Every year, the association's international convention and property exhibition draws the heavyweights of South Africa's commercial and industrial property industry together to brainstorm, share best practice and network in an environment of camaraderie and learning.
"This year marks a significant milestone for us and we intend to celebrate," says SAPOA CEO Neil Gopal. "The association was established in 1966, with 20 members and has grown into a powerful industry association with over 1200 corporate members throughout the property sector."
Sponsored by gold partners Liberty Properties, Growthpoint Properties and JHI, the programme already reflects the mood of celebration.
"We are extremely pleased that Richard Quest has accepted our invitation to MC and look forward to hearing his insights."
In addition to being CNN's foremost international business correspondent, Quest presents Quest Means Business, the definitive word on how consumers earn and spend their money. He was also central to CNN's coverage of the British Royal Wedding in 2011.
With the focus on covering a wide range of sessions on the commercial property industry, the line-up of confirmed speakers also includes Judge Dikgang Moseneke, Deputy Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court of SA, Elias Masilela, CEO of the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), columnist and political commentator Justice Malala; political analyst Tony Leon; and economist JP Landman.
As a member-driven organisation, the association's purpose is to promote the collective interests of both members and the property sector as a whole.
Part of this sector-wide focus is the presentation of two awards at the Convention: the annual SAPOA Property Journalism Awards, which recognise excellence in property journalism; and the SAPOA Innovative Excellence Awards, which highlight exceptional property developments.
"The event features many relevant and thought-provoking local and international speakers and is the ultimate networking event for any property professional - offering unrivalled opportunities to engage with industry leaders," concludes Gopal.
For more information, go to www.sapoaconvention.co.za.
