The SA Events Council (SAEC), a coalition of 14 event industry associations, came into existence six months ago to support and lobby for the events sector. It hasn’t been an easy task, but progress is being made, especially in terms of forging a better relationship with Government.
During this time Tes Proos, President of Site South Africa (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence) and owner of Crystal Events & Incentives, has filled the role of Chairperson. Her dedication and determination have been noteworthy, but her six-month term has now ended and it is time to hand over the baton.
“Fortunately we are united as an industry and we intend to keep chipping away to find solutions to get our industry and our people operating again as soon as possible.”
Tes says, “It has been an honour for me to serve the Council in this capacity. As an industry we have been through a harrowing time and our main objective is to get our industry back to work. Despite the setbacks, we believe that we have forged solid relationships with relevant government departments and other key-stakeholders, which will help pave the way towards swifter recovery.”
She adds, “Fortunately we are united as an industry and we intend to keep chipping away to find solutions to get our industry and our people operating again as soon as possible. With Ellen at the helm we are in good hands.”
Ellen Oosthuizen (pictured), Chairperson of the PCO Alliance and owner of Bebe‘s Events and Promotions, has been elected to take over the role of Chairperson at the end of January. Bringing with her over 25 years of experience in the industry, Ellen is ready for the challenges that lie ahead in her new role; “It was humbling to be nominated and it will be a great privilege and honour to serve on the SAEC representing the Events & Tourism Industry with my fellow colleagues.”
In terms of what to expect the SAEC’s focus to be going forwards, Ellen says, “We believe that the events industry has the inherent skills to assist with the essential functions of rolling out the vaccine and conducting rapid testing at designated events to help curb the spread of the virus. I look forward to the task ahead.”
