Africa Event Connect
Africa Event Connect is a podcast focused on the MICE industry across Africa, covering meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. Produced by Exposure Marketing and supported by Business Events Africa, it shares industry news, expert insights, and practical advice for event professionals. Episodes explore trends, strategies, and best practices that shape conferences, exhibitions, and business events on the continent. The show is designed as a community for both newcomers and experienced MICE professionals.
Episodes
Your Bureau, Your Advantage - A Practical Guide to Working with GCEB
Most event organisers know a convention bureau exists. Very few know how to use one properly. In this episode, Projeni Pather sits down with Nonnie Kubeka, Executive Director of the Gauteng Convention and Events Bureau, for a practical, no-fluff guide to what bureau support actually looks like. From the types of events that qualify to the step-by-step process, the timelines involved, and the point
Think Like a Futurist: Preparing Africa's Event Industry for What's Next
What does it actually mean to think like a futurist? Charlotte Kemp - futurist keynote speaker, executive coach, and Past President of the Global Speakers Federation joins Africa Event Connect to explore how organisers, venues and industry leaders can move from reacting to trends to deliberately co-creating the future they want. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
Beyond the Title: What Actually Changes an Industry
The first time Professor Nellie Swart was on Africa Event Connect, she spoke about women in MICE, mentorship, and career mobility. This time she brings the research instead. With a BCom in Leadership Performance and Change and more than 75 peer-reviewed publications behind her, she looks at what actually separates leaders who create real change from those who just perform it. She pushes back on th
The ROI of Wonder: How Smart Event Organisers Use Entertainment Strategically
International mentalist Larry Soffer joins Africa Event Connect to argue that entertainment isn't a cost line, it's a strategic lever, with measurable impact on audience energy and event outcomes. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
Here & Now: SAACI's National Annual Conference
SAACI CEO Glenton De Kock joins host Projeni Pather for a direct debrief on the National Annual Conference's "Here & Now" theme - Prof Mohale's blunt opening read, why KZN was chosen, the R14 trillion inefficiency figure, and what it takes to lead an industry through its hardest chapter. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
The Commercial Case for AI: What Africa's Events Industry Is Leaving on the Table
In this episode, we sit down with Neil Nagooroo - a strategist and digital transformation leader with over two decades in South Africa's exhibitions, events, and MICE sectors - to talk about what AI is actually worth to an events business. Neil unpacks why so much revenue is still left uncaptured, what data-driven sponsorship and pricing really look like, and how organisers can rethink the value t
Beyond the Ballroom: Hotel Events, Group Excellence & Women Leading in Hospitality
Zandi Sibisi aka Zandi Soul, Founder & Director of ZA Conferences, joins Africa Event Connect to unpack the realities of hotel and group event management - from operational excellence and the gap between promise and delivery, to her dual life as a DJ, and the future of women’s leadership in hospitality across Africa. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
Why Most African Events Fail Before They Begin
What if your event was already failing before the venue was booked? In this episode, Projeni Pather speaks with Mulemwa Moongwa, Meeting Architect and former Central Bank of Zambia planner about designing events for outcomes, not attendance, and why the brief is where most African events are won or lost. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
The Psychology of Event Design & The Future of Experiences in Africa
What separates an event people attend from one they never forget? In this episode, Projeni Pather speaks with Tamlynne Wilton-Gurney, CEO of IDNA Africa about the psychology of event design, emotional storytelling, and why Africa is uniquely positioned to lead the future of experiential events. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
AI, Technology & The Future of Exhibitions
Exhibitions are evolving as AI and technology reshape how value is created and experienced. In this conversation, Projeni Pather and Errol Bryce explore innovation, leadership, and the practical application of technology in the events industry, focusing on what is truly driving progress and what requires more intentional adoption moving forward. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
The Economic Impact of Business Events in Johannesburg
Johannesburg is more than an economic hub, it is a driver of connection, opportunity, and growth across the continent. In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Rendani Khorombi of the Johannesburg Tourism Company shares how business events shape cities, influence industries, and contribute to long-term economic impact. From global positioning to partnerships and legacy, this conversation explores
Designing Meetings for Impact, Not Attendance
Are we designing meetings for impact — or simply organising gatherings?
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather sits down with Maarten Vanneste, meeting industry leader from Belgium and author of Meeting Architecture, to challenge how we approach MICE — Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.
With over three decades of experience, Maarten reframes meetings as intentio
From Buzzwords to Real Action: What Sustainability Actually Looks Like in Events
Sustainability is everywhere in event marketing - but rarely embedded into real delivery.
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Herkie du Preez, Founder and CEO of STRONG PR, Marketing and Events, and a CEPA-certified event professional, breaks down how event professionals can move from intention to measurable impact across design, PR, procurement, and execution. YouTube · Spotify &midd
Hosting the G20: Leadership, Readiness & Global Credibility
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather speaks with Adele Hartdegen, CEO of the Johannesburg Expo Centre, about hosting the G20 Summit. The conversation explores leadership under pressure, venue readiness, stakeholder collaboration, and what delivering a summit of this scale means for South Africa and Africa’s global credibility. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
Managing Change, Leadership & Service Excellence
The exhibitions and events industry is under constant pressure, facing economic challenges, evolving client expectations, workforce shifts, and the rapid introduction of new technologies like AI.
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, host Projeni Pather sits down with Pamela Robinson, a global leadership facilitator and corporate trainer with over fifteen years’ experience across hospitality,
Beyond the Price Tag: How Event and Marketing Procurement Can Drive Real Value
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, host Projeni Pather sits down with Brett Cohen, Managing Director of Promo One, to explore how event and marketing procurement can move beyond cost-cutting to create real value.
With over 25 years of industry experience, Brett unpacks the shift from commodity buying to strategic procurement, the true cost behind pricing, and why promotional products should
From Passive Attendees to Active Participants: How Technology Is Redefining Event Engagement
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather talks with David Wilson, a tech strategist and presentologist, about the future of event engagement. Together, they explore how technology, storytelling, and design can turn audiences from passive attendees into active participants. David shares insights on data-driven decision-making, the rise of hybrid and phygital experiences, and the grow
How AI and Human Insight Are Transforming Event Matchmaking
How do you turn chance encounters into meaningful business opportunities? In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather sits down with Bianca Hindmarch and Tracey Lodrich, co-founders of B&T Matchmaking, to unpack how they’re transforming event networking into a science of purpose and precision.
They explore how AI and human insight work together to design smarter, more intentional conn
What makes event entertainment truly unforgettable?
From London’s theatre stages to South Africa’s grandest events, Brooke Greenhill, Managing Director of Elegant Experience, has mastered the craft of turning entertainment into emotion. In this episode, we examine how storytelling, performance, and production converge to create impact, not just spectacle. Brooke shares her journey from theatre to entrepreneurship, the creative process behind unforg
The Evolving Role of Speaker Agencies in Shaping the Narratives of Modern Events
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, host Projeni Pather chats with Melisa Tsotetsi, Customer Manager at Unique Speakers Bureau, on the evolving role of speaker agencies in Africa’s event landscape. Melisa highlights how agencies go beyond booking talent - they shape narratives, align keynote content with brand strategy, and amplify authentic African voices. The discussion covers trends in aud
The Business of Events: Partnerships, Sponsorships, Brand Alignment & Media
What does it take to build sports and entertainment platforms in Africa that truly last? In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather sits down with Lyndon Barends, CEO of Arena Holdings, to unpack the business of sustainability in events, the power of brand alignment, and why purpose-driven experiences win loyalty. From real-world case studies to future-focused insights, Lyndon shares
When women support women, industries transform.
Tamsin Gallick, co-founder of Events by Her and Director of One Forty Four Collective, joins host Projeni Pather to unpack her journey of building inclusive spaces for women in the events industry, from identifying the gaps that inspired Events by Her, to lessons learned in balancing creativity, business, and social impact, Tamsin shares practical insights and personal stories that highlight the p
Marketing Trends 2025: Lessons from the Nedbank IMC
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather sits down with Dale Hefer, CEO of the Nedbank IMC Conference, to unpack the secrets behind South Africa’s most influential marketing event. Dale shares a sneak peek into the trends and themes shaping marketing in 2025, along with the real-world lessons she’s learned in building and sustaining a large-scale conference that continues to thrive.
How Data and Research Can Transform the Events Industry | Londi Khumalo
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather sits down with Londi Khumalo, Chief Business Development Officer at Niche Partners, to unpack why the MICE industry in Africa still leans heavily on intuition over research.
Londi shares her journey from curiosity-driven beginnings to becoming a passionate advocate for strategic research, highlighting how data transforms decision-making, co
The Truth About Diversity and Inclusion in Events - Pamela Xaba
Most people think diversity is about ticking boxes. But what if everything you believe about inclusion is incomplete - or worse, performative? In this episode, Projeni Pather sits down with Pamela Xaba, a transformation leader and founder of Nonkosi Creatives, to expose the uncomfortable truths the events industry avoids.
Together, they unpack the real reasons inclusion efforts fail and reveal w
Festival of Eventing Is Here! And It’s Unlike Anything the Events Industry Has Seen Before
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, host Projeni Pather sits down with Keshni Reddy, Co-Founder of the Festival of Eventing, and Amanda Bokleni, the Festival’s Content Curator, to unpack one of the most exciting launches in Africa’s business events industry.
Taking place on 8–9 August in Cape Town, the Festival of Eventing is not just another conference - it’s a dynamic, immersive platform d
Women in MICE: Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies
Women are shaping the future of MICE and tourism, yet leadership challenges persist. In this episode of Africa Event Connect, Projeni Pather speaks with Professor Nellie Swart about breaking barriers, building careers, and driving change in the industry. Discover actionable steps to advance your career, mentor others, and claim your space as a leader. Whether you're just starting out or an industr
How Business Events Are Shaping Africa's Future - Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo
Africa is making waves in the global business events industry, shaping trade, investment, and economic growth. In this episode, Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo, ex-Chief Convention Bureau Officer of the South African National Convention Bureau, joins Projeni Pather to discuss Africa’s rising influence in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). From the impact of major events like the G20 to
Bridging Economic Development and Tourism Investment - with Miller Matola
In this episode of Africa Event Connect, host Projeni Pather sits down with Miller Matola, founder and CEO of Millvest, to explore the transformative impact of the Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA). Discover how TIFA drives investment into Africa, fosters sustainable economic growth, and uplifts local communities.
Miller shares insights into the current trends in Africa’s business events se
Secrets To Organising Southern Africa's Largest Trade Show - with Charlene Hefer
Join us on the Africa Event Connect Podcast as we explore the art of organising and growing Electra Mining, Southern Africa’s largest trade show.
Charlene Hefer, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions, shares insights into planning and executing a world-class event that drives trade in the industrial, manufacturing, and mining sectors.
From scaling the show to engaging stakeholders and
Redefining Green Standards in Exhibitions - with Patrick Cronning
In this episode of the Africa Event Connect Podcast, host Projeni Pather sits down with Patrick Cronning, Commercial Director at ExpoGuys, to explore their pioneering Sustainable Stand Grading System. Learn how ExpoGuys is reshaping the future of exhibitions through solar-powered operations, modular stand designs, and creative reuse of materials—all while cutting costs and enhancing brand credibil
Mastering Client Engagement in the Exhibitions Industry - with Tracy Gounden
In this episode of the Africa Event Connect Podcast, host Projeni Pather speaks with Tracy Gounden, Business Development Director at Messe Frankfurt, about the core principles of successful client engagement in the exhibitions industry.
Drawing on a decade of experience, Tracy reveals how to build lasting client relationships, adapt to changing expectations, and leverage technology for personaliz
Redefining Incentive Travel in Africa’s MICE Industry - with Thembi Kunene-Msimang
How are evolving client values, global challenges, and cutting-edge technology reshaping the world of incentive travel and events?
In this episode of the Africa Event Connect Podcast, host Projeni Pather speaks with Thembi Kunene-Msimang, COO of Tourvest MICE. They explore how shifting cultural priorities, AI-driven personalisation, and a growing focus on authenticity and sustainability are trans
Setting The Stage For African Exhibition Venues in 2025 - with Adele Hartdegen
In this episode of the Africa Event Connect Podcast, host Projeni Pather welcomes Adele Hartdegen, CEO of the Johannesburg Expo Centre and Dogan Exhibitions, to discuss how 2024 transformed the face of exhibitions in South Africa.
Adele shares the venue’s journey into new sectors, the impact of African partnerships, and the international insights guiding their growth. Listen in for a front-row s
Strategies Shaping The Future Of The Exhibition Industry - with Sibusiso Mncwabe
Join us on the latest Africa Event Connect Podcast as we sit down with Sibusiso Mncwabe, Chairperson of EXSA, to uncover the strategies driving the exhibition industry's growth. Explore EXSA's forward-thinking vision, professional development initiatives, sustainability priorities, and the transformative technologies reshaping the sector.
Discover how EXSA is pioneering innovation, fostering coll
The Importance Of “Greening” Events For A Sustainable Future - with John Arvantakis
Discover how sustainability is transforming the events industry in our latest episode of Africa Event Connect! Host Projeni Pather engages with John Arvantakis, Chairperson of the Event Greening Forum (EGF).
They discuss the crucial role of eco-friendly practices in events, highlight EGF’s efforts in promoting environmental responsibility, and share how their collaboration is paving the way for a
How Exhibitions Are Shaping Africa's Business Landscape - with Gary Corin
Discover how exhibitions are shaping Africa’s business landscape in this episode of Africa Event Connect!
Host Projeni Pather sits down with Gary Corin, Chairperson of the Association of African Exhibition Organisers (AAXO) and Managing Director of Specialised Exhibitions. Together, they delve into the vital role exhibitions play in driving business growth, tackle the challenges and opportunitie
The Evolving Conference Industry - with Glenton De Kock
Welcome back to Africa Event Connect! This week, host Projeni Pather chats with Glenton De Kock, CEO of SAACI, about the evolving conference industry in Southern Africa.
Discover insights on industry changes, SAACI’s key initiatives, and the future of business events. Whether you’re an event professional or just curious, this episode is packed with valuable perspectives. YouTube · Spotify
Africa's Events Industry: Trends & Insights - with Irene Costa
Join us for the launch of Africa Event Connect, featuring Irene Costa, Editor of Business Events Africa, as we dive into the evolving landscape, challenges, and future of Africa’s business events industry. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts
Recommended
Engineer Your Life with Lungelo KM
True Crime South Africa – die Afrikaanse weergawe
Bible Study
AMAPIANO PANDEMIC
Seated With Lebo and Thato Rampedi
True Crime South Africa
Lucentlands Podcast | Harvesting Agriculture Knowledge
Sound of Siblings
Business Day Spotlight
TechCentral (main feed)
The Deep House Show
Maskandi Mixes
