The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has partnered with Africa Tourism Partners (ATP) to host the sixth annual Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass scheduled for July 27-28 in Johannesburg.
Headquartered in Amsterdam, ICCA is a global leader for the international meetings industry with more than 1 100 member companies and organisations in nearly 100 countries and territories.
As the community and knowledge hub for the industry, ICCA offers data, education, communication channels, business development, and networking opportunities. Other key partners are the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SITE Africa and Millvest.
ATP has also partnered with UK-based MICE Knowledge, a consultancy service specialising in research, education, and training services for the meetings and events industry.
Senthil Gopinath, Chief Executive of ICCA will be the keynote speaker. Esmare Steinhofel, ICCA Africa Regional Director will give insights and opportunities that association meetings offer destinations and MICE professionals in Africa.
Other key faculty members are Zinhle Nzama, Acting Chief Convention Bureau Officer, South Africa; Janet Karemera, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Convention Bureau; Tshepiso Mganga, Chief Executive Officer, City & Safari International, Botswana; Corne Koch, Head of Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau; Adele Hartdegen, Chief Executive Officer at the Johannesburg Expo Centre; and David Eduaful, Managing Director at Labadi Beach Hotel, Ghana.
Among other key thematic areas are new sustainable event management techniques, the transition from event management to Destination Marketing Company, sales and marketing techniques in MICE, and pathways for becoming a MICE professional.
Tim Harlech-Jones, a seasoned architect and Executive Director of Bentel Associates International, South Africa, will present this.
Key consideration will also be given to designing or considering sustainable and financially viable MICE venues. Given that choosing a venue is one of the most important decisions in event planning, it is therefore imperative for the MICE Masterclass participants to learn about how to present value-adds, and eliminate unnecessary costs to enhance sustainability and financially viable MICE venues.
To enhance business opportunities to participants and partners, conveners of the Africa Business Tourism and MICE Masterclass offer complimentary desktop exhibition space and Business-to-Business morning sessions for the duration of the Masterclass.
Space is limited and will be offered on a first come first serve basis to 20 registered participants only to showcase their products and services to international attendees.
The MICE Masterclass will take place at BDO’s offices, Wanderers Office Park, 52 Corlett Drive, Illovo, Johannesburg.
Interested participants can click here to register.
