Transforming Global Health Systems | with Masimba & Chris Watney | BHF 2025
In this episode of the In Focus with Insight, we welcome Chris Watney, CEO of the International Federation of Health Plans (IFHP), to discuss how private health insurance funds and plans are helping shape stronger, more effective health systems around the world.
Chris shares his journey from the UK to New Zealand, his leadership at Southern Cross, and how he stepped into the CEO role at IFHP during the first days of the COVID-19 pandemic. He explains how IFHP connects 90+ health insurance organizations in 40 countries, creating a platform for members to share experiences, solve challenges, and spread best practices.
Connect with Chris Watney on these platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwatney/
Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/
Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/
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9:40
Edwin Theron is an open book
In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Pamela Hellig is joined by Head of Sanlam Digisure, Edwin Theron, for a rich and wide-ranging conversation that moves from entrepreneurship to automation, and from small beginnings to bold ideas.
They dive into the lessons of books such as The Innovation Stack by Jim McKelvey and Shoe Dog by Phil Knight — exploring the value of starting small, how passion fuels persistence, and why innovation isn’t reserved for a select few. Edwin reflects on the discipline and teamwork he learned through sport, and how that’s shaped his approach to leadership and building businesses.
They also discuss the responsible use of AI, the importance of protecting creativity and critical thinking, and the kind of mindset needed to thrive in times of rapid change.
Edwin’s book picks:
Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari
Trillion Dollar Coach by Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg and Alan Eagle
Life of the Beloved by Henri J.M. Nouwen
The Innovation Stack by Jim McKelvey
Show Dog by Phil Knight
Connect with Edwin Theron on these platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwin-theron-119554100/
Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/
Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/
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58:29
Marusha Nariansamy is an open book
In this episode, Pamela Hellig sits down with Marusha Nariansamy, an actuary and product development leader, to explore the books that have shaped her thinking and career. Through titles like The Boy Who Never Gave Up, Grit, Children of Sugarcane, Genius, and Four Future Seasons, Marusha reflects on themes of perseverance, identity, innovation, and strategic thinking.
She shares how stories of grit and survival resonate deeply with her experience in insurance startups, where resilience and a sense of ownership are key. Books like Genius inspire her to simplify complex systems in the life insurance industry, while Four Future Seasons offers a practical framework for navigating uncertainty and preparing for different possible futures.
Marusha also speaks passionately about social impact—highlighting the actuary’s role in breaking down systemic barriers to financial inclusion, the importance of products that truly serve people, and the benefits of mutual insurance companies.
Marusha book picks:
The Boy Who Never Gave Up: A Refugee's Epic Journey to Triumph by Emmanuel Taban
Grit by Angela Duckworth
Children of sugarcane by Joanne Joseph
Genius by Bruce Whitfield
Four Future Seasons by Dr Craig Wing
Connect with Marusha Nariansamy on these platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marusha-nariansamy-198928154/
Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/
Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/
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59:28
Universal Health Coverage in Africa: What South Africa Can Learn from Rwanda & Ghana
What will it take to make Universal Health Coverage a reality in South Africa?
In this episode of In Focus, Lubalethu Dube speaks with healthcare analyst Kgaogelo Maredi about the lessons we can draw from Rwanda and Ghana—two African countries making major strides in healthcare access.
Together, they unpack the essential ingredients for success: strong political leadership, cross-sector collaboration, long-term funding strategies, and governance.
They also examine major risks, including over-reliance on donor funding, fraud, and healthcare infrastructure gaps in rural areas. Above all, Kgaogelo reminds us: this is not an overnight process—it’s a decades-long effort that demands vision, patience, and trust.
Connect with Kgaogelo Maredi on these platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kgaogelo-maredi-8203a8128/
Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/
Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/
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27:45
Melissa Ramsamy-Agapitus is an open book
In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Pamela Hellig is joined by Melissa Ramsamy-Agapitus, a trailblazing leader in the financial services industry. With a career spanning roles in actuarial science, strategy, and operations across Africa, Melissa shares her journey from a young girl in Durban with big dreams to an executive shaping change in the sector.
Together, they explore the value of intentional leadership, her passion for transformation and inclusion, and how her upbringing and cultural heritage continue to guide her. Melissa opens up about navigating corporate spaces as a woman of colour, learning to manage energy rather than time, and the importance of self-acceptance.
This conversation goes beyond boardrooms and career milestones—it’s about courage, community, and the inner work of becoming a grounded, values-led leader.
Subscribe for more stories from the actuarial and insurance community, told through the books that shape the people behind the professions.
Melissa’s book picks:
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Magda: My Journey by Magdalena Wierzycka
Boardroom Dancing by Nolitha Fakude
The Enneagram of Parenting by Elizabeth Wagele
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Connect with Melissa Ramsamy-Agapitus on these platforms:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-ramsamy-agapitus-69a12680/
Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/
Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/
Welcome to “In Focus, with Insight,” a podcast that ignites curiosity and explores diverse perspectives on business, technology, and innovation in the health and life insurance landscape. Facilitated by Insight, a leader in consulting, actuarial modeling, data management, business intelligence, clinical consulting, and analytics. This podcast series takes a focused approach to exploring the ever-evolving industry.
At Insight, we thrive on curiosity and embrace the power of data as tenacious problem solvers. Our integrated skillset and diverse expertise enable us to offer cutting-edge solutions to complex challenges. Join us on this exploratory journey as we dive into data-driven insights, delve into captivating case studies, explore thought-provoking concepts, and uncover emerging trends.
Let your curiosity be our compass as we embark on an inspiring exploration of the world of health and life insurance.
South Africa