Guy Hedderwick, Managing Director of QA Venue Solutions Rwanda, has become the first African to chair the Stadiums Committee of the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM).

Hedderwick was elected to the position during the 101st IAVM VenueConnect Annual Conference and Trade Show, held in Indianapolis, United States, from August 9 to 12.

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IAVM Stadiums Committee brings together professionals focused on advancing standards, best practices and professional development in stadium management.

Hedderwick said the appointment will help connect Rwanda and Africa&039;s growing venue industry with global expertise, certification and mentorship.

"Our ambition is to develop world-class venues alongside world-class African professionals to manage them. Through our partnership with IAVM, we want to expand education, certification and mentorship programmes in Rwanda and across the region,” he said.

The operator manages some of Rwanda's major sports and entertainment venues, including BK Arena, Amahoro Stadium and Zaria Court within Kigali Sports City, as well as Nyandungu Eco-Park.

According to the company, its venues have hosted more than 600 events over the past six years, attracted more than $30 million in private investment and generated over $15 million in sponsorship value.

The Kigali Sports City precinct represents more than $300 million in government investment, according to QA Venue Solutions.

The operator said its venue management activities support Rwanda's sports and tourism economy through employment creation and local skills development.

During the same conference in Indianapolis, Aaron Gaga, Amahoro Stadium Venue Manager, earned the Certified Venue Professional (CVP) designation.

"[The certification] reflects the journey we are on as a company and as a country, building world-class venue management expertise as Rwanda positions itself as a regional hub for sports and entertainment,” Gaga said.