The stage was set, the energy was palpable, and the room buzzed with anticipation as industry leaders gathered at The Leonardo in Sandton on February 25 for the official launch breakfast of the 2025 Women in MICE Awards. Hosted by Shanna Jacobsen, representing 4Mal Media Management owned by Antois-leigh Nepgen, the morning was an inspiring celebration of excellence, collaboration, and empowerment within the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry.
A morning of celebration and connection
Shanna welcomed attendees with warmth and enthusiasm, setting the tone for a morning dedicated to honouring the remarkable women shaping the MICE industry. Acknowledging the power of connections and networks, she highlighted how these relationships have been instrumental in driving the industry forward, particularly over the past five challenging years.
“The reality is that our collaborations wouldn’t be possible without our connections – because, in our line of work, our networks and relationships are everything,” she noted. “It is what ensures we receive that word-of-mouth recommendation and what puts us at the top of minds for that game-changing proposal or quote.”
With this powerful message, this year’s Women in MICE Awards theme was unveiled: Sheroes – Connectors & Collaborators.
Introducing the 2025 Women in MICE Awards panel of judges
One of the morning’s key highlights was the announcement of this year’s esteemed panel of judges, carefully selected for their expertise and contributions to the MICE industry. As their names were called, each judge was met with enthusiastic applause:
Londi Khumalo
Founder of Niche Partners, is known for her thought leadership and dedication to the development of Africa’s MICE markets.
Angelique Smith
Owner of Event Synthesis, a high-calibre event management expert and recipient of the Women of Stature Global Tourism Award in 2022.
Ellen Oosthuizen
Deputy Chairperson of the PCO Alliance Network and owner of Bebes Events and Promotions, a stalwart in the industry known for her leadership and organisational expertise.
John Arvanitakis
Owner of Chat’r Xperience and Chairman of the Event Greening Forum, a key voice in sustainability and professionalisation within events.
Thembi Kunene-Msimang
Chief Operations Officer of Tourvest MICE, an executive with extensive experience in tourism and events management.
Special addresses and key announcements
A powerful speech by Bongiwe Nzeku, Head of Business Development & Support Services at the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), reinforced the importance of recognising women who drive the MICE sector forward. Following this, Nonnie Kubeka, Executive Director of the Gauteng Convention & Events Bureau, shared her insights on the continued evolution of the Women in MICE Awards and the vital role women play in shaping the industry.
The event also marked the unveiling of the 2025 Women in MICE Awards categories, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of the industry. This year’s categories include:
- Tech Adopter of the Year
- Sustainability Champion of the Year
- Small Business Owner of the Year
- Service Provider of the Year
- Incentive Planner of the Year
- PCO of the Year
- Exhibition Organiser of the Year
- Venue Representative of the Year
- Association Representative of the Year
- Rising Star of the Year
- Male Supporter of the Year
- Collaborator of the Year
- MICE Industry Leader of the Year
- Lifetime Achievement Award
Nominations officially opened at the event, with a deadline set for June 26. Clear guidelines have been established to ensure a transparent and fair selection process, encouraging nominations from both self-nominated individuals and peers who recognise excellence in their colleagues. You can nominate here: Women in MICE portal.
A session of inspiration and empowerment
Closing the morning on an inspiring note, Nikki Bush, an award-winning speaker and thought leader, delivered a dynamic presentation titled “Which Jacket Are You Wearing Now?” A celebration of personal and professional growth, her talk resonated with the audience, reminding them of the resilience, adaptability, and determination that define women in the industry.
As the event wrapped up, Shanna extended heartfelt thanks to key partners, including the South African National Convention Bureau and the Gauteng Convention & Events Bureau, whose unwavering support ensures the continued success of the Women in MICE Awards.
The launch breakfast was not just an announcement – it was a powerful testament to the strength, innovation, and leadership of women in the MICE industry. With an exciting awards season ahead, the call is clear: nominate, celebrate, and honor the incredible women who make this industry thrive!
Sponsors and partner credits go to:
South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) – Strategic Partner
Gauteng Tourism Authority – Destination Partner
Legacy Hotels – The Leonardo – Venue Partner
StrongPR Marketing & Events – Video & Photo sponsor
Unlimited Events Group – Décor Partner
Goodie bag and gift sponsors:
Hospitality Junxtion
African Hills Lodge & Safari
Barmotion
My Resorts
PCO Alliance Network
Krispy Kreme
Event Synthesis
Be on the lookout for the announcement of the date, time, etc for the Awards ceremony in August 2025. Sponsorship and collaboration opportunities are now open for the Awards. Please contact Antois-leigh if you have any questions or would like to get involved: antois-leigh@4mal.co.za
