Top business thinkers to headline African Insurance Exchange 2025

The African Insurance Exchange (AIE) 2025 is set to welcome an impressive line-up of influential speakers, bringing together some of the continent’s most respected voices in business, insurance, economics and leadership. Taking place from 27 to 30 July at Sun City and via live web feed, this year’s conference promises exceptional conversations driven by individuals who are shaping the future of African insurance and financial services.

Keynote speaker Mteto Nyati, celebrated business leader and author, will open the conference with a message on resilience, transformation and purpose-driven leadership. With decades of experience leading major organisations across sectors, Nyati is known for his deep insights into strategic growth and people-centred performance.

Also taking the stage is Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa, CEO of Naspers South Africa, who will deliver the closing address. As one of the most influential leaders in African business today, Mahanyele-Dabengwa brings a global perspective on innovation, technology and leadership – with a particular focus on empowering women and driving African excellence.

Abdullah Verachia, global strategist and CEO of The Strategists, joins the AIE speaker line-up with his trademark energy and fresh thinking. A regular at executive education platforms around the world, Verachia is known for challenging conventions and offering actionable strategies in a rapidly shifting business landscape.

Brent Lindeque, better known as the Good Things Guy, will share stories of hope, positivity and the extraordinary impact of doing good. With a strong following and a background in media and brand strategy, Brent brings a refreshing voice to the insurance industry – one that reminds us of the human side of business.

Mandy Wiener, award-winning investigative journalist and bestselling author, will offer sharp insights into the political and economic landscape shaping South Africa and its financial services sector. Known for her fearless reporting and deep understanding of the country’s inner workings, Mandy’s perspective will add depth and context to the broader discussions at AIE.

From the public policy arena, Khulekani Mathe, CEO of Business Unity South Africa, will offer valuable insight into the economic and regulatory environment, drawing on his experience at the helm of one of the country’s most influential business organisations.

Industry expertise will be well represented by senior leaders such as Viviene Pearson, CEO of the South African Insurance Association (SAIA); Peter Olyott, CEO of Willis Towers Watson; and Butsi Tladi, Group Executive at Alexander Forbes, who will all contribute to high-level discussions throughout the conference.

In addition, the programme features speakers and panellists from top institutions including Discovery, Hollard, Munich Re, Sanlam, Allianz, Aon, SASRIA and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). These experts will share experience from the frontlines of insurance innovation, regulation and strategy.