Set the stage, the energy is obvious, and the room is full of expectations, when industry leaders gathered on February 25 at Leonardo in Thornton for the official launch breakfast at the 2025 Women’s Awards Ceremony. Hosted by Shanna Jacobsen and represented by 4Mal Media Management, owned by Antois-Leigh Nepgen, Morning is an inspiring celebration of excellence, collaboration and empowerment and in the conference, incentives, conference and exhibition (mouse) industry.

Celebrate and connect the morning
Shanna welcomed the attendees with enthusiasm and enthusiasm, dedicated to the morning to respect the tone of outstanding women who have shaped the rat industry. Recognizing the power of connections and networks, she highlights how these relationships can play a role in moving the industry forward, especially over the past five challenging years.

“The reality is that without our connections, our collaboration would be impossible because our network and relationships are everything in our work,” she said. “It’s the first reason to ensure we receive word-of-mouth recommendations and the first reason to make us a game-changing proposal or offer.”

With this powerful message, this year’s “Female Mouse Award” theme was unveiled: Sheroes – Connectors and Collaborators.

Introduction of 2025 women in the Rat Award Judges Group
One of the main highlights of the morning was the announcement of this year’s respected panel of judges who carefully selected their expertise and contributions to the mouse industry. As their names call, each judge received enthusiastic applause:

Lindile Khumalo
The founder of Niche Partners is known for her thought leadership and dedication to the development of the African mouse market.

Angelique Smith
Owner of Event Comprehensive, Senior Event Management Expert and Women at the 2022 Global Travel Awards.

Ellen Oosthuizen
Vice Chairman of the PCO Alliance Network and owner of Bebes Events and Promotions, a staunch in the industry, known for its leadership and organizational expertise.

John Arvanitakis
Chat’r Xperience owner and chair of the event Green Forum, a key voice for sustainability and specialization at the event.

Thembi is better than msimang
Tourvest Mice’s COO is an executive with extensive experience in travel and event management.

Special Addresses and Key Announcements
Powerful speech Bongiwe doThe Director of Business Development and Support Services at the South African National Conference Board (SANCB), strengthens the importance of recognizing women who are pushing the mouse industry forward. after, Nonnie CubekaThe Executive Director of the Gauteng Conference and Events Bureau shared her insights on the continued development of women in the mouse awards and the crucial role women have in shaping the industry.

The event also marks 2025 Women’s Award Ceremony Categoryreflects the changing landscape of the industry. This year’s categories include:

Technology Adopter of the Year
Sustainability Champion of the Year
Small Business Owner of the Year
Annual Service Provider
Annual Rewards Planner
Annual PCO
Exhibition Organizer of the Year
Representative of the year
Association of the Year
Rising Star of the Year
Male Supporter of the Year
Collaborator of the Year
Mouse Industry Leader of the Year
Lifetime Achievement Award

The nomination was officially opened at the event and is scheduled to be held on June 26. Clear guidelines have been established to ensure a transparent and equitable selection process, and encourage self-nominated individuals and peers who all recognize colleagues. You can nominate here: Women in MICE PORTAL.

Inspire and authorize meetings
Ending the morning on an inspiring note, Nikki Bushaward-winning speaker and thought leader, delivered a dynamic speech “Which jacket are you wearing now?” Her speech celebrates personal and professional growth, resonates with the audience, reminding them of the resilience, adaptability and determination that defines women in the industry.

When the event ended, Shanna expressed her heartfeltness to key partners, including South African National Conference Office and Gauteng Conference and Events Bureautheir unwavering support ensures the continued success of women in the Rat Award.

Launching breakfast is not only an announcement, but also a powerful testament to the strength, innovation and leadership of women in the mouse industry. With the exciting award season, the call is clear: nominate, celebrate and commemorate the incredible women who have made the industry thrive!

Sponsor and Partner Credits will be transferred to:
South Africa National Conference Board (SANCB) – Strategic Partner
Gauteng Tourism Board – Destination Partner
Old Hotel – Leonardo – Venue Partner
StrongPR Marketing & Events – Video and Photo Sponsors
Unlimited Events Group – Decoration Partners

Candy Bags and Gift Sponsors:
Hotel junxtion
African Hill Inn and Safari
Alcohol
My resort
PCO Alliance Network
Krispy Kreme
Event Comprehensive

Please note the date, time and other announcements of the August 2025 award ceremony. Sponsorship and collaboration opportunities are now open. If you have any questions or are willing to participate, please contact Antois-Leigh: antois-leigh@4mal.co.za