Global Exhibitions Day is a celebration of the wonderful and exciting space we work in but also emphasising the contribution trade exhibitions and face-to-face events make to the global economy.
On the 3 of June EXSA, AGF, SACIA and other industry partners will join forces to celebrate Global Exhibitions Day (GED). This will be the 11th annual commemoration of the event where the focus will be on People, Planet and Performance.
The event will take place at Johannesburg Expo Centre from 11:00 until 15:00. Close to 80 Events Management students from the Tshwane University of Technology will be attending. Some of the students are already working and will receive certification from SACIA, whilst most of the students are in their 2nd year of study. They are keen to meet up with the industry and learn more about the practical side of event management.
Short presentations on event management, exhibition design and execution and event greening will be presented in the first hour of the event. Thereafter teams will compete in a fun-filled event based on the TV Series “Amazing Race.”
Eight pitstops will be set up by some industry role players like Barmotion, Unlimited Events, Inspire Rentals, Expo Guys, Brilliant Branding, Johannesburg Expo Centre, EXSA and GL Events where teams need to complete an activity within a given time limit. Communication, skills, and teamwork will be crucial to complete the task!
“We are looking forward to the event because we are not only bringing the industry together for fun but also get the opportunity to share the various disciplines in our industry with the future stand builders, event planners, and company owners. We want to help develop a strong “next generation” for the industry, “says Sibusiso Mncwabe, Exsa Chairperson.
“The future of our industry lies in the hands of these young people. If they can see the opportunities, understand the contribution of the industry to the economy and want to work in a wonderful environment we can look forward to exciting times.
“Our work is stressful but therein lies the excitement. We work long hours and are often not even around when the show is on – but we are proud of the way we help brands express their values, speak to their audiences, and grow their market share. The work is never boring – even repeat builds come with new challenges.
The global theme for GED is an initiative of UFI, where EXSA is also an affiliated member. The campaign rests on three pillars in 2026:
People: expanding skills, fostering collective effort, and creating meaningful face-to-face connections.
Planet: Accelerating sustainable solutions and promoting green practices across industries.
Performance: Opening new markets, driving corporate growth, and supporting businesses of all sizes.
Industry professionals, venues, and organisers will take hands on this day to promote the power of exhibitions in driving economies, creating jobs, and connecting people. Teams of up to 8 people can enter to participate and share in the fun.
“Relaxing together is also a form or wellness. Our members are under a lot of stress due to the number of events they work on and we believe that this time out and a break from their routine will be good for everyone to recharge for the rest of the busy year that lie ahead,” says Hanlie Delport, Association Manager.
The Cape Town members of EXSA will have an event where venues, organisers and infrastructure suppliers will also come together. They will have the Cape Peninsula University of Technology’s students are their guests and will also focus on the various disciplines in the event and exhibition space.
For more information, contact EXSA on 071 611 0164, or send an email to info@exsa.co.za
