The Planner

The 2025 Women in Mice Awards
2025-08-06 13:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Helsinki) | 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
