After the finalists were selected and announced by the NMBBEA committee in August 2022, the work leading to the Gala Dinner on 1 November continued. This week, 13 and 14 September, marked phase 1 judging, as finalists were video recorded and interviewed about
themselves and their business journeys. The video-recordings were also an opportunity for all finalists to introduce what they offer, and share their achievements and the challenges they have faced and overcome, in front of the committee, who will show the clips to the judges of each category.
Amongst the finalists on day 1, there were eminent companies such as Centrestage, which has been part of the business events industry for over 25 years. Their representative Gary conversed about the services they package for corporates and the customization of packages
for any company that requires event entertainment services. The variety of the finalists ranged from business-tourism suppliers, to events compliance consulting and entertainers.
Day 2 also turned out to be a huge success as all the finalists who were scheduled for filming showed up and delivered. Amongst them were Cheryl Reynolds, Boast Events, PE St George’s Club, The Beach Hotel, Hospitality Consult Group and others. Renowned local magician Brandon Peel shared his sentiments about the awards and said "I appreciate being nominated, as this kind of event is a rare platform to find in my industry - as a magician and entertainer I do not remember being recognized in this manner. I appreciate that the awards are putting a spotlight to our craft and businesses. I'm sure with the exposure we get from here more companies will know about us and our services," he added.
Visual photographer Brian Juma from 5D Global VR is a young and fervent young man who has more than 10 years of experience traveling the world to advance his video graphic career. He told us that he has found the awards to be interesting, and he is looking forward to editing and share the final product. "When I heard about my involvement as a videographer for the awards I was excited. I told myself this is another chance for me to bring my unique and creative mind to the table. I started by making sure I give my lights colours that match with the NMBBEA brand" he added.
The NMBBEA committee also noted how finalists were delighted to meet each other in person, as some knew one another only via social media. The interviews allowed many attendees to meet, network and exchange business contacts, resulting in new business leads during the two days.
"We want to thank Fitch & Leeds for their professional setup and drinks, Above and Beyond, the cameraman who spent the two days with us making sure we capture all needed content, the Boardwalk for granting us space to accommodate our finalists, and all who have made the two days a success," added Michelle Brown who is a member of the awards committee.
For more information: info@nmbbea.co.za