Be inspired. Be equipped. Be the best!
The 2026 EXSA Conference promises to be a transformative experience for the exhibition and events industry of Southern Africa. Set to take place on 21 January 2026 at the ANEW Hotel O.R. Tambo, this dynamic morning session will unite professionals from across the region for a day of inspiration, strategy, and connection.
“EXSA members are already exceptional at what they do. They understand their roles and how to make an impact,” says Hanlie Delport, Association Manager of EXSA. “But we want to equip them—and all delegates—with the tools to make 2026 their best year yet.”
At the heart of the conference is MAGIC—an acronym for Momentum, Advocacy, Growth, Innovation, and Collaboration. These pillars will guide the day’s discussions and activities:
- Momentum: Understanding the macro-environment in which we operate.
- Advocacy: Elevating exhibitions and events as a priority industry.
- Growth: Finding personal balance between profit and purpose.
- Innovation: A futurist will challenge delegates to think ahead.
- Collaboration: Highlighted as the key to sustainable growth.
A stellar speaker line-up has been confirmed, featuring Dr Roelof Botha, Charlotte Kemp, Rinus le Roux, Frank Marungwa, and Amande Kotze-Nhlapo. The afternoon will include engaging activities and strategic sessions led by EXSA working groups, giving members a platform to voice their expectations for the year ahead.
“This is the opportunity for our members to be heard,” adds Delport.
Sustainability is also a key focus. John Arvanitakis, Chair of the EGF, is overseeing arrangements and will supervise the green certification of the event.
“We’re committed to walking the talk when it comes to event greening,” says Arvanitakis. “We’ll work closely with organisers and the venue to ensure both the conference and the awards function are certified green events.”
The day will culminate in the prestigious EXSA-llence Awards, celebrating outstanding achievements in the industry. Stand builders are invited to submit their designs and builds across various categories.
“Winning an EXSA-llence Award is more than recognition—it’s a powerful endorsement of quality and excellence,” says Delport. “It’s a badge of honour that speaks volumes to the market.”
Entries for the awards are now open, and conference bookings can be made at www.exsa-llence.co.za.
“We invite everyone with a passion for exhibitions and events to join us. The conference will excite you, challenge you—and most importantly—empower you for the year ahead.”
About our speakers:
Momentum: Dr Roelof Botha
For a provocative keynote that provides a balanced and authoritative perspective on South Africa’s economic and political outlook – mingled with a delightful and always welcome sense of humour – Dr. Roelof Botha (son of the late, former Foreign Minister ‘Pik’) will add an insightful and though-provoking element to any corporate gathering.
His past experience as an economic policy advisor at National Treasury and regular discussions with political analysts (including his father, who served in the late Nelson Mandela’s first Cabinet) also allow him to provide sensible reflections on the policy environment, in general, and the likely implications of the imminent leadership change in Government, in particular.
Advocacy: Frank Murangwa, ICCA
Frank Murangwa is the Regional Director for Africa at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). With over 18 years of experience in tourism and the Business Events Industry, he specializes in strategy development, destination marketing, product development, and quality assurance. Frank played a pivotal role in establishing Rwanda as a leading MICE destination in Africa. He is passionate about Business Events, tourism, and exploring new cultures.
Growth: Rinus le Roux
Rinus le Roux is a speaker, trainer, and consultant with a passion for unlocking human potential. As the author of over 14 books, he has spent decades helping individuals and organizations develop the mindset, skills, and knowledge needed to thrive. His work is rooted in the belief that true success comes from aligning the mind and heart—creating a life of purpose, fullfilment, and impact. The UCAN Institute is an extension of this philosophy, offering keynote presentations, books, consulting, and one-on-one coaching to inspire transformation. Whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, UCAN empowers people to break through limitations and step into their fullest potential. Because knowing better means doing better. Live your best life Now.
Innovation: Charlotte Kemp
Charlotte Kemp is a futurist, a coach, a speaker, an author and an association executive. She is the past President of the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa and of the Global Speakers Federation.
Charlotte is infinitely curious about how we think, how our perspectives change our perceived reality, and how new ideas come about. Her coaching focuses on finding new ways to think about, to look at and to action what is most important in our lives.
Collaboration: Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo:
Amanda Kotze-Nhlapo was appointed in November 2011 to the position of Chief Convention Bureau Officer at the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), a business unit of South African Tourism. In total, she has more than 12 years’ experience in senior management to the SANCB having come to South African Tourism from her position as Head of the Conventions Bureau and Events at Cape Town Routes Unlimited (CTRU) where she gained stellar experience in developing and managing competitive, creative bids to win business tourism and other big event bids for that city. Kotze-Nhlapo comes from the Free State and holds a BA in Political Science and BA Honours degree in International Political Relations, both from the University of the Free State.
For more information, contact EXSA on email: info@exsa.co.za or call us on 071 611 0164.