The theme for the 2019 YPO EDGE in Cape Town is the Life of RE_, drawing comparisons between the continuously evolving tech world and how CEOs — as digital consuming citizens — can lean in to emulate this process of constant upgrade and improvement by re-skilling, re-tooling, re-booting and re-inventing themselves.
The events bring together YPO chief executives from more than 80 countries to find inspiration and learning from one another and from world-renowned thought leaders who will be discussing innovations and issues in business, science, technology, philanthropy and the humanities. It is estimated that the event will contribute R80,000,000 to the Cape’s economy.
"YPO is more than an organisation representative of the best of the world’s rising business elite. We are a learning organisation, dedicated to the development of leadership skills, the exchange of ideas and improvement of interpersonal skills," commented Paul Berman, host city chair for the 2019 YPO GLC EDGE.
"Both the YPO EDGE and GLC offer an ideal opportunity for business leaders around the globe to gather in person and take their leadership to the next level."
This is the second time Cape Town will host the YPO EDGE and GLC. The value of the bid has also been recognised by the South African National Convention Bureau - who supports the bid through its subvention fund. The fund is set-up to attract international meetings to South Africa.
Cape Town executive mayor, Patricia de Lille added: "It is a great honour for the Cape Town to be selected as the host country for this premium event for the second time. Year on year, we have affirmed our status as the events capital of Africa. The City is creating an enabling environment for sectors like events to grow and create even more jobs for our residents. Together we are making this city even greater."
"Events like the YPO EDGE and Global Leadership Conference provide a significant boost to not only creating economic impact but growing our local knowledge economy leaving legacies beyond the conference. The event serves as a prime opportunity to showcase the Cape as a business, trade, investment and travel destination, offering a wide variety of unforgettable activities. We look forward to welcoming delegates from across the globe, and encourage them to make the most of the unique experiences our beautiful province has to offer," said Tim Harris, Wesgro CEO.
Minister of economic opportunities, Alan Winde added: "Hosting the YPO Global Leadership Conference for the second time is a feather in the Western Cape’s cap and a real vote of confidence in our conferencing and business tourism services. We look forward to welcoming the 3,000 young CEOS to Cape Town next year, learning from what they have to say, and showing them what the province has to offer from a business and a tourism perspective."
