Meet Stellenbosch is more than an event, it is a celebration of people, place and purpose. Driven by the partnership between the Central Events and Conferencing Office (CECO) and Visit Stellenbosch, this initiative not only showcases Stellenboschβs beauty and the capability of Stellenbosch Winelands as a business destination but also creates a meaningful platform for local engagement and student empowerment.
At the heart of Meet Stellenbosch, now in its fourth iteration, lies a commitment to inclusion. It invites the local community to share their talents, crafts and stories with visiting guests, transforming traditional events into engaging experiences that reflect the region’s richness. From entrepreneurs to creatives, the initiative opens the door for participation in ways that bring both visibility and opportunity to the people of Stellenbosch.
A Launchpad for Students
One of the most impactful aspects of this partnership is the role it plays in creating job opportunities for Stellenbosch University students. Through CECO, students are employed to assist with front-of-house operations, registration, technical setup, ushering and delegate management at events – Meet Stellenbosch being one of the flagship occasions.
These roles are more than operational, they are formative. Students are granted access to high-level discussions, networking spaces and behind-the-scenes learning that help prepare them for careers in events, business and hospitality. The exposure to real-time decision-making, client interactions and logistical challenges provides valuable, practical experience rarely available in a classroom setting.
Fostering Local Participation
Meet Stellenbosch creates a shared space, inviting the broader community to participate in something bigger. It is not only a space to observe and engage, but also to contribute, whether through showcasing local goods, leading wellness activities, or offering unique cultural experiences, community members are given a stage on which to shine.
In doing so, the initiative strengthens the relationship between Stellenbosch University and the town itself – fostering trust, collaboration and shared growth. It responds to local needs by providing opportunities that feed directly into the economic and social fabric of the area.
A Community of Growth
The value of this collaboration lies in its ability to bring people together with a shared purpose. It supports the development of young professionals, highlights local talent and weaves community involvement into the DNA of each event.
In essence, Meet Stellenbosch is not just about organising exceptional events – itβs about cultivating an ecosystem where students, staff, residents and visitors feel connected, included, and inspired.
CECO and Meet Stellenbosch are proving that events can be a catalyst for real change. By aligning university resources with local participation and creating structured, meaningful roles for students, they are building a community-first model that benefits everyone involved. CECO is redefining what events can mean for a town, a campus and a collective future. Together, through shared values and collaborative innovation, we are not merely gathering in Stellenbosch; we are moving it forward.
Together, we celebrate creativity and connection, paving the way for partnerships that extend beyond the event. According to the manager, Catherine Channing, CECO’s “#BeyondEventing” philosophy underscores its commitment to creating a lasting positive impact in the business, social and academic community. “This approach has set a clear standard in the industry, proving that innovation in event management can be a powerful tool for social and economic development. CECO regularly collaborates with local SMEs and organisations to ensure that small businesses and entrepreneurs are listed as suppliers, ensuring that they receive an income”.
Join us for Meet Stellenbosch 2025: The Empathy Edge on July 17-18 at the Jan Mouton Learning Centre. This conference invites participants to foster authentic connections and explore innovative collaboration. With a theme centred on empathy, attendees will leave with valuable insights and lasting relationships. Join CECO in this enriching experience, where professional engagement and personal growth come together in our vibrant community
For more information, contact us on 021 808 2721 or email events@sun.ac.za. Visit www.cecoevents.co.za for the latest updates.www.cecoevents.co.za for the latest updates.
