The Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO), in conjunction with the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), hosted the internationally recognised Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) programme in Africa for the first time this year. The CEM qualification is a globally recognised designation that demonstrates the highest professional standard throughout the exhibitions and events management arena.

The graduates were recognised at a graduation ceremony that took place at the Restart Expo on Wednesday, 25 November 2020 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre. Joining the ranks of 3400 CEMs internationally are Betty Sichivula (Messe München South Africa), Dain Richardson (Messe München South Africa), Katy Meurs (Reed Exhibitions), Kelly Papas (Barmotion), Marita Le Roux (Exposure Marketing), Projeni Pather (Exposure Marketing), Tracy-Lee Behr (dmg events), Warren Murray (Exposure Marketing), Wessel van der Linde (Messe München South Africa) and Zinhle Khoza (Reed Exhibitions).

“After being in the event industry for 20 years, the CEM certification was a perfect opportunity to brush up on my knowledge.  The course was delivered in a very user friendly format and the material allowed me to review our current processes and implement learnings.  A highlight for me was being able to engage with peers and gain different perspectives on various topics.  It was a valuable experience which I would recommend for anyone in the event industry who wants to gain a holistic view of event management,” says Tracy-Lee Behr, one of the recent CEMs graduates.

The CEM programme was first created in 1975 to raise professional standards in the event industry, and it continues to be the premier mark of professional achievement. The designation is obtained by the completion of eight online courses offered, including modules on Conference and Meeting Management; Security, Risk, and Crisis Management, and Strategic Planning and Management.

Issued by:

Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO)

Media contact:

Molebogeng Masote
Association co-ordinator