Dr Lisa Welthagen, Lecturer at the Department of Tourism Management, has been appointed on the board of CEPA.
CEPA is a special interest group within SACIA, which represents event industry professionals working across multiple event genres, including business, entertainment and sport.
It exists to provide clearly defined career pathways for individuals working in event management; to hold members accountable to a professional code of conduct; to encourage a commitment to lifelong learning amongst all industry players; to embrace a commitment to international standards and best practice; to protect the public against unethical and/or unprofessional behaviour of certified practitioners; and to work with quality councils and training providers to ensure academic and vocational training is relevant to the needs of industry.
According to Dr Welthagen, it is essential to have academic representation on the Council, since there is a desperate need to close the gap between industry and academia. “I will contribute to CEPA by promoting the special interest group within SACIA as well as be a champion for event professionals and event industry excellence,” she said.
“In addition, I will focus on promoting high standards of professionalism within the events industry and promoting signature designations; taking forward the continuation of professional development within the industry; and shaping the future of event management in South Africa,” added Dr Lisa.