The Women in MICE Awards was created to shine a light on the people whose talent, dedication and influence contribute to the strength and growth of the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions industry.

It is a platform built around a simple belief: great work deserves to be seen and acknowledged.

Across the MICE sector, countless professionals contribute to exceptional events, experiences, venues, organisations and businesses every day. Some lead from the front, while others work behind the scenes. Some are established industry figures, while others are only beginning to make their mark. Women in MICE creates a space to recognise them all.

The Awards celebrate achievement across a broad range of disciplines, from emerging talent, operations and hospitality to entrepreneurship, technical production, innovation, mentorship and industry leadership. They also acknowledge the individuals and allies who actively support the advancement and development of others within the sector.

A particularly important part of the initiative is peer recognition. Nominations give colleagues, clients and industry peers an opportunity to acknowledge someone whose contribution has made a difference — whether through leadership, support, innovation, mentorship or simply consistently delivering excellence.

But Women in MICE extends beyond the awards themselves.

It is also about bringing the industry together, encouraging new connections and creating opportunities for people to share experiences, exchange knowledge and build relationships that continue long after an event has ended.

Through its events and supporting media platforms, Women in MICE aims to give greater visibility to the people behind the industry while encouraging professional development, mentorship and meaningful industry engagement. Supported by Meetings magazine and theplannerguru.co.za, the initiative provides an ongoing platform to share stories, celebrate achievements and highlight the individuals helping to shape the business events landscape.

Ultimately, Women in MICE is about building an industry where contribution is valued, talent is encouraged and people are given the opportunity to grow.

Because when we recognise the people behind our industry, we strengthen the industry itself.