In this riveting episode of The Shapers Podcast, Benjamin Shaw engages in a fast-paced, whirlwind conversation with Dion Chang – a futurist and trends analyst described as a professional cage rattler. Dion is a thoughtful strategist who challenges conventional wisdom and has the unique ability to synthesize great swathes of data into useful insight.   As the founder of Flux Trends, Dion has spent decades specializing in identifying unexpected business opportunities within the shifting...

In the upcoming episode of the Shapers podcast, host Benjamin Shaw welcomes Prof Wiseman Nkuhlu, a titan in South Africa's journey of upliftment. With a CA MBA and numerous honorary doctorates, Prof Nkuhlu's career has seen him advise presidents and lead corporate turnarounds, notably as chairman of KPMG during challenging times. As the former president of SAICA and author of a celebrated biography, Prof Nkuhlu's insights promise to be invaluable.   Listeners will be captivated as Prof...

Join us for an illuminating discussion with Herman Marais, the Founding Partner of EXEO Capital. Benjamin Shaw takes us on a journey through Herman's rich 25+ years of professional experience, from studies through to instrumental roles in corporate restructuring and performance improvement, right to the co-founding EXEO Capital. Delve into the world of private equity, uncover the fascinating stories behind the creation of culture in a thriving firm, and gain insights into Herman's leadership...

In this episode, Shapers Podcast host Benjamin Shaw welcomes Talifhani Banks, a data and advertising guru with a remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Banks started his first business at 10, studied statistics and econometrics, and transitioned from corporate and consulting to launching analytics advertising. Now serving as the CEO of Analytics X, Banks is making waves by building technology for the township economy, specifically targeting spaza shops. Despite facing challenges, his efforts...

In this episode, we engage in a conversation with Solly Moeng, a professional brand reputation strategist. Solly is deeply committed to fostering positive change in South Africa and is the founder of TUSAM – The United South African Movement. This organisation is dedicated to mobilising, inspiring, and uniting individuals and groups across civil society, politics, business, and various sectors to collaborate towards achieving sustainable and democratic change in South Africa. Throughout our...

In the upcoming episode of the Shapers podcast, Benjamin Shaw welcomes Ameil Harikishun as our distinguished guest. Ameil serves as the Finance Thematic Lead at Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) and stands as a prominent authority in the realm of sustainability and resilience within the context of climate change. With a wealth of technical expertise and practical insights, Ameil takes us deep on a profound topic, delving into the intricacies and best ways to navigate the...

In this interview on the Shapers Podcast, Benjamin Shaw sits down with Zachariah George, the Managing Partner of Launch Africa Ventures, to delve into his remarkable journey in the world of venture capital and entrepreneurship. Zachariah's impressive background and experiences are highlighted throughout the conversation. Zachariah, who plays a pivotal role in shaping venture capital across the African continent, began his career with a glittering allure for Wall Street, working as a Wall...

This episode is part two of a two-part special in partnership with SA Innovation Summit. We have an in-depth discussion with Daniel Novitzkas and Will Green; venture builders and entrepreneurs who each tell their own unique story and share lessons on product development, founder support, business development and leadership.

This episode is part of a two-part special in partnership with SA Innovation Summit. We had the opportunity to engage with key shapers of the Southern Africa entrepreneurial ecosystem, Michelle Geere and Tamiko Sher. They are Tech Research and AI marketing entrepreneurs who are digitsing and uplifting Africa. They have lessons to share on ecosystem development, co-funder matching and much more.

In this episode Rachel Kolisi and I discuss the incredible journey that has shaped her life. From her upbringing to her current roles as the Kolisi Foundation Co-Founder and CEO, Businesswoman and Humanitarian, Rachel's story is one of resilience and empowerment. As the wife of South African rugby team Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Rachel brings a unique perspective on leadership, teamwork, and the power of giving back to the community. Tune in as we delve into her experiences, challenges,...

It is both our honour and pleasure to share with our listeners our latest podcast interview with the highly-esteemed and internationally-acclaimed humanitarian relief activist and founder of Gift of the Givers, Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman.   He shares invaluable insights into the organisation’s relief efforts, which is hinged on the motto: best among people are those who benefit mankind. More importantly he shares his personal motivation, vision and journey to becoming one of the most recognised...

In this episode Riël Malan speaks to Professor William Duggan who is the author of three recent books on innovation, delving particularly into Strategic Intuition, Creative Strategy Expert. Professor Duggan also teaches about strategy and innovation at the Columbia Business School. He has BA, MA and PhD degrees from Columbia University, and twenty years of experience as a strategy advisor and consultant.

In this episode Riël Malan speaks to Joshua Ngoma who is the founder of Eyesizwe Coal and Enterprising Africa Regional Network (EARN). Poor health forced Joshua into early retirement from mining engineering and since his recovery he has redirected his time and efforts to his philanthropic hobby, which is teaching young African agricultural entrepreneurs how to grow profitable sustainable businesses, while contributing towards food security.

Take a listen to my thought-provoking conversation with Sarah Arnot Mulhern, who I would describe as a polymath. She is an author and has extensive experience as a business coach, currently coaching notable listed CEOs.  In our discussion, Sarah shares her views on organisational resilience, diversity, leadership and narcissism in the workplace among other things. #FindYourFocus #RielMalan #SarahArnotMulhern #podcast #leadership #diversity #coaching #resilience #neuroscience #successplanning...

I speak to Ronen Aires, an African pioneer in the re-discovery of psychedelics. These ancient compounds have been part of human existence and medication for thousands of years. Yet it has fallen out of favour over the past 60 years. Currently, the use of psychedelics in the treatment of multiple disorders is receiving renewed focus from both alternative health practitioners and medical research institutions around the world.

Ian Fuhr's name is synonymous with one of South Africa's most recognized brands, Sorbet, a chain of beauty salons that he founded in 2004. But his tireless work in building businesses based on fairness and equality is his greatest passion. He shares his experiences in life and business in this candid podcast conversation.

Riël Malan talks to Richard (Kiki) Fernandes, CEO of East-African-based Marginpar Floriculture, producer and exporter of flowers from three African countries. His empowering-, people-centric approach made Marginpar globally competitive and established a culture that serves as an example of what investment in people can achieve in Africa.

Riël Malan talks to Styli Charalambous, CEO & Publisher of South Africa's leading news organization, The Daily Maverick. The Daily Maverick is credited (among many other things), to have broken the key state capture stories that catalyzed the Zondo Commission of Inquiry and leadership changes underway in South Africa. 

Kelly Chibale's life unfolded like a movie script. Although success was not apparent at the start of his life. The conversation details his struggles and how he overcame the many setbacks on his way to the top of his profession in early-stage drug discovery. His life is an example of what education can do to the future of Africa's young population. This is the second part of a 2-part discussion, and focuses on why he came back to Africa, and what his vision is for African research capacity.

Kelly Chibale's life unfolded like a movie script. Although success was not apparent at the start of his life. The conversation details his struggles and how he overcame the many setbacks on his way to the top of his profession in early-stage drug discovery. His life is an example of what education can do to the future of Africa's young population.

Riël Malan talks to Themba Baloyi and Reuben Olifant to discusses the role of the In-Forum Foundation in the continued execution of the YPO-Africa initiatives to alleviate the economic and social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Andy du Plessis is the CEO of  FoodForward, the largest food-redistribution program in South Africa. At a time when South Africa is reeling from the effects of the Covid-19 crisis, Andy and his organization's mission has never been more relevant. With more than 30 million people estimated to be in food distress at the moment, they distribute more than just food, they distribute hope to many that have been plunged into a desperate situation.