Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo is the executive manager of the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB). She has more than 17 years’ experience in government and tourism. SANCBโs objective is to make a significant impact in consolidating, coordinating and strengthening efforts to attract meetings and conventions to South Africa.
How do you see the meetings, conferences and exhibition industry at the moment?
It is an exciting industry to be in at the moment. As an industry we have moved from a recovering period into a growth phase. But, we are not all about growing numbers. We are also about leaving a legacy and knowledge transfer.
What drew you to the meetings, conferences and exhibition industry?
I believe that when you wake-up, you need to do something that you enjoy. This industry is dynamic, exciting unpredictable, results and deadline driven. It is also about building personal relationships. These are the things that get me out of bed.
What have been the biggest changes in the industry that you have seen?
Most definitely, subvention: this is a when a grant is given to be used to bid for an international association meeting. Other changes include more, yet shorter meetings.
What can we expect from Meetings Africa 2015?
The show is turning ten and therefore far for being a teenager. It will focus on sustaining and growing its number and increasing its footprint into other African countries. This means more hosted buyers. The show will also be going down memory lane. We want to show where we have come from, where we are now and where we will be going. Meetings Africa 2015 will be even bigger and better, so watch this space.
If you could ask your future-self one question what would it be?
When is the right time to retire? I plan on retiring at 55.
What have been the highlights in your career so far?
When I steered the BestCities Global Alliance management committee in 2010. In that one year, I gained 30 years of knowledge because of the people that I got to interact with. This knowledge share propelled me in the industry. Another highlight is my current position. It is a privilege to head up this organisation and I value the support the industry has given me.
How would you describe yourself as a leader?
As a good listener and inclusive. I like to consult with my team, listen to their views and input before I make a decision.
What super power would you like to possess?
The ability to turn all the bad in the world into something good.
What three words describe you?
Hospitable, loving, (having) integrity
What do you do in your spare time?
I spend time with my husband. I love to read, explore new places and host dinner parties.
What are you scared of?
Questions like these.
What makes you laugh?
Emo Adams, Jou Show (Thursdays, KykNET DTSV 144) and my husband.
What have you learnt the hard way?
In this industry the smallest details are what makesor break you. That is why I am all about the details and particular about the way things need to be done. I believed that things were done according to my standards, I was let down.
What quote best describes you?
Haar blaf is harder as haar byt./Her bark is louder is than her bite.
What are you addicted to?
Definitely coffee although my husband would say soap operas. I really enjoy watching crime shows and MasterChef Australia.
What is the best and worst advice you have received?
The best advice would be to be myself and not to try and imitate someone else. The worst, to stop singing opera.
What is your favourite holiday spot and why?
Now that I live in Joburg, Cape Town. I have a house there so when I go to Cape Town, I am around familiar things. As a result I donโt feel obliged to do the tourist things and I get to explore my former home town.
What book do you wish you had written?
There are too many books, but the stand-out one is the Bible.
What is your best characteristic and biggest flaw?
My best is that I am loyal and the worst is that I trust too easily.
If you could be anyone for a day, who would it be and why?
My father. He gave so much of himself to his family and community. He was an excellent leader and had the ability to take a problem and break it down into solvable bits. He always gave the best advice.
Follow Amanda @SA_NCB
