Helen Brewer’s name is synonymous with the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry in South Africa.
Her career, which spanned over half a century, left an indelible mark on the industry and the people she encountered. With two great passions in her life – her partner Derek King and the MICE industry – Helen’s drive, integrity, and wealth of knowledge made her a formidable force.
Early career and founding of Conpromark Consultants
Helen began her career with the National Development & Management Foundation (NDMF) in 1975, planning conferences for member sector groups. As operations manager, she managed 40 conferences per year throughout Southern Africa and was involved in the conceptual and logistical management of over 500 conferences, both locally and internationally.
In 1985, Helen and Derek established Conpromark Consultants, which designed, developed and facilitated courses for planners and industry service providers. These courses covered conference facility management, event management, administration and convention centre design criteria. Around 1990, Conpromark Consultants evolved into The MICE Academy, focusing on Continuing Professional Development (CPD). The Academy provided industry professionals with credible evidence of their abilities through scorecards and other substantiated proof.
Contributions to convention centre development and industry boards
Helen’s consultancies included detailed surveys for convention centres’ viability and operating methods. Notable projects included the upgrading of the Botswana Convention Centre and the Cape Town Convention Centre’s viability study for the Rail Commuter Corporation. She was also instrumental in designing the Heritage Conference Centre and its operations strategy. Conpromark served as National Facility Consultants for ICC Durban, and Helen contributed to the viability study for the Sandton Convention Centre.
Helen’s dedication to professional development was evident in her initiation of the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Programme in South Africa, with 46 industry professionals qualifying under The MICE Academy’s guidance. Her contributions to various boards and associations further showcased her commitment to the industry. She served as a founding committee member and chairperson of SAACI, a board director of ICC Durban, an exco member of SATSA, executive chairperson of the Ministerial-led Events and Technical Services Task Team and founding Association Committee Chairperson of the Event Greening Forum (EGF).
Lasting legacy and tributes
Helen Brewer was the first recipient of the Women in MICE Lifetime Achievement Award, an honour that deeply moved her. Her influence extended beyond public accolades; she guided and supported new businesses and entrepreneurs, both within and outside the industry. Her no-nonsense approach and strict encouragement helped many enterprises succeed. Her sense of integrity and honesty was unparalleled, and her presence commanded respect from CEOs and government ministers alike.
Shanna Jacobsen, former managing editor of Meetings, The Exhibition Planner, and The Meetings & Event Planner magazines, and current Online Editor of Travel News, expressed the sentiments of many in the industry: “Helen contributed so much to the professionalisation of South Africa’s business events sector and was a huge advocate of excellence, consistently leading by example. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and this played a fundamental role in shaping my views on the inner workings of the MICE industry. Helen, thank you for your invaluable input at a time when it was most needed. To all who knew and loved her, I’m so very sorry for your loss.”
When news of Helen’s passing was announced on Facebook, tributes poured in. Many remarked that she was a pioneer and an inspiration. John Arvanitakis from the Event Greening Forum highlighted her role as a founder and great friend of the EGF, calling her a “leading light of inspiration and support for the events industry.” Herkie du Preez, Director and Event Strategist at STRONG PR, Marketing, and Events, described Helen as “a powerful and influential voice in our industry”.
Helen Brewer’s passion for the industry was evident in everything she said and did. Her legacy lives on through the countless professionals she mentored, the institutions she helped shape, and the high standards she set. Her passing on 28 May leaves a significant void in the MICE community, but her contributions will continue to inspire and guide the industry for years to come.
