Archive for March 2026

South Africa’s events and technical services industry will gather at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand on Friday, 20th March 2026 for a National Events and Technical Sector Consultation, convened by the Events and Technical Association of South Africa (ETASA).

The consultation follows the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture’s call for the culture and creative industries to organize themselves into structured sector bodies, as part of government’s broader framework recognizing 17 sectors within the cultural and creative industries.

Within this framework, the events and technical services sector have emerged as one of the critical industries supporting the delivery of festivals, exhibitions, conferences, concerts, public celebrations, and cultural programs across South Africa.

The consultation will bring together industry practitioners, sector organizations, venue operators, event organisers, technical production specialists, and institutional representatives from across the country, creating a national platform for engagement on the future of the sector.

Participants will engage in structured dialogue on key issues affecting the industry, including:

• Sector coordination and industry representation
• Capacity building and professional development
• Policy alignment within the creative economy
• Technical infrastructure and event production ecosystems
• Industry sustainability and sector growth opportunities
• Collaboration across the broader cultural and creative industries

The outcomes of the consultation will contribute towards the development of a national consultation report and sector recommendations, capturing the perspectives and proposals of industry stakeholders.

In addition to the consultation discussions, the event will also create space for companies and organisations operating within the events ecosystem to showcase their services, products, and technologies, allowing stakeholders to engage directly with practitioners shaping the industry.

Speaking ahead of the consultation, Board Member of ETASA, highlighted the importance of strengthening coordination within the sector. “Following the Minister’s call for the cultural and creative sectors to organise themselves, this consultation provides an important opportunity for practitioners and stakeholders within the events and technical industry to come together, share experiences, and contribute towards strengthening the sector’s future,” said Mafokate. “The events industry plays a critical role in supporting South Africa’s cultural economy, and this consultation allows the sector to collectively reflect on its challenges, opportunities, and future direction.”

Stakeholders and practitioners interested in participating in the consultation are encouraged to register in advance.

Event Details

Event: National Events and Technical Sector Consultation
Date: Friday, 20th March 2026
Time: 08:30 – 16:00
Venue: Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand

Practitioners Registration

Participants can register using the following link: https://forms.gle/bSQ7uY7ZG7A3ywst7

Participation is limited, and organizations are encouraged to nominate representatives to attend the consultation.

Media Accreditation / Registration: Media houses can register using the following link: https://forms.gle/oGbRbYBu4RuiMGqC6

International R&B icon Karyn White is set to headline a powerful live performance in Durban as part of the ICONIC GLOBAL Advocacy Concert Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), a purpose-driven evening that blends music, advocacy and community action.

Taking place on 4 April at the prestigious Olive Convention Centre, the concert will bring together music lovers, activists, partners and change-makers for a night dedicated to raising awareness and mobilising support against GBVF.

Presented by Dante’s Premiere Lounge in partnership with Noble Lounge, the event signals a bold commitment from the lifestyle and entertainment sector to use culture as a catalyst for social impact.

Best known for timeless hits including Superwoman, Romantic and Secret Rendezvous, Karyn White’s music has long celebrated strength, independence and emotional resilience, themes that align with the concert’s advocacy focus.

Her Durban performance promises an intimate yet electrifying live experience, giving fans the opportunity to witness a global R&B legend while contributing to a meaningful cause.

The ICONIC GLOBAL Advocacy Concert positions music as more than entertainment; it becomes a platform for conversation, solidarity and collective responsibility in addressing GBVF. Tickets include access to the full concert experience, with limited availability expected due to high demand and the exclusivity of the performance.

The concert forms part of ICONIC GLOBAL’s broader mission to create experiences that drive awareness, community engagement and support for causes impacting South Africans, particularly women and vulnerable communities.

By bringing an internationally respected voice like Karyn White to Durban, organisers aim to amplify the message that GBVF requires sustained attention, collaboration and cultural leadership. The evening will also provide a space for reflection, connection and celebration of resilience through music.

Tickets are available online via Quicket from R500. Early purchase is encouraged due to limited capacity.

One night. One stage. One legend.

National Events Industry Stakeholders to Gather in Midrand for Sector Consultation Following Minister’s Call for Industry Organisation

ICONIC GLOBAL Presents Advocacy Concert Against GBVF Featuring Karyn White in Durban