YOUTH IN ACTION EXPO 2026 DRAWS MORE THAN 12 000 YOUNG PEOPLE SEEKING THEIR NEXT STEP More than 12 000 young people gathered at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on 5 and 6 August for the fourth Youth in Action Expo, reflecting the growing demand for practical guidance, credible information and clearer pathways into education, skills development, entrepreneurship and employment. The free two-day Expo brought together 150 exhibitors, including educational institutions, employers, government departments, entrepreneurship support organisations and industry bodies, creating a single destination where young people could engage directly with the people and organisations helping shape their futures. Its continued growth, from 1 500 attendees and 42 exhibitors at its launch in 2023, demonstrates the increasing need for accessible spaces that connect young people with opportunity. Held at a time when 45.6% of South Africans aged 15 to 34 are not in employment, education or training, the Expo continues to respond to one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges by helping young people navigate the transition from education to employment with greater confidence and clarity. Rather than expecting attendees to navigate opportunities on their own, the Expo brought the organisations behind them together under one roof. Young people were able to ask questions, compare options and access practical information on bursaries, scholarships, internships, graduate programmes, career pathways, entrepreneurship support and skills development initiatives. The programme also reflected the changing nature of work. Ten Speaker Corner sessions explored topics including artificial intelligence, financial wellness, workplace readiness, CV preparation, interview skills, sustainability, mobility, innovation and emerging career pathways, equipping attendees with practical insights to prepare for the future. Young people also heard from leaders across government, education, skills development and humanitarian work. Speakers included Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers; Mr Nezaam Joseph, Chief Director: Skills Development at the Western Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism; Dr Ismail Teladia, Senior Curriculum Planner at the Western Cape Education Department; and Deputy Minister Nonceba Mhlauli, Deputy Minister in the Presidency of the Republic of South Africa. Their contributions focused on what it takes to turn potential into progress, from building the right mindset and workplace skills to strengthening the partnerships that create pathways into education, entrepreneurship and employment. “When we launched the Youth in Action Expo four years ago, our aim was to create a platform where young people could engage directly with the organisations and institutions that could help shape their futures,” said Taubie Motlhabane, Chief Executive Officer of the CTICC. “The growth from 1 500 attendees and 42 exhibitors in the inaugural year to more than 12 000 attendees and 150 exhibitors in 2026 is a clear indication that the need for this platform has never been greater. Young people are actively seeking guidance, credible information and meaningful pathways into education, skills development, entrepreneurship and employment. This response strengthens our commitment to bringing those pathways within reach.” Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers, said access remains central to unlocking young people’s potential. “Young people do not lack potential. What they often lack is access to the right opportunities, guidance and support. The Youth in Action Expo helps bridge that gap by bringing young people face to face with the organisations that can help them take their next step. That is how meaningful change begins.” For many attendees, the Expo provided more than information. Direct conversations with exhibitors, speakers and industry professionals helped them better understand the opportunities available and what they could do next. The prevailing sentiment was one of gratitude for the opportunity, together with greater clarity and confidence about their education, training and career journeys. Presented by the CTICC in partnership with the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, Gift of the Givers, Independent Media, AV Network and Scan Display, the Youth in Action Expo demonstrates the impact of collaboration in expanding access to education, skills development, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for young South Africans. As the Youth in Action Expo prepares to enter its fifth year in 2027, its continued growth reinforces the importance of creating accessible, collaborative spaces where young people can connect directly with the knowledge, support and opportunities they need to shape brighter futures. Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre Media enquiries: media@cticc.co.za, +27 (0) 21 410 5000
Youth In Action Expo: Creating Access, Building Futures
Finding the right opportunity should not be the hardest part of building a future. For many young South Africans, deciding what comes next is both exciting and uncertain. Whether it is choosing a field of study, finding funding, securing an internship, starting a business or entering the world of work, the choices can feel overwhelming. Opportunities exist, but they are often spread across different institutions, organisations and industries, making them difficult to find and even harder to navigate. At the same time, the world of work is changing rapidly. New industries are emerging, technology is transforming the way we work and careers continue to evolve. Today’s young people are expected to make decisions in an environment that demands adaptability, lifelong learning and a clear understanding of where future opportunities lie. Access to the right information, guidance and connections has never been more important. Now in its fourth year, the Youth in Action Expo was created to help bridge that gap. Hosted by the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), the free two-day Expo brings together universities, TVET colleges, employers, government departments, entrepreneurship support organisations, NGOs and industry leaders in one place. Instead of navigating countless websites, career fairs and information sessions, young people aged 15 to 35 can engage directly with the organisations shaping South Africa’s future workforce. Since launching in 2023 with approximately 1,500 attendees and 42 exhibitors, the Expo has grown into a significant youth development initiative, welcoming more than 14,000 attendees and 170 exhibitors in 2025. That growth reflects the increasing demand for a trusted platform that brings education, industry, government and community organisations together to make opportunities more visible, accessible and achievable. Visitors can connect directly with education and training institutions, employers, government departments, entrepreneurship support organisations and industry bodies. They can explore bursaries and scholarships, internships and graduate programmes, career guidance, skills development initiatives and entrepreneurship support, all within a single environment designed to help them make informed decisions about their future. The Expo also reflects the changing world of work. Interactive Speaker Corners will explore topics including sustainability, artificial intelligence, digital innovation, entrepreneurship and emerging careers, giving attendees practical insights into workplace trends and the skills shaping tomorrow’s economy. The strength of the Youth in Action Expo lies in collaboration. Presented by the CTICC in partnership with Gift of the Givers, Independent Media, the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, AV Network and Scan Display, the Expo demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work towards a shared purpose. Together, these partners are helping connect young people with the knowledge, guidance and networks that can influence the direction of their future. The true impact of the Expo is not measured only by the number of people who attend. It is measured by what happens afterwards. A student may discover a study pathway they had never considered. A graduate may connect with a future employer. An aspiring entrepreneur may find the support needed to turn an idea into a business. Every conversation has the potential to become the start of something bigger. Creating access is about more than opening doors. It is about giving young people the confidence, knowledge and connections to walk through them. Creating access today is an investment in the workforce, innovators and leaders of tomorrow. As South Africa continues to invest in its next generation, initiatives like the Youth in Action Expo demonstrate what is possible when education, business, government and community organisations work together with a shared purpose: building futures. Young people aged 15 to 35 are invited to attend the Youth in Action Expo at the CTICC on 5 and 6 August 2026, from 09:00 to 14:00. Entry is free. To register for the Expo, click here.
Weaving a legacy
Heading: The CTICC’s 2023/24 AGM: Weaving a legacy The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) hosted its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) today in Cape Town, celebrating a year of milestones, community impact and strong financial performance. The 2024 financial year was an exceptional one for the CTICC, with the company hosting the most international events since opening its doors in 2003. The centre also hosted one of its largest events in the year under review – the 2023 Netball World Cup with 61 000 attendees. This increase in business allowed the CTICC to continue building a legacy and making a positive difference in its communities and country. In the 2024 financial year, 368 events were hosted, 43 of which were international. This is a 30.3% increase on the previous financial year. Over 310 000 people attended events in the year under review, a 13% increase compared to almost 275 000 in the previous financial year. Leaving a legacy For 21 years, the CTICC has woven a legacy of impact that extends far beyond its walls through its commitment to collaboration, sustainability and community empowerment. The 2024 Integrated Annual Report’s theme “Weaving a legacy” is inspired by this. Like the art of weaving that brings together threads to create something functional, decorative, exquisite, and unique, the CTICC connects people, ideas and initiatives to create a legacy that is both significant and enduring. For the CTICC, the weaver bird on the front of the Integrated Annual Report symbolises the work and attention that goes into every aspect of its operations. It is also in motion, representing the company’s dedication to always moving forward, signifying hope, inspiration and the quest to leave a lasting legacy. A return to form and strong financial results Some of the ways the CTICC is making a meaningful impact is through job creation, its economic contributions and its financial performance. In the 2024 financial year, the CTICC achieved the following: R400.7m in revenue, a 44% increase compared to the previous financial year; A positive earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of R82.5m, nearly doubling its R42m target; A contribution of R6.9bn to national gross domestic product (GDP) and R6.5bn to Western Cape economy, resulting in a cumulative contribution of R66.9bn to GDP and R58.0bn to GGP; Created or sustained almost 13 000 jobs nationally during the financial year, bringing the total to over 169 000 jobs since 2003; Another clean audit from the Auditor-General of South Africa. But, as CEO Taubie Motlhabane says in her foreword in the 2024 Integrated Annual Report, “It is not just about our fiscal integrity and continuous clean audit record, both of which matter greatly. It is also about how we are in the world with people, the planet and the sustainable legacies we leave behind.” Uplifting communities and youth through collaboration At the heart of the CTICC is a deep commitment to uplifting communities and fostering partnerships. During the 2024 financial year, the company strengthened its relationships and increased its collaborative approach with its local community partners (LCPs), resulting in a corporate social responsibility (CSR) contribution of just over R737 000. To support communities in need, the CTICC launched its CTICC Cares drive in October 2023. It was such a success that in 2024, it became a year-round initiative so that the CTICC, its LCPs and the citizens of Cape Town could continue weaving a positive legacy. The centre partners with the City of Cape Town, Artscape Theatre Centre, Hotel Verde and the Westin Hotel to provide drop-off points for pre-loved goods such as clothing, books, toys and non-perishable food. Education also took centre stage with the CTICC’s Youth in Action Expo in June 2024. This exhibition empowers youth by connecting them with organisations offering career guidance, education and job opportunities. The event prioritises inclusivity, welcoming tertiary students, learners from under-served communities and schools, as well as schools for learners with disabilities. In 2024, the CTICC collaborated with Gift of the Givers, Independent Media and Smile FM to enhance its reach and communication efforts. The CTICC is proud to report that the event was a resounding success and it is looking forward to planning another one for 2025. Advancing sustainability Another way the CTICC is weaving a legacy is through its sustainability initiatives. In the 2024 financial year, the company responsibly managed its resources and reduced its environmental impact by focusing on its ISO 14001 Environmental Standard. It also continued to align with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supported the Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative. Looking ahead In the final section of her presentation, Taubie Motlhabane outlined a future focused on adaptability, innovation and meaningful partnerships. Globally, convention centres are being recognised – more than ever – as economic catalysts that can profoundly affect job creation, knowledge exchange, community support and the transformation of the spaces we inhabit. With this in mind, the CTICC’s forward-focused strategy includes strengthening and expanding its partnerships with like-minded collaborators, adapting to remain relevant and resilient and exploring new possibilities. Additionally, the company’s Forward Book up to the 2029/30 financial year has close to 400 events, with approximately 20% of these being international events. The current value of the forward book is estimated at R1.5bn. Rounding off her presentation, Taubie said: “Like the weaver bird, we will continue collaborating and making a difference wherever we can, so that our woven tapestry – our legacy – uplifts, connects and inspires for generations to come.” To read the full report, click here or browse the CTICC’s 2024 Integrated Annual Report site to find out how we are ‘Weaving a legacy’ #CTICCAGM2024 For more information on the CTICC, go to www.cticc.co.za, connect with us on LinkedIn, like us on Facebook or follow us on X and Instagram. Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre Media enquiries: media@cticc.co.za | +27(0) 21 410 5000
Event Cancellation: AllSport Expo
The CTICC regrets to announce that, due to unforeseen and unpreventable operational circumstances, the AllSport Expo, originally scheduled for 27 to 29 September 2024, has been cancelled. All ticket holders will be fully refunded by Howler, the official ticketing merchant for this event. Please visit www.howler.co.za for refund details. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused, and thank you for your understanding. For any queries, please contact us at media@cticc.co.za.
CTICC Celebrates Youth with its Dynamic Youth in Action Expo
Building on the success of our first Youth in Action Expo in 2023, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) is excited to host this interactive event once again on, 13 June 2024, to celebrate the youth of South Africa. This year, we’re proud to partner with Gift of the Givers and SMILE FM! This interactive event aims to empower the youth with innovative and inspiring programs. The expo, featuring over 90 exhibitors, is open to all with free entry. The Youth in Action Expo will welcome attendees from 09:00 to 17:00 at CTICC 2, Halls 5 and 6, focusing on career guidance and educational opportunities. It will offer visitors access to counsellors, bursary options, networking sessions, and information on further education and training. The CTICC has long been committed to uplifting communities and fostering skills development. “I firmly believe that we can all play a role in nurturing the potential of our future leaders. For us, the expo is more than an event hosted by the CTICC; it’s an opportunity for us to provide a platform for the youth to explore possibilities for their future,” said Taubie Motlhabane, CEO of the CTICC. As an interactive expo, attendees can engage with mentors and industry leaders, creating an environment where they can explore various career paths, enhance their skills, and gain insights into the professional world. Participating in such initiatives equips young individuals to make informed career decisions and empowers them to take proactive steps towards achieving their goals. “It’s going to be the largest of its kind on the African continent with over 90 institutions, universities, private companies, and a host of other people on site to guide you, to open your mind, and to expand your horizons. In these challenging times, we need to respond to the challenges of our country and our continent,” said Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Chairman and Founder of Gift of the Givers. The CTICC invites all young people, their families, educators, schools and businesses to join in celebrating the youth and supporting the future leaders of South Africa at the CTICC’s 2024 Youth in Action Expo. “We are thrilled to once again host an event that celebrates the boundless potential of our youth. Together with our partners, we are committed to providing young people with the support and guidance they need to thrive in an ever-changing world,” concluded Motlhabane. Register your attendance now: Visitors and schools: https://shorturl.at/JKV19 Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre Media enquiries: Olivia Bruce (CTICC) media@cticc.co.za, +27(0) 21 410 5000
Cape Town International Convention Centre Clinches Gold in Prestigious Global Recognition!
The Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) has won gold at the 2024 Eventex Global Awards, in the categories of African Destination: Best African Events Destination and the International Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) Destination. The CTICC also scooped Silver for the categories of Versatile Venue, which applauds the Centre’s ability to adapt and accommodate a variety of types and sizes of events, as well as People’s Choice Destination, for venues that stand out from the rest and are voted for by the public. “We are immensely proud of this recognition. The competition is tough, and the standards are high, but these awards show that our convention offering is world class. Cape Town is a sought-after destination and it is important that the convention offering is in keeping with the quality that the destination has become famous for,” said Taubie Motlhabane, CEO of the CTICC. The Eventex Awards have evolved into the premier recognition in the events and experiential marketing world, honouring and celebrating innovation, creativity, and effectiveness in the industry. This year, winners were selected from a pool of 1207 submissions, spanning 62 countries and across six continents. This reaffirms that the CTICC can rival top global contenders and emerge victorious. “Congratulations to the CTICC on your remarkable achievement at the 2024 Eventex Awards! Winning the prestigious titles for Best African Events Destination and International MICE Destination and being named runner-up in the People’s Choice Destination and Versatile Venue categories truly reflects your commitment to creativity, innovation and effectiveness in the events industry. Thank you for the 20 years of excellence that continues to enhance the allure of the Western Cape as a leading events destination, boosting our economy and supporting thousands of jobs. Here’s to many more years of success!” said Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger when she congratulated the CTICC team. “As Mayor, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the CTICC on receiving these prestigious awards. The CTICC’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the events industry has not only elevated our city’s profile but has also contributed significantly to our economic and cultural vitality. Here’s to many more years of success and collaboration as the CTICC continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in our city”, added Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. “Choosing a destination has become highly competitive. A city’s convention centre is an important part of the tourism value chain, as convention delegates spend time exploring all the city has to offer. A positive convention experience is important and can significantly enhance the overall visitor experience and perception of a destination. The awards and global accolades we receive as a city reinforce our position as a globally leading tourist destination,” said Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism. “Congratulations to the CTICC for their outstanding recognition at the Eventex Awards, a prestigious accolade in the events and experiential marketing industry. This achievement further establishes the city and province as premier business events destinations, not only in Africa but globally. The significance of business events cannot be overstated; they serve as drivers of economic activity, job creation, and innovation. Moreover, they provide invaluable platforms for industries to showcase their capabilities, exchange ideas, and forge relationships that can lead to lucrative deals and investments. The Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau, powered by Wesgro, successfully secured 30 new bids for the province in the previous financial year (April 2023 – March 2024), with an estimated economic impact of R1.029 billion. Therefore, the CTICC’s recognition at the Eventex Awards will enhance our ability to attract even more high-profile events in the future”, said Wrenelle Stander, CEO Wesgro. The CTICC is renowned for its consistent global acclaim. Over the past three years, it has garnered a multitude of prestigious awards, spanning service excellence, sustainability, event and exhibition venue, and recognition for its leadership. These accolades not only underscore the CTICC’s commitment to excellence but also highlight its pivotal role as a leader in the global events industry. “We are very blessed to be in an amazing destination, working with exceptional teams and partners. These awards are a testament to the dedication of the men and women who work tirelessly to offer a positive convention experience, regardless of the nature of the event. For me personally, I am immensely proud of my team at the CTICC,” concluded Motlhabane. -ENDS- Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre Media enquiries: media@cticc.co.za, +27(0) 21 410 5000
The CTICC’s 2022/23 AGM: Leaving lasting impressions
On 14 February 2024, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) held its 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Cape Town. Despite the challenges of the last few years, the company sustained an encouraging return to profit. Event numbers for the 2023 financial year reached almost pre-pandemic levels and the Centre is busier than it has been in a long time. The year under review saw an influx of international conferences, the most notable being Africa Tech Festival with 12 000 attendees in November 2022. The largest event for the financial year was Decorex Cape Town, bringing over 25 000 people to the venue. In the 2023 financial year, a total of 427 events were hosted, compared to just 225 in the previous financial year. Nearly 275 000 people attended events in the year, compared to only 127 000 in the previous financial year. Celebrating a 20-year legacy As the CTICC approached its 20th birthday on 28 June 2023, it reflected on its awe-inspiring journey to date. The CTICC has always hosted vibrant global and local events, connected with its communities and supported sustainability. One way to measure the success over the last 20 years is through the numbers: The CTICC hosted over 9 000 events in the last two decades, with almost 700 of them being international events; The centre has created or sustained more than 156 000 jobs nationally; It has contributed a total of R60bn to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and R51.5bn to the Western Cape Gross Geographic Product (GGP); and More than 9.5m visitors have come through its doors in the last 20 years. To commemorate its 20-year milestone, the CTICC developed a celebration logo using a stylised infinity symbol, illustrating the unlimited possibilities available at the Centre. The iconography is supported by the pay-off line “Leaving lasting impressions on tomorrow”. Leaving lasting impressions The 2023 Integrated Annual Report takes this message further. Like a strong, healthy tree, the CTICC has deep roots. Its story is marked over time by the impressions it has left on people and the planet and the impressions that the environment and its communities have left on the business. “Leaving lasting impressions is what we do as a business – providing the conditions for people to meet, debate and make decisions that will benefit us all… This is our ‘dream’ as an organisation,” says CEO Taubie Motlhabane in her foreword in the 2023 Integrated Annual Report, and this has certainly rang true for the last 20 years. From converting a sandy parking lot on the Foreshore into Africa’s leading convention centre, the CTICC has always left a mark. It has done so by creating jobs, which has changed the lives of thousands of families. During periods of difficulty, it has opened its venue to the community – the Hospital of Hope supported countless people, as did the Vaccination of Hope and, more recently, the Gift of the Givers water collection drive. Its commitment to the environment has also been clear from the very beginning and has informed every decision along the way. The cover of the 2023 Integrated Annual Report features a slice of a tree trunk. Much like a fingerprint, a tree records vital information about its distinct and individual existence and it does so through tree rings. Each ring signifies a year of growth, a record of its journey through time. Trees can live hundreds of years but the CTICC tree is still a sapling, with many possibilities just waiting to flourish. This is why the cover has 20 gold-foiled rings emblazoned on it – reminding the reader of its great legacy, as well as the aspiring future that awaits. Growth in positive annual results for the 2023 financial year The CTICC achieved a revenue of R278.0m, more than double compared to the previous financial year and marginally improving on its pre-Covid 2018/19 income levels of R277m. The company also achieved a positive earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of R45.7m – a 400% improvement on a targeted loss of R15.2m. Thanks to these financial improvements, the CTICC was able to contribute R5.7bn to the national GDP and R5.4bn to the Western Cape GGP. Additionally, the CTICC created or sustained almost 11 000 jobs nationally in the 2023 financial year. Bringing the future to life CTICC CEO, Taubie Motlhabane, revealed that the centre’s forward book is flourishing. “We have confirmed a total of 376 events up to 2030, 135 of these are international events,” she says. In this coming year, the CTICC’s key focus will be on the following areas: Continuing to upskill youth for the MICE sector. The CTICC has signed a workplace agreement with the Youth Employment Service, and nine young people have started work at the Centre this month, with more joining soon; Continuing to expand its operations beyond its facility. The CTICC already provides food and beverage services to the Artscape Theatre Centre; Maintaining its ongoing commitment to sustainability; Keeping its clients front and centre through excellent customer service; and Honing its own events segment. Building strong communities With the improvement in the CTICC’s financial standing, the Centre was able to improve its community support. In the 2023 financial year, the CTICC continued to work with its Local Community Partners (LCPs) – Call 2 Care, help2read, iKhaya le Themba and its legacy partner, the Foundation for Alcohol Related Research (FARR). The CTICC also supported various other organisations with venue sponsorship and other services. Its corporate social responsibility (CSR) contribution totalled R1.2m in the 2023 financial year. To celebrate 20 years of caring, gratitude and passion, the Centre launched its biggest community drive of 2023, the CTICC Cares campaign. The campaign ran from 5 October to 15 December 2023. The City of Cape Town, the Artscape Theatre Centre, the DHL Stadium, The Westin Hotel and Hotel Verde supported the drive as collection point partners. In total, over 1 400 items – including stationery, books, clothing, blankets, soft toys, cooking utensils, bedding and non-perishable food items – were
CTICC and Call 2 Care join forces to champion a transformative initiative for a wheelchair-accessible garden
Cape Town – 18 December 2023 – Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) staff members, in collaboration with our local community partner, Call 2 Care, took the lead in a transformative initiative. They enthusiastically rolled up their sleeves to construct plant boxes, thereby creating a wheelchair-accessible garden. Call 2 Care, a non-profit organisation, aligns with CTICC’s vision by supporting a range of CSR projects aimed at enhancing the health and nutrition of the communities they serve. Annually, Call 2 Care feeds up to 375 individuals through community gardens. The CTICC staff’s hands-on approach to constructing planter boxes for The Village Work Centre, a work centre for individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, is a testament to their commitment to social responsibility. This initiative not only transforms physical spaces. The CTICC is a supporter of the Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) initiative. The NZCE initiative aims to minimize and offset the carbon footprint of events, striving for little to no net carbon emissions. This involves adopting sustainable practices across the event lifecycle, from planning to execution and post-event activities. Key strategies include using renewable energy, implementing energy efficiency measures, reducing waste, and supporting carbon offset projects. The initiative emphasizes a holistic approach to minimize environmental impact and contribute to broader sustainability goals in the events industry. CTICC stands as a beacon of sustainability. Their involvement in the construction of planter boxes is in line with the NZCE initiative roadmap for the events industry. One of the many priorities of the NZCE initiative roadmap involves sustainable food sourcing. The garden project, emerging as a symbol of environmental responsibility, seeks to provide workers with access to locally grown vegetables at their doorstep, thus minimizing the need to travel long distances to source food. Ms Bilqees Darries, Centre Manager of The Village Work Centre, acknowledges CTICC’s key role in this initiative. She highlights that the majority of individuals attending the Centre come from underprivileged backgrounds and will benefit significantly, receiving at least one nutritious meal per day. Ms Darries expresses, “By implementing the garden beds, the CTICC has become a catalyst for change. This initiative not only teaches the workers healthy eating habits, upskills them, and provides therapeutic stimulation but also empowers them to turn their newfound gardening skills into a marketable business. CTICC is not just reducing carbon emissions; they are sowing the seeds of transformation and empowerment.” Taubie Motlhabane, the CEO of CTICC, says, “At the CTICC, we focus on a number of sustainability components, including: people, planet, purpose and impact. Our approach to sustainability is not only related to a sustainable natural environment, but to social as well as economic sustainabilty. This is what drives the CTICC’s Corporate Social Responsibility Programme.” For more information on Call 2 Care visit: https://www.call2care.org.za/ Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) Note to Editor: To organise a media interview, source images or find out more about CTICC, please contact: media@cticc.co.za, +27(0) 21 410 5000 Ends
Women in Entertainment Power Breakfast gives the needed boost for women in the entertainment industry
Cape Town – 07 September 2023 – Who run the world? Girls!’ Lyrics so simple, yet so powerful, was the key message of the Women in Entertainment (WIE) Power Breakfast powered by the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The highly anticipated breakfast, which was a highlight of FAME Week Africa 2023, was attended by women from around the world in the entertainment industry. FAME Week Africa, built by RX Africa, brings together African and global creative professionals, through events that focus on film, television, animation as well as music and entertainment technology. Taubie Motlhabane, CTICC CEO, said it was a “proud moment to be in a room full of women who tell the stories that need telling”. She said the industry was one that was not only close to her heart, but also one that had a very important role to play and that was telling the stories of the human race. Motlhabane commended the work done by women in the industry. Also in attendance was Leonora de Souza, Head of Events Manager at the City of Cape Town. She said the City has earmarked 2023 as the year to promote women-led events. “We as women need to ensure that other women’s voices are heard.” She said that through supporting women-led events, the City has discovered that there is indeed an appetite for ideas by women and for women. De Souza said: “It is our responsibility [as women] to pull up as much as we can and help others … Let them climb up and shine the light for the future.” Mo Abudu, Nigerian media mogul and philanthropist, received a standing ovation for her keynote address. She said women coming together to show the power of unity and determination is extremely important. Abudu said her journey in the film industry has been a challenging one, adding that challenges were needed to create opportunities. She said the gathering gave women a chance to “turn challenges they faced into opportunity”. “It is for us to be strong, to be resilient, and to believe in ourselves. As women, we have a lot of self-doubt. But now is time for us to say, ‘I can’.” The WIE Power Breakfast also saw the inception of the African Women in Entertainment (AWE) Collective. AWE Collective is a collaborative effort between FAME Week Africa and EarCandy, who presented the breakfast. The AWE Collective is “all about inspiring a collective spirit, motivating us to continue nurturing growth, cultivating dreams”, and actively propelling the success of women in the African entertainment industry. Click here for more information on our upcoming events. Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) To organise a media interview, source images or find out more about CTICC, please contact: media@cticc.co.za, +27(0) 21 410 5000 Ends
CTICC | A month in review: From sneakers on the court to sneakers in the ballroom
Cape Town – 1 September 2023 – August saw a hive of activity at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), which kicked off with the Netball World Cup 2023. Other notable events included the Laureus Sports for Good Charity Ball and Clicks Beauty Playground. Here are a few of the highlights of the events of last month: Netball World Cup 2023 Once again, the CTICC showcased its versatility when it hosted the first Netball World Cup (NWC) in Africa from 28 July to 6 August. The event saw the CTICC campus transform into a stadium fit for a world-class sports event. Tracy Mkhize, CTICC’s Chief Operating Officer, said a lot of work behind the scenes had been done in preparation for the event. The build-up started in mid-July and saw courts being built in CTICC 1 and CTICC 2, which could host a total of 6 200 spectators. Mkhize said: “Key to this event was the staff that we have. Our highly-skilled staff make the magic you see.” Beyond ensuring that operations ran smoothly, the NWC 2023 also required the CTICC to feed thousands of people during the tournament. Russell Ely, CTICC’s Head of Food and Beverage, said: “Preparation took months of client and team meetings to ensure that every catering space was staffed and covered.” Ely said over the 10-day event, 32 208 food items, 12 746 hot beverages and 11 005 bottles of water were sold. The NWC 2023 was recently nominated for the Sports Business Awards in the “Best Sporting Event of the Year 2023” category. Patience Shikwambana, chairperson of the NWC 2023 Board, said: “To be shortlisted as best sporting event in the Sports Business Awards is a terrific moment not only for me and our Board but also the Netball World Cup LOC, the fans and country as a whole.” The CTICC congratulates Netball South Africa and World Netball on this outstanding achievement and is proud to have been part of the ‘team’ in hosting a phenomenal event. Laureus Sports for Good Foundation’s (LSFGF) Charity Ball The 2023 Laureus Sports for Good Foundation’s (LSFGF) Charity Ball was a night to remember. Over 300 guests, dressed to the nines – with sneakers replacing high-heels and dress shoes, collectively raised R1 million for the ongoing work done by LSFGF to support over 25 Sport for Social Development programmes across South Africa. As the venue partner, the CTICC remains passionate about uplifting communities and was honoured to host the event. The charity ball also saw the announcement of two new Laureus SA Ambassadors, award-winning media presenters Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp and Motshidisi Mohono. Afrika-Bredenkamp said: “Being an ambassador for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation allows me to use my talent for good, while embracing my role as a broadcaster. As part of amplifying my duty as a Changemaker in South Africa, I look forward to supporting and working together to champion Sport for Good.” Click Beauty Playground Thousands of visitors made the way to the CTICC for the Clicks Beauty Playground. The sold-out two-day event attracted 3 000 visitors. Attendees interacted with representatives of their favourite brands, met market influencers, and sampled new products. The highlight of the event was that all attendees walked away with goodie bags to a value of over R2 000. Vikash Singh, Clicks Managing Executive told Bizcommunity: “From the first year to now, we have a lot more exhibitors. We can see a lot more engagement from the brands who want to engage in the Beauty Playground and what we are also seeing in terms of consumers is that the word gets around and the event gets bigger, which is why this year we used the CTICC. The first time we had the event in Cape Town we had it in Century City and we outgrew it.” It was the first time that the Clicks Beauty Playground was held at the CTICC, and we look forward to welcoming it back soon. kykNET Silverskerm Awards for Film and Television Cape Town and the CTICC have made their mark as filming destinations, so it was fitting for the 11th kykNET Silverskerm Film Festival to be held at the CTICC. The evening saw the who’s who of the Afrikaans film and television industry gather at the event, which concluded with the inaugural kykNET Silwerskerm Awards for Film and Television. A staggering 56 awards we handed out, which included: Lifetime Achievement awards: Freek Robinson and Cedwyn Joel Life Contribution: André Scholtz Best Presenter: Cooking Show- Alfred Adriaan – “Roer!” Best TV Moment of the Year: “Suidooster”– Mr. and Mrs. Samsodien’s wedding Other noteworthy events include: Spar Trade Show 2023, The Beauty of China – Chinese Art Expo, The 31st International Cartographic Conference and the 2023 SADA Dental and Oral Health Congress and Exhibition, to name a few. For more information on upcoming events at the CTICC click here. Issued by: Media Office, Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) To organise a media interview, source images or find out more about CTICC, please contact: media@cticc.co.za, +27(0) 21 410 5000