As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, SAACI is proud to highlight the emerging voices shaping the future of the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry. In this in-depth Q&A, we speak with Lerato Kgengoe, a member of SAACI’s newly launched Youth Council, about her journey into the events sector, the challenges she’s navigating as a young professional, and the transformative trends she sees on the horizon.
1. What initially sparked your interest in the MICE and events industry, and what keeps you engaged today?
My interest in the MICE and events industry began while studying Tourism Development and Management at university. I was drawn to the dynamic nature of events and how they intersect with destination development, culture, and economic impact. What keeps me engaged today is the creativity and constant evolution of the industry.
“No two events are the same, and I enjoy the challenge of problem-solving, creating memorable experiences, and seeing the tangible results of our work.”
2. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced or foresee facing as a young professional in this industry, and how are you navigating them?
One of the biggest challenges has been proving credibility and gaining trust as a young professional, especially when working with senior stakeholders or high-profile clients. To navigate this, I’ve focused on consistently delivering high-quality work, being prepared, and staying up to date with industry trends.
Another challenge is managing burnout due to the fast-paced nature of events, so I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries and prioritising time management.
3. How do you see the MICE and events industry evolving in the next 5-10 years, particularly concerning sustainability and inclusivity?
I believe sustainability and inclusivity will become non-negotiable pillars of event planning. We’re already seeing a shift toward eco-conscious practices, like reducing single-use materials and choosing sustainable venues. Inclusivity will also be central to ensuring that events are accessible and represent diverse voices and perspectives. Additionally, I see technology playing a key role in driving these changes, from virtual participation options to AI-assisted planning for better accessibility.
4. What skills or areas of expertise do you believe are most crucial for young professionals to develop to thrive in the current and future MICE and events landscape?
Adaptability, project management, and digital literacy are key. The industry is changing rapidly, and being able to adapt to new tools and formats – like hybrid events – is essential. Communication skills, both written and interpersonal, are also vital, as so much of our work involves coordinating with different teams and stakeholders. Lastly, understanding data analytics is becoming increasingly important to measure impact and improve attendee engagement.
5. In what ways do you believe technology can be further leveraged to enhance the attendee experience and streamline event operations?
Technology can enhance the attendee experience through personalisation like apps that suggest sessions based on interests or by facilitating seamless check-ins and networking. Augmented reality, AI-driven chatbots, and immersive virtual platforms are also opening new doors. On the operations side, tech can streamline everything from registration and logistics to real-time analytics and feedback collection, making events more efficient and data-driven.
6. How important do you think networking and mentorship are for career growth in this industry, and what strategies do you use to build your professional network?
Networking and mentorship are incredibly important in the MICE and events industry. Much of the work comes from relationships and referrals, and having mentors can help guide your professional development. I actively attend industry events, join professional associations, and maintain an active presence on LinkedIn. I also reach out to peers and mentors for advice or collaboration opportunities it’s about being intentional and consistent.
7. Can you share an example of an innovative or impactful event you’ve been involved in or witnessed that inspired you, and what made it stand out?
In 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, I was part of a large-scale hybrid conference that combined in-person and virtual elements seamlessly. What stood out was how inclusive it was, offering multilingual support, real-time accessibility features, and interactive elements for remote attendees.
“It proved that with the right planning and tech integration, events can be more engaging and reach wider audiences than ever before.”
It inspired me to think bigger and more creatively about what’s possible.
8. What advice would you give to other young people considering a career in the MICE and events industry?
Start where you are and be open to learning. The MICE and events industry is hands-on, and every experience counts whether it’s volunteering, interning, or taking on small projects. Be proactive, stay curious, and never underestimate the value of professionalism and reliability. Also, embrace continuous learning this industry rewards those who adapt, innovate, and bring fresh energy to the table.