The Southern African Association for the Conference Industry (SAACI) has confirmed an ardent array of speakers for the 2011 national conference.
A keynote address by Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk will set the ball rolling on Monday morning, 25 July, where after different convention bureaux will reflect on the status of the South African conference industry.
Thembi Kunene, Chief Quality Assurance Officer at the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa will update delegates on the revised grading criteria for meeting, exhibition and special event venues.
Arthur Gillis, Group Managing Director of Protea Hotels will elaborate on the latest trends in the hotel sector and has invited the industry to submit some tough questions to him beforehand, which he will respond to at the conference.
Topics to be discussed in breakaway sessions include event insurance, recognition of prior learning for event managers and social media as a marketing tool.
Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo of the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau will give tips to Professional Conference Organisers on how to respond to requests for proposals and how to present.
On the motivational side, Heinz Wagner – the blind man with a vision, having set a new land speed record for the blind – promises to instil renewed energy into conference delegates.
“We are confident that delegates to this year’s conference will certainly leave amply-enhanced to take on the challenges ahead,” says conference chairman Riedwaan Jacobs.
Themed ‘Learn, Connect, Thrive’ – the conference will offer stimulating topics with real take-home value.
“We encourage SAACI members and members of related industries to register online to secure their bookings and we look forward to welcoming them in Somerset West from 24 to 26 July,” he says.
For more information – also to register or participate in the conference exhibition, visit www.saaciconf2011.co.za.
