Africa Event Connect

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 · Apple Podcasts

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

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, healthcare, and corporate sectors. Pamela brings a unique blend of strategy, psychology, and real-world leadership insight, shaped by her work across the Caribbean, Asia, and North America. She also draws on her recent IMEX Las Vegas keynote, “The Soul of Service: Leadership, AI, and the Human Touch,” to explore how leaders can guide teams through uncertainty without losing the human connection that defines service-driven industries. Together, they discuss: • Reframing uncertainty as an opportunity for growth • Leadership in high-pressure, deadline-driven environments • Emotional intelligence during moments of delivery pressure • Calm leadership onsite • Service excellence in people-driven industries • How leaders can balance technology with empathy This episode offers practical insight for event professionals and industry leaders navigating change while striving for consistency, performance, and exceptional service. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 support brand storytelling rather than just visibility. The conversation also dives into value-added services, supplier partnerships, and lessons learned from decades in the industry. A must-watch for event professionals, marketers, and procurement leaders. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 growing importance of collaboration across tech providers, organisers, and brands. Listeners will gain a clear, practical understanding of how to use technology with purpose, to enhance, not replace, human connection in events across Africa and beyond. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 connections, ones that go beyond foot traffic and deliver true ROI. From understanding attendee behaviour to curating impact-driven meetings, this is a must-listen for anyone rethinking the future of event engagement. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 unforgettable shows, and what’s next for event entertainment in Africa. Whether you’re a producer, planner, or creative, this episode will inspire you to see entertainment as more than a moment; it’s an experience that lives beyond the spotlight. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 audience expectations, the growing demand for relatable and diverse speakers, and the importance of representation on stage. Melisa also reflects on her leadership journey, the role of technology in audience engagement, and why storytelling remains central to impactful, future-ready events. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 hard-won leadership lessons and the keys to creating scalable, meaningful properties that connect audiences across the continent. If you’re in events, sponsorship, or media, this is your playbook for building impact that endures. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 power of community and connection. Together, she and Projeni reflect on the future of women in events across Africa and the bold innovations shaping the industry. An inspiring listen for event professionals seeking purpose and impact. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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. From navigating the challenges of hybrid events to curating content that truly resonates, engaging audiences, and securing sponsor buy-in, this conversation is packed with insights for marketers and event leaders who want to create impact and longevity. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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, competitiveness, and growth. Together, they explore Africa’s evolving MICE landscape, the role of government master plans, the rising need for private sector differentiation, and insights from Londi’s 2025 Africa Perspectives Report. The conversation underscores why research is not a luxury but a necessity. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 what true, human-centered inclusion looks like - beyond buzzwords and social media campaigns. If you’re an event leader, team builder, or changemaker, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and give you the tools to lead with courage, empathy, and impact. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 designed to unite, celebrate, and elevate the entire eventing ecosystem. From organisers and suppliers to freelancers, venues, and creatives, this festival offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned planner, a rising freelancer, or a supplier ready to stand out, this episode is your inside look at an event that’s poised to become a landmark on the African events calendar. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 industry veteran, this conversation will empower and inspire you to take action. Don't miss this powerful discussion—listen now and be part of the movement! Youtube · YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 the opportunities created by niche expos , this conversation highlights the power of business events to drive transformation. If you’re in the business of events or simply curious about Africa’s rising influence, this episode is a must-listen! Youtube · YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 sector, the opportunities created by the AfCFTA agreement, and the importance of balancing sustainability with development. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the future of Africa’s meetings industry and its potential to shape the continent’s economic landscape. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 adapting to industry trends, Charlene reveals strategies for success and transferable lessons for the exhibition industry. Whether you’re an event professional or curious about large-scale exhibitions, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating impactful trade events. Don’t miss it! YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 credibility. Discover practical tips for implementing eco-friendly practices and see how educating clients and industry peers can drive a collective shift toward greener events. Whether you’re an event professional or simply curious about sustainability, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for creating a more responsible future in exhibitions. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts

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 personalization. She also shares global insights from Messe Frankfurt’s approach, illustrating how to translate international strategies into local success. Learn practical tactics for improving client relations, using feedback to drive growth, and staying ahead in a constantly evolving marketplace. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting, this episode offers fresh perspectives and actionable advice to elevate your client engagement game. YouTube · Spotify · Apple Podcasts