The event and exhibition landscape is changing fast, and the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) is leading the charge to equip its members with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive. AAXO aims to support growth and success for event organisers across Africa.
The Ultimate Platform for Knowledge Exchange
The AAXO Leadership Summit 24, happening on June 4, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is set to be the top event for knowledge sharing and collaboration. It will feature 30 top speakers and 100 event leaders. This summit, part of the Global Exhibition Day (GED) festivities on June 5, 2024, is a joint effort by AAXO, the Event Greening Forum (EGF), and the Exhibition and Event Association of Africa (EXSA). It will highlight the growing African and South African markets, providing a chance for attendees to connect with the region’s business scene. The summit will offer innovative strategies, engaging discussions, and excellent networking opportunities.
A Steadfast Commitment to Excellence
The AAXO Leadership Summit 24 is dedicated to showcasing the potential of events and exhibitions in boosting economic growth in Africa. Jabu Zwane, founder of the Mindset Development Institute, will give a keynote on leadership and navigating economic changes. Dr. Werner van Zyl, founder of Connectomes Research & Content Development, will present a masterclass on using neuroscience in event design.
A panel discussion will feature industry leaders like Sthembiso Dlamini (CEO of Gauteng Tourism Authority), Bjorn Hufkie (GM, MICE Sales Office, South African Tourism), and others. They will share success stories and strategies for promoting African businesses and driving innovation.
Participants can join four interactive workshops on:
- Sales Strategies for the New World Exhibition Economy – led by Sibusiso Msomi and moderated by Tracy Gounden.
- Greening Your Exhibitions: Sustainable Strategies for Event Professionals – led by John Arvanitakis, Neo Mohlatlole, and moderated by Errol Bryce.
- Building a Winning Team: Coaching and Mentoring for Success – led by Slingsby Mda and moderated by Adele Hartegan.
- Media Mastery: Maximising Your Impact and Message in Interviews and Engagements – led by Brad Kirsten and moderated by Projeni Pather.
Piers Bearne of Collingwood Advisory will discuss global mergers and acquisitions in the event industry through a virtual chat. Leigh-Ann Brown of Talent Magnet will present on HR and recruitment trends in the MICE industry.
The summit will end with a think tank on the unique challenges and opportunities in the African event and exhibition industry, moderated by Glenton de Kock, CEO of SAACI. This session will feature diverse industry leaders discussing the obstacles and potential for growth in Africa.
“Looking towards the future of marketing and engagement, it is clear that embracing innovative techniques is key to success. We recognise the vital role that exhibitions and events play in an effective overall strategy, providing economic enablement for the industries and markets we serve. As an industry, it is crucial that we evolve in order to pave the way for sustainable economic growth. That is why AAXO extends a warm invitation to all those involved in the African event and exhibition landscape. Whether you sell, produce, organise, service, sponsor, exhibit, market, or project manage—we invite you to join us at the highly anticipated AAXO Leadership Summit 24… the future is bright and full of opportunities for the growth of the event and exhibition industry as a whole,” says Devi Paulsen-Abbott, Chairperson of AAXO.
Join industry leaders at the AAXO Leadership Summit 24 to discuss the key role of exhibitions in driving economic growth. Register now to secure your spot.