The Planner

AIPC Academy
2025-04-07 08:00 - 2025-04-11 17:00 (Europe/Helsinki) | Dolce La Hulpe, Dolce La Hulpe, Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
The AIPC Academy is designed for staff aiming to expand their industry knowledge and prepare for senior management roles. It also serves previous graduates and experienced managers seeking a collaborative environment to address current management challenges. Participants include centre managers with several years of experience ready to take on greater responsibilities, individuals new to the sector needing industry orientation, and alumni looking to enhance their knowledge and networks in an updated, issue-oriented format. This academy fosters professional growth and strategic development through engagement with faculty and peers. Learn more about the Academy at Academy – AIPC

World Travel Market Africa (WTM Africa) 2025
2025-04-09 08:00 - 2025-04-11 17:00 | CTICC
World Travel Market Africa delivers the leading global events for the travel industry. One of six shows in the WTM portfolio, our Africa show was launched in 2014 under the Africa Travel Week umbrella to bring the benefits and opportunities of our global industry expertise to travel professionals in this region. Join over 6000 travel industry professionals as they attend Africa’s leading and only business to business (B2B) exhibition for both the inbound and outbound African travel and tourism markets. Mirrored on WTM flagship events like WTM London and the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, WTM Africa delivers a proven mix of Hosted Buyers, Buyers’ Club members, Media representatives, pre-schedule appointments, networking, evening functions and invited travel trade visitors. Beyond the event we continue to help professionals in the African travel industry to drive commercial success with year-round access to make connections, industry news and developments, trends and technologies from around the world. Through our industry networks, global reach and regional focus, WTM Africa creates personal and business opportunities providing our customers with quality contacts, content and communitie

Amazeballs Charity Padel Tournament
2025-04-12 09:00 - 13:00 | Northern Cape
Cape Town’s sport and entertainment scene is set to collide with purpose-driven impact at the Amazeballs Charity Padel Tournament taking place on Saturday, April 12, at the launch of the much-anticipated Padel Story, Oakdale Courts in Durbanville. Entrance is free and Capetonians can expect a fun and active family day out with celebrity padel match-ups, live music, activations and incredible prizes up for grabs. This high-energy event promises a morning of padel for a purpose, all in support of local sustainability and youth upliftment initiatives.
Proceeds will benefit both the Amazeballs NPO, a local initiative turning used padel and tennis balls into functional furniture and art, as well as the Bounce Back Initiative, which promotes sustainable design by equipping emerging artists with the skills to incorporate upcycled materials into their creative processes.

Event details:
Date: Saturday, 12 April 2025
Time: 09:00 – 13:00 (courts open until 22:00)
Venue: Padel Story, Oakdale Club, Bellville

Event highlights:

Live entertainment: DJ Newton from Good Hope FM will be on the decks from 09:00 to 13:00, setting the vibe for the day.
Family fun: Capetonians can grab a bite in the braai area, or enjoy a post-game sports massage while enjoying DJ banter and music. Padel Courts are currently bookable on the Playtomic app and will remain open until 22h00 for social play.

Celebrity matches on Court 1:

Steven Kitshoff, Springbok rugby player
Cato Louw and Lucia Dramat – presenters from KFM
Morgan Newman from Good Hope FM, with Chad Simon and Jeremy Harris from Heart FM

Additional matches:

Amazeballs Charity Matches on Court 2 (09:00-10:00)
Bok Radio presenters take on Court 3 (10:00-11:00)

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: At 12:00, an official ribbon cutting will mark the grand opening of Padel Story Oakdale’s new courts.

Pay to Play! Win a scenic helicopter tour
Test your skills in a fast-paced 15-minute charity match against Padel Story’s Owner, Luke Potter.

Prize: A breathtaking Twelve Apostles Helicopter Tour for Two, sponsored by Cape Town Helicopters, valued at R6,500, offering aerial views of Table Mountain, Clifton, Camps Bay and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.
Entry fee: R1,000 per pair
How to enter: Scan the QR code at the Amazeballs donation table on the day.
No pre-booking required – there are only 16 slots available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Spectators can get in on the action by placing score predictions – the closest guesses will win spot prizes.
All funds raised from the Bid for Bat auction and pay-to-play entries will support the Amazeballs and Bounce Back initiatives, driving sustainability, community upliftment and youth empowerment through sport and design.

African Travel Indaba 2025
2025-05-13 - 2025-05-15 | Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (Durban ICC), Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC Complex,, 45 Bram Fischer Rd,, Durban, KZN, 4001, South Africa
About Africa’s Travel Indaba
Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the global calendar.
It showcases the widest variety of Africa’s best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. Africa’s Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism.
Africa’s Travel Indaba has won the awards for Africa’s best travel and tourism show. This award was presented by the Association of World Travel Awards.

Thrive 2025 - PAFSA EXPO & SPEAKER CONNECT
2025-07-02 10:00 - 14:30 | NH Hotel Sandton, 138 Rivonia Rd, Sandton, Gauteng, South Africa
Join PAFSA for a power-packed day of connection, learning, and growth at THRIVE 2025 – a premier event for secretaries and administrative professionals.
Whether you’re looking to boost your skills, expand your professional network, or simply feel inspired, this event delivers it all – and more!
What to Expect:

🔥 Motivational Speaker – Be inspired to thrive in your career.

🤝 Powerful Networking – Connect with fellow professionals and leading industry brands.

🧩 Exhibitor Engagement – Discover tools, services, and solutions tailored to your role.

🎁 Big Giveaway Moment – Stand a chance to win exciting prizes!

Brought to you by PAFSA – the Professional Association for Secretaries and Administrative Assistants – with support from our incredible partners, including NH Hotels, Jenna Clifford, MSC Cruises, Barmotion, Flock Eventing Platform, and more.
RSVP and event details launching soon at: www.pafsa.co.za
For enquiries, contact:📧 Yolande Otto – yolande@pafsa.co.za | 📞 +27 (0)82 804 5922📧 Jeana Turner – jeana@pafsa.co.za | 📞 +27 (0)83 400 2685

Meet Stellenbosch 2025
2025-07-17 - 2025-07-18 | Jan Mouton Learning Centre, Hammanshand Rd,, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
Meet Stellenbosch is a premier business event showcasing Stellenbosch as a prime destination for business events.
The 4th Meet Stellenbosch business event, is an initiative by Visit Stellenbosch and Stellenbosch University’s Central Events and Conferencing Office.
The 2025 theme, “The Empathy Edge: Human-Centric Events, Association Membership, and Academic Excellence,” focuses on exploring innovative ways to prioritise empathy and inclusivity in event planning, membership engagement, and academic collaboration. Join us by registering for the event and partnering with us as a contributing organisation. From tailored sponsorships to collaborative opportunities across key event elements, there are many ways to get involved. Together, we’ll craft an unforgettable experience-one that positions Stellenbosch as a leader in business events and cultivates powerful, lasting connections.

SAACI National Annual Conference 2025
2025-07-27 - 2025-07-29 | The Vineyard Hotel, Cape Town, Colinton Rd, Newlands, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Shaping Tomorrow, Together, Today – Transforming Ideas into Impact

About the SAACI NAC
The SAACI National Annual Conference (NAC) is a yearly gathering of our members and the most influential voices in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry – where conversations and innovations meet actions that set the tone for the future of business events across Southern Africa.
Every year, we use the latest industry trends, new developments and expert insights to design an immersive experience that challenges conventional thinking, inspires collaboration, and equip attendees with the tools they need to navigate the evolving landscape of business events.
Through thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, and meaningful networking opportunities, the industry explores game-changing strategies and practical solutions to address both the challenges and possibilities on the horizon – with a strong focus on professionalisation, sustainability, data, and technology.
Join us at The Vineyard Hotel in Cape Town this year from Sunday, 27 July, to Tuesday, 29 July, for the SAACI National Annual Conference 2025.

Why Attend?
The SAACI NAC is a strategic investment in professional and business growth for Southern Africa’s MICE industry. Delegates will have the opportunity to:

Gain insights from global and African industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators.
Engage with key decision-makers, industry peers, and future partners.
Take part in interactive debates, simulations, and expert-led sessions
Learn more about the latest developments in AI, digital transformation, compliance, and sustainable business event practices.

The insights gained over the three days will help boost your business revenue, improve operational efficiencies, and enhance your competitive position internationally.

What to Expect?
This year’s conference agenda features purpose-driven discussions and engaging activities that provide delegates with both strategic knowledge and practical tools:

The Opening Debate will set the stage with a thought-provoking discussion on whether Africa’s business events sector is poised for disruptive innovation or a more evolutionary growth path.
The Keynote Address, “Future-Proofing Business Events – Transforming Ideas into Impactful Solutions”, will explore how to create long-term value in a changing economic climate.
The Green Innovation Shark Tank will provide attendees with an opportunity to pitch their sustainable event solutions, and receive feedback from the experts in the ESG space.
The Business Events CEO Simulations will offer an immersive, real-world exercise in industry leadership, challenging participants to put themselves in their future-self’s shoes.
The Youth Panel will introduce fresh perspectives on the future of business events, sharing their expectations for current leaders laying the groundwork for them.
We will also be sharing Africa’s Business Events Growth Plan, laying out The Blueprint for 2030.

Over the three days, attendees will also take part in unique interactive elements set to improve their engagement during the event, including:

Gamified networking challenges
Collaborate and build meaningful connections.
Crowdsourced hot topics
Decide what we discuss during a surprise session.
Live forecasting challenge
Can you accurately predict the future of business events?

Attending the SAACI National Conference ensures that you and your team stay at the forefront of business events excellence.

Secure Your Spot!
Early bird rates are available until 18 June 2025.

Packages
Members: The Full Circle Experience (Best Value) – Encouraging Full Engagement – Early Bird (until 18 June 2025)
Includes:

Full access to all conference sessions & workshops (Sunday – Tuesday)
Sunday afternoon Industry Insights session
All refreshment breaks & networking lunches
Conference materials & digital resources
Welcome Networking Cocktail Reception (integrated into the base package)
Awards Gala Dinner, including:
VIP pre-dinner reception
Three-course dinner with wine pairing
Awards ceremony celebrating industry excellence
Post-dinner entertainment

(VAT Included)
R3,550

Members: The Connected Experience – Early Bird (until 18 June 2025)
Includes:

Full access to all conference sessions & workshops (Sunday – Tuesday)
Sunday afternoon Industry Insights session
All refreshment breaks & networking lunches
Conference materials & digital resources
Welcome Networking Cocktail Reception

(VAT Included)
R3,310

Non-Members: The Full Circle Experience (Best Value) – Encouraging Full Engagement
Includes:

Full access to all conference sessions & workshops (Sunday – Tuesday)
Sunday afternoon Industry Insights session
All refreshment breaks & networking lunches
Conference materials & digital resources
Welcome Networking Cocktail Reception (integrated into the base package)
Awards Gala Dinner, including:
VIP pre-dinner reception
Three-course dinner with wine pairing
Awards ceremony celebrating industry excellence
Post-dinner entertainment

(VAT Included)
R4,050

Non-Members: The Connected Experience
Includes:

Full access to all conference sessions & workshops (Sunday – Tuesday)
Sunday afternoon Industry Insights session
All refreshment breaks & networking lunches
Conference materials & digital resources
Welcome Networking Cocktail Reception

(VAT Included)
R3,860

The 2025 Women in Mice Awards
2025-08-06 13:00 - 17:00 | Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Drive, Halfway House, Midrand, Gauteng, 1685, South Africa
The countdown has officially begun! The Women in MICE Award returns on Wednesday, 6 August 2025, and we’re inviting the industry to come together in honour of the incredible women who are shaping and strengthening the business events space in South Africa. This year’s event will be held at the prestigious Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
Organised by 4Mal Media Management, the Women in MICE Awards have become a cornerstone for recognising leadership, excellence, and transformation across the MICE sector. More than an awards ceremony, this is a platform to uplift, connect, and inspire.

Festival of Eventing
2025-08-08 - 2025-08-09 | Century City Conference Centre, 4 Energy Ln, Century City, Cape Town, 7446, South Africa

Tech and Tourism Conference Africa 2025
2025-08-27 08:00 - 17:00 | Northern Cape
Now in its second year, the Tech and Tourism Conference Africa 2025 promises to enthral attendees with key discussions exploring the intersection of tech and tourism.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, it is crucial not to ignore the transformative power of technology, especially in the context and advent of artificial intelligence (AI).
Social media platforms have revolutionised the way businesses interact with their customers and promote their products or services. These platforms have provided unprecedented access to global audiences, enabling businesses to reach potential customers in a targeted and cost-effective manner. Social media has also given rise to influencer culture, where individuals with a significant following can impact consumer behaviour and shape brand perceptions. The ability to harness social media as a marketing tool has become essential for businesses across industries.
Furthermore, the rapid adoption of AI technology presents a unique opportunity to meet the revolution at its genesis. AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of the travel industry, from personalised recommendations and virtual assistants to intelligent chatbots and data analytics. By leveraging AI, businesses can gain insights into customer preferences, streamline operations, and enhance the overall travel experience. AI-powered technologies can help automate processes, reduce costs, and deliver personalised services, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Scheduled for August 27, 2025, in Johannesburg, the event will focus on cutting-edge solutions that leverage technology to enhance and revolutionise tourism and hospitality. Sponsors, exhibitors, industry players, decision-makers, and thought leaders are invited to participate and be part of the transformation in tech and travel.

8th Edition AI Expo Africa 2025
2025-10-29 08:00 - 2025-10-31 17:00 | Northern Cape
Back for its 8th edition, AI Expo Africa is the largest Enterprise AI trade event and conference in Africa. AI Expo Africa 2025 will run from October 29-31, 2025 at the prestigious Sandton Convention Centre in South Africa. The event will unite 2 500 decision-makers, investors, buyers, suppliers, innovators, SMMEs and global brands. This year, it will also be joined by the inaugural UN ITU AI4Good Impact Africa Summit, focused on how AI can be used to solve the UN SDGs.
Learn more about sponsoring, speaking and tickets here > www.aiexpoafrica.com

Meetings Africa 2026
2026-01-23 - 2026-01-25 | Sandton Convention Centre
MEETINGS AFRICA 2026 – Celebrating 20 Years of Connecting Africa to the World.
In 2026, Meetings Africa will proudly mark its 20th Anniversary, a remarkable milestone in shaping Africa’s business events landscape. Owned by South Africa Tourism, this flagship trade show has, for two decades, been the definitive market access platform for African business events products, connecting the continent to the world.
As we celebrate 20 Years of Connecting Africa to the World, Meetings Africa continues to champion the growth of Africa’s business events industry, playing a vital role in driving economic impact and showcasing the continent’s innovation, diversity, and spirit of collaboration.
This landmark edition will feature the highly anticipated 2-day trade show, preceded by the dedicated educational day, BONDay, in partnership with leading global, continental, and national industry associations. Together, they foster knowledge exchange, innovation, and skills development to shape the future of African business events.
For exhibitors, buyers, and media, Meetings Africa 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Africa’s business events community. Exhibitors can showcase products and services to international and local buyers, African associations, and corporate planners, while media gain direct access to the stories shaping the continent’s industry. It is the most formidable platform to connect face-to-face with the world’s most influential stakeholders – and to be part of Africa’s growth journey into the next 20 years.

BONDay:
23rd February 2026

Show Days:
24th – 25th February 2026

WTM Africa 2026
2026-04-13 - 2026-04-15 | CTICC
World Travel Market Africa is the only event where you can simultaneously…

Generate sales leads – Launch new products – Enter new markets – Raise brand awareness – Size up your competition – Conduct market research – Command press attention and Develop and maintain relationships.
Travel isn’t just about crossing borders—it’s about unlocking endless possibilities. It broadens minds, reshapes perspectives, and paves the way to exciting opportunities. Imagine the transformative impact when global journeys converge with Africa’s diverse and vibrant spirit.
Travel connects cultures, reveals hidden treasures, and celebrates the talents that enrich our world. It doesn’t simply unite us; it empowers us to evolve.
WTM Africa embarks on a journey to uncover untapped potential, honor the continent’s rich heritage, and drive sustainable growth for both inbound and outbound tourism. Together, we embrace travel as your gateway to global journeys, transforming every adventure into an opportunity for extraordinary growth.

Women in Mice 2026 Breakfast
2026-04-15 08:00 - 10:00 | CTICC
Women in MICE 2026 Awards Breakfast
Cape Town | 15 April 2026 | CTICC | Hosted at WTM Africa | 8:00am to 10:00am

The Women in MICE Awards are entering an exciting new era – and you’re invited to be part of it. With RX Africa as our newest partner, the 2026 Breakfast will bring even more voices, ideas, and stories from across Africa into the conversation.
Hosted at WTM Africa at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 15 April 2026 from 8:00am to 10:00am, this breakfast isn’t just a celebration – it’s a catalyst for connection, collaboration, and transformation in the business events space. It’s where industry changemakers meet, where ideas spark into action, and where we collectively shape a more inclusive, equitable, and inspiring future.
Whether you’re a venue, supplier, association, or corporate supporter, your voice matters here. Join us, share your perspective, and help us reimagine what leadership and opportunity look like in the MICE industry.
Together, we’re not just making space for women – we’re building an industry where everyone can thrive.
To register visit theplannerguru.co.za or register here
If you would like to partner with us contact Antois-leigh Nepgen on antois-leigh@4mal.co.za or Angelique Smith on angie@esiglobal.co.za

Global Exhibitions Day 2026
2026-06-03 | Northern Cape
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.

AIPC I 2026 Annual Conference
2026-06-28 - 2026-07-01 | EUSKALDUNA BILBAO CONFERENCE CENTRE, Avenida Abandoibarra 4, 48011 Bilbao, Spain
This year, the AIPC Annual Conference will take place in Bilbao, from June 28th till July 1st and we are pleased to invite you to join us for what promises to be an amazing experience.

Under the theme “Bridging the gap: Venues connecting human experience and innovation” we will explore different areas of the future of convention centre management. Day 1 will focus on Innovation & Renovation, Day 2 on People & Hospitality and Day 3 on Legacy & Community. There will be a mix of formats, allowing for interactivity and networking.

In addition, there is of course the social programme, with a tour and dinner at the Guggenheim, a wine tasting & dinner at a local winehouse and an option to visit the famous San Mames football stadium.

But most importantly, you will be able to connect with convention centre leaders from across the world and obtain unique insight in the exiting world of convention centre management.

SACIA Event Safety Summit
2026-07-27 - 2026-07-28 | Gallagher Convention Centre, 19 Richards Drive, Halfway House, Midrand, Gauteng, 1685, South Africa
SACIA’s Event Safety Summit brings together professionals from the entertainment, sports, and corporate event industries to discuss all aspects of safety, security, and health at live events. Featuring a diverse lineup of presentations, panels, and workshops, the Summit provides attendees with actionable insights, fosters collaboration among like-minded professionals, and inspires a renewed commitment to prioritising safety in all aspects of the events and entertainment industry.

Women in Mice Awards 2026
2026-08-05 15:00 - 20:00 | Monte De Dios, 106 Achilles Street, Olympus Heights Dr, Pretoria, Gauteng, 0081, South Africa
Women in MICE Awards 2026
Monte De Dios, Pretoria, Gauteng | 5 Augus

The Women in MICE Awards are entering an exciting new chapter — and you’re invited to be part of it.
Following the powerful momentum of our 2026 Launch Breakfast, we now turn our focus to the main event — the Women in MICE Awards, taking place on 5 August 2026 at the breathtaking Monte De Dios in Pretoria, Gauteng.
This is more than just an awards ceremony. It is a celebration of excellence, influence, and legacy within the business events industry. A moment where we honour the women who are shaping the future of MICE — the leaders, innovators, collaborators, and rising stars who continue to redefine what is possible.
Set against the elegant backdrop of Monte De Dios, the evening will bring together the industry’s most influential voices for a truly unforgettable experience. From powerful storytelling to meaningful recognition, the Women in MICE Awards are designed to inspire, connect, and elevate.
Whether you’re a venue, supplier, association, or corporate partner, this is your opportunity to stand alongside the industry’s most impactful change-makers. Be part of a platform that not only celebrates success but actively drives progress and transformation within the sector.
Together, we’re not just recognising achievement — we’re shaping the future of the MICE industry.
To nominate, attend, or partner with us, contactAntois-Leigh Nepgen at antois-leigh@4mal.co.za

AI Expo Africa 2026
2026-10-28 - 2026-10-29 | Sandton Convention Centre
Back for its 9th edition, AI Expo Africa is the largest Enterprise AI & Intelligent Automation trade event and conference in Africa. AI Expo Africa 2026 will run 28th– 29th Oct 2026 in Johannesburg South Africa at the prestigious Sandton Convention Centre, uniting 3500+ decision makers, investors, buyers, suppliers, innovators, SMMEs and global brands. Learn more about sponsoring, speaking & tickets herexpo www.aiexpoafrica.com
