Across the South African business events industry, collaboration and leadership remain key drivers of innovation and growth. Women in MICE is an initiative dedicated to recognising, empowering and elevating women within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, while creating meaningful opportunities for connection, visibility and professional advancement.
Developed to celebrate excellence and foster long-term industry impact, Women in MICE provides a platform where professionals from across the events value chain — including convention centres, venues, associations, suppliers, planners and destination representatives — can come together to share experiences, recognise achievement and inspire future leaders.
A Global Conversation with Local Impact
As the business events industry continues to evolve, diversity and inclusive leadership are increasingly recognised as essential elements of sustainable growth. Women in MICE aligns with this global conversation by creating spaces where leadership is celebrated, achievements are highlighted, and collaboration is encouraged across sectors and regions.
The initiative aims to not only acknowledge individual success stories but also strengthen the broader industry by encouraging knowledge-sharing, mentorship and networking opportunities that contribute to a more resilient and future-focused MICE landscape.
Women in MICE Breakfast: Setting the Stage for Collaboration
The Women in MICE Breakfast, taking place on 15 April 2026 at WTM Africa in Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, serves as a key gathering point for industry professionals to connect, engage and collaborate. Designed as a high-level networking and engagement platform, the breakfast brings together leaders and emerging professionals to discuss industry trends, celebrate progress and strengthen partnerships.
The event also marks an important milestone in the annual programme, with the official announcement of the judging panel and award categories, alongside the opening of nominations for the Women in MICE Awards. It sets the tone for a year of recognition and industry engagement while encouraging participation from across the business events community.
Women in MICE Awards: Celebrating Industry Excellence
The journey culminates at the Women in MICE Awards, taking place on 5 August 2026 at Monte de Dios in Pretoria, South Africa. The awards honour outstanding individuals and organisations who demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence within the MICE industry.
From emerging talent to established industry leaders, the awards recognise those who are making meaningful contributions to the growth and development of business events. Beyond recognition, the programme serves as a platform to inspire future leadership and showcase the depth of talent driving the industry forward.
As Women in MICE continues to grow, the initiative remains focused on building a platform that supports leadership development, collaboration and industry recognition. Through its events and ongoing engagement, it aims to create meaningful opportunities for connection while contributing to the long-term advancement of the business events sector.
In an industry built on bringing people together, Women in MICE stands as a reminder that when leadership is celebrated and inclusion is prioritised, the entire industry benefits — locally, regionally and globally.
For more information please visit: https://theplannerguru.co.za/women-in-mice/
