What's Next with Aki Anastasiou

In this episode of What’s Next, Aki sits down with Morné, Chief Technology Officer at Logicalis, to unpack how artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping modern business. The discussion explores why many organizations are struggling to keep pace with AI adoption, despite the enormous pressure to innovate and remain competitive. Drawing from recent CIO research, Morné explains that while businesses are eager to embrace AI, many are failing to implement it strategically, leading to stalled pilot projects, wasted investment, and a lack of measurable business value.

The conversation also dives into the growing risks and leadership challenges tied to AI transformation, including cybersecurity threats, governance, data management, and the ongoing shortage of digital skills. Morné emphasizes that AI success is no longer just a technology issue — it is a leadership responsibility that requires collaboration, clear governance, responsible scaling, and continuous learning. The episode concludes with practical advice for CIOs and executives on how to embed AI securely and effectively into everyday business operations while preparing organizations for the rapidly evolving digital future.

Logicalis CIO Report - https://www.za.logicalis.com/cio-report-za

In this episode of What’s Next with Aki Anastasiou, Aki sits down with Blu Label Unlimited co-founders and joint CEOs Brett and Mark Levy for an in-depth conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, innovation, and one of South Africa’s most remarkable corporate turnaround stories.

The Levy brothers reflect on their journey from selling car stereos while still in school to building Blu Label into a multi-billion-rand fintech and technology powerhouse. They unpack the difficult seven-year journey of rescuing Cell C from collapse, explain Blu Label’s evolution beyond telecoms into fintech and energy, and reveal exciting new innovations including their upcoming integrated voucher platform and Blu Energy strategy. It’s a candid and inspiring discussion about leadership, culture, risk-taking, and building businesses that solve real-world problems.

In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou is joined by Prof. Sabelile Tenza of North-West University and Dr. Richard Greenhill, Founder of SmartSigma AI, for a powerful discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping global healthcare systems. From overwhelmed hospitals and clinician burnout to diagnostic delays and fragmented care, the conversation highlights the immense pressures facing healthcare worldwide — and how AI is emerging as a critical tool to support, not replace, medical professionals. The guests unpack how AI can improve early diagnosis, reduce administrative burdens, and act as a “second set of eyes” for clinicians, ultimately enabling better patient outcomes.

The discussion also explores the unique challenges and opportunities within South Africa and the broader African context, where resource constraints are driving innovative, mobile-first solutions. Prof. Tenza emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations, patient trust, and local data relevance, while Dr. Greenhill highlights the need for adaptable skills, informed skepticism, and equitable AI deployment. Together, they paint a compelling picture of a future where technology and human expertise work hand-in-hand — ensuring healthcare systems are not only more efficient, but also more inclusive, ethical, and responsive to real-world needs.

In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Professor Nico van der Merwe – Deputy Director in the School of Accounting Sciences at North-West University – about the role of ethical, future-ready accountants in strengthening South Africa’s financial systems. Nico reflects on his academic journey and the university’s success in producing top-performing graduates, while highlighting how a lack of ethical financial oversight can lead to corporate failures, weakened public trust, and broader economic consequences. He emphasizes that accounting is not just technical, but deeply tied to responsibility, transparency, and accountability across both the private and public sectors.

He also shares insights on how the profession is evolving in the age of AI, where automation is reshaping traditional roles and placing greater importance on critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and ethical leadership. Nico explains how NWU prepares students through challenging, real-world learning experiences that build resilience and integrated thinking. From developing corporate citizens to encouraging continuous professional development, he outlines how collaboration between education, industry, and government is essential to cultivating accountants who can drive sustainable growth and improve governance in South Africa.

In this episode of What’s Next, Dell Technologies South Africa Vice President and Managing Director Habib Mahakian reflects on his 25-year journey in the technology industry, from studying computer engineering in Jordan to leading businesses across the Middle East and Africa. He shares how curiosity, problem-solving, and a passion for leadership shaped his career, while also discussing the early days of personal computing and the rapid evolution of technology over the past two decades.

The conversation also explores leadership, artificial intelligence, and South Africa’s growing importance in the global tech landscape. Habib highlights the country’s strong infrastructure, talent, and innovation potential, while emphasizing the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and continuous learning. Beyond business, he offers personal insights into balancing a demanding global career with family life.