What's Next with Aki Anastasiou

In this episode of What's Next with Aki Anastasiou, Aki sits down with Blu Label Unlimited co-founders and joint CEOs Brett and Mark Levy for an in-depth conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, innovation, and one of South Africa's most remarkable corporate turnaround stories. The Levy brothers reflect on their journey from selling car stereos while still in school to building Blu Label into a multi-billion-rand fintech and technology powerhouse. They unpack the difficult seven-year journey of rescuing Cell C from collapse, explain Blu Label's evolution beyond telecoms into fintech and energy, and reveal exciting new innovations including their upcoming integrated voucher platform and Blu Energy strategy. It's a candid and inspiring discussion about leadership, culture, risk-taking, and building businesses that solve real-world problems.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou is joined by Prof. Sabelile Tenza of North-West University and Dr. Richard Greenhill, Founder of SmartSigma AI, for a powerful discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping global healthcare systems. From overwhelmed hospitals and clinician burnout to diagnostic delays and fragmented care, the conversation highlights the immense pressures facing healthcare worldwide — and how AI is emerging as a critical tool to support, not replace, medical professionals. The guests unpack how AI can improve early diagnosis, reduce administrative burdens, and act as a “second set of eyes” for clinicians, ultimately enabling better patient outcomes. The discussion also explores the unique challenges and opportunities within South Africa and the broader African context, where resource constraints are driving innovative, mobile-first solutions. Prof. Tenza emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, patient trust, and local data relevance, while Dr. Greenhill highlights the need for adaptable skills, informed skepticism, and equitable AI deployment. Together, they paint a compelling picture of a future where technology and human expertise work hand-in-hand — ensuring healthcare systems are not only more efficient, but also more inclusive, ethical, and responsive to real-world needs.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Professor Nico van der Merwe – Deputy Director in the School of Accounting Sciences at North-West University – about the role of ethical, future-ready accountants in strengthening South Africa's financial systems. Nico reflects on his academic journey and the university's success in producing top-performing graduates, while highlighting how a lack of ethical financial oversight can lead to corporate failures, weakened public trust, and broader economic consequences. He emphasizes that accounting is not just technical, but deeply tied to responsibility, transparency, and accountability across both the private and public sectors. He also shares insights on how the profession is evolving in the age of AI, where automation is reshaping traditional roles and placing greater importance on critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and ethical leadership. Nico explains how NWU prepares students through challenging, real-world learning experiences that build resilience and integrated thinking. From developing corporate citizens to encouraging continuous professional development, he outlines how collaboration between education, industry, and government is essential to cultivating accountants who can drive sustainable growth and improve governance in South Africa.

In this episode of What's Next, Dell Technologies South Africa Vice President and Managing Director Habib Mahakian reflects on his 25-year journey in the technology industry, from studying computer engineering in Jordan to leading businesses across the Middle East and Africa. He shares how curiosity, problem-solving, and a passion for leadership shaped his career, while also discussing the early days of personal computing and the rapid evolution of technology over the past two decades. The conversation also explores leadership, artificial intelligence, and South Africa's growing importance in the global tech landscape. Habib highlights the country's strong infrastructure, talent, and innovation potential, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and continuous learning. Beyond business, he offers personal insights into balancing a demanding global career with family life.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Dillan Fernando – Chief Executive Officer at Tracker about how the company is redefining itself as a technology business built around customer care. Dillan explains why being in front of customers, understanding their real challenges, and delivering tailored data-driven solutions sits at the heart of Tracker's strategy. From B2C vehicle tracking to complex B2B fleet solutions, he shares how the company's expanded product portfolio is shaped directly by customer needs. The conversation explores innovations such as AI-powered analytics, advanced camera systems, in-cab alcohol detection, engine and fuel monitoring, and fully integrated end-to-end solutions. Dillan outlines his vision for Tracker as a technology-led organization that combines predictive intelligence, IoT capabilities, and meaningful data insights — while staying firmly committed to face-to-face engagement and a customer-first culture.

What does it take to lead a global technology business across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia—while navigating constant geopolitical shifts and fierce competition? In this episode, Neil Colquhoun, President of Epson META-CWA, shares a rare, inside look at scaling operations across 80+ countries. This conversation is for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers who want real insight into expansion strategy, regional prioritisation, and building relevance in emerging markets—especially across Africa. From investing in local talent and innovation hubs in Johannesburg to feeding customer insight directly into global R&D, you'll hear how technology, sustainability, and leadership intersect in practice. Colquhoun also breaks down how Epson is rethinking customer relationships, competing beyond price, and embedding a startup mindset inside a legacy global business. If you want a clearer view of how serious companies approach growth, innovation, and long-term value in complex markets, this is a conversation worth your time. Follow the show to stay ahead.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Bradley Sacks, CEO of Araxi, to unpack his remarkable journey from South Africa to the global financial stage. With decades of experience spanning law, investment banking, and technology, Sacks shares the formative lessons that shaped his career, the value of hard work and mentorship, and how his early exposure to business influenced his path. He also reflects on the creation of Capital Appreciation — South Africa's first SPAC — and its evolution into Araxi, a technology-driven business focused on enabling financial services at scale. The conversation dives into Araxi's strategy of building a resilient, enterprise-focused fintech ecosystem, including major acquisitions like African Resonance, Synthesis, and Pay@. Sacks explains how Araxi operates behind the scenes to power everyday transactions, from retail payments to banking apps, and highlights exciting innovations like tap-to-pay solutions for small businesses. He also shares insights on global expansion, the impact of rapid technological change, and why adaptability is key in today's uncertain world. This is a compelling look at how infrastructure, not just apps, is shaping the future of financial services.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Nazia Pillay – Managing Director for SAP Southern Africa about her journey within SAP and her leadership during a pivotal era of cloud, AI and digital transformation. From starting as a graduate consultant during a major platform transition to now steering SAP's regional strategy, Nazia reflects on how hands-on customer experience shaped her business mindset and why service-driven leadership remains central to her approach. The conversation explores SAP's evolution into Business AI, the power of enterprise data, and how long-standing customer partnerships position the company at the forefront of innovation. Nazia also shares candid insights on resilience, embracing failure, leading through change, and the importance of staying grounded — both in business and in life.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Alan Turnley-Jones – CEO at NTT DATA MEA about his 25-year journey from early IT enthusiast to leading one of the region's most influential technology businesses. Alan reflects on the evolution from Dimension Data to NTT DATA, how the organization has broadened its capabilities across cloud, consulting, applications, and AI, and why continuous reinvention is essential in a fast-changing industry. He also shares his vision for growth across the Middle East and Africa, emphasizing innovation, skills development, and long-term investment in emerging markets. From harmonizing global operations to disconnecting completely on a trek to Everest Base Camp, Alan offers thoughtful insights on leadership, curiosity, and the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to grow.

In this inspiring episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Smangele Nkosi, General Manager and Country Leader for South Africa at Cisco, to explore her remarkable journey through the ICT industry and the leadership lessons that shaped her career. From her early ambitions in healthcare to becoming a key figure in digital transformation, Nkosi shares how purpose, people, and trust have guided her path—and how technology continues to “heal” societies by creating access, opportunity, and connection. The conversation also dives into the transformative power of AI in South Africa and across the continent. Nkosi highlights how emerging technologies can help Africa leapfrog traditional development barriers, unlock economic growth, and expand access to education, healthcare, and markets. She outlines Cisco's vision for the future—spanning AI infrastructure, cybersecurity, and inclusive connectivity—while offering practical advice to young professionals on growth, resilience, and staying grounded in a fast-moving digital world.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Jorge Mendes – Chief Executive Officer at Cell C to discuss his journey from call centre agent in 1994 to leading one of South Africa's major telecommunications operators. Jorge shares how his early customer-facing experience shaped his leadership philosophy, his passion for rebuilding businesses, and why he believes in being an ally to customers rather than simply selling connectivity. He also opens up about the significant financial and operational challenges he inherited in 2023, and how Cell C has worked to restructure debt, strengthen network partnerships, rebuild trust, and reposition the brand for growth. It's a candid conversation about resilience, accountability, and the ambition to turn a once-struggling operator into a competitive and proudly customer-centric telecoms player.

AI-powered tracking without GPS sounds impossible—until you see how it's already transforming real-world operations. In this episode, Sigfox South Africa CEO Gregory Rood explains how next-generation IoT networks are redefining asset tracking in environments where traditional systems fail. From vehicle recovery in high-risk areas to monitoring critical infrastructure and logistics, the conversation unpacks how low-power, wide-area networks combined with AI and machine learning can locate assets even when GPS and GSM signals are jammed. You'll get a clear look at the technology behind Sigfox's “Bloodhound” system, how it uses signal triangulation and data analytics, and why this matters for businesses operating in complex, high-risk environments like South Africa. If you're interested in innovation, security, logistics, or the future of connected systems, this episode offers practical insight into how businesses can track smarter, reduce risk, and operate more efficiently.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Robert Koen, Managing Director of Amazon Sub-Saharan Africa, about building Amazon's online store in South Africa and the vision behind becoming the country's most loved retailer. Robert shares insights into Amazon's rapid growth, its focus on delivery precision, expanding product selection, and the importance of trust in winning over South African shoppers. He also highlights how partnerships and local innovation have helped the company reach customers across urban and rural areas alike. Beyond the business, Robert reflects on his journey from delivering newspapers as a child to leading one of the world's largest e-commerce brands in the region. He unpacks lessons from working abroad, the value of a learning mindset, and his passion for empowering South African entrepreneurs through platforms like Shop Mzansi. It's a conversation about resilience, leadership, and unlocking opportunity at scale.

In this episode of What's Next, host Aki Anastasiou speaks to Mmathebe Zvobwo, Director of Market Development for South Africa at Truecaller, about the alarming rise in spam and scam calls—and how technology is being used to fight back. With South Africans receiving billions of spam calls annually and losing over R40 billion to scams, Zvobwo explains how fraud has become an industrialised global problem driven by automation, VoIP, and AI. The discussion explores how Truecaller uses AI and its global community of over 500 million users to detect threats in real time, restore trust in communication, and protect users from increasingly sophisticated scams.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Yugen Naidoo, General Manager at Lenovo South Africa, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and purpose. From humble beginnings in a small town on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast to leading Lenovo's operations across Southern Africa, Yugen reflects on the formative moments that shaped his journey — including early activism, a passion for sport, financial setbacks, and the discipline that helped him rise through the ranks. He shares candid insights into evolving from a transactional to a transformational leader, navigating the uncertainty of COVID-19, and building a high-performance, people-first culture. Yugen also unpacks Lenovo's vision of democratizing technology through its pocket-to-cloud strategy. It's a powerful reminder that success is built on small wins, resilience, continuous learning, and leading with integrity.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Hector Beyers, CEO and founder of Codehesion, following the company's win at the prestigious MyBroadband Awards for Best Software Development Company. Hector shares what the recognition means for his team and unpacks the core philosophy behind Codehesion's success — combining strong technical execution with collaborative, client-focused partnerships to help South African businesses scale through high-quality, custom-built software. The conversation also explores the shifting software landscape, from subscription models versus custom ownership to the accelerating impact of AI on development speed and innovation. Hector explains why businesses spending heavily on licensing fees should reassess their strategy, how AI is unlocking faster and more powerful solutions, and why the right development partner can act as rocket fuel for growth in an increasingly competitive digital economy.

In this episode of What's Next, host Aki Anastasiou is joined by Mark Wayne, Head of Solutions at iOCO, and Greg McDonald, Sales Director at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, to unpack the “great VM reset” and what it means for organisations rethinking their virtualisation and cloud strategies. They discuss the rising cost pressures around traditional virtualisation, why hybrid-by-design is becoming essential for modern enterprises, and how businesses can unlock major savings through more flexible infrastructure, modern compute, and improved storage. The conversation also explores how HPE Morpheus, VM Essentials, and GreenLake can help organisations simplify operations, support AI and legacy workloads, and build a more agile, cost-effective cloud foundation for the future.

Healthbridge founder, chairman, and Chief Innovation Officer Gerrie van Zyl joins Business Talk to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare and why South Africa is well positioned to innovate in the sector. Speaking from Atlanta's Tech Square, one of the world's leading AI hubs, he explains how his team uses global innovation insights to build solutions for South Africa's healthcare system, while highlighting the country's growing AI creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. The conversation explores how AI can reduce administrative burdens for doctors, unlock valuable healthcare data responsibly, and expand access to quality care across South Africa. Gerrie also shares why healthcare is one of the most powerful levers for economic development, how AI could dramatically improve efficiency and patient outcomes, and why entrepreneurs and developers should see healthcare as one of the most exciting innovation opportunities of the next decade.

Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery Bank, joins the show to discuss the bank's strong interim results and the strategy driving its rapid growth. With client numbers, deposits, and revenue all rising sharply, Kallner explains how Discovery Bank's shared value model, full-service digital banking platform, and broader Discovery ecosystem are helping attract new customers and deepen engagement with existing ones. The conversation also explores Discovery Bank's vision of becoming a “super bank” by combining advanced digital banking, lifestyle integration, and data-driven personalization. Kallner shares how artificial intelligence, powerful security systems, and a scalable technology platform are enabling the bank to improve customer experience, strengthen fraud protection, and continue its ambitious growth trajectory.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Jason Oehley, Regional Sales Manager at Arctic Wolf, about why cyber security remains the number one risk facing businesses today. With South Africa ranked among the most targeted countries globally, Jason unpacks the latest threat trends, including the rise of data extortion, the continued impact of ransomware, and how attackers are increasingly “logging in” rather than breaking in. He also explains how AI is accelerating both cyber crime and cyber defense, forcing organizations to rethink how they approach resilience. The conversation explores why cyber security is shifting from a purely technical issue to a board-level financial discussion. Jason breaks down the importance of understanding cyber risk, building continuous security improvements, and balancing prevention with recovery through cyber insurance and warranties. For businesses of any size, the key takeaway is clear: cyber security is no longer just about protection — it's about resilience, measurable risk reduction, and being financially prepared for when an incident occurs.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Gregory Rood, CEO of Sigfox South Africa, about the powerful but often invisible role Sigfox plays in the Internet of Things ecosystem. As a zero-G network built for ultra-low power, long-range connectivity, Sigfox enables devices to operate for years on battery while collecting and transmitting critical data. From monitoring water levels and tracking assets to managing cold-chain medicine and supporting agriculture, the technology quietly powers thousands of real-world applications across South Africa. Gregory explains how Sigfox's nationwide network, recent infrastructure upgrades, and strong channel partner ecosystem are unlocking affordable IoT solutions for businesses of all sizes. The conversation also highlights impactful use cases in rural areas, including medical supply monitoring, wildlife safety, and water management, as well as opportunities for entrepreneurs to build locally relevant solutions. It's a compelling look at how connected data is driving efficiency, resilience, and innovation across industries.

In this episode, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Andre Nepgen, CEO of Discovery Green, to unpack the rapidly evolving renewable energy landscape in South Africa. Andre explains how Discovery Green procures large-scale wind and solar projects and wheels that clean energy to businesses, helping them reduce costs, lock in long-term price certainty, and lower carbon footprints. With electricity prices historically rising well above inflation, renewable energy is becoming a strategic advantage for companies looking to manage risk and stay competitive. The discussion covers why early adoption of long-term renewable PPAs is becoming urgent, how trader-led aggregation models are reducing risk compared to traditional one-to-one agreements, and why grid capacity constraints could soon limit access to new projects. They also explore the impact of AI-driven energy demand, shifting market regulations, rising input costs for solar panels, and South Africa's goal of reaching 40% renewable energy by 2030. If your business spends significantly on electricity, this conversation highlights why now is the time to rethink your energy strategy.

In this episode of What's Next, host Aki Anastasiou is joined by Justin Hume, Samsung South Africa's Vice President of Mobile Experience, to unpack the launch of the new Galaxy S26 range and what Samsung's latest AI upgrades mean for everyday users. They explore Samsung's on-device AI approach, the shift toward agentic AI assistants that work across apps, and the industry-first privacy display on the S26 Ultra designed to protect sensitive information in real time. Justin also highlights key camera improvements, Knox-powered security, South African availability and pre-order deals, and how the new Galaxy Buds 4 fit into a more intelligent, connected AI lifestyle.

In this episode, we sit down with Aliyah Allie, Executive Head at X, bigly labs by Dis-Chem, to explore how Dis-Chem is transforming from a traditional pharmacy retailer into a fully integrated health authority. Aliyah unpacks the role of Executive Head at X, bigly labs as Dis-Chem's innovation hub, driving progress across data, digital platforms, automation, and customer-centric design to improve healthcare access and affordability in South Africa. The discussion dives into the real structural barriers limiting healthcare access, the importance of partnerships between the private sector, government, and fintech, and how technology, data, and AI can be used responsibly without widening inequality. From simplifying customer journeys and modernising loyalty and insurance models to building trust through secure digital experiences, this conversation offers a forward-looking view of preventative, accessible, and human-centred healthcare.

RAM, SSDs, GPUs, CPUs — the tech building blocks behind everything from laptops to media players — are getting harder to source and more expensive by the week. On What's Next, host Aki Anastasiou is joined by Craig Nowitz (CEO) and Ryan Martyn (Co-founder, Sales & Marketing Director) from Syntech Distribution to unpack what's really behind the supply crunch — and why it's not a “COVID-style” blip. They explain how hyperscalers racing to build AI infrastructure are soaking up global capacity, pushing manufacturers toward higher-margin enterprise memory, and triggering sharp price increases that filter straight into South Africa's consumer and corporate IT budgets. The conversation also gets practical: what procurement teams should prioritise in 2026, why Windows 11 hardware readiness has become a security issue, and how businesses can adapt by moving faster, planning smarter, and considering alternative hardware choices. If you're responsible for IT upgrades — or you're wondering whether to buy now or wait — this episode lays out the market reality and the smartest moves to avoid getting caught out.

South Africa's energy crisis isn't just about keeping the lights on — it's about cost, strategy, and long-term competitiveness. This podcast cuts through the noise to explain how power, policy, and private innovation are reshaping business in real time. Hosted by Aki Anastasiou, the show is built for business leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers who need clarity on complex issues like renewable energy, electricity pricing, energy trading, sustainability, and infrastructure. It's not for casual commentary or recycled headlines — it's for people responsible for real decisions and real balance sheets. Through direct conversations with industry leaders such as David McDonald, CEO at SolarAfrica, the podcast unpacks how solar, wheeling, energy trading, and evolving market structures actually work, what they cost, and where the risks and opportunities lie. Expect grounded insight, commercial realism, and clear explanations rooted in South African and global business realities. If you want perspective instead of panic, and insight you can apply, this is where you start. Follow the show and listen regularly to stay ahead of the energy and business curve.

In this episode of What's Next, Precious Nduli, Chief Commercial Officer at Discovery Insure, joins Aki Anastasiou to unpack how technology, telematics, and data-driven insights are transforming the insurance landscape. She explains how Discovery Insure incentivizes safer driving through real-time behaviour tracking, fuel rewards, and innovative features like impact alerts and sleep-related risk analysis. Precious also highlights how AI-powered tools, including the Advanced Driving Instructor, provide personalised coaching to help drivers improve behind the wheel. The discussion explores Discovery Insure's seamless integration with Discovery Bank, enabling clients to obtain and activate car insurance instantly in-app. Precious shares compelling statistics on how Vitality Drive reduces accident risk and explains how the company is extending its impact beyond its customer base through initiatives such as the Pothole Patrol and Safe Journeys to School. She offers a clear view of how technology and AI are shaping the future of insurance and helping build a nation of safer, more responsible drivers.

In this episode of What's Next, Nicolaas Hanekom, Sales Lead for Digital Air Solutions at Samsung South Africa, joins Aki Anastasiou to unpack how consumer expectations around home air conditioning have transformed in recent years. Nicolaas explains why air conditioners have become essential, all-year appliances focused on comfort, efficiency, and seamless integration within the modern smart home. He highlights Samsung's leading technologies, including AI-driven temperature optimization, and full SmartThings connectivity, which allow users to control, monitor, and automate their climate with ease. Nicolaas also discusses the growing importance of indoor air quality, outlining how Samsung's multilayer filtration helps remove bacteria, pollen, and impurities from the environment. He breaks down the efficiency benefits of Samsung's advanced inverter technology and how AI and SmartThings insights help households reduce energy consumption while enhancing comfort. With a focus on correct installation, long-term reliability, and sleek design, Samsung's latest air conditioners deliver powerful performance and meaningful savings for South African homes.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Hector Beyers, CEO and founder of Codehesion, to unpack the remarkable growth of his software development company. Beyers shares how his passion for computer engineering and early leadership experience shaped his entrepreneurial journey, leading him to build a business focused on high-quality custom software, strong development processes, and a culture of delivery. From starting alone in 2018, Codehesion has grown into a 50-strong team serving clients across the globe. Beyers also explores the evolving role of AI in software development, the importance of scalable and maintainable code, and the challenges of recruiting top talent. He highlights how Codehesion helps businesses modernize, streamline operations, and rescue struggling software projects through expert guidance and disciplined processes. This insightful conversation reveals what it takes to build world-class technology and stay competitive in a rapidly shifting digital landscape.

In this episode of What's Next, Amantha Naidoo, Managing Executive at NTT DATA South Africa, joins Aki Anastasiou to discuss her career journey and the forces shaping modern transformation. She shares how her background in engineering, consulting and culture change led her to NTT DATA, and why timing, purpose and the desire to lead meaningful change made this the right step in her career. Amantha highlights the critical ingredients of successful transformation, including strong leadership, clear direction and building a culture that can adapt to rapid shifts in technology and business. Amantha also explores the real impact of AI across industries, the challenges of moving from experimentation to large-scale value, and why foundational technology, data readiness and trust are essential. She explains what differentiates NTT DATA in a competitive market, from its full-stack capabilities to its AI smart agent ecosystem, and outlines the company's strategic priorities in South Africa. From cybersecurity to customer experience to societal upliftment through education, she offers insight into how NTT DATA is preparing organisations for the next wave of technological evolution.

In this conversation, Discovery Bank CEO Hylton Kallner unpacks the remarkable growth of South Africa's fastest-growing bank and the shared-value model powering its success. He explains how Discovery Bank's full-service digital approach, industry-leading security, seamless ecosystem integration and customer-first design have reshaped the banking experience for nearly one and a half million clients. From crypto investing with Luno to AI-driven fraud protection and effortless insurance activation, Hylton highlights the innovations redefining modern finance. He also shares insight into Discovery Bank's expanding rewards ecosystem, new partnerships, and the momentum behind its award-winning service. With breakthroughs in digital behaviour analysis, lifestyle-linked benefits and a rapidly growing client base, Hylton outlines how the bank is positioning itself at the center of people's financial lives—today and over the next five years.

This episode of What's Next brings together financial literacy advocate and author Nicolette Mashile and Yande Nomvete, Africa Operations Manager at Binance, for an in-depth discussion on crypto adoption in South Africa. They unpack the success of The Getting Crypto Show, the growing appetite for digital assets on the continent, and why education remains the most important tool for avoiding scams and navigating this emerging space with confidence. The conversation also explores how Binance is strengthening user protection from day one, the role of crypto in everyday life, and how South Africans can safely begin their investment journey. From platform security to cross-border payments and practical use cases like buying groceries, this episode highlights how cryptocurrency is becoming more accessible, more useful, and more aligned with real financial needs.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou is joined by a panel of experts to unpack the Africa Digital Assets Report 2025. The discussion features Rob Downes, Head of Digital Assets at Absa Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB); Juanetta Furusa-Matelakengisa, Head of Digital Product, Carbon Banking at Absa CIB; and Zanele Thembisile Baloyi, Senior Researcher at Krutham. Together, they explore why the report was commissioned, how the research was conducted across several African markets, and what it reveals about digital asset adoption among consumers and businesses. The conversation highlights key themes such as the public's trust in traditional banks, the need for clearer regulatory frameworks, and the growing demand for education around digital assets. The guests also examine South Africa's unique position compared to neighboring markets, insights from Kenya's advanced mobile-money environment, and how Absa plans to apply these findings through new digital asset solutions and educational initiatives. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the emerging digital finance landscape across Africa.

In this episode of What's Next, we speak with Nick Yarham, Head of Operations at TP-Link South Africa, following the company's remarkable achievement of winning the MyBroadband Award for Best Networking Brand for the second year in a row. Nick shares what this recognition means for the team, why South Africans continue to trust TP-Link, and how the brand focuses on solving real-world connectivity challenges—from eliminating dead zones to delivering reliable, secure, and easy-to-use networking solutions for homes and businesses. Nick also discusses how TP-Link is navigating South Africa's tough economic climate through strong partnerships, fair pricing, and a commitment to supporting local businesses and consumers. He explores the rapid rise of smart homes, TP-Link's expanding ecosystem of connected devices, and the company's vision for innovation, including advancements in Wi-Fi technology and integrated B2B solutions. He ends with a message of gratitude and optimism, spotlighting TP-Link's investment in South Africa's future and its growing opportunities for local talent.

In this episode of What's Next, we sit down with Cliff de Wit, Group Chief Innovation Officer at Accelera Digital Group, to unpack the rapid acceleration of AI and the growing readiness gap facing modern organisations. Cliff reflects on his journey from Microsoft to leading large-scale technology initiatives and now helping businesses across Africa and beyond adapt to a world where AI is reshaping every role, workflow and industry. He explains why many companies struggle to adopt AI effectively, how fear and poor change management hold teams back, and why both users and creators of AI must develop new capabilities quickly. Cliff also breaks down how Accelera Digital Group helps organisations bridge this gap—starting with identifying high-impact problems, modernising data foundations, and then building practical AI solutions that drive measurable value. This conversation is a must-watch for leaders preparing their businesses for the next era of intelligent technology.

In this episode of What's Next, we speak with Sharon Leong, Chief Executive Officer at Thompsons Travel, about how corporate travel has transformed and what modern businesses need to prioritise heading into 2026. Sharon reflects on the company's 40-year legacy and explains how technology, mobile tools and smart booking systems are reshaping business travel—making it faster, more seamless and more personalised than ever before. She also highlights the growing importance of traveller wellness, from smarter hotel choices to thoughtful travel policies that help employees stay rested, productive and safe on the road. Sharon dives into how Thompsons Travel is using real-time communication, global tracking tools and 24/7 personalised support to strengthen duty of care and ensure travellers are never alone when disruptions arise. She also shares insights into rising African business destinations, the surge in sustainability-focused travel decisions and the crucial role AI will play in enhancing—not replacing—the human expertise of travel consultants. A must-watch for organisations looking to refine their corporate travel strategy for the future.

Medshield's Chief Operating Officer, Angela Blackburn, joins us to give more detail on Medshield's 2026 product and benefit enhancements and what members can expect in the year ahead. From a lower-than-average contribution increase to a strengthened GCR rating and unlimited hospital access across all plans, Medshield is focused on value, stability, and affordability during a time when healthcare costs continue to rise. Angela also highlights major benefit enhancements, including revamped optical cover, expanded preventative care, improved diabetic support, annual mammograms, PSA screenings, and innovative virtual GP services. With a strong emphasis on member education, accessibility and human-centered service, Medshield aims to help members stay healthier while managing long-term costs more effectively.

In this episode of What's Next, host Aki Anastasiou speaks with James Lanigan, CEO of Luno, following the company's recognition as 'Best Crypto Exchange' at the MyBroadband Awards. James reflects on Luno's journey from its South African origins to becoming a trusted global platform with over 16 million users. He explains how simplicity, trust, and innovation have been key to Luno's success, emphasizing the company's commitment to compliance, education, and making crypto accessible for everyone. The discussion explores Luno's recent product innovations, including tokenized US stocks and ETFs, the rapid growth of LunoPay for everyday crypto payments, and the landmark partnership with Discovery Bank—the first of its kind in Africa. James also unpacks the future of crypto regulation in South Africa, Luno's upcoming launches for 2026, and why digital assets are becoming an essential part of modern finance. His advice to newcomers: start small, stay informed, and see crypto as a meaningful part of a diversified investment strategy.

Dell Technologies Forum 2025 brought together leaders, innovators, and experts from across the continent to unpack the future of technology, digital transformation, and AI. In this special edition of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks with Dell executives and partners about sustainability, e-waste initiatives, AI-driven modernization, multicloud strategies, and the growing role of data in shaping business outcomes. From recycling programs and solar learning hubs to the latest AI-optimized PCs, the event showcased Dell's commitment to progress and real-world impact. Across conversations with regional leaders including Daniel Collett, Grant McPherson, Adrian McDonald, Mohammed Amin, Ben McDonald, Bennie du Plessis, Abdelmouhssin Sarsri, Haidi Nossair, and Habib Mahakian, the episode highlights how Dell is empowering organizations to innovate, adopt AI responsibly, and bridge the digital divide. Whether through partner ecosystems, scalable infrastructure, skills development, or community upliftment, Dell's vision for the future is clear: accelerate human progress through technology.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks with Luis da Silva, CEO of Healthbridge, about how the company is redefining healthcare through purposeful AI innovation. With a 26-year legacy in health IT, Healthbridge is empowering doctors and medical practices by simplifying workflows, enhancing patient care, and reclaiming valuable time through intelligent automation. Luis explains how Healthbridge's early partnership with Google and its dedicated Innovation Lab have helped it stay ahead of the curve, integrating AI into everyday clinical interactions. From ambient listening that transcribes patient consultations in real time to AI-driven insights that reduce administrative burdens, Healthbridge is showing how technology can amplify rather than replace healthcare professionals. They also explore the future of value-based care, how AI can help align incentives across the healthcare ecosystem, and why empathy, adaptability, and collaboration remain vital as the industry transforms.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks with Rashid Tar-Mahomed, Managing Executive for Products and Services within the Consumer Business Unit at Vodacom South Africa. Rashid explains how Vodacom has transformed its postpaid portfolio by simplifying its plans from ten to four, making it easier for customers to choose the right option while providing greater value in a challenging economy. The new RED Core plans now include lifestyle benefits such as funeral cover, device insurance, and entertainment subscriptions. By integrating connectivity, financial services, and entertainment, Vodacom aims to deliver a seamless digital experience that meets the customer's changing lifestyle needs. He shares how ongoing customer feedback and international trends guide Vodacom's innovations as the company continues to simplify, innovate, and lead South Africa's digital transformation.

In this episode, we sit down with Richard Simpson, Managing Director at Celerity, to uncover the fascinating journey from civil engineering to pioneering global business messaging. Richard shares how a simple need to send weather updates in 1999 sparked the creation of BulkSMS, a platform that has since transformed how businesses communicate. From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted global solution, Richard explains how SMS remains one of the most reliable and effective communication tools today. We also explore the evolution of Celerity, the parent brand behind BulkSMS, and its latest innovation: Kero, a rich business messaging platform that takes customer engagement beyond text. Richard explains how new technologies like RCS are shaping the future of communication, why SMS is still far from “dead,” and how Celerity continues to stay ahead with secure, scalable, and innovative messaging solutions.

In this insightful conversation, Hennie Human, Managing Partner of EY's Africa Consulting Business, shares valuable lessons from his 25-year career working across diverse industries. He emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven projects, understanding industry context, and fostering true collaboration with clients to create impactful solutions. Hennie also explores the challenges and opportunities businesses face in 2025, from cybersecurity and the talent gap to the rise of AI, automation, and cloud-native platforms. He explains how EY helps organizations embrace digital transformation, avoid common pitfalls, and unlock real value by keeping people, processes, and technology aligned for the future.

In this episode of What's Next with Aki Anastasiou, we speak with Romulen Pillay, Managing Director of Philips Southern Africa, about the latest findings from Philips' global Future Health Index report. Now in its 10th year, the study surveyed 16,000 patients and 2,000 healthcare professionals across 16 countries, including South Africa, to explore how AI is transforming healthcare delivery. Romulen shares how artificial intelligence is already helping to address South Africa's healthcare challenges—from staff shortages to improving diagnostic accuracy and patient care. He also discusses the growing optimism among South African healthcare professionals about AI adoption and the need to bridge the “trust gap” between patients and technology. Romulen highlights how AI can reduce administrative burdens, improve waiting times, and ultimately allow doctors to spend more meaningful time with patients. The conversation also explores the importance of collaboration, preventative care, and responsible data use to ensure that AI adoption remains human-centric and beneficial for both healthcare providers and patients.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks with Muzzafar Nagvadari, Executive Head: Merchant Solutions Sales and Service SA at Standard Bank Group, about how digital payments are transforming South Africa's business landscape. Muzzafar explains how the rapid rise of contactless, mobile, and e-commerce transactions is changing the way merchants operate and how businesses can adapt to meet evolving customer expectations. He also discusses the growing demand for unified commerce systems that bring together in-store, online, and mobile payments for greater efficiency and insight. Muzzafar introduces SimplyBLU, Standard Bank's smart payment and business management platform designed to simplify and streamline operations for SMEs. By integrating payment acceptance, inventory tracking, invoicing, and real-time analytics, SimplyBLU enables businesses to make data-driven decisions, improve customer experience, and scale effectively. He also shares advice for SMEs on managing costs, enhancing security, and embracing innovation to stay competitive in the digital economy.

In this episode of What's Next, Aki Anastasiou sits down with Michael Otten, CEO of Oneplan, to explore how the company has transformed the South African insurance landscape over the past 15 years. Michael shares insights into Oneplan's journey from its early days as a traditional short-term insurer to becoming an innovator in health, pet, gap, and motor insurance. He discusses the unique challenges of serving South African consumers and how technology, from digitization to AI, is reshaping the way insurance products are delivered and experienced. The conversation also dives into Oneplan's differentiators, such as real-time access to insurance funds via prepaid cards and their customer-first approach that simplifies complex processes. Michael highlights the growing demand in health and pet insurance, the importance of gap cover, and how bundling products creates greater value for clients. Looking ahead, he shares his perspective on future trends, including the evolving role of AI in training, customer engagement, and product innovation, while keeping the human element at the heart of service delivery. Oneplan is sold by Oneplan Brokers (Pty) Ltd and administered by Oneplan Underwriting Managers (Pty) Ltd, authorised financial services providers FSP43627 and FSP43628. Oneplan is not a benefit option regulated by the Medical Schemes Act, but a short-term insurance product underwritten by Bryte Insurance Company Limited a licensed insurer and an authorised FSP(17703).

In this episode of What's Next, we welcome back Frikkie van Loggerenberg, Head of Investment Strategy and CEO of IFSA. He shares valuable insights into the most common questions clients ask financial advisors, with a strong focus on wills, estate planning, and understanding the true costs involved in winding up an estate. Frikkie highlights why these fundamentals are at the core of sound financial planning and how they connect directly to securing your legacy. The discussion also explores common mistakes people make when relying on DIY solutions or AI for estate planning, and why professional guidance is crucial for peace of mind. Frikkie explains IFSA's client-first approach, emphasizing planning before products, face-to-face relationships, and ongoing support — including managing estates after clients pass on. Whether your estate is large or small, this conversation underlines why it's never too early to plan properly.

In this episode of What's Next, we welcome Dion Govender, Managing Director of IS³, to discuss the upcoming IS³ X-Change 2025 conference. Taking place on 28–29 October in Cape Town, this premier event showcases future-ready industrial automation insights and solutions tailored for Africa. Powered by global expertise and enriched with local knowledge, X-Change 2025 promises to deliver measurable value for every stakeholder. We explore IS³'s role as the exclusive AVEVA Select Partner in sub-Saharan Africa, the challenges facing industrial businesses in 2025, and how digital transformation, AI, and cloud-driven solutions are reshaping industries. Dion also highlights what makes this year's X-Change different, from customer success stories to fresh formats and international participation, making it the must-attend event for organizations looking to stay competitive and unlock real value. Registration discount codes: - 1 Exhibitor: Exh1MBL50 - 2 Exhibitors: Exh2MBL50 - Delegate: DelMBL50\ Sign up here: https://evolve.eventoptions.co.za/register/is%C2%B3x-change2025/details?utm_source=MyBroadband&utm_medium=Interview&utm_term=September+2025

In this episode, we dive into the role of PayInc. (formerly BankservAfrica) at the heart of South Africa's payments ecosystem. With 53 years of experience, PayInc. has been instrumental in building and maintaining the country's payment infrastructure. Today, it processes nearly 400 million transactions a month, ensuring that payments are secure, reliable, and always on. From card swipes to instant transfers, their systems quietly power the economy while supporting financial inclusion for millions. We also explore the evolution of payments over the past five decades, the technology behind high-availability systems, and how PayInc. is modernizing through cloud, microservices, and AI-driven innovation. With a focus on resilience and scalability, their work keeps South Africa's financial systems running 24/7, even during peak times like paydays and Black Friday.

In this episode, we sit down with Ashif Black, Country Representative of InDrive South Africa, to explore how the company is reshaping the ride-hailing industry with fairness, transparency, and freedom of choice. Ashif shares the story of InDrive's origins, how its unique negotiation model empowers both drivers and passengers, and why low commissions and fair pricing are central to its mission. He also highlights the platform's expansion across South African cities and the value it brings to communities through affordable, accessible, and transparent mobility. The conversation also touches on safety, global presence, and innovation, with Ashif explaining how InDrive ensures driver and passenger protection, leverages insights from its operations in over 800 cities worldwide, and adapts technology to local needs. Beyond rides, InDrive is expanding into courier, delivery, and intercity services, while creating new opportunities for youth and drivers in South Africa.

In this episode, we welcome Dietlof Mare, CEO of MAZIV, the company behind South Africa's largest open-access fiber networks, including Vumatel and Dark Fibre Africa. With the Competition Appeal Court's approval of MAZIV's landmark merger with Vodacom, the company is entering a defining chapter in its mission to connect more South Africans. Dietlof shares insights on the challenges of fiber rollout, the scale of investment required, and the impact that expanded connectivity can have on communities and the broader economy. The discussion also explores how the transaction unlocks capital and infrastructure needed to accelerate fiber expansion, particularly into underserved areas. Dietlof highlights the importance of balancing competition with public interest, while ensuring open access remains at the core of MAZIV's model. With plans to reach millions more homes and businesses, he unpacks how enterprise fiber, 5G backhaul, and community connectivity will play a critical role in South Africa's digital future.