IAE Shines at the Africa MICE Summit in Kenya

The IAE team had the pleasure of attending the Africa MICE Summit (AMS) in Mombasa, Kenya, a leading platform bringing together professionals from across Africa’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

Held over five days at the Tembo International Convention Centre, the Summit took place under the theme “Building Africa’s MICE Ecosystem for Trade, Investment & Innovation.” The programme provided an exciting mix of professional development, industry dialogue, business matchmaking and networking, creating valuable opportunities to connect, share ideas and explore the future of Africa’s business events industry.

A particularly special highlight came on 2 October, when the Summit hosted its prestigious Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony. IAE was honoured to be nominated in three categories: Best Event Supplier – Southern Africa, Best AV & Tech, and Leading Business Event Organiser.

We are incredibly proud to share that IAE was announced as the winner of the Leading Business Event Organiser award! This achievement is a wonderful recognition of the passion, creativity and commitment that our team brings to every event and client experience.

Our colleagues, Sibongile and Olona, proudly accepted the award on behalf of IAE and represented the company at this memorable occasion. Beyond the Summit, they also had the opportunity to explore the vibrant town of Mombasa, experiencing its unique culture, beautiful surroundings and the hospitality that makes the destination such an exciting offering for business and incentive travel.

This recognition is a celebration of the entire IAE team and an inspiring reminder of what we can achieve together. We are honoured to be recognised among Africa’s leading MICE professionals and look forward to continuing to raise the standard of business events across the continent.

Rainbow Drive at Tembisa

As part of our Women’s Day tribute, Rainbow Drive spent a meaningful day with the girls at Tembisa Children’s Home, creating a space filled with connection, laughter, encouragement and care. The day was centred around reminding young girls of their worth, potential and the importance of believing in themselves. Through meaningful conversations, shared moments and thoughtful care packages, Rainbow Drive celebrated the incredible strength and resilience of young women while giving back to the community. It was a beautiful opportunity to plant seeds of confidence, kindness and hope for the next generation.

Get to know the IAE Team

In this month’s newsletter, we feature Head of production Jacques Steenberg.

How long have you been working for the company?
I’ve been working with the company for about 15 years. It’s been an incredible journey.

Who was your role model growing up?
I think I’ve had quite a few role models over the years, but my biggest influence was my father. He taught me the importance of working hard, being dependable and, most importantly, never being afraid to learn something new. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career.

Where do you draw your inspiration to work from?
For me, inspiration comes from everywhere. I’m constantly looking at technology, music, film, design, Artificial intelligence (AI) and even things happening in everyday life. I love taking an idea and asking myself, “How can we make this bigger, better or more exciting?”

What’s your secret talent that no one knows about you?
I’m not sure how much of a secret it is anymore! 😂
I’m an 8th-degree black belt in Japanese martial arts, and I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to Japan nine times to train with and learn from some incredible Japanese masters.

What has been the most memorable moment at the company so far?
There have been quite a few, but I think the most memorable moments are always those where you stand backstage, look at the finished production and realise how much work went into making everything come together. Seeing an audience react to something that you helped create is incredibly rewarding. 😊