The bustling Qurtuba Convention Centre in Linbro Park, Sandton, became a hub of cutting-edge dialogue and innovation during the 25th Edition of the BFSI Innovation & Technology Summit, presented by Exito Media Concepts.

• The 25th Edition of the BFSI Innovation & Technology Summit proved to be a resounding success.
• By bringing together visionaries and experts, the event reinforced South Africa’s position as a leader in financial innovation.
• With themes of sustainability, digital transformation, and technological excellence dominating the agenda, the summit set a forward-looking tone for the future of the BFSI sector.
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Steering the day’s agenda with poise and professionalism was Alexander Leibner, a seasoned moderator, media professional, and speaker. Drawing from his years of experience both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, Alexander masterfully guided the sessions, ensuring attendees were not only informed but thoroughly engaged.

Known for his sharp intellect and engaging style, Alexander was uniquely positioned to navigate the event’s agenda, spotlighting transformative trends and cutting-edge advancements in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors. His ability to connect with diverse audiences, paired with his expertise in facilitating thought-provoking discussions, ensured a vibrant platform for collaboration among industry pioneers, tech innovators, and thought leaders driving the future of BFSI.

The day began with registrations and a welcome tea, offering attendees a chance to network before the official proceedings. John Paul, Sales Director (EMEA) at Exito Media Concepts, delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for a day filled with thought-provoking discussions and actionable insights.

Kicking off the conference, Luyanda Ndlovu, Chief Information Officer at the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, presented the opening keynote. His session delved into strategies for navigating South Africa’s fiscal environment, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing digital resilience with fiscal priorities. Luyanda explored public-private partnerships, data privacy challenges, and innovative approaches to financial inclusion, sparking dynamic discussions.

One of the day’s highlights was a fireside chat moderated by Shoaib Nathie, Chief Information Officer at CIB. Panellists Dido wa Kalonji (First National Bank) and Nirshan Harryparshad (Rand Merchant Bank) provided deep insights into how artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and robotic process automation (RPA) are transforming BFSI operations. From enhancing risk management to addressing unique cybersecurity challenges, the session shed light on the growing role of intelligent automation in driving cost efficiency and operational excellence.

The technological lens continued with a compelling presentation by Shivan Mansingh, Managing Director of Metrofile South Africa. Shivan discussed the tangible benefits of digital transformation for information management, offering strategies for workspace optimization, compliance, and robust disaster recovery plans.

Charles Lalieu of Freshworks provided a forward-thinking perspective on the integration of agentic AI in service management. His session highlighted the transformative potential of AI in reshaping employee experiences, streamlining repetitive tasks, and fostering ethical AI adoption to enhance decision-making and service delivery.

Michael Yap Kiam Siew, CEO of Convene, turned the spotlight on governance, exploring how AI and digitalisation are redefining boardroom practices. From predictive insights to fostering long-term resilience, Michael’s presentation emphasised the intersection of technology and sustainability in modern governance.

With cybersecurity being a critical concern for the BFSI sector, a fireside chat led by Mpumelelo Dlamini, Nedbank’s Business Information Security Officer, captivated the audience. Panellists such as Khetha Cele (Ithala Development Finance Corporation) and Qiniso Mthembu (JSE) discussed advanced solutions for mitigating cyber risks, including the adoption of zero-trust models and biometric security measures. The session underscored the need for proactive incident response strategies to protect against evolving threats.

Sustainability was a central theme during a panel discussion moderated by Kholeka Tsotsotso of the Development Bank of Southern Africa. Industry leaders like Mandisa Theko-Khitsane (Sanlam) and Justin Pearse (Purple Group) examined eco-friendly practices, regulatory frameworks, and digital innovations that ensure inclusive growth. The session reinforced the importance of integrating sustainability into digital transformation efforts across the BFSI sector.

As the day progressed, generative AI emerged as a game-changer for South Africa’s financial landscape. Ravikumaran Govender, Group Digital and Technology Officer at Momentum Group Limited, explored its potential to revolutionize customer experiences through personalized recommendations and automated fraud detection. He also addressed the ethical considerations and workforce implications of adopting such transformative technologies.

The summit concluded with the BFSI 50 Felicitation, recognising industry pioneers who have driven significant advancements in the sector. This celebratory moment wrapped up a day of dynamic discussions.

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