Aquila Collection Showcases Cape Town at Global MICE Congress in Moscow
Aquila Collection Represents South Africa, Showcasing Cape Town and the Western Cape at Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition, in Moscow
December 2024, Cape Town, South Africa.
Aquila Collection, a premier tourism group based in Cape Town, South Africa, proudly represented South Africa—more specifically Cape Town and the Western Cape—at the recently concluded Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition, held on 16–17 December 2024 in Moscow. Invited by the Moscow City Government and the Moscow City Tourism Committee, Aquila Collection was led by its Commercial Officer, Mr Johan van Schalkwyk, joining a distinguished roster of government representatives, destination experts, and industry leaders from the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) as well as the wider Global South.
With over 1,300 delegates gathering for two days of intensive knowledge sharing, networking, and partnership-building, the second edition of the Congress further solidified Moscow’s stature as a global platform for advancing collaboration in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. Organised under the theme “Global Challenges and Trends of the MICE Industry: Towards Sustainable Development through the Prism of Experience and Knowledge of BRICS Countries and the Global South,” the forum provided a vital platform for Aquila Collection to underscore the allure and readiness of Cape Town and the Western Cape for international MICE events.
Aquila Collection’s Showcasing of Cape Town & The Western Cape
A standout feature of the Congress was the dedicated BRICS Lounges, where delegates engaged directly with tourism products and destinations from the BRICS bloc. Alongside prominent South African travel and hospitality brands such as Wild Horizons and Kerzner’s One & Only, Aquila Collection highlighted the region’s diversity, from Cape Town’s breathtaking landscapes to the Western Cape’s world-class infrastructure and natural splendour.
‘We take immense pride in representing South Africa in this distinguished global arena,’ said Mr van Schalkwyk. ‘It is a privilege to draw attention to Cape Town and the Western Cape’s unique potential—where one can experience a sunrise safari, savour a winelands lunch, and witness a sunset from atop one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Table Mountain, all in a single day.’
Expert Panel Contribution: “Territory of Impressions: How Unique Venues Influence Destination Choices?”
Mr van Schalkwyk further showcased the region’s distinctive offering during the case session “Territory of Impressions: How Unique Venues Influence Destination Choices?” alongside an international panel of high-profile industry figures, including:
- Sergey Ivanov, Chairman, State Committee on Tourism of the Republic of Tatarstan
- Natalia Naboychenko, Minister of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism of Primorye Region
- Nitin Mittal, Southern Co-ordinator, Network of Indian MICE Agents
- Anastasia Popova, First Deputy Director General for International and Industry Co-operation, Moscow Project Office for Tourism and Hospitality Development
Proudly Representing South Africa on the Global Stage
While reinforcing South Africa’s position as a key BRICS partner, Aquila Collection focused on its signature offerings from Cape Town and the Western Cape. The group’s commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism resonates strongly with the Congress’s emphasis on forward-thinking and eco-conscious MICE practices.
‘We are honoured to stand as ambassadors for both South Africa and Cape Town, demonstrating the myriad possibilities our region holds,’ Mr van Schalkwyk remarked. ‘From our leading conservation initiatives to our unrivalled gastronomic scene, Cape Town stands ready to host events that deliver unforgettable experiences to delegates.’
In an interview with the press, Mr van Schalkwyk offered heartfelt thanks to the Moscow City Tourism Committee for their warm reception of the South African delegation. He highlighted how privileged he felt to be in Moscow’s capital city, lauding the Congress as a ‘remarkable opportunity to connect with BRICS businesses and professionals, discussing ideas and potential ventures that will mutually benefit our regions across the globe.’
Aquila Collection’s participation underscores its broader role in enhancing South–South co-operation and presenting African destinations—particularly Cape Town and the Western Cape—as prime locales for memorable MICE events.
Johan Van Schalkwyk
Group Marketing and Trade Manager