Ellen Oosthuizen, Chair at Professional Conference Organisers Alliance, has handed over the SA Events Council (SAEC) Chairmanship to EXSA (Exhibition and Events Association of Southern Africa) Chair, Gill Gibbs, for the next term of office.

Gibbs heads up EXSA, the association for exhibition and event suppliers, venues, role-players and service providers.

With over 23 years’ experience in the industry, she attributes her success to having worked with, and been mentored by, some worthy industry stalwarts, from her initial introduction in the events organising sector, to that of exhibition and event design, manufacturing, supply, implementation and services. 

Raylene Johnson steps up as SAEC Vice Chair, taking over from Glenton De Kock, CEO of SAACI. She is a small-business owner with an events, catering and hiring company, and is CEO of the Township Events Business Council (TEBCO-SA) which aims to create sustainable solutions to industry challenges and unites the township events industry.

“Gill’s skills, knowledge and expertise will take her beyond her call of duty,” says Oosthuizen. “We have seen her passion for the industry in the way she has been fighting tirelessly for the sector and her humble and honest approach is much appreciated. I know she will carry our banner with pride during her term as Chairperson.”

Oosthuizen added: “Raylene’s expertise and her position as CEO of TEBCO-SA will close the gap between the township events industry and our other segments. It has been a pleasure seeing how busy TEBCO-SA has been over the past six months despite the challenges, and attending events in Soweto representing the SAEC has been enriching.”