Shapers Podcast

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 business landscape, helping companies navigate complex change. With 20 years of experience in the media industry and a deep passion for youth trends and subcultures, Dion brings a unique perspective to the podcast. Join the conversation as Dion shares his journey, lessons learned and the impact of international movements on the markets within South Africa. Beyond his role as a trend analyst, Dion has added a new dimension to his story recently. Learn what it is to be an 'end-of-life companion doula', on the podcast today! Tune in to hear how exceptional individuals like Dion are shaping the African leadership landscape. This episode is proudly sponsored by EXEO Capital.

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 journey. This episode offers a candid discussion on entrepreneurial wisdom, coupled with personal anecdotes – from learning in Stellenbosch an upbringing by a journalist mom and actuarial dad, and school days playing hockey! Don't miss this opportunity to connect with a true industry luminary.

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 discussion, we delve into these endeavours in detail, aiming to provide a candid and hopeful exploration that we trust you will find both enlightening and inspiring.

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 Street investor in the United States. However, his journey took a unique turn as he dove into the world of venture capital, leveraging his expertise in corporate finance and venture building to facilitate the growth of startups. His extensive career includes roles such as Head of Africa Investments at U-Start and Chief Investment Officer at Startupbootcamp Africa. Zachariah George is also known as one of the most prolific seed-stage investors in Africa, and it's fascinating to learn all about his entrepreneurial adventure that started during early childhood already. You're not going to want to miss this one!

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, and the pivotal moments that have made her the remarkable individual she is today.

In this episode Riël Malan has a discussion about one of South Africa's great heroes with historian Dr Yvonne Malan. Adolph, or more popularly known as Sailor, Malan was the Royal Air Force's number 1 fighter pilot who died of war-induced trauma and Parkinson disease at age 52 in 1963. After fighting in the war, Sailor chaired the Torch Commando, an organisation of 250 00 white members. Other than the ANC, it was the largest anti-apartheid organisation that South Africa has ever seen. Yet this is largely forgotten, and written out of history. For more fascinating insights into this forgotten hero, that is as relevant today as it was then, take a listen.

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.