FABI recently hosted 40 researchers from seven countries, as part of the 'Mycobiomics' project was funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (RISE) under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant. While the core of the Meeting focused on advancing fungal research, the week also offered participants opportunities to engage in social and cultural activities alongside the scientific programme.

The meeting opened with a welcome function at Future Africa, creating space for informal networking. Later in the week, delegates were given guided tours of FABI and the broader University of Pretoria campus, including visits to key research facilities. Department of Chemistry PhD students Wiehan Rudolph and Reinard Klopper led visits to the UPLC facility and the NMR lab, overseen by Prof. Vinesh Maharaj, explaining how these tools support research in natural products discoveries from plants. At the Javett Art Centre, delegates explored South Africa’s rich cultural legacy through a private viewing of two exhibitions: National Treasures: The Mapungubwe Gold Collection and Bokgabo ba Mašela: Art of Textiles, which offered valuable insight into South Africa’s cultural heritage. The week concluded with a visit to the Pilanesberg National Park. Close encounters with an elephant and rhino added a memorable note to the trip, especially for those visiting the region for the first time.

These activities complemented the scientific discussions and helped build stronger connections among researchers. The combination of academic exchange and cultural engagement made for a well-rounded experience, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.