EO Ignite 2026 Brings 12 Chapters Together for Three Days of Learning, Connection, and Growth

From 10-12 June, 250 members gathered in the Cape Winelands, in Franschhoek, South Africa for EO Ignite 2026, a three-day regional event hosted by EO Cape Town that brought together members from 12 chapters across the Middle East, Pakistan, and Africa (MEPA) region and beyond.

Members from EO Dubai, EO Uganda, EO China, EO Singapore, EO Jeddah, EO Barcelona, EO Tanzania, EO Cape Town, EO Johannesburg, EO Durban, EO MEPA Bridge, and EO Los Angeles came together to strengthen relationships, exchange diverse perspectives, and embrace EO's shared commitment to learning and personal growth.

Held in Franschhoek, South Africa, EO Ignite centered on the theme "Ignite the ExtraOrdinary," featuring 13 TED-style presentations, immersive experiences, and meaningful opportunities for members to connect. The program included a diverse lineup of speakers, including Candice Mama, Harris III, Michael Charton, Gabi Lowe, Khaya Dlanga, Theo Baloyi, Alison Botha, Nathan Maingard, Chris Potgieter, and Shani Kay, each sharing experiences designed to challenge perspectives and inspire new ways of thinking.

"I joined the Ignite team to contribute. Instead, I leave with new friendships, new lessons, a broader perspective, and a deeper appreciation for the power of this community. That is the thing about EO. The return is rarely what you expect, but it is almost always greater than what you put in."                                                                                                                                                                                      - Kerina Govender (EO Cape Town), Ignite committee lead

For Brett Wener of EO Cape Town, the experience reinforced the power of vulnerability and authentic connection. "Experiencing Ignite was one of the most real, authentic experiences I can recall. The human connections and stories of perseverance, successes, failures and vulnerability were extraordinary. I have learned so much. I feel like my value extraction was immeasurable, and my personal growth was in overdrive. Presently, I feel like I can change the world."

Miranda Naiman of EO Tanzania highlighted the enduring spirit of curiosity that defines EO. "Ten years into EO, and the #Thirst4Learning remains as strong as ever. Grateful to EO Cape Town for hosting an unforgettable Ignite and to fellow members who continue to inspire, challenge, and support one another."

EO Ignite continues to connect members from across the MEPA region and beyond, creating opportunities to learn from one another and build meaningful relationships. Information about EO Ignite 2027 will be announced soon.