Accelerated
Digitalisation

Bridging the gap between new adaptive thinking and old school, establishment thinking through his keynotes, masterclasses and workshops, Ryan’s high-energy professional style has been described as statesman-like where he has worked with major banks, blue chip companies, mainstream tech companies and reputable international associations.

Ms Ntshavheni was appointed as the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies on 05 August 2021. She was previously appointed Minister for Small Business Development and acting Minister in the Presidency. Before joining the 6th Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, Ms Ntshavheni was a serial entrepreneur with interests in transport, FMCG and agriculture.

Sipho Maseko was appointed as Group Chief Executive Officer and as an Executive Director of Telkom on 1 April 2013. He is also the Chairman of the Board at BCX. Prior, he was the Group Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director at Vodacom, which he joined from BP Southern Africa, where he held various roles from 1997, including COO and CEO.

For the last 3 years, Serame has led as the CEO for the Consumer Division at Telkom SA SOC Ltd. In October 2021, Serame stepped into his role as Telkom Group CEO-designate, and will be taking over full responsibilities as Telkom Group CEO from July 2022.

Professor Zeblon Zenzele Vilakazi was appointed Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University in January 2021. Previously holding the position of Vice-Principal and DVC Research, he brings a wealth of experience, insight and knowledge to the University and the Executive Team. Prof. Vilakazi is committed to making a positive impact on society through creating and advancing global knowledge; and fostering graduates to be leaders with integrity.

Abdullah Verachia is a sought-after global speaker, advisor, practice strategist and innovator. He is adept at fusing practice, education, insight, empathy and experience together to add significant value at all levels.

Althon is a proven technology, digital and commercial leader with vast experience across transformational roles within Telkom Group. As an innovator with a deep grasp of technology and change management principles, Althon is focused on creating a journey that is underpinned by technology and digital enablement that allows for a sustainable transformation.

Based in Dubai (UAE), Fabio is Italian born with his Masters in Electrical Engineering (Cum Laude), University of La Sapienza (Rome) as well as a Masters in Telecommunications, University of Brooklyn (New York). Executive Director since 1998, with different roles/projects in Network/OSS engineering, Marketing, IT Operations (Italy, Spain, France, Germany).

Greg has 23 years’ experience within South African & Middle Eastern telecoms markets, and currently the Cluster Lead for several of Accenture’s telecommunications clients, responsible for delivering digital transformation projects in experience design, new product development and innovative platform business solutions.

Jonathan has over 25 years of experience in the communications and media market with in-depth knowledge of the trends, business solutions and technology that impact an ever-changing industry. He is a passionate and much requested speaker that has presented at physical and digital events worldwide.

Ludwick Marishane is a University of Cape Town graduate, with an Honours in Business Science. Ludwick is a business scientist and entrepreneurial inventor, and the MD of Headboy, which is a product-development and commercialisation agency, best known for their DryBath® product.

Lunga has experience in Financial Analysis, Digital Transformation, eCommerce, Sales and Marketing. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise rooted in working with Blue Chip companies such as MTN, BP, Santam and Standard Bank where he held several senior and executive positions. Lunga has a track record of creating, executing and scaling digital channels and businesses.

With over 30 years of global experience in telecom & IT industries, Nigel Bruin has a strong background in fixed and wireless technologies. Nigel’s capabilities in business & consulting includes business strategy development, business case, market analysis, Go-To-Market planning and more.

Stefaan has more than 20 years of experience in telecoms. He has a PhD in telecoms engineering and spent nearly a decade in research before taking the lead for Fixed Networks marketing in Nokia. He recently returned to his technology roots, and is now CTO for Nokia Fixed Networks.