International Professional Image Association Launched

A national association that will focus on Image Consulting industry has been launched in Cape Town. The IPIA (International Professional Image Association) was created, by the industry, for the industry in South Africa and is run by experienced Image Consultant professionals and experts who not only sit on the advisory board but, the majority of them, who are also a part of the task team in the process of registering image consulting with SETA for a National qualification.

At the helm of the launch is the IPIA Board: Aletté Winckler (Finance and Audit); Angela Perdichizzi (Legal and Compliance); Pontsho Manzi (Marketing, PR and Brand Management); Marina Prinsloo (Curriculum/ Educator Assessment) and Antoinette Greyling (Administration, Operations and Management).

The IPIA head office is based in Cape Town and operates on a national level throughout South Africa and other African territories.

The IPIA is working towards becoming the Image Consultant Professional Body recognized by SAQA as well as Services SETA and other major role players that influence our industry.
IPIA is dedicated to providing a forum where organisations and individuals can interact, having a common goal of professional and business development, service excellence, and continuous improvement.

IPIA’s goal is to provide information on matters affecting the Image Consultant industry including amongst others: industry standards, best practices, product information, templates, tools, training and development, networking opportunities, events on current issues facing the industry, case studies, and award programmes.

As such IPIA is working towards a platform for the upgrading of skills and knowledge. Professional development refers to skills and knowledge attained for both personal development and career advancement.

According to ABEEDA & SETA recommendation the qualifications review team will be made up from IPIA members to assist with prior learning and experience qualification.

The image industry includes professionals such as fashion designers or buyers, stylists, image consultants, fashion journalists, beauticians, hair stylists, make-up artists, dieticians, wellness and fitness instructors, plastic surgeons, bridal consultants and more.

Today the need for such an association is greater than ever as the image industry continues to evolve and grow more complex.

IPIA Director for Marketing, PR and Branding Ms Pontsho Manzi said the association will work to set industry standards that benefit all image consulting services and help members network and build partnerships to enhance their businesses.

For more detailed information about IPIA Membership, Benefits and upcoming events, visit www. ipiaassociation.org

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