwer, [email protected] @chobegamelodge Judges’ reasons for winning: “Chobe Game Lodge is over 40 years old; to refurbish an old structure the size of this lodge, making it more eco-friendly is a mammoth and on-going task. The lodge has a long term approach to energy efficiency with the ultimate aim of reducing dependency on the grid. The most noticeable innovation is the use of All Electric Game Drive Vehicles and Electric game-viewing boats.” Silver Winners: Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, www.wilderness-safaris.comContact: Sue van Winsen, SueW@wilderness-

safaris.com @WeAreWilderness Sandele Eco-Retreat and Learning Centre: www.sandele.com/Contact: Maurice Phillips, [email protected] Mountain Aerial Cableway Company: www.tablemountain.netContact: Collette van Aswegen, [email protected] @TableMountainCa Vineyard Hotel: www.vineyard.co.zaContact: Chris van Zyl, [email protected] @Vineyard_Hotel

8. Best for Wildlife Conservation, sponsored by South African National ParksGold Winner: Marine Dynamics, South Africa www.sharkwatchsa.com Contact: Brenda du Toit, [email protected] @Marine_DynamicsJudges’ reasons for winning: “Marine Dynamics provide very high quality shark-cage-diving experiences. They operate in a sector where there is rightly a lot of criticism of current practice. Marine Dynamics are industry leaders, a commercial operation which operates to the highest conservation standards, where every trip has a marine biologist aboard to provide interpretation and collect data for scientific research. An operator that makes a significant contribution to conservation and the local economy”. Silver Winner: andBeyond’s Rhinos Without Borders www.andbeyond.com/conservation-community/rhinos-without-bordersContact: Valeri Mouton, [email protected] Klip Farmhouse: www.bartholomeusklip.comContact: Lesley Gillett, [email protected]

06 | NEWS www.theevent.co.za

Cape Town’s newest entry to the meetings industry, Century City Conference Centre, still has a year to go before it officially

opens, but already is receiving queries to host events. The centre will have a capacity for 1 900 guests across 20 venues upon completion. Event enquiries have exceeded R63-million and are growing daily. It forms part of Century City’s R1-billion mixed-use Urban Square Development, and according to Glyn Taylor, Chief Executive of the conference centre and the new 125-room hotel, is designed to complement the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Taylor says that Rabie Property Group understands the “longevity and sustainability of business travel”. Wesgro has welcomed the investment and believes that the project will “further enhance the offering of the province for meeting venues

and events”, according to an article by Anel Lewis of Business Report.

“Cape Town and the Western Cape has an increasingly excellent reputation as a business-events destination and is currently still the number-one conference destination in Africa,” said Corné Koch, head of the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau of Wesgro.

Thanks to a soaring demand for conference space and hotels in the precinct, the Urban Square will also include The Annex, a four-storey office space about the conference centre, and The Matrix, a mixed-use building with 51 residential units. The centre has been designed with energy efficiency in mind, in line with the new four-star, mixed-use Green Building Council of South Africa rating. This includes attention to indoor pollutants, thermal comfort, access to daylight and natural lighting and

air quality, among other things. Century City is the third-largest

commercial precinct in Cape Town, and its conference facilities will augment the expansion of the CTICC, expected to be complete in 2017, doubling the convention’s current capacity. Century City Conference Centre is current just over 30% complete, and is one of three buildings that will form part of the focal point of Century City Square. The Century City Hotel will be annexed to the centre to form an L-shaped footprint, offset by a sculptural, sheer glass façade of a free-standing office building known as The Apex.

According to the official website, www.ccconferencecentre.co.za, a fibre-optic backbone will run through the conference area to give guests the best possible connectivity, with high-speed wireless services available in every room.

Century City Conference Centre Already Receiving Event Requests

South African Tourism is currently in talks with the National Treasury to secure more funding, following losses due to the weaker rand in

early April this year. The funding will be aimed at covering currency losses to the tourism business, says The Star. SA Tourism has not, however, disclosed how much extra money it needs.

The tourism body’s budget rose from R880-million last year to R997-million in 2015, with Chief Financial Officer Tom Brouwer saying that they were requesting more funding to be able to compete in

the current economic environment. The body has tourism offices across the globe promoting the country as a destination, with most of its funds coming from the government, and the rest from a levy on large international events hosted by South Africa. In its presentation to the Treasury, SA Tourism representatives showed the impact of the rand’s slide in business. During 1994 the exchange rate was R3.75 to the dollar, but 21 years later, the exchange rate is over R11 to the dollar.

Brouwer says that their request to the Treasury was not to be given funding in

foreign currency, but rather to secure more cash because an increased budget would be able to counter the slide in the rand’s values. SA Tourism also told Members of Parliament that they wanted to increase tourism’s contribution to the local economy from R99.5-billion this year to R155-billion by 2020. SA Tourism Chairperson Zwelibanzi Mntambo said that the country was competing with the world’s major currencies and the current trading environment is “very tough”. The body plans on increasing the number of tourists to SA from the current 10 million to 13 million by 2020.

SA Tourism in Talks to Secure More Funding

INDABA 2015NEWS | 07www.theevent.co.za

INDABA is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the global calendar. It showcases the widest variety of Southern

Africa’s best tourism products, and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. INDABA is owned by South African Tourism and organised by Pure Grit Project and Exhibitions Management (Pty) Ltd.

For two years in a row, INDABA has won the award for Africa’s best travel and tourism show. This award was presented by the Association of World Travel Awards.

Why attend INDABA?• It is Africa’s top travel and tourism

exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere.• Keep abreast of global trends and new

developments within the tourism and travel industry.

• Meet industry stakeholders and decision makers face to face

• Conduct business with new and existing clients.

• Gain competitive advantage with a view to becoming market leaders.

• Meet with over 1200 exhibitors from a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors.

• Opportunity to network with key decision makers and stakeholders on an exciting and informative platform.

Not only can you meet and network with the industry’s key role players and decision-

makers, but also consider all your South African leisure tourism options and negotiate the best deals on these products, all in one place.

Business Buyer LoungeFollowing on from the success of the “Premier Lounge” last year, INDABA will be offering its premium exhibitors the opportunity to participate in the Business Buyer Lounge. The Business Buyer Lounge reflects the success of the 2014 “Premier Lounge” with a focus and reflection on a name more synonymous with its activities. There has been a huge demand for this space and with only 20 meeting hubs on offer; exhibitors are required to apply before the 5th April 2015. Meeting hubs will be confirmed on a first approval basis. South African Tourism is directing additional efforts towards the top international travel trade buyers who have expressed or demonstrated their eagerness to make Africa an important and valuable component of their businesses. These influential travel trade buyers have direct responsibility of uncovering products from Africa. The purpose of the Business Buyer Lounge zone will be to fast-track the focus of INDABA back to deal-making, giving premium exhibitors an area perfectly equipped to accommodate their meetings with buyers.

Exhibitors who make use of the Business Buyer Lounge are guaranteed up to 8 meetings with quality, hosted buyers every day. Entry to this zone will be carefully managed to make sure that only people who (literally) mean business are granted access. Optimised,

managed diaries will give exhibitors maximum business value and face-to-face meeting time with the best hosted buyers. Business Buyer Lounge studios will only be available to exhibitors who meets the product exhibitor qualification criteria.

No Other Show Brings More African Exhibitors Together

Facts Buyer Profile • Inbound Tour Operators• Foreign Travel Agents• Airlines• DMC’s

Venue• Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention

Centre (Durban ICC)• Durban Exhibition Centre (DEC)

Show Dates• Show Days: 9 - 11 May 2015• International Trade Days: 9 - 11 May

2015• Local Trade Days: 9 - 11 May 2015

Show Times• 9am – 6pm, 9 - 10 May 2015• 9am – 5.30pm, 11 May 2015Exhibitors can enter the halls from 8am

WebsitesINDABA: www.indaba-southafrica.co.zaSouth African Tourism: www.southafrica.net

08 | SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

Trade shows are often a manic haze of meetings, business opportunities, showcases and conferences to attend within days

of each other and as such, delegates tend to enjoy the odd day or two relaxing before or after said show. Enter pre and post-event tours. South Africa is known for its beauty and abundance off attractions and as such, The Event has compiled a list of the best things to do on your tour. So sit back and let us be your guides…

1. Frolic in the Free StateThe Golden Gate Highlands National Park may be a bit of a trip out of the city, but it’s

worth it. Not only is this stunning 11 600 hectare park home to a variety of mammals such as black wildebeest, eland and oribi, but it also houses the Basotho Cultural Village Rest Camp and the Highlands Mountain Retreat – ideal for weekend getaways in the vast countryside.

2. Tour Soweto in StyleSoweto is one of South Africa’s most iconic townships and is home to Vilakazi Street where both Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu lived. Enjoy a lunch in a township shebeen and visit some of the freedom struggle sites, or take a bicycle tour through Soweto for some healthy fun.

3. Discover Your AncestorsThe Cradle of Humankind is one of the eight magnifi cent South African World Heritage Sites and an absolute must-see. It is home to a diversity of birds, animals and plants, but also holds treasures of the past from dolomite and ages-old bones to new Sediba fossil discoveries. At the Cradle, visitors can enjoy vintage fl ights or wild cave adventures as well as stargazing at Maropeng – all just 40 minutes out of Johannesburg.

4. Take the Day Off in DurbanDurban is KwaZulu-Natal’s largest city and one of the busiest port cities in the world. As

The Best of South African

PRE AND POST-EVENT TOUR OPPORTUNITIES

1. Frolic in the Free State 3. Discover Your Ancestors 5. Set out on Safari

2. Tour Soweto in Style 4. Take the Day Off in Durban 6. Nature Calls in the Northern Cape

© A

ndy Carter

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism


Trade shows are often a manic haze of meetings, business opportunities, showcases and conferences to attend within days

of each other and as such, delegates tend to enjoy the odd day or two relaxing before or after said show. Enter pre and post-event tours. South Africa is known for its beauty and abundance off attractions and as such, The Event has compiled a list of the best things to do on your tour. So sit back and let us be your guides…

1. Frolic in the Free StateThe Golden Gate Highlands National Park may be a bit of a trip out of the city, but it’s

worth it. Not only is this stunning 11 600 hectare park home to a variety of mammals such as black wildebeest, eland and oribi, but it also houses the Basotho Cultural Village Rest Camp and the Highlands Mountain Retreat – ideal for weekend getaways in the vast countryside.

2. Tour Soweto in StyleSoweto is one of South Africa’s most iconic townships and is home to Vilakazi Street where both Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu lived. Enjoy a lunch in a township shebeen and visit some of the freedom struggle sites, or take a bicycle tour through Soweto for some healthy fun.

3. Discover Your AncestorsThe Cradle of Humankind is one of the eight magnifi cent South African World Heritage Sites and an absolute must-see. It is home to a diversity of birds, animals and plants, but also holds treasures of the past from dolomite and ages-old bones to new Sediba fossil discoveries. At the Cradle, visitors can enjoy vintage fl ights or wild cave adventures as well as stargazing at Maropeng – all just 40 minutes out of Johannesburg.

4. Take the Day Off in DurbanDurban is KwaZulu-Natal’s largest city and one of the busiest port cities in the world. As

The Best of South African

PRE AND POST-EVENT TOUR OPPORTUNITIES

1. Frolic in the Free State 3. Discover Your Ancestors 5. Set out on Safari

2. Tour Soweto in Style 4. Take the Day Off in Durban 6. Nature Calls in the Northern Cape

© A

ndy Carter

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism

SPOTLIGHT | 09www.theevent.co.za

you can imagine, there are hosts of exciting things to explore here. Catch a few waves or some sun on The Golden Mile, book into a shark tour, a sunset cruise or a scenic fl ight and at night, head over to Suncoast Casino for some world-class entertainment. This is truly a holiday city!

5. Set out on SafariMpumalanga literally translated means, “the place where the sun rises”. If you have a good few days before or after your exhibition to enjoy the sights and sounds of South Africa, this province is not to be missed. Not only can you take your pick of safaris, it also offers unparalleled vistas with the wetlands in the south and the panoramic routes of the north. Mpumalanga is home to the Kruger National Park and has a host of luxury safari options, too.

6. Nature Calls in the Northern CapeThe Northern Cape is home to the Namaqualand, a fascinating display of wildfl owers at the beginning of spring when the arid desert comes alive with a magical carpet of colour and scent. About 4 000 plant species can be found here, but

stargazing in the Northern Cape is also an exhilarating endeavour, while the San, found in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, will teach guests about their original way of life and how to shoot with a bow and arrow.

7. Adventure with Wildlife in LimpopoAnother province that’s rather removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, Limpopo is unrivalled in its wildlife experiences and 4X4 adventures. See the Big Five up close and personal in the Kruger National Park, or opt for a river safari, elephant and horseback safari, and birdwatching. For those who really want to kick back, Limpop offers unique golfi ng, from Legend Golf & Safari Resort to Zebula Country Club and Hans Merensky where you can share the greens with the wildlife.

8. See the World from AboveThe North West is the province where work and play are combined – and where playtime reigns supreme, with Sun City, near Pilanesberg National Park, offering visitors over 100 thrilling activities. Enjoy a different view when you go game

viewing from a hot air balloon – complete with a champagne breakfast – or glide above the tree canopy on the adventurous Magaliesberg Canopy Tour.

9. Taste the CapeThe Western Cape is renowned for its award-winning wines and delicious cuisine. Take a tour of the province’s picturesque Winelands and dip into some truly unique varieties. Alternatively, pack a picnic basket and head up Table Mountain. This iconic ‘rock’ is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature and offers a range of adventures including hikes, abseiling and cable car rides.

10. Befriend an ElephantThe Eastern Cape has one of the most beautiful coastlines in South Africa, but if that doesn’t pique your interest, spending time with elephants at Addo Elephant National Park most certainly will. Home to over 550 elephant, lion, buffalo, black rhino and leopard, you can enjoy game drives, horse riding and 4X4 trails here. Alternatively, live it up in style at the Shamwari Game Reserve, or head into Qunu to visit the Nelson Mandela Museum in his ancestral home.

7. Adventure with Wildlife in Limpopo 9. Taste the Cape

8. See the World from Above 10. Befriend an Elephant

© K

elsie DiPerna

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism


The Event: Congratulations on your win! Please tell The Event’s readers how you felt when your name was called. Monica Braganca: Thank you so much. It was very exciting! The Event Management category was quite big this year with many strong agencies in the running, so to hear your name being called out for a Gold was really such a great feeling.

The Event: Please give an overview of your winning work. Braganca: The winning entry was for the Robertsons Herbs & Spices #Skydine campaign. This campaign was executed in collaboration with above the line agency, The Hardy Boys and digital agency, Liquorice in Durban. The objective for #Skydine was to create conversation through traditional and social media around the Robertsons Herbs & Spices range, and to also stimulate usage amongst consumers. The chosen tactic was a surprise haute cuisine, three course meal designed by celebrity chef Reuben Riffel, and served to unsuspecting passengers on board a kulula.com fl ight from Johannesburg to Cape Town. marcusbrewster provided event and media support for the #Skydine activation, as well as targeting, engaging with and hosting industry specifi c VIPs such as Liezel van der Westhuizen (radio and TV personality), Jenny Morris (celebrity chef), various MasterChef South Africa competitors and industry media and bloggers. VIP guests came from Johannesburg and were also fl own in from Cape Town in order to participate on the inaugural

fl ight from Johannesburg. We were fortunate to have strong relationships in place to secure the attendance of our VIP guests, as we were not able to share any information on the day’s agenda in order to keep the element of surprise. We received a great response from all our guests and their fellow passengers upon their arrival at Cape Town International Airport. Working together with kulula.com and ACSA we were also able to install a photo wall at the arrivals hall for all our guests and passengers to take photos with the celebrity chefs, Reuben Riffel and Jenny Morris, and all our VIPs. On the day, #Skydine trended ahead of the Oscar Pistorius trial, results throughout social media and traditional media superseded expectations with PR reaching an audience of over 8.5 million. The campaign also received an Orchid Award from industry commentator, Independent Newspapers’ Brendan Seery, a Hero Campaign of the Week nod from 702 broadcaster, Andy Rice, also winning in the Experiential Category of the Creative Circle Ad of the Month Awards for March 2014.

The Event: How did you get into this business? Please give a brief career history.Braganca: I started my career in public relations 17 years ago at a small boutique communications agency. I later moved to Ogilvy Public Relations where I was blessed to work with a great mentor, Sandra Mason

working in the company’s corporate practice. As the social media buzz started hitting South Africa, I made a move to Cerebra, at the time still called Emerging Media, to look after more tech-focused clients. This was a great learning phase for me, not only to dive into a new sector but also discovering and learning how to best use social media tools and platforms. I was asked to go back to Ogilvy Public Relations to head up the consumer and medical/pharmaceutical practice, which was great for me – another new sector to immerse myself in and also to work with some of my old colleagues. In 2012, marcusbrewster was looking for a new Johannesburg head, which is when I was approached and I’ve not looked back since. I continue to learn every day here at marcusbrewster and have a great team that supports my growth and path ahead within the public relations fi eld.

The Event: What are your work goals for the next year? Braganca: This is turning out to be another good year for us at marcusbrewster. We have an amazing and hard-working team in both our Johannesburg and Cape Town offi ces. We have great clients on board as well. We would like to continue growing the business by bringing in more clients and projects, and to do more great work so that we can come back at PRISMS 2016 even stronger.

A Chat with

PRISM AWARD WINNER Monica Braganca

Monica Braganca


The Event: Congratulations on your win! Please tell The Event’s readers how you felt when your name was called. Monica Braganca: Thank you so much. It was very exciting! The Event Management category was quite big this year with many strong agencies in the running, so to hear your name being called out for a Gold was really such a great feeling.

The Event: Please give an overview of your winning work. Braganca: The winning entry was for the Robertsons Herbs & Spices #Skydine campaign. This campaign was executed in collaboration with above the line agency, The Hardy Boys and digital agency, Liquorice in Durban. The objective for #Skydine was to create conversation through traditional and social media around the Robertsons Herbs & Spices range, and to also stimulate usage amongst consumers. The chosen tactic was a surprise haute cuisine, three course meal designed by celebrity chef Reuben Riffel, and served to unsuspecting passengers on board a kulula.com fl ight from Johannesburg to Cape Town. marcusbrewster provided event and media support for the #Skydine activation, as well as targeting, engaging with and hosting industry specifi c VIPs such as Liezel van der Westhuizen (radio and TV personality), Jenny Morris (celebrity chef), various MasterChef South Africa competitors and industry media and bloggers. VIP guests came from Johannesburg and were also fl own in from Cape Town in order to participate on the inaugural

fl ight from Johannesburg. We were fortunate to have strong relationships in place to secure the attendance of our VIP guests, as we were not able to share any information on the day’s agenda in order to keep the element of surprise. We received a great response from all our guests and their fellow passengers upon their arrival at Cape Town International Airport. Working together with kulula.com and ACSA we were also able to install a photo wall at the arrivals hall for all our guests and passengers to take photos with the celebrity chefs, Reuben Riffel and Jenny Morris, and all our VIPs. On the day, #Skydine trended ahead of the Oscar Pistorius trial, results throughout social media and traditional media superseded expectations with PR reaching an audience of over 8.5 million. The campaign also received an Orchid Award from industry commentator, Independent Newspapers’ Brendan Seery, a Hero Campaign of the Week nod from 702 broadcaster, Andy Rice, also winning in the Experiential Category of the Creative Circle Ad of the Month Awards for March 2014.

The Event: How did you get into this business? Please give a brief career history.Braganca: I started my career in public relations 17 years ago at a small boutique communications agency. I later moved to Ogilvy Public Relations where I was blessed to work with a great mentor, Sandra Mason

working in the company’s corporate practice. As the social media buzz started hitting South Africa, I made a move to Cerebra, at the time still called Emerging Media, to look after more tech-focused clients. This was a great learning phase for me, not only to dive into a new sector but also discovering and learning how to best use social media tools and platforms. I was asked to go back to Ogilvy Public Relations to head up the consumer and medical/pharmaceutical practice, which was great for me – another new sector to immerse myself in and also to work with some of my old colleagues. In 2012, marcusbrewster was looking for a new Johannesburg head, which is when I was approached and I’ve not looked back since. I continue to learn every day here at marcusbrewster and have a great team that supports my growth and path ahead within the public relations fi eld.

The Event: What are your work goals for the next year? Braganca: This is turning out to be another good year for us at marcusbrewster. We have an amazing and hard-working team in both our Johannesburg and Cape Town offi ces. We have great clients on board as well. We would like to continue growing the business by bringing in more clients and projects, and to do more great work so that we can come back at PRISMS 2016 even stronger.

A Chat with

PRISM AWARD WINNER Monica Braganca

Monica Braganca For more information on Sandton Convention Centre, log on to www.saconvention.co.za, join the Facebook page on www.facebook.com/SandtonConventionCentre or follow on Twitter at @SandtonEvents.

NEWS | 11www.theevent.co.za

2015: A bumper year for Sandton Convention Centre

Following an unprecedented year of firsts in 2014 for Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) – which played host to the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz and the

long-running exhibition, Days of the Dinosaur, as well as significant events such as C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group Mayors Summit and 20 Years of Economic Transformation Summit – the SCC looks forward to another bumper year in 2015.

In the months ahead, southern Africa’s leading and most prestigious, multi-purpose exhibition and convention centre will be the host venue for Breakbulk Africa, Totally Concrete, Coatings for Africa, FNB Joburg Art Fair, Power, Water Africa Solutions Conference, International Women’s Forum World, Cornerstone Conference, SA Fine Brandy Fusion, Water Africa Solutions, ISS World, Enactus World Cup and International Radar Conference.

Returning for the second time this year is

the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, while Media24 brings the global Ice Age travelling exhibition – a massive 3 000m2 display of 45 life-sized moving animals and 12 different scenes that document the 27th Ice Age period – to Sandton Convention Centre from 20 June to 8 August; a bumper 50-day show offering.

“We are delighted to have been chosen as the host venue for these and so many other exhibitions, events, conferences, meetings and launches this year,” says Dr Mati Nyazema, Executive Director of Sandton Convention Centre.

Sandton Convention Centre is located in the heart of Sandton. The centre offers easy access to more than 5 000 hotel rooms and is adjacent to some of the country’s premium shopping and entertainment complexes, with 10 600 secure parking bays. The SCC offers over 22 000m² of state-of-the-art meeting, exhibition and special event space.

Africa is renowned for its unique safari trips and big game experiences, from the savannahs of the Serengeti to the bushveld of

the Kruger National Park. Nowhere else in the world can one fi nd such a diverse selection of animals in their natural habitat. South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania and Kenya have over the last few decades capitalised on their big game offerings to create a thriving tourism and incentive travel industry with extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

South Africa’s private game reserves like Sabi Sabi are well known for creating fabulous, secluded getaways coupled with business meetings, team-building events and conferences. Incentive offerings include traditional dancing in the ‘boma’ around the fi re, marimba bands or choirs, sundowners in the bush with the chef and themed dinners – among other things. There are also incredible animal sightings, with safari game drives and bird watching, giving visitors the ultimate bush experience with close-up encounters with the continent’s prolifi c wildlife.

Most tour operators or event organisers

will create a comprehensive travel incentive programme which can be made to suit all budgets with varied levels of experience. “Lodges often have seasonal safari specials in which big savings can be made,” according to local incentive travel company Siyabonga Africa. “A number of lodges and camps can be booked exclusively for incentive groups.” Other options include luxury tented camps for more intimate experiences, or traditional camps that provide a more rustic option for those who love roughing it. “South African game lodge travel incentives can be structured according to location, level of luxury and additional activities offered,” Siyabonga’s website says.

When planning a safari adventure, fi ve main things need to be taken into consideration: 1. The best season to see the animals2. Unique experiences that make a specifi c

safari area worth visiting3. Health considerations such as malaria

and yellow fever precautions4. Budget, special offers, seasonal discounts5. Combinations or other highlights in the

area that round off the experience.

The main safari regions in Southern Africa are the Kruger National Park, the Okavango Delta, Etosha National Park, Chobe, Caprivi and Victoria Falls, Hluhluwe Umfolozi Reserve and a number of smaller private reserves. The Skeleton Coast and Namib Desert also offer widely different safari experiences, while the Kalahari Desert is an arid, malaria-free safari zone. The main safari regions in East Africa are the Maasai Mara plains, where the wildebeest migration is unrivalled, Amboseli and Tsavo which are easily accessible, and the recently opened Laikipia Plateau region. Other superb wildlife viewing experiences include Mount Kilimanjaro and the Ngorongoro Crater.

Valley Lodge and Spa is located just an hour’s drive from the centre of Johannesburg and Pretoria, nestled in 126 acres of lush gardens and grounds, on the banks of the Magaliesburg River. The hotel is ideal for a country getaway whilst still staying in touch with the business world of Gauteng making it ideal for conferences, business meetings and of course, incentive and pre- and post-event tours. “Our Nature reserve lays on the far banks of the Magaliesburg River, accessible

12 | FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

LET’S GO ON SAFARI!Incentive Travel with an Adventurous Twist

© SA

Tourism

South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania and Kenya have capitalised on their big game offerings to create a thriving tourism and incentive travel industry.

relationships and in turn, create repeat customers.”

“We have noticed that all inclusive packages, with spa offerings and regular special offers are popular to our local markets,” she continues, “As a privately owned hotel, we have the ability to tailor packages to best suit our guests needs. We enjoy creating a tranquil and extraordinary guest experience.”

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of safari in the twenty-fi rst century is the question of conservation and rehabilitation. Rhino poaching has ravaged Southern African reserves and rhino populations, and there is still no long-term solution in place to stem the loss. A number of reserves across South Africa are already involved conservation and awareness programmes, such as Aquila Private Game Reserve that spent R500 000 to medicate, feed, capture and translocate deer in order to save Robben Island’s World Heritage

status. The reserve is also involved in lion and rhino conservation, veld regeneration and many other initiatives that guests can be part of, too. Moholoholo offers unique excursions to Kruger Park whilst still maintaining a wildlife rehabilitation centre, offering a tracking course and student programmes. SanWild is another organisation that cares about the nation’s wildlife, offering them sanctuary and offering accommodation to those who want to get up close and personal with the animals.

FEATURE | 13www.theevent.co.za

over various bridges leading onto marked footpaths and trails with historical points of interest, and is home to fauna and fl ora such as extensive birdlife, six Zebra, twenty-eight Impala and our resident porcupine,” Rebecca Robinson, Sales & Marketing Manager at Valley Lodge. “The property offers spacious grounds for activities, together with tennis courts, paddle boats on the river and Spa facilities.” They have also recently appointed a new Executive Chef, Wayne Walkinshaw, who will be exploring amalgamations of modern and traditional cuisine. His experience extends from the UK to Zanzibar, and his ethos is simple: “Food doesn’t have to be complicated to be good.”

When asked how Valley Lodge maintains its strength and position between safari experience and business events, Robinson says that they “continually exceed our guests’ expectations in order to maintain healthy

Safaris offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences for delegates.

© SA

Tourism

Valley Lodge and Spa’s Superior Room

The Event: Firstly, how many no’s does it take to get a Loerie? Andrew Human: Roughly 1% of entries get a gold Loerie, so I would say it takes 99 no’s out of 100.

The Event: The reason for my strange question is because we adore the ad campaign and we wanted to understand the thought process behind it. Human: It’s a concept that anyone who works in any creative field understands very well. It is actually hard enough coming up with the idea, but then the real work is in

convincing people to get the support you need. When you propose new ideas, the amazing thing is that people don’t welcome new ideas with open arms, they are generally quite hesitant and conservative and critical and tell you why you can’t do it. They say “No budget, we haven’t done the research”, and it is risky so you have to overcome those hurdles. So the final no or the final yes you are looking for is when you put it in front of the judges.

The Event: Let’s talk about the Seminar of Creativity. I attended last year and it was

absolutely incredible. Do you have speakers lined up already or are you still finalising your panel?Human: Yes, we have. Again we are going to have a fantastic group of speakers. You definitely have to make sure that you don’t miss it again. We haven’t started officially announcing them yet so you can just follow up with our media guys and we will be giving names soon.

The Event: What initiatives are you embarking on at the moment in Africa? Human: I have been in Nairobi and Lagos in the last month, where we have working with our partners and with agencies in those regions. Specifically we are working with the agencies and the agencies’ creatives to build participation.

The Event: Last question. I know you have probably spoken about this to death. But why Durban? Do you just want a change of scenery? What was the thinking behind the change? Human: Our city comes up for review every three years. Durban was short-listed this year and probably the main reason is that Durban has actually undergone a fantastic transformation in the last few years. Very interesting, and I think a lot of people were not necessarily even aware of what an amazing space it is right now. I think it is great for us as the Loeries. I think we are going there at the right time, because lots of people say they haven’t been to Durban for 20 years and it is actually nice being in that refreshing space where we are doing something very new. So that is the one thing, the other is that Durban really is a seaside city. So it is a single city with a single beachfront, what it gives us is the opportunity to get everyone in one dense location, to have everyone staying within a small walking distance and have all our activities happening in this small-city environment over the weekend. We did fantastic things in Cape Town and Cape Town allowed us to get things to a level where we hadn’t been before, and probably the biggest difference between the two is that Cape Town is broken up into lots of little, different areas and for us it is a challenge for us to pull everyone together. So we are hoping that that Cape Town’s biggest challenge is Durban’s biggest plus, and it will be interesting to see how it plays out.


Founder and CEO of the Loeries talks about the exciting location change.

A Chat with

ANDREW HUMAN

© Loerie A

wards 2014

The Event: Firstly, how many no’s does it take to get a Loerie? Andrew Human: Roughly 1% of entries get a gold Loerie, so I would say it takes 99 no’s out of 100.

The Event: The reason for my strange question is because we adore the ad campaign and we wanted to understand the thought process behind it. Human: It’s a concept that anyone who works in any creative field understands very well. It is actually hard enough coming up with the idea, but then the real work is in

convincing people to get the support you need. When you propose new ideas, the amazing thing is that people don’t welcome new ideas with open arms, they are generally quite hesitant and conservative and critical and tell you why you can’t do it. They say “No budget, we haven’t done the research”, and it is risky so you have to overcome those hurdles. So the final no or the final yes you are looking for is when you put it in front of the judges.

The Event: Let’s talk about the Seminar of Creativity. I attended last year and it was

absolutely incredible. Do you have speakers lined up already or are you still finalising your panel?Human: Yes, we have. Again we are going to have a fantastic group of speakers. You definitely have to make sure that you don’t miss it again. We haven’t started officially announcing them yet so you can just follow up with our media guys and we will be giving names soon.

The Event: What initiatives are you embarking on at the moment in Africa? Human: I have been in Nairobi and Lagos in the last month, where we have working with our partners and with agencies in those regions. Specifically we are working with the agencies and the agencies’ creatives to build participation.

The Event: Last question. I know you have probably spoken about this to death. But why Durban? Do you just want a change of scenery? What was the thinking behind the change? Human: Our city comes up for review every three years. Durban was short-listed this year and probably the main reason is that Durban has actually undergone a fantastic transformation in the last few years. Very interesting, and I think a lot of people were not necessarily even aware of what an amazing space it is right now. I think it is great for us as the Loeries. I think we are going there at the right time, because lots of people say they haven’t been to Durban for 20 years and it is actually nice being in that refreshing space where we are doing something very new. So that is the one thing, the other is that Durban really is a seaside city. So it is a single city with a single beachfront, what it gives us is the opportunity to get everyone in one dense location, to have everyone staying within a small walking distance and have all our activities happening in this small-city environment over the weekend. We did fantastic things in Cape Town and Cape Town allowed us to get things to a level where we hadn’t been before, and probably the biggest difference between the two is that Cape Town is broken up into lots of little, different areas and for us it is a challenge for us to pull everyone together. So we are hoping that that Cape Town’s biggest challenge is Durban’s biggest plus, and it will be interesting to see how it plays out.


Founder and CEO of the Loeries talks about the exciting location change.

A Chat with

ANDREW HUMAN

© Loerie A

wards 2014

In a first for South Africa, two regions on the African continent have joined forces, putting together a successful bid to host the World Conference on Tobacco or Health (WCTOH)

at the Cape Town International Convention Centre scheduled to take place in March 2018.

At the 16th WCTOH recently held in Abu Dhabi, the Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau presented a bid on behalf of a bid consortium made up of the Centre of Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA) – based in Uganda; the Public Health Association of South Africa; Makarere University (Uganda); the University of Cape Town and both Governments of Uganda and South Africa.

The WCTOH aims to welcome around 3 000 delegates from a across a range of disciplines including; medical, legal, governmental and economic sectors – all involved in policy development. The business event is estimated to have an economic impact of R420-million for the province.

Tim Harris, Chief Executive Officer for Wesgro, Cape Town and the Western Cape’s official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion agency believes that the bid win is a catalyst for future collaboration on the

continent. “This bid win not only enhances Cape Town and the Western’s Cape appeal as a preferred business-events destination of choice on the African continent, but further demonstrates how collaborating with the relevant stakeholders and identifying strategic partnerships can derive benefits to various sectors on the continent”.

According to adjudicators, big draw cards that play in Cape Town’s favour are its modern and safe infrastructure; ability to secure required funds; global appeal; track record and a clearly defined bid strategy which included a comprehensive marketing campaign and delegate boosting campaign into Africa.

Julie-May Ellingson, Chief Executive Officer of the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) had this to say: “The two years of careful planning in collaboration with the

Cape Town & Western Cape Convention Bureau has paid off. Winning this bid shows what can be achieved through strategic local and continental partnerships. Hosting events of this nature also allows us to continue to develop the knowledge economy, while at the same time ensuring direct economic benefit to the citizens of Cape Town and the Western Cape”.

Dr. Possy Mugyenyi-Centre Manager for the CTCA said that Cape Town offers all the ingredients for the successful hosting of the conference “CTCA brings the African footprint in Tobacco Control and aims to provide a platform for effective participation of Tobacco Control partners and actors in the conference preparations and follow-up discussions that will culminate in the adoption of conference recommendations that is expected to influence Tobacco Control policy change,” he says.


Unique African Collaboration attracts

17th WORLD CONFERENCE ON TOBACCO OR HEALTH to Cape Town

Big draw cards that play in Cape Town’s favour are its modern and safe infrastructure; ability to secure required funds; global appeal; track record and a clearly defined bid strategy.

“ “

16 | FEATURE www.theevent.co.za

CASINO STATS & MAIN CASINO ATTRACTIONS IN SA

Casinos 48

Cities with Gambling 35

Horse-racing Tracks 12

Sports-betting Parlours 1

Casino Hotels 17

Venues 46

Restaurants 113

Table games 796

Slot machines 23 655

Poker tables 52

Minimum Bet $0.01 (R 0.12)

Maximum Bet $10,000 (R 118,439)

Total Casino sqm 395,455.7m2

Total Convention sqm 128,269.6m2

Source: World Casino Directory

CASINO CONVENTIONSThe New Industry Vogue by Kim Muller

The rise of casino resorts complete with convention and event facilities has been a growing trend as hoteliers and entertainment moguls the world over

add to their portfolio of properties. One reason for this development has been the increase in demand for high-end entertainment for travellers as air traffi c and international tourism continue on their upward trajectory.

In September last year, Las Vegas tycoon Steve Wynn spoke at the Global Gaming Expo, G2E. He said that nongaming revenue isn’t just critical to the success of casino-resorts now – it’s always been that way. He stressed that bankrolling a successful resort on nongaming dollars is nothing new. “You’ve got to give people something they’re willing to get on an airplane and submit to a body search for,” he said. “That ain’t a slot machine, friends, and it sure as hell ain’t a baccarat table.”

Recent news from the international industry supports his beliefs. In the Philippines, the Resort World Manila casino complex is ramping up to incorporate a grand ballroom and 4 000-seat convention centre that opens its doors in July. Adelaide Casino in Australia has plans for a luxury hotel as part of its redevelopment, while Aquis Casino Resort in Queensland has incorporating a convention centre in its building plans.

This sentiment rings true for the African

market as well, with Tsogo Sun’s impressive portfolio including over 90 hotels and 14 casino and entertainment destinations throughout the continent, the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi. South Africa’s Montecasino and Gold Reef City in Johannesburg and Suncoast in Durban are just a few of these with ample conference space. The company will begin construction on a 500-room hotel complex in Cape Town soon, according to Business Day, bringing the number of Tsogo Sun rooms in the city centre to 2 000. The R680-million investment will include banqueting and conference facilities and is to be completed by September 2017.

Sun International has recently bought its opposition, the Peermont Group, which owns Emperors Palace, Graceland in Secunda, Khoroni in Thohoyandou and several other casinos and hotels across South Africa and Botswana, according to Business Report. Their new R3-billion casino and hotel complex will be part of the Pretoria-east area to be known as Time Square, which will also include a 5-star hotel and conference centre with 100 luxury rooms and 10 suites, as well as an 8 000-seat arena.

But what draws people in droves to these establishments, and why are convention spaces in casinos so popular? Quite simply, both the gaming and tourism industries are in a golden age. An age that hotel groups have noticed,

where work and play go hand in hand, where the experience is king. According to Steve Wynn, another important reason for casino-resorts’ success is the culture of service it creates for guests. His aim is for his staff to take personal responsibility for customers when doors open. “How do you get your employees, with no boss or supervisor watching, to feel it’s important to impress the guests on a personal level?” Wynn asks. “If you can do that, you win all bets, no matter what the building looks like.”

Emperors Palace The post-conference activities guarentee fun.

© Peerm

ont

© Peerm

ont

NAME FEATURES HOTEL GRADING CONVENTION SPACE WEBSITE

Emperors Palace GamingPeermont HotelsTheatre of MarcellusThe Odeon ShowbarMarc Antony’s Cigar LoungeThe Barnyard TheatreNu Metro CinemasThe CODESA WalkwayNext to OR Tambo Airport

D’Oreale Grande: 5 starMondior: 4 starMetcourt: 3 starMetcourt Suites: 3 star

Free Wi-FiGroups of 8 to 3 000Centre Court: 2,698m2

Assembly Room (sub-divisible into 6 venues): 1,656m2

South Wing: 13 venuesTheatre of Marcellus: 1 000 seats

www.emperorspalace.com

Montecasino GamingBird GardenTen Pin BowlingCinemaCantare Dinner & DancePieter Toerien Theatre & StudioThe Teatro

The Palazzo Montecasino: 5 starSouthern Sun Montecasino: 5 starSunSquare Montecasino: 4 star

Montecasino Ballroom: 675m2 with 360m2 welcome foyerLa Toscana: 220 cinema-style seatsMontecasino Conference Room: 120 cinema-style seatsExecutive Boardroom: 16 seatsThe Palazzo Boardroom: 12 seatsThe Palazzo Castello: 50 cinema-style seatsThe Palazzo Soave: 50 cinema-style seatsThe Pivot Conference Centre: 1,400m2

www.montecasino.co.za

Gold Reef City GamingTheme Park4D TheatreTurtle Creek Putt PuttThe Lyric TheatreThe Magic Company

Southern Sun Gold Reef City: 4 starGold Reef City Theme Park Hotel: 4 star

Lyric Theatre: 1 100 seats www.goldreefcity.co.za

Suncoast Casino GamingThe Magic CompanySuncoast Spa

Suncoast Towers: 4 starSunSquare Suncoast: 4 star

The Colony Room: 200m2

The Delano Room: 400m2

www.suncoastcasino.co.za

The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World

GamingThe Boardwalk News CaféAfricology SpaKiplings BrasserieEvents & Entertainment

Sun Boardwalk: 5 star Boardwalk International Convention Centre: 1 700 cinema-style seatsTsitsikamma Room: 1 680 cinema-style seatsIronwood: 50 cinema-style seatsRedwood: 50 cinema-style seatsStinkwood: 60 cinema-style seats

www.suninternational.com/boardwalk

GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World

GamingEvents & EntertainmentThe Ice Station Ice RinkBeijing Orchid RestaurantMagic BowlingMagic ArcadeNu Metro Cinema

Grand Hotel: 4 starCity Lodge Hotel GrandWest: 3 star

Good Hope Suites: 170 seatsGrand Arena: 5 000 seats, 7 000 standingHanover Street: end-of-year eventsRoxy Revue Bar: theatre-style presentationsThe Ice Station: 1 000 banquet-style seatsThe Market Hall: 900 seats

www.suninternational.com/grandwest

Emerald Resort & Casino GamingAnimal WorldAquadomePins Bowling AlleyI-Zone (video games)Rock ClimbingAdventure GolfLiquid Living Houseboats

Emerald Hotel: 4 starBush Lodges: 4 starRiver Resort: 3 star

Kilimanjaro: 265.5m2

Kilimanjaro 1,2,3: 88.5m2

Mombasa: 36.3m2

Nairobi: 36.3m2

River Resort: 119m2

Events & Exhibition Centre: 3,996m2

www.emeraldcasino.co.za

Sun City Resort GamingTwo Golf coursesEntertainment & eventsTennisGymsWatersportsFastest zip slide in the world4X4 Quad BikesBig Five Safari(Pilanesberg Nature Reserve)Valley of the WavesKamp KwenaSpaAdventure toursMaze of the Lost City

Sun City Main Hotel: 4 starSun City Cascades Hotel: 5 starCabanas Hotel: 3 starThe Palace of the Lost City: 5 star

Sun City Resort Amphitheatre: 800 cinema-style seatsHall of Treasures: 800 Cinema-style seatsThe Pilanesburg Room: 1 000 cinema-style seatsThe Royal Ballroom: 1 200 cinema-style seatsThe Superbowl: 6 000 cinema-style seatsVenues also available at the Palace of the Lost City, Cabanas and Sun City Hotel & Casino

www.suninternational.com/sun-city

FEATURE | 17www.theevent.co.za


MOVERS AND SHAKERSClinton Els Joins Dragonfly Africa Board The Dragonfl y Africa Group is delighted to announce that Clinton Els has been appointed to the Board of Directors, in the role of Director: Incentives and Travel. Clinton has played a signifi cant part over the years in strategically developing and overseeing Dragonfl y’s existing and new business through both these key channels.

The Board wanted to acknowledge the skills and expertise that Clinton has developed, ensuring that Dragonfl y Africa continues to rank as one of Southern and Eastern Africa’s

leading travel companies. Clinton has served with the Group for seven years.

Debbie Holmes has been promoted to Manager: Incentives. Debbie has worked tirelessly through a number of different roles with Dragonfl y and the board believes that there are very few travel professionals anywhere that can rival Debbie’s output and experience.

She has served as a mentor and inspiration to the M.I.C.E. team and Dragonfl y Africa is indeed most fortunate to have her overseeing the demands and challenges of the company’s incentive

division in Johannesburg. Debbie will complete 7 years with the Group on 1st May.

New Appointment at CSIR International Convention Centre (CSIR ICC)Boitumelo Ndaba has been appointed as a Group Assistant at the CSIR International Convention Centre.

Simon Kgame has joined the CSIR International Convention Centre as a Purchaser. Simon is well qualifi ed and brings with him much experience in the conference and events industry.

TURKISH AIRLINESReaffirms Commitment to African Tourism Industry

Turkish Airlines’ presence at the World Travel Market (WTM) Africa highlighted the airline’s commitment to the improving

travel and tourism opportunities on the African continent to ultimately boost economic growth in the region. Cementing its commitment to Africa, Turkish Airlines has offi cially announced that a direct fl ight from Cape Town to Turkey will be available for travellers from 26th October 2015.

This is according to Rafet Alper Özen, Vice President Marketing and Sales (Africa) of Turkish Airlines, who says that one of the main objectives for Turkish Airlines in 2015 is to extend its network, especially in Africa. “At the moment we operate in 43 airports across the African continent and we are proud to hold the title of airline who fl ies the

most destinations in Africa continent.” Due to an increase in demand, Turkish

Airlines made the decision to launch a direct fl ight from Cape Town to Istanbul, says Rafet Alper Özen. “One of the most attractive aspects of fl ying Turkish Airlines is that the layover time for connecting fl ights to other locations is the quickest of all airlines. Our statistics show that 85% of our passengers use Turkish Airlines for connecting fl ights.”

He points to the latest statistics from the World Travel and Tourism Council which estimate that South Africa’s travel and tourism sector contributed approximately R102-billion to the country’s economy, directly supporting an estimated 620 000 jobs in 2012. “While these statistics only show the economic contribution of tourism in South Africa,

there is also great potential for travel and tourism to contribute to other the economic growth of other African countries.” As part of its commitment to boosting tourism and travel to the African continent, Turkey is hosting G20 Summit this year with the main focus being on Africa.

Turkish Airlines Officials at WTM Africa

HOW TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR CONFERENCE - Or Not?

OPINION | 21www.theevent.co.za

Most recently I read an article in the Sunday newspaper by Sarah Gordon headed “Child labour as ‘entertainment’”.

The article is about the Spanish filmmaker David Rengel who was working on a documentary in Siem Reap, Cambodia about child labour conditions at a rubbish dump.

The huge increase in the population of Siem Reap, in part to deal with the influx of tourists, has caused and exponential increase in the amount of rubbish taken to the dump. Children and adults are employed to separate paper, metal, plastic and recyclable materials. Then the items are weighted and sold to the company that controls the dump. On average the daily wage that is earned is about a 1USD. According to the report the conditions are diabolical and the toxic fumes unbearable.

But wait, here comes the really unbelievable part. The ruined 12th century temple of Angkor Wat is located very close to the dump and tourists are now visiting the dump site to see these children and adults working in dire conditions as part of a tour! The dump is being offered as an “alternative tour” to tourists and they arrive with sweets for the children and even pose for photographs.

As conference organisers, destination champions and responsible human beings, have we completely lost our way?

Over the last couple of years with the increased awareness of Climate Change, Environmental impact, Community Social Responsibility, Black Economic Empowerment, Fair Trade, Terrorism and Gender Equality issues, how is this actually possible? Has our greed

and the opportunity to make a “buck” completely blurred our sense of what is right and wrong?

The business environment has become much more competitive and with the economy not showing much improvement, the ability to make a living is more difficult for us all. But whilst we are all furiously trying to make ends meet, we have to remember to lift our heads and evaluate where we are going and what we are doing. We will surely be judged by our approach and outcomes in the future and will need to be accountable.

We do not have to change our approach drastically and completely reinvent the wheel. But rather the changes need to be small but significant, collectively they will carry momentum and make the difference that is important.

by Nina Freysen-Pretorius

The dump is being offered as an “alternative tour” to tourists and they arrive with sweets for the children and even pose for photographs. As conference organisers, destination champions and responsible human beings, have we completely lost our way?

“ “


South African associations have been vital in keeping the meetings industry in the country and the wider continent alive, partnering

with major events, and arranging congresses of their own that attract international and regional delegates. The Event sat down with Adriaan Liebetrau and Tes Proos to fi nd out what’s happening in 2015.

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI)The Event: How do you market the business events industry as a viable career option to the youth?

Adriaan Liebetrau: As part of the Future Focus pillar in our strategic business plan launched last year, SAACI introduced a new student membership category in May 2014 that runs from January to December to accommodate the student academic year. Last year we had 30 students sign up for the membership and this year we have already received over 70 student members. Students members can now attend branch events and will be allowed to share their CVs on our website. From next year we hope to be able to offer them experience within the industry when one of our members have large events and needs support staff.

The Event: Which in-house initiatives are you most excited about this year?Liebetrau: There are so many, trust me, but

if I can highlight two, the website that we just launched will add major new benefi ts and features to our membership. Since we launched we have been working on it every single day to enhance the experience and I am sure we will be working on it every day for the next year. Our congress in August will also be something totally different. We started planning on it in September last year and it’s amazing to see how everything is coming together and falling into place.

The Event: How is SAACI improving its membership benefi ts from year to year?Liebetrau: In 2014 we launched corporate agreements with KWV and SAA that we are busy reviewing at the moment, and will add a Banking Partner in 2015. We are also looking at a Medical and Legal

ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHTA chat with the heads of SAACI and SITE

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of SAACI

Collaboration is going to be key for associations as fi nancially companies cannot aff ord to pay various memberships out of loyalty proper, and real Return on Investment is needed; looking after existing members fi rst before going out to grow membership bases.

““


South African associations have been vital in keeping the meetings industry in the country and the wider continent alive, partnering

with major events, and arranging congresses of their own that attract international and regional delegates. The Event sat down with Adriaan Liebetrau and Tes Proos to fi nd out what’s happening in 2015.

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of the Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI)The Event: How do you market the business events industry as a viable career option to the youth?

Adriaan Liebetrau: As part of the Future Focus pillar in our strategic business plan launched last year, SAACI introduced a new student membership category in May 2014 that runs from January to December to accommodate the student academic year. Last year we had 30 students sign up for the membership and this year we have already received over 70 student members. Students members can now attend branch events and will be allowed to share their CVs on our website. From next year we hope to be able to offer them experience within the industry when one of our members have large events and needs support staff.

The Event: Which in-house initiatives are you most excited about this year?Liebetrau: There are so many, trust me, but

if I can highlight two, the website that we just launched will add major new benefi ts and features to our membership. Since we launched we have been working on it every single day to enhance the experience and I am sure we will be working on it every day for the next year. Our congress in August will also be something totally different. We started planning on it in September last year and it’s amazing to see how everything is coming together and falling into place.

The Event: How is SAACI improving its membership benefi ts from year to year?Liebetrau: In 2014 we launched corporate agreements with KWV and SAA that we are busy reviewing at the moment, and will add a Banking Partner in 2015. We are also looking at a Medical and Legal

ASSOCIATION SPOTLIGHTA chat with the heads of SAACI and SITE

Adriaan Liebetrau, CEO of SAACI

Collaboration is going to be key for associations as fi nancially companies cannot aff ord to pay various memberships out of loyalty proper, and real Return on Investment is needed; looking after existing members fi rst before going out to grow membership bases.

““


entity to enhance member benefits. In broader terms we are launching our new membership categories on 1 July as voted in by our members last year – this alone have sparked us to have a total overview of our membership benefits from after our congress this year.

The Event: Which events can’t be missed by members in 2015?Liebetrau: Without a doubt the 29th Congress, taking place in Cape Town from 2 – 4 August. It’s business – it’s personal!

The Event: How healthy would you say Southern Africa’s associations are on the whole, and what could be improved upon?Liebetrau: Associations have been around for years and I am sure will be around for many more, but the challenge is more in staying relevant and moving with the times. This is a difficult balance to strike as some members want change and some don’t. Associations only work well if members are engaged and involved, with that said, members also don’t often understand what the role of an association actually is and expect the association to do the “job” when in actual fact the members are

the association. Collaboration is going to be key for associations as financially companies cannot afford to pay various memberships out of loyalty proper, and real Return on Investment is needed; looking after existing members first before going out to grow membership bases.

Tes Proos, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence’s (SITE) South Africa Chapter PresidentThe Event: How do you market the business events industry as a viable career option to the youth? Tes Proos: This indeed, is a topic which has been lacking in our local industry and SITE is in the process of addressing this. We have a number of workshops and educational events coming up in the next year, which will target hotel school and event management students to get an understanding of what motivational travel is about and hopefully get their interest piqued in our industry.

The Event: Which in-house initiatives are you most excited about this year? Proos: We are very excited about hosting

the first ever concurrent workshops to discuss youth and industry development across a few provinces and across various countries in Southern Africa. We recently rebranded from SITE South Africa to SITE Southern Africa in order to include our neighbouring countries and MICE partners.

The Event: How is SITE improving its membership benefits from year to year? Proos: We like to ensure that members get the maximum benefit by hosting regular educational and networking events. In addition, we try to get special discounts and other benefits especially for members at important trade shows such as Meetings Africa.

The Event: Which events can’t be missed by members in 2015? Proos: Meetings Africa certainly was one. IMEX Europe and IMEX America are also major trade shows with which SITE is directly involved.

The Event: How healthy would you say Southern Africa’s associations are on the whole, and what could be improved upon? Proos: Associations really don’t mean much if there is no real benefit to members and this can only be effective with dedicated leadership. I cannot speak for other associations, but from where I stand, it seems associations like SAACI, ICCA and EXSA are very active and doing well. SITE Southern Africa is still a small association compared to these guys, but we have a very focused market and hope that with expanding into the rest of Southern Africa, we will soon gain more momentum and help drive business into the region.

We have a number of workshops and educational events coming up in the next year, which will target hotel school and event management students to get an understanding of what motivational travel is about and hopefully get their interest piqued in our industry.

“ “


IT&CM China has won praise for delivering an enhanced learning and sharing platform that all delegates can leverage on at this year’s show. This 2015 event features six brand new

Campfire knowledge sessions that cater to specific delegate niches including suppliers, PCOs, PEOs, corporate buyers, and feature topics from effective selling at tradeshows, talent acquisition, harnessing mobile for meetings and events ROI, understanding the Chinese corporate travel market, technology trends in China, to planning successful and impressive meetings and events. These educational platforms are in addition to already established destination presentations, media briefings, as well as the show’s 3rd consecutive Association Days forums @ IT&CM China for Association Executives and professionals.

“From our experience in developing conference programs and organising events for nearly 2 decades, we recognise the significance of knowledge, education, sharing and engagement as a catalyst to the industry’s growth and sophistication. China is no different. Delegates come with the purpose of wanting to be inspired by new ideas, concepts and solutions that can take their business further,” shared Ooi Peng Ee, General Manager of TTG Events.

He further explained, “What we have done this year is to tailor different platforms to the objectives of specific delegate groups. Destination presentations are meant for NTOs and CVBs to update our buyers and media on their campaigns while media briefings are structured for companies to engage both international and local press in a captive setting. The Association Days @ IT&CM China programme that includes forums which offer simultaneous English-Chinese translation are specifically meant to draw local Association Executives and professionals

into the show, while the brand new Campfire knowledge sessions impart practical business know-how to our various delegates.”

More than 20 sessions helmed by international and local organisations such as Berlin Tourismus & Kongress GmbH, Bloomington MN Convention & Visitors Bureau, Business Events Hangzhou China, Carlson Wagonlit Travel China, Central Hall Westminster, China Automotive Dealer Association, Delta Airlines, Guidebook, Info Salons China, Marriott International Inc, MEET Taiwan, Shanghai Municipal Tourism Administration, SITE Global, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Xiamen Conference and Exhibition Association, were motivated to leverage on these knowledge enhancement and engagement platforms.

Fully supportive of this year’s educational programme, Association Days @ IT&CM China forum speaker Heike Mahmoud, CMP, Director Conventions of visitBerlin Berlin Convention Office commented, “Trade Shows are good platforms for sharing information and meeting potential partners. As we work in a global world, understanding other cultures is a key for success. Learning together through knowledge sharing to find solutions, should be part of our collaborative DNA. We should also create win-win situations to encourage business opportunities. Education sessions, like the forums at Association Days @ IT&CM China 2015, are excellent avenues to tailor content to the right target groups. As Berlin is an open city with endless solutions for our clients, I am very excited to present the city as a leading Convention Destination and to share best practices with our potential clients. The Asian market is certainly our top priority going forward.”

Zhang Te, Secretary of MICE Committee of China Association of Travel Services, an association professional at the event said, “I attended the first two sessions on

choosing a meeting destination and changing membership models, and found both topics to be of relevance. The information and tips presented are also particularly practical to Associations. The speakers, who are mostly local, expressed views and insights that are very relatable to Chinese associations. As a result of today’s forum, I’m now interested in Berlin as a destination and believe that there will be opportunities for collaboration in the future.”

Marriott, one of the show’s largest brand sponsor this year finds the brand new campfire session a great way to educate and engage their desired audience. Expressed Adelina Ye, Area Director of Sales and Marketing, East China, “Marriott is setting trends within the MICE industry through technology and innovation like our Meetings Imagined approach and the Meetings Service App. These solutions were founded on our research that discovered the seven purposes for meetings: celebrate, decide, educate, ideate, network, produce and promote. As the campfire sessions are held in intimate, up-front settings, they are ideal for sharing in detail how we are changing the way event planners book meetings by reinventing the planning process to be more visual, social and purposeful.”

Ye further explained, “We at Marriott are able to create unique meeting experiences by helping meeting planners design and execute their meetings in creative ways to inspire results. During our campfire session, we would be able to answer questions first-hand and provide an in-depth walk-through of our unique services and solutions such as the complementary meetingsimagined.com website that is curated around the seven meeting purposes and the component building blocks of meetings – setup, food & drink, tech & supplies and experiences. www.itcmchina.com

IT&CM CHINA 2015 Wins Industry Praise For Raising Knowledge Enhancement and Engagement Opportunities

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

achievements and successes globally,” says Helen Innes, convener of A Greener Festival.

As the South African partner and implementation agent for A Greener Festival, the EGF managed the application for the award and coordinated the assessment for entry.

On behalf of the EGF Grace Stead, of Steadfast Greening, compiled the independent audit supplied to A Greener Festival and noted in her report: “Since Rocking the Daisies was first hosted in 2006 it has grown year-on-year, with record numbers in 2014. The festival has however kept to its vision of ‘play hard, tread lightly’.”

Stead adds that despite growing numbers of festivalgoers, the organiser of the event, Seed Experiences, has continued to make every effort to ensure a more

sustainable event year-on-year.Initiatives to ‘green’ the Rocking the

Daisies festival are quite comprehensive and include aspects of grey water recycling, the recycling of glass, plastic, paper and metal, promoting social and economic growth within the surrounding community, protecting the natural environment and encouraging energy efficiency.

EGF CELEBRATES Rocking the Daisies award

The Event Greening Forum (EGF) has been recognised by the A Greener Festival Awards 2014 for South Africa’s very own Rocking

the Daisies 2014, proving South Africa’s ability to successfully host large events with environmental sustainability in mind. The A Greener Festival Awards originated in the UK and acknowledges festivals and events that do their very best to conserve resources and leave as little environmental impact as possible.

The Rocking the Daisies festival has received a Highly Commended Award for a well-managed, environmentally aware festival that has taken significant steps to reduce waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and engage with its audience. The award prize is a contribution towards 50 trees to be planted in Festival Wood (a reforestation project area in the Scottish Highlands) in partnership with Trees for Life.

“The whole team is very proud of the achievements of our winners and we thank them whole heartedly for their continued support not only of the awards but also for the campaigns we are working on and for supporting one another by sharing their

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

achievements and successes globally,” says Helen Innes, convener of A Greener Festival.

As the South African partner and implementation agent for A Greener Festival, the EGF managed the application for the award and coordinated the assessment for entry.

On behalf of the EGF Grace Stead, of Steadfast Greening, compiled the independent audit supplied to A Greener Festival and noted in her report: “Since Rocking the Daisies was first hosted in 2006 it has grown year-on-year, with record numbers in 2014. The festival has however kept to its vision of ‘play hard, tread lightly’.”

Stead adds that despite growing numbers of festivalgoers, the organiser of the event, Seed Experiences, has continued to make every effort to ensure a more

sustainable event year-on-year.Initiatives to ‘green’ the Rocking the

Daisies festival are quite comprehensive and include aspects of grey water recycling, the recycling of glass, plastic, paper and metal, promoting social and economic growth within the surrounding community, protecting the natural environment and encouraging energy efficiency.


The Event Greening Forum (EGF) has been recognised by the A Greener Festival Awards 2014 for South Africa’s very own Rocking

the Daisies 2014, proving South Africa’s ability to successfully host large events with environmental sustainability in mind. The A Greener Festival Awards originated in the UK and acknowledges festivals and events that do their very best to conserve resources and leave as little environmental impact as possible.

The Rocking the Daisies festival has received a Highly Commended Award for a well-managed, environmentally aware festival that has taken significant steps to reduce waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and engage with its audience. The award prize is a contribution towards 50 trees to be planted in Festival Wood (a reforestation project area in the Scottish Highlands) in partnership with Trees for Life.

“The whole team is very proud of the achievements of our winners and we thank them whole heartedly for their continued support not only of the awards but also for the campaigns we are working on and for supporting one another by sharing their


MARKEX 2015The ultimate expo in promotions, marketing and special events!


before have such great marketing, business and innovation minds, been freely available to the South African marketing community. These seminars may just be the tipping point to skyrocket your business.

3. Understand what you want to achieve by attending Markex Joburg 2015. Lead generation, mingling with like-minded individuals, innovative strategy creation or potential business partners… it all happens at Markex!

4. Make sure you know the areas you need to visit to make the most of your time at Markex Joburg 2015. With over 200 exhibitors and 10 000 visitors the creative spaces will be buzzing with activity – so don’t get caught up in areas that do not suit your purpose.

5. Research the Exhibitors before you arrive; you will then be able to quickly evaluate and navigate the event with purpose. We have 24 new exhibitors this year! Take your time in this regard too, to familiarize yourself with the stand numbers and general layout.

6. Arrive with your 2015 marketing strategy fresh in your mind. This is not to say you need to be rigid in your strategy, but ticking your marketing boxes first will allow for some time for free exploration and innovation.

7. Leave some space for creativity and innovation. The joy of Markex Joburg 2015 is that you will literally be at the sharp end of marketing innovation. Build in some time to wonder the event, to simply let the creative ideas filter into your existing plans.

Markex 2015 is the must-attend show for anyone involved in marketing, promotions and event production - from stand

designers, to printers, digital media pros, advertising and public relations consultants, and decor experts

This multi-faceted event will bring together more than 10 000 delegates with over 200 exhibitors, giving you the opportunity to network, share ideas, access the latest and greatest in products and services, and above all, unleash your creativity!

Why visit? The new and improved Markex 2015 show recognises the industry’s ever-growing need for valuable content. With this in mind, over and above exposure to the products and services of more than 200 exhibitors, Markex 2015 visitors will have access to a number of informative seminars and workshops, some of which will be free-to-attend for the first time ever!

Here are some of this year’s highlights:• Check out our free-to-attend seminar

theatre, where industry experts will discuss the latest trends, legislation and best practices affecting the industry

• Join a three-part workshop facilitated by MICE Academy, in conjunction with PRISA and EXSA, taking place on 4 June

• See our new product showcase - where our exhibitors’ latest products and services are launched in a designated area at the show

• Visit the USB Speakers Pavilion - where the top local and international speaking talents will be strutting their stuff

7 tips to get the most out of Markex Joburg 2015 - by Colin CampbellWhat is your visitor strategy?Markex Joburg 2015 is widely regarded as the pinnacle event within the South African marketing calendar. Three days of product launches, creative concepts and innovation from over 200 exhibitors all under one roof! Plus the diversity in marketing approach is explosive. Arrive prepared to soak in the creativity on display and leave with a strategy to elevate your business into the stratosphere.

Here is the Markex Joburg 2015 visitor strategy guide, to make sure you get everything you want from the show:1. Follow Markex 2015 on Facebook, Twitter,

Instagram & LinkedIn – these live event services will keep you up to date with all the comings and goings at Markex Joburg 2015. This includes exhibitor deals, Free to Attend Seminar updates & prominent sponsor’ offerings. By combining your time and social media you can effectively double your exposure time at the event.

2. Visit the Free to Attend Seminar schedule online before arriving. When you make space in your diary to attend Markex Joburg 2015 be sure to note the venue location and times of presentations that you wish to attend. Never

28 | COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

NAMIBIA Desert Splendour Juxtaposed with Burgeoning Allure by Imogen Campbell

Safari Court Hotel

© Safari C

ourt Hotel

The Grand Ballroom at the Safari Court Conference Centre

© Safari C

ourt Conference C

entre

The Namib Desert

COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | 29www.theevent.co.za

In the Nama language, Namib means, “Area where there is nothing.” Yet, for the discerning taste, Namibia shimmers with iridescent beauty and teems with

prolific wildlife and unpolluted skies. It has an arid landscape and covers more than 825,418 km², or is about twice the size of California.

This year-round, sunny travel destination is one of the most developed countries in Africa and ranks 8th out of 54 countries in Africa by nominal GDP per capita (IMF, 2011). It has one of the best literacy rates in Africa at 83% and was the first African country to incorporate protection of the environment into its constitution.

Namibia borders Angola and Zambia in the north, South Africa in the south and Botswana in the east. Namibia is one of the sparsest populated countries in the world with a population of 2.3 million. (2012).

Windhoek still reflects German architecture from its era of colonisation, even boasting three castles. The city is modern, clean and has adopted ways of utilising local communities for solid-waste collection and removal. Travellers have mentioned that it is “paperless”.

Namibia is not renowned for retail therapy. However, Windhoek is where you will find it. It has much on offer including international brands.

Climate:It is mostly desert and therefore exhibits typical weather for such a clime. Rainfall is sparse; with the north eastern areas of Namibia getting the most rain

Venues:Safari Court Conference Centre• Largest conference venue in Windhoek• Accommodates 2 400 delegates in

theatre-style, 1 800 in conference style and 1 200 in banquet style.

• Some important services provided are access to simultaneous interpretation and multi-microphone conference discussion systems.

• It also provides the system used for voting and to determine audience response as well as other office equipment like computer, printers and Internet access.

NamPower Convention Centre• The single largest venue at the centre,

the Ruacana, is able to seat 300 delegates and accommodate 450 in cinema style.

• All their facilities have state-of-the-art lighting, sound and audio visual equipment.

• The equipment includes data projectors, overhead projectors, document cameras, projection screens, flipcharts, PA systems with multiple microphone systems and simultaneous translation equipment.

Airlines that fly into Windhoek: International flights arrive at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport. Domestic flights and flights from other southern African countries arrive at Eros Airport. The biggest airlines flying into Windhoek is South African Airways, Kulula and British Airways.

Exchange rate: The currency is Namibian dollar. Conversion rates against other major currencies on 28 April 2015 are as follows:

Getting around the city:Roads in Windhoek are paved and well-kept. Main roads linking cities and towns are

generally paved. According to Travel News Namibia there is a 24-hour taxi service and a daily bus service in Windhoek. There are also shuttle services between cities and a bus service transporting passengers to South African cities. Charter flights are available; Namibia is well-positioned for this as it has numerous landing strips. Vehicle hire in the capital is also easy and can be done online.

Pre and post tour opportunities:This magnificent locale offers the stunning sand dunes. These can be viewed from a balloon ride for an enhanced panoramic view of this spectacle. Then you can descend into Africa’s largest canyon, the Fish River Canyon. It is second in size only to the Grand Canyon in the United States of America.

It is also home to two of the World’s Heritage Sites. The Namib Sand Sea was inscribed as a site in June 2013 and is covered by shifting sand dunes (84%). The total number of flora and fauna species in the sand sea is approximately 2 356.

Twyfelfontein was inscribed in 2007 and has one of the largest concentrations of rock engravings (petroglyphs) in Africa. Namibia hosts the largest game reserve in Africa; the Etosha National Park. Some species in this park are endangered, like the Black Rhino, and it boasts of the largest elephants in Africa.

Lastly, this fabulous destination is also famous for its gems and minerals like diamonds, zinc, copper and lead (Chamber of Mines of Namibia). Namibian diamonds and other gemstones can be bought from a variety of jewellery shops in Windhoek. Ostrich leather articles, Ostrich eggs and other Namibian crafts make excellent gifts and can be found in curio shops in Windhoek.

Namibia Tourism Board: The official representative of the Namibian Tourism Industry.Tel: +44 (0)207 3670962Email: [email protected]: www.travelnamibia.co.uk

Hospitality Association of NamibiaTel: +264 61 222 904Website: www.hannamibia.com

Major Currencies Namibian dollar (N$)

1 Rand 1.00

1 US dollar 12.02

1 Euro 13.08

COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT | 29www.theevent.co.za

In the Nama language, Namib means, “Area where there is nothing.” Yet, for the discerning taste, Namibia shimmers with iridescent beauty and teems with

prolific wildlife and unpolluted skies. It has an arid landscape and covers more than 825,418 km², or is about twice the size of California.

This year-round, sunny travel destination is one of the most developed countries in Africa and ranks 8th out of 54 countries in Africa by nominal GDP per capita (IMF, 2011). It has one of the best literacy rates in Africa at 83% and was the first African country to incorporate protection of the environment into its constitution.

Namibia borders Angola and Zambia in the north, South Africa in the south and Botswana in the east. Namibia is one of the sparsest populated countries in the world with a population of 2.3 million. (2012).

Windhoek still reflects German architecture from its era of colonisation, even boasting three castles. The city is modern, clean and has adopted ways of utilising local communities for solid-waste collection and removal. Travellers have mentioned that it is “paperless”.

Namibia is not renowned for retail therapy. However, Windhoek is where you will find it. It has much on offer including international brands.

Climate:It is mostly desert and therefore exhibits typical weather for such a clime. Rainfall is sparse; with the north eastern areas of Namibia getting the most rain

Venues:Safari Court Conference Centre• Largest conference venue in Windhoek• Accommodates 2 400 delegates in

theatre-style, 1 800 in conference style and 1 200 in banquet style.

• Some important services provided are access to simultaneous interpretation and multi-microphone conference discussion systems.

• It also provides the system used for voting and to determine audience response as well as other office equipment like computer, printers and Internet access.

NamPower Convention Centre• The single largest venue at the centre,

the Ruacana, is able to seat 300 delegates and accommodate 450 in cinema style.

• All their facilities have state-of-the-art lighting, sound and audio visual equipment.

• The equipment includes data projectors, overhead projectors, document cameras, projection screens, flipcharts, PA systems with multiple microphone systems and simultaneous translation equipment.

Airlines that fly into Windhoek: International flights arrive at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport. Domestic flights and flights from other southern African countries arrive at Eros Airport. The biggest airlines flying into Windhoek is South African Airways, Kulula and British Airways.

Exchange rate: The currency is Namibian dollar. Conversion rates against other major currencies on 28 April 2015 are as follows:

Getting around the city:Roads in Windhoek are paved and well-kept. Main roads linking cities and towns are

generally paved. According to Travel News Namibia there is a 24-hour taxi service and a daily bus service in Windhoek. There are also shuttle services between cities and a bus service transporting passengers to South African cities. Charter flights are available; Namibia is well-positioned for this as it has numerous landing strips. Vehicle hire in the capital is also easy and can be done online.

Pre and post tour opportunities:This magnificent locale offers the stunning sand dunes. These can be viewed from a balloon ride for an enhanced panoramic view of this spectacle. Then you can descend into Africa’s largest canyon, the Fish River Canyon. It is second in size only to the Grand Canyon in the United States of America.

It is also home to two of the World’s Heritage Sites. The Namib Sand Sea was inscribed as a site in June 2013 and is covered by shifting sand dunes (84%). The total number of flora and fauna species in the sand sea is approximately 2 356.

Twyfelfontein was inscribed in 2007 and has one of the largest concentrations of rock engravings (petroglyphs) in Africa. Namibia hosts the largest game reserve in Africa; the Etosha National Park. Some species in this park are endangered, like the Black Rhino, and it boasts of the largest elephants in Africa.

Lastly, this fabulous destination is also famous for its gems and minerals like diamonds, zinc, copper and lead (Chamber of Mines of Namibia). Namibian diamonds and other gemstones can be bought from a variety of jewellery shops in Windhoek. Ostrich leather articles, Ostrich eggs and other Namibian crafts make excellent gifts and can be found in curio shops in Windhoek.

Namibia Tourism Board: The official representative of the Namibian Tourism Industry.Tel: +44 (0)207 3670962Email: [email protected]: www.travelnamibia.co.uk

Hospitality Association of NamibiaTel: +264 61 222 904Website: www.hannamibia.com

Major Currencies Namibian dollar (N$)

1 Rand 1.00

1 US dollar 12.02

1 Euro 13.08

30 | REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

NORTH WEST PROVINCEThe Platinum Province infused with Indigenous Heritage

Shawu the Elephant at the Sun City Hotel

Lost City, North West Province

© SA

Tourism

30 | REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT www.theevent.co.za

NORTH WEST PROVINCEThe Platinum Province infused with Indigenous Heritage

Shawu the Elephant at the Sun City Hotel

Lost City, North West Province

© SA

Tourism

REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT | 31www.theevent.co.za

The North West is situated to the north of South Africa on the Botswana border, the Kalahari Desert in the west, Gauteng

province to the east, and the Free State to the south. The name Platinum Province is attributed to it, due to its prodigious platinum resources. Unsurprisingly, mining is the category most contributing to its GDP.

Slightly smaller than the US State of Pennsylvania, it is the sixth largest of the 9 provinces and home to just 6.8% of South Africa’s population.

Climate:This province forms part of the Kalahari Desert so has year-round sunshine.

Thunderstorms are probable in the summer months, but winter days are dry and sunny while the nights are chilly.

Venues:Sun City ResortThe world-renowned Sun City Hotel & Entertainment complex is a tourism hotspot. It boasts numerous conference venues as follows:

The Pilansberg Room: • Situated in the Entertainment Centre.• The room can be sub-divided into two

smaller venues. • Capacity: 180 - 1 000

The Royal Ballroom: • Situated on promenade level of the

Entertainment Centre.• It accommodated 1 200 people in

conference-style seating.

The Cat, Buck and Bird Rooms:• These conference rooms can be

privatised for groups and after-dinner parties.

• The capacity is for the first-mentioned is 25-60 and the latter 40-100 people.

Botsalanong Boma • Modern facilities offered at the unique

venue under the African sky.• Capacity: 800.

Thaba Ya Batswana Conference & FunctionsThaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel & Spa offers conferencing facilities that range from executive boardrooms to banqueting halls, accommodating groups of between 5 to 500 delegates.

Lobola KraalStyle of room No. of delegatesBanquet style (10/12pax)

500

U Shape 200Cinema 1 000School room 300

Population Some cities have more than 100 000 inhabitants and include Klerksdorp, Potchefstroom and Rustenburg. The capital has fewer than this, but more than 50 000. Pre and post tour opportunities A visit to the North West Province in South Africa is hardly complete without a visit to one or more of its game or nature reserves. The Madikwe Game Reserve is a malaria-free reserve and is home to the second largest population of elephants in South Africa. The Pilanesberg National Park, which covers some 55 000 hectares, is the fourth largest in southern Africa. The park boasts healthy

populations of lion, leopard and both black and white rhino. The setting of this park is the crater of an extinct volcano replete with rare rock types.

The Lesedi Cultural Village was initiated as a tourist attraction in 1995. It is less than an hour’s drive from Johannesburg en route to Sun City, offering an opportunity to interact with five of South Africa’s cultures: the Zulus, Xhosa, Pedi, the Ndebele and Basotho people.

This province hosts the internationally-renowned Lost City Sun City complex with two designer golf courses as well as the 6 000-seater Superbowl, which hosts rock concerts and beauty pageants.

Direct flights from Cape Town International and OR International airports, to Pilansberg Airport, a scant 10km outside of Sun City, commenced on 27 March 2015. Public transport in the province is not as well established, but car hire is relatively simple and can be done online.

The Bloemhof Dam situate in the Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve is its principal allure. The dam is an angler’s paradise. It is shallow, but at full capacity it is one of the country’s largest man-made dams. Due to the lack of natural predators, the fish grow to an average size and are prolific; thrilling local anglers. To alleviate the desert-like heat, locals indulge in water recreational activities like boating, jet-skiing, canoeing, and yachting with boat landing facilities provided. Contacts: North West & Tourism BoardTel: 086 111 1866 Website: www.tourismnorthwest.co.za

North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism Tel: (018) 387 7771 / 7723 Website: www.govpage.co.za

Tswana KraalStyle of room No. of delegatesBanquet style (10/12pax)

100

U Shape 400Cinema 100School room 60

© SA

Tourism

© SA

Tourism

32 | EVENTS www.theevent.co.za

THE SOUTH AFRICAN WEDDING SHOW6 – 7 Cape Town International Convention CentreCape Town, South Africa

7th SOUTH AFRICAN AIDS CONFERENCE9 – 12Durban International Convention CentreDurban, South Africa

MARKEX 8 – 9Sandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

MARKETING INDABA DURBAN11 – 12 Oyster Box Hotel Umhlanga, South Africa

AFRICA’S BIG SEVEN (AB7)21 – 23 Gallagher Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

39th DAR ES SALAAM INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR28 June – 8 JulyMwalimu J.K. Nyerere Trade Fair GroundsDar es Salaam, Tanzania

AFRICA RAIL 30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

AFRICA PORTS & HARBOURS SHOW30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

JUNE

MINING COPPERBELT TRADE EXPO & CONFERENCE5 – 6 Mist GardensKwite, Zambia

MARKETING INDABA CAPE TOWN6 – 7 Cape Town International Convention CentreCape Town, South Africa

AUTOMECHANIKA JOHANNESBURG6 – 9 Expo CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

18th KENYA INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXHIBITION7 – 9 Kenyatta International Convention CentreNairobi, Kenya

INDABA 20159 – 11Durban International Convention CentreDurban, South Africa

COATINGS FOR AFRICA11 – 13 Sandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

SECUREX SOUTH AFRICA12 – 14 Gallagher Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

A-OSH EXPO12 – 14 Gallagher Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

TOTALLY CONCRETE EXPO 13 – 14 Sandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

AFRICAN CONSTRUCTION EXPO 13 – 14 Sandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

MAYMAMAMAGIC, THE BABY EXPO14 – 17 The Coca-Cola DomeJohannesburg, South Africa

IMEX FRANKFURT19 – 21 Messe FrankfurtFrankfurt, Germany

WEST AFRICA TELECOM SUMMIT & EXPO21 – 22 Movenpick Ambassador HotelAccra, Ghana

THE FASHIONIST FAIR21 – 23 Sandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

17th AFRICAN RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL23 – 26Durban International Convention CentreDurban, South Africa

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON BIOSCIENCES ERSEARCH 25 – 29Suncity Exclusive HotelsAnambra, Nigeria

MARKETING INDABA SANDTON27 – 28 The Maslow HotelJohannesburg, South Africa

RURAL DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE27 – 28 Durban International Convention CentreDurban, South Africa

AFRICA LABORUM27 – 29 Cape Town International Convention CentreCape Town, South Africa

GRAND DESIGNS LIVE – JHB29 – 31 The Coca-Cola DomeJohannesburg, South Africa

ELECTRONIC & GAMING EXPO29 – 31 Cape Town International Convention CentreCape Town, South Africa

AVIATION OUTLOOK AFRICA30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

THE CARGO SHOW AFRICA30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

TRANSPORT SAFETY & SECURITY SHOW AFRICA30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

THE AIRPORT SHOW AFRICA30 June – 1 JulySandton Convention CentreJohannesburg, South Africa

EVENTS | 33www.theevent.co.za©

Cam

pari Calendar 2015

SAACI 29th Congress early bird registration extendedFollowing requests from our members who are on short holidays with the current long weekends, we have decided to extend the early bird special of R4 250.00 till Friday, 15 May 2015.

We only have 450 places available for delegates so avoid disappointment and register before Wednesday, 22 July 2015 when congress registrations close.

Programme: Structured with innovative HOT topics (sessions that are either TED like talks, structured panels, round table discussions or short pecha kuccha presentations), SOLUTION Sessions

(small focus groups on specifi c issues with an expert, 20pax) and TECH CENTRAL (A soap box environment for one-on-one or group interaction with technology solutions and services providers )

If you would like to be a speaker at this year’s congress, please be on the lookout for the call for papers and abstracts in our next SAACIMatters newsletter on Tuesday 12 May 2015.

Sponsorship opportunities:Following the launch of the prospectus on Friday, we are happy to announce that we have already received commitment of R285 000 in sponsorship of the possible R775 000 that’s almost 40% “sold”.

Help SAACI host a successful congress and become a sponsor from as little as R 1500 to R30 000 (remaining packages)

- Courtesy of SAACI

34 | ASSOCIATIONS www.theevent.co.za

SAACI 29th Congress early bird registration extendedFollowing requests from our members who are on short holidays with the current long weekends, we have decided to extend the early bird special of R4 250.00 till Friday, 15 May 2015.

We only have 450 places available for delegates so avoid disappointment and register before Wednesday, 22 July 2015 when congress registrations close.

Programme: Structured with innovative HOT topics (sessions that are either TED like talks, structured panels, round table discussions or short pecha kuccha presentations), SOLUTION Sessions

(small focus groups on specifi c issues with an expert, 20pax) and TECH CENTRAL (A soap box environment for one-on-one or group interaction with technology solutions and services providers )

If you would like to be a speaker at this year’s congress, please be on the lookout for the call for papers and abstracts in our next SAACIMatters newsletter on Tuesday 12 May 2015.

Sponsorship opportunities:Following the launch of the prospectus on Friday, we are happy to announce that we have already received commitment of R285 000 in sponsorship of the possible R775 000 that’s almost 40% “sold”.

Help SAACI host a successful congress and become a sponsor from as little as R 1500 to R30 000 (remaining packages)

- Courtesy of SAACI

34 | ASSOCIATIONS www.theevent.co.za

EXSA’s 2015 Conference dates change!The Exhibition and Events Association’s, EXSA, annual two day conference dates have changed to Monday 8th – Tuesday 9th of June as a result of the Markex date changes. The conference is still set to take place at the prestigious CSIR, Pretoria.

“We have a great speaker line up giving exceptional value to delegates” reported GM Sue Gannon, “something for everyone with breakaway Master Classes for the different Forums – venues, organisers, suppliers, and the Young Professionals Forum, with subjects that vary from business tools to sales and marketing.”

This year delegates will be inspired and benefi t from the insights and experiences of various thought leaders

ASSOCIATIONS | 35www.theevent.co.za©

SA Tourism

including: Richard Mulholland the founder of The Missing Link and marketing guru; Emma Sadlier the author of “Don’t Film Yourself Having Sex” who will delve into the legalities and risks of social media; Gilan Gork, South Africa’s very own “Mentalist and Master of Infl uence,” will show delegates the power of non-verbal communication; and Wayne Duvenage will talk about Service Excellence.

EXSA also encourages the Young Professionals to take advantage of the 50% discount if they are under the age of 35, to share the knowledge imparted and grow their network of industry professionals.

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

36 | DIRECTORY LISTINGS www.theevent.co.za

ADVERTISERSCOMPANY WEBSITEEMAILTELEPHONE

CCPP

City Of Tshwane

CTICC

Event Greening Forum

Expo Centre Johannesburg

EXSA

Lanzerac Hotel & Spa

Markex

NH The Lord Charles Hotel

Sandton Convention Centre (South Africa)

Scan Display Solutions

The Conference Company

Tshwane Events Centre

Valley Lodge and Spa

+27 82 800 6861

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www.ccpp.co.za

www.tshwane.gov.za

www.cticc.co.za

www.eventgreening.co.za

www.expocentre.co.za

www.exsa.co.za

www.lanzerac.co.za

www.markex.co.za

www.nh-hotels.co.za

www.saconvention.co.za

www.scandisplay.co.za

www.confco.co.za

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www.valleylodge.co.za

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CONTACT US

Cover Image: The Palace at the Lost City, Sun City

Publisher: Lance [email protected]

Executive Editor: Katie [email protected]

Head of Design: Sheree [email protected]

Writer: Kim [email protected]

Assistant Designer: Lauren [email protected]

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