We recently embarked on an electrifying roadshow in partnership with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) to reinforce our commitment to members and communicate the association’s new chapter. Setting out with vibrant energy, the roadshow kicked-off in Johannesburg, heading to the coastal beauty of Durban, iconic landmarks in Cape Town, and the hidden gems of George and Graskop – a testament to our impressive footprint across the country.
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- Mpume Mabuza – AAVEA President and Board Chairperson
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- Hulisani Thabela and Sibusiso Dlamini – AAVEA Board Members
Hosted as a series of engaging seminars, the roadshow saw over 150 enthusiastic visitor attraction experts and industry leaders share insights and engage in refreshing dialogues about bettering the attractions industry. The roadshow provided an excellent platform for building meaningful relationships and partnerships to support the growth of the industry in Africa and beyond. Discussions delved into matters of financial support, policy development and industry regulations for attractions.
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- Sindile Xulu – Tourism Investment Africa 360
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- Septi Bukula – Rendzo Network
The genuine interest demonstrated by local attractions for an association that represents their interests was encouraging, along with the pledged support and willingness to partner on projects aimed at advancing the industry. The opportunity to collectively work with the attractions community is one we don’t take for granted.
Our team was joined by Peter van der Schans, Executive Director of IAAPA EMEA and Jim Pattison Jr, Chairperson of IAAPA throughout the roadshow – a demonstration of the healthy partnership between our associations. The duo braved storms and early morning flights to exhibit their unwavering support and commitment to the betterment of attractions landscape. They also seized the opportunity to explore some of the country’s top attractions including Constitution Hill, uShaka Marine World, Table Mountain & Cable Car, The Strawberry Farm in George and the Graskop Gorge Lift Company.
AAVEA and IAAPA teams
“My heartfelt gratitude goes out to every visitor attraction who embraced this unforgettable experience. Your presence, passion, and active engagement made this journey truly rewarding. With your unwavering support, we pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the industry, together. Thank you for being the catalyst that made some lost hours of sleep well worth it” – Mpume Mabuza, AAVEA President and Board Chairperson.
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- Peter van der Schans – IAAPA EMEA
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- Sthembiso Dlamini – Gauteng Tourism Authority
Looking ahead, we’re excited about this new chapter and are hard at work to ensure the effectiveness of the AAVEA’s mandate. Plans in the pipeline include the , a joint AAVEA & IAAPA membership, and a roadshow in Africa as a build-up to the 2024 Attractions Africa Conference.
To find out more about the association and the work we do, get in touch with us at info@aavea.org.za Sign up for membership
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