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Overall Events & Communication Celebrates 15 Years of Excellence in Exhibitions & Conferences

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Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape – Overall Events & Communication, a leading event management and communication company, proudly celebrates 15 years of delivering innovative, seamless, and impactful exhibition and conference solutions across South Africa. As a trusted partner to corporate and government organisations, Overall Events has solidified its role in the event planning industry, specialising in large-scale exhibitions, conferences, and strategic stakeholder engagements that align with clients’ business objectives.

Founded in 2009 by Managing Creative Director Claire Kivedo, Overall Events & Communication has continuously evolved to meet the dynamic demands of the event management sector. With its ability to conceptualise and execute bespoke exhibitions and conferences, the company has become a prominent player in the Eastern, Southern, and Western Cape regions.

Reflecting on 15 years in the business, Claire Kivedo says: 

“Exhibitions and conferences are not just platforms for networking, but strategic opportunities for brands to engage with their stakeholders, showcase innovations, and drive growth. We’ve been privileged to help our clients make a lasting impact in these spaces, and as we celebrate this milestone, we’re excited to continue contributing to the future of exhibitions and conferences in South Africa.”

Overall Events & Communication: A Key Player in the Exhibition Industry

As an event organiser, Overall Events & Communication’s expertise lies in managing the intricate logistics and creative design of exhibitions and conferences. From trade shows and product exhibitions to academic conferences and corporate summits, the company has successfully delivered numerous large-scale events, ensuring seamless operations and high-level attendee engagement. The company’s comprehensive service offering includes:

– Exhibition Design & Management: Overall Events excels in creating functional and visually captivating exhibition spaces that align with clients’ branding and business goals.

– Conference Planning & Logistics: From speaker sourcing and program development to registration management and venue coordination, Overall Events provides a full suite of conference services that ensure smooth and effective delivery.

– Digital & Hybrid Conference Solutions: In response to the rise of virtual and hybrid event models, the company has invested in cutting-edge technologies that allow clients to reach broader, more diverse audiences through live streaming, virtual booths, and online engagement platforms.

– Stakeholder Engagement & Networking Facilitation: A critical component of successful exhibitions and conferences is the opportunity for meaningful networking and stakeholder engagement, something Overall Events prioritises in its planning and execution process.

Successful Collaborations with High-Profile Clients

Overall Events & Communication has worked with a diverse range of industries, ensuring that its exhibitions and conferences meet the specific needs of each client.

Claire Kivedo notes, “Our clients trust us to deliver high-quality, engaging exhibitions and conferences that resonate with their target audiences. We pride ourselves on bringing a fresh, creative perspective to every event, ensuring that it leaves a lasting impact.”

Adapting to Industry Trends: Embracing Hybrid and Digital Events

The exhibitions and conferences industry has undergone significant changes over the last few years, with the demand for hybrid and digital events accelerating. Overall Events & Communication has been at the forefront of this shift, integrating digital technologies into its core services to provide clients with flexible, scalable event solutions.

Kivedo adds, “We recognize that the future of exhibitions and conferences is hybrid. By incorporating both in-person and digital elements, we can enhance accessibility and engagement, allowing brands to connect with larger and more diverse audiences. Our investment in live streaming and virtual platforms ensures that we continue to deliver value in this new era of event planning.”

Looking to the Future of Exhibitions and Conferences

As Overall Events & Communication marks its 15th anniversary, the company is looking ahead to the future of exhibitions and conferences with excitement. Its focus remains on pushing boundaries, leveraging technology, and delivering creative, tailor-made solutions that help clients achieve their strategic goals.

Event Synthesis International Expands with New Team Member and an additional Office

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Event Synthesis International is thrilled to announce significant developments as it continues to grow and expand its footprint in the event management industry.

Joining the esteemed team at Event Synthesis International is Seipati Maaga, who brings a wealth of creativity and fresh perspectives to the organization. Seipati’s background in Event Management, positions her perfectly to contribute to the dynamic and innovative events that Event Synthesis International is known for.

“We are delighted to welcome Seipati back to our team after she completed her internship,” said Angelique Smith, CEO at Event Synthesis International. “Her passion for events and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our company values. We are confident that her expertise will enhance our ability to deliver exceptional event experiences for our clients.”

In addition to this exciting personnel update, Event Synthesis International is expanding its presence with the opening of an additional office in the Western Cape. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for premium event management services in the region.

“Our expansion into the Western Cape marks a significant milestone for Event Synthesis International,” said Angelique. “We are excited about the opportunities this new office brings to better serve our clients and partners in this vibrant and dynamic part of the country.”

The new office will serve as a hub for creativity and innovation, enabling Event Synthesis International to further elevate its event planning and management capabilities across a broader geographical area.  As part of this expansion, we are updating our contact details effective immediately.

Please note our new web address and email:

– **Website:** www.esiglobal.co.za

– **Email:** all email accounts change from to

These changes are designed to streamline communication and provide enhanced support as we continue to grow and evolve. Rest assured, our commitment to delivering exceptional event management services remains unchanged.

About Event Synthesis International:

Event Synthesis International is a leading event management company known for its creativity, professionalism, and dedication to delivering outstanding event experiences. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, Event Synthesis International has established itself as a preferred partner for corporate, incentive and leisure events.

For more information, please contact:

Angelique Smith

CEO

Event Synthesis International

+27 60 970 7653

www.esiglobal.co.za

The Source Solutions: A Season of Growth and Success

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As we reflect on the successes of the year thus far, The Source Solutions is thrilled to share our journey of growth and achievement, particularly in the realm of exhibitions. One standout highlight was our custom stand creation for a client at the prestigious 2024 FIDSSA Congress, hosted at the renowned Sandton Convention Centre from 30 May to 1 June.

The FIDSSA Congress stands as a pinnacle event for infectious disease professionals in Southern Africa, uniting top clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders under one roof. It was an honour for us to contribute to this esteemed gathering and showcase our expertise in the exhibition space.

In addition to our exhibition accomplishments, we are delighted to introduce two new members to our team. Tracey-Lee Abdulla, our newest addition to the team as the Marketing, Event & Exhibition Project Manager. With over 20 years of experience in conceptualising, coordinating, and managing meetings, events, and exhibitions of varying scales, Tracey-Lee brings a wealth of expertise to our organisation. Her proficiency in negotiating sponsorship agreements, overseeing logistical aspects, and managing branding and communication strategies will be instrumental in elevating our client experiences.

Tracey-Lee’s dedication to overseeing events from inception to completion, meticulously handling logistical elements, and guiding branding and communication strategies underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients. Her passion for excellence aligns seamlessly with our ethos of innovation and client-centric approach.

We also have Hlayi Mnisi who joined us earlier in the year and at just 23 years old, she is making waves in the entrepreneurial world as the founder of a groundbreaking company that is revolutionising personal safety. Hlayi has joined us as an intern and is focused on developing proficiency in exhibition management within The Source Solutions. With a vision to solidify her position in the event management industry, she is determined to drive forward in areas such as production, manufacturing, and product development.

As Hlayi continues to pursue her entrepreneurial journey, her dedication and passion serve as a testament to the potential of young leaders in driving positive change and innovation in today’s business landscape.

As we continue to expand our horizons and push the boundaries of event management, The Source Solutions remains steadfast in our pursuit of excellence and client satisfaction. We look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead and the continued growth of our organisation in the dynamic world of events and exhibitions.

Scan Display’s MD presented with IFES award

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Scan Display’s Managing Director, Justin Hawes, was presented with the Roger Taurant Award at the 2024 IFES (International Federation of Exhibition & Event Services) World Summit in Malaga, Spain last week.

The award was established by IFES’ founding President, Roger Taurant, and acknowledges Justin’s exceptional contribution to IFES and the global exhibition industry during his 13 years as an IFES board member. In 2011, he became the first African to be represented on the IFES board. He was Treasurer of the association from 2013-2016, Vice President: Finance from 2017-2020, and President from 2021-2022.

This year, IFES is celebrating its 40th anniversary. It currently represents 300 exhibition and event contractors and service providers from around the world, and works closely with 14 industry association members, sharing knowledge and enabling cooperation amongst exhibition and event industry peers.

 

Empowering the Next Generation: Introducing the AAXO Youth Chapter

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Africa boasts the world’s youngest population, with 70% of sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30[1]. This significant youth demographic in Africa presents a growth opportunity for the continent, which can be realised by ensuring youth inclusion in decision-making processes and providing suitable opportunities for work and innovation.

Recognising the critical contributions made by the youth to the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) sector across Africa, the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) is proud to launch the AAXO Youth Chapter, an exciting new forum for members dedicated to empowering the young voices within the industry.

This initiative calls upon AAXO members aged 18-35 (defined as ‘Youth’ in the South African National Youth Policy) who have at least two years of industry experience and are employed at an AAXO member organisation to join the committee, with the aim of providing a platform for the industry’s youth to voice their perspectives.

“The main objective of the AAXO Youth Chapter is to empower our industry’s future leaders by offering a platform for their voices to be heard. In order to effectively address the needs of this important demographic, we believe it is crucial to involve youth input and participation. That is why we are thrilled to announce the formation of a Youth Chapter Committee, responsible for spearheading relevant initiatives and activities within the chapter. Through this committee, we hope to create a dynamic and engaging space for the next generation to share their ideas and perspectives while paving a path towards a more inclusive and successful events and exhibitions industry,” says Devi Paulsen-Abbott, Chairperson of AAXO.

Why Join the AAXO Youth Chapter Committee?

Members are encouraged to seize the opportunity to express their innovative ideas and engage in meaningful discussions about industry challenges with their peers. By joining the AAXO Youth Chapter Committee, they can expand their professional network and enhance their visibility within the industry through this exceptional opportunity which will enrich their experience with a role that showcases their commitment and contributions to the MICE industry.

Nomination Process:

Nominations for members to the AAXO Youth Chapter Committee must be completed on the nomination form (accessible by clicking here) and emailed to by the 5th of July 2024. Voting opens on the 8th of July 2024, and closes on the 12th of July 2024 with the newly elected Committee members being announced on the 16th of July 2024.

For more information, visit www.aaxo.co.za/aaxo-youth-chapter/

[1] https://www.un.org/ohrlls/news/young-people’s-potential-key-africa’s-sustainable-development

Member Spotlight: Informa Tech – Leading the Way in Sustainable Event Management

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This month, in recognition of Earth Day celebrated on the 22nd of April, and with a strong emphasis on sustainability and green initiatives in the events and exhibition sector in Africa, the Association of African Exhibition Organisers is proud to showcase Informa Tech, one of our members, for their exceptional dedication to sustainability.

James Bull, Sales Director at Informa Tech

How does Informa Tech incorporate sustainability practices into their service offering?

Informa Tech’s sustainability strategy, Faster Forward, demonstrates their dedication to transforming their business operations and environmental impact, ensuring a greener future for their events. This three-part program includes ambitious commitments and a wide range of activities, including:

  1. Faster to Zero: Focuses on achieving zero waste and Net Zero by 2030 or sooner;
  2. Sustainability Inside: Aims to accelerate customers’ sustainable development by addressing industry-specific sustainability challenges;
  3. Impact Multiplier: Aims to create a positive impact by improving access to specialist knowledge, investing in communities, and more.

Read more on the Faster Forward strategy here.

What is one notable example of Informa Tech’s sustainable initiatives at a past event?

At Africa Tech Festival 2023 – the largest gathering of Africa-focused connectivity leaders in the world – Informa Tech implemented several sustainability initiatives, incorporating a range of UN SDGs,  including:

  • Africa Ignite: An entire programme dedicated to empowering African Tech founders, with sessions, matchmaking, a startup showcase and pitching opportunities;
  • Sustainability and Climate Resilience: A content track addressing critical sustainability issues;
  • EQL:HER Lounge: Providing a space for men and women to discuss gender diversity – and challenges and solutions – in the African Tech community;
  • Partnerships: Strong partnerships were built with the City of Cape Town and their tourism board, WESGRO to support the local community through the business tourism generated by Africa Tech Festival.

What measures are taken by Informa Tech to minimise waste generation?

Informa’s key initiative for tackling waste at events is the Better Stands program, which promotes the use of reusable stands over single-use disposable ones by celebrating exhibitors and contractors who choose to use reusable stands. Single-use disposable stands create the majority of waste at events, and this is why it will be a key initiative for the Africa Tech Festival 2024 event.

This specific programme is being piloted across the events industry currently as part of Net Zero Carbon events, with more information available at https://betterstands.info

How does Informa Tech source sustainable materials and supplies for their events?

Informa Tech prioritises sustainable procurement by working with local suppliers and seeking materials that can be reused or have an end-of-life solution, to avoid as much going to landfill as possible. It’s also important to Informa Tech that they work with vendors that share the same attitude, such as the Cape Town International Convention Centre, who have a strong waste management and donation programme at their venue.

What partnerships and collaborations does Informa Tech have in place that enhance sustainability in events?

Last year, Informa Tech continued their partnership with Girl Hype, a local charity dedicated to reducing the gender gap in technology, a theme that is reflected in the EQL:HER lounge mentioned earlier. As mentioned, the company has also partnered with the City of Cape Town and WESGRO, to showcase the city of Cape Town as a tech hub that is open for investment.

How does Informa Tech measure environmental impact?

Informa Group, as a whole, tracks the environmental impact and emissions of all their events, by collecting information such as waste, electricity and gas data from the venue, carpet usage, attendee and employee travel to and from the event; and hotel usage and logistics data is also collected where available. All events complete a framework called The Fundamentals, which is a 16-point checklist designed to make their events as sustainable as possible. Each year, an event will complete The Fundamentals leading up to the event to help the company plan their activities and then fill in the checklist with information post-event. Once they receive their score, they use the feedback to continually improve and work towards the ultimate goal of 16/16.

Success stories and case studies that demonstrate Informa Tech’s commitment to driving sustainability in the events industry

Informa has been involved in a number of initiatives that help drive the sustainability of the whole events industry, from being a founding member of Net Zero Carbon Events, to helping launch Better Stands to tackle the event industry’s key waste contributor. The company has also been piloting Carbon Neutral certified events at a handful of their shows.

Has Informa Tech encountered – and resolved – challenges in implementing sustainable practices?

Informa Tech recognises the importance of communication and collaboration in implementing sustainable change, particularly with initiatives like Better Stands where the company recognises that education and awareness is the first step to getting stakeholders engaged in the programme. As it will require a big shift in the way stands are built, the company wants to make sure there’s been sufficient communication to and collaboration with contractors, to help achieve the aims of Better Stands.

As we celebrate Earth Day, and sustainability across the industry, let’s applaud Informa Tech for their dedication to sustainability and for setting a remarkable example in the events industry. For more information on Informa Tech, visit https://www.informatech.com

For more information on other members driving sustainability within their organisations, read more via the AAXO blog here.

 

From strength to strength

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To inspire loyalty and dedication from your staff while truly offering opportunities for growth and developing your team is aspirational for any company.

Gallagher Convention Centre often boasts of our team’s experience and dedication. One such a team member is Anna Malaza. Anna’s is one of those stories that is intrinsically part of the Gallagher story.

Anna Malaza, or Mama Anna, as she is referred to by many on the property, started at Gallagher Convention Centre in 1993 when the business was officially opened.

As the company grew and vacancies became available, opportunities were created. Anna applied for the position of Switch Board Operator. She worked as a Switch Board Operator for three years when she was given a chance to assist in Gallagher’s Main Reception.

Noticing how much Anna enjoyed working with and assisting the clients, the company created the position of Guest Relations Officer for Anna to continue offering clients friendly and efficient service in Main Reception. Anna was later promoted to the role she holds today, Guest Relations Manager.

During her thirty years at Gallagher Convention Centre, Anna has seen the company grow into the premier event venue in Gauteng, offering superior, five-star service. To Anna, the high-profile guests she has met and assisted are some of her highlights of working at Gallagher. She is also very proud of the accolades she has been awarded in service to Gallagher.

In 2012 Anna was Awarded the Fernando Fontes Award. At Gallagher, this award is given to a staff member who has distinguished themselves during a particular year. In 2012, during a high-profile event, the guest speaker’s heel broke in reception minutes before she was to go onto the stage. Anna took off her shoes and gave them to the lady to wear. After the speaking engagement, Anna returned the speaker’s shoes, mended by our maintenance team.

Anna is very proud of her Gallagher long-service awards. As Gallagher celebrates our thirtieth birthday this year, Anna will celebrate thirty years of service.

 

IS A SIMPLE YES OR NO THAT SIMPLE?

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On the last week of August 2023, I facilitated the AAXO Board strategy session for the 2nd year in a row. This also included an induction of new members. I thank the AAXO Board for the opportunity and trusting me with this important work, especially the Chair Ms Devi Paulsen-Abbott.

One of the perks of doing this work for AAXO was being granted a lifetime associate membership of this prestigious association. As I considered myself to be a reformed accountant, I wondered what I would use the membership for, but God had and still has a plan. Since the first times facilitating their strategy session in August 2022, my company has run three very successful events, an industry that I knew nothing about before. Everything happens for a reason.

As an introduction to the session, we turned to the “Dean of Strategy for Guidance”: Michael Porter– “The essence of strategy is choosing what not to do”. To understand what is meant by choosing what not to do, we turned to Michael Bungay Stanier’s teachings:

The strategic question: If you are saying Yes to This, what are you saying No To?

  • This is more complex than it sounds, to begin with, you are asking people to be clear and committed to their Yes.
  • What exactly are you saying yes to?
  • What could being fully committed to the idea look like?
  • But a Yes is nothing without the No that gives it boundaries and form.
  • There is the No of omission and No of commission.
  • The first type of No (No of omission) applies to the options that are automatically eliminated by saying Yes. If you say Yes to this meeting, you are saying no to something happening at the same time. Understanding this type of No helps you understand the implications of the decisions.
  • What will you say No to if you are truly saying yes to this.
  • The 2nd type of No is what you now need to say to make the Yes happen. It puts the light spotlight on how to create the space and focus, energy and resources that you will need to truly do that Yes.

You can use the 3P model to cover all the bases:

  • Projects
    • What projects do you need to abandon or postpone?
    • What meetings will you no longer attend?
    • What resources do you need to divert to the yes?
  • People
    • What expectations do you need to manage?
    • From what Drama Triangle dynamics will you extract yourself?
    • What relationships will you let wither?
  • Patterns
    • What habits do you need to break?
    • What old stories or dated ambitions do you need to update?
    • What beliefs about yourself do you need to let go of?

This was particularly important as strategy session involved allocating roles and members needed to apply their minds to what it meant not only to accept their roles but even also what agreeing to be part of the Board meant.

This obviously applies to all areas in our lives where we give a Yes or No answer as per the few examples below:

  • Yes to being a parent;
  • Yes to marriage;
  • Yes to a job;
  • Yes to a leadership role;
  • Yes to a community role;
  • Yes to a political role;
  • Yes to a political party on the ballot paper.

 

So my friends, I beseech you to be circumspect next time someone asks you to give them “a simple Yes or No answer”. Do consider whether an animal called “a simple Yes or No answer” does actually exist?

 

Slingsby Mda is a reformed accountant and the Managing Director of Esto Quod Es (Latin for Be Who/What You Are), a company that provides the following services:

  1. Transformational Coaching;
  2. Strategy Facilitation;
  3. Impact Speaking; and
  4. Financial and Project Management.

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