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/

In this episode of In Focus with Insight, host Masimba sits down with Nomfundo Khabela, Strategic Relationships Executive at Health Bridge, to explore the transformative potential of AI in the healthcare sector. Nomfundo shares her personal and professional journey—from growing up between South Africa, Scotland, and New York to working across the African continent—and discusses how Health Bridge is helping hospitals, path labs, and funders embrace digitisation. Whether you're a clinician, health tech innovator, or just curious about the future of medicine—this conversation offers deep insight and inspiration. Connect with Nomfundo Khabela on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nomfundo-khabela/ 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/

In this special episode of InFocus from the Board of Healthcare Funders Conference, we sit down with Dr. Magome Masike — medical doctor, healthcare leader, and Registrar of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Fresh off the stage, Dr. Masike shares insights from his talk on regulatory reform, universal health coverage, and the evolving challenges of the healthcare sector. From tackling bogus practitioners and counterfeit medicine to staying ahead of fast-moving technologies like artificial intelligence, he unpacks how the HPCSA is working collaboratively to safeguard patient care and strengthen the medical profession. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation on integrity, innovation, and impact in healthcare regulation. Connect with Margie Conradie on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magome-masike-8918b5/ 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/

In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Pamela Hellig sits down with the remarkable Margie Conradie, a healthcare actuary, high school mathematics teacher, university lecturer, and the voice behind the podcast So What's It Actuary About? Margie’s career has taken her from consulting to teaching at a boys' boarding school, and now to lecturing and furthering her studies through a master's in education. She also runs a YouTube channel dedicated to helping matric students through past paper walkthroughs. Together, they explore Margie’s deep love of books and how stories, especially audiobooks, helped her overcome early struggles with reading. From her childhood filled with cassette tapes to her current audiobook-fuelled multitasking lifestyle, Margie shares the role that literature plays in her life—and why characters like Samwise Gamgee and Anne of Green Gables continue to inspire her. This is more than just a conversation about books. It’s about resilience, creativity in education, and the joy of building learning environments that are engaging, inclusive, and transformative. Subscribe for more stories from the actuarial and insurance community, told through the books that shape the people behind the professions. Margie’s book picks: Middle March by George Eliot The Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson Connect with Margie Conradie on these platforms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margsmack/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margie-conradie-mackechnie-85318386/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Sowhatsitactuaryabout 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/

In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Lubalethu Dube talks with Michelle Beneke, an attorney and company secretary, about board succession planning in medical schemes. They discuss governance gaps in the Medical Schemes Act, balancing institutional memory with fresh thinking, and practical ways to improve board effectiveness. Michelle highlights how committees can train and identify future board members and shares insights on BHF’s initiative to include non-directors in board discussions. This approach broadens representation and helps develop future leaders in governance. She emphasizes that governance isn’t just about rules—it’s about practical application and continuous learning. Like refining a recipe, adjustments are necessary to achieve the best outcome. She encourages innovation, patience, and a willingness to try new approaches. She also reminds BHF members that a governance committee is available for support. If you need guidance, reach out to the BHF. Connect with Michelle on these platforms: Michelle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-beneke-23116030/ 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/

In this episode of Open Books, Pamela Hellig sits down with Nicky Patchett, an experienced actuary and Head of Actuarial Function for multiple Old Mutual entities. Nicky shares insights from her career journey, her involvement in the actuarial profession, and her passion for justice and championing the interests of policyholders. In fact, a striking message emerges from her book selection – one of tolerance, understanding and focusing on the things that make people similar rather than what divides them. She also talks about her family life, her recently found hobby of figure skating, as well as how books have both shaped and reflected her thinking and approach to life. Nicky’s book picks: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee I Heard the Owl Call My Name by Margaret Craven Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books by Kirsten Miller Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières Connect with Nicky Patchett by email: Email: npatchett@yahoo.com 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/

Join us for an insightful episode of In Focus as we dive into a conversation with Dr Sara Touirsi, a psychiatrist from Casablanca, Morocco, speaking live from the BHF Conference in Cape Town. Dr Touirsi shares her unique perspectives on the intersection of climate change and mental health, touching on topics like eco-anxiety, PTSD, and how global crises are shaping our mental well-being. Discover how mental health is influenced by environmental changes and why it's crucial to address these challenges across Africa. We also explore the cultural stigmas surrounding mental health in African societies and the importance of accepting and confronting mental illness in a holistic way. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on mental health, leadership, and the future of global health. Connect with Dr Sara Touirsi on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saratouirsi/ Follow us on social media: 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/

In this episode of Open Books, Pamela Hellig chats to Dalisu Dube, CEO and Founder of Linar Insurance, for an inspiring conversation that bridges entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. Dalisu shares his journey from growing up in a small town to leading a micro-insurance company with a purpose-driven mindset. He discusses the importance of learning from diverse experiences, the power of mentorship, and embracing failures and challenges as the path to success. Dalisu also talks about how his passion for serving the lower income market has led to initiatives like Linar’s partnership with Stockvel Academy and the establishment of MIASA (Microinsurance Association of South Africa). Throughout the episode, Pamela and Dalisu explore key lessons from books like David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell and The Lean Startup by Eric Ries. Dalisu explains how these works have shaped his approach to leadership and innovation, emphasising the importance of taking action and building sustainable solutions that serve others. Tune in for an uplifting discussion on overcoming challenges, entrepreneurship, and building a legacy, and discover how Dalisu's purpose is rooted in helping others grow, both financially and personally. Dalisu’s book picks: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight The First President by Heather Hughes The Lean Startup Book by Eric Ries Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell Connect with Dalisu Dube on these platforms: Dalisu LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalisudube/ Linar Insurance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/linar-insurance/ Email: dalisudube@linar.co.za 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/

In this episode of In Focus with Insights, Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, hosts a special edition of the Open Books series. This episode celebrates Insight's 10th anniversary and the last episode of 2024 with special guest, Barry Childs, Group CEO of Insight. Join Barry as he reflects on 10 years of Insight, lessons learnt along the way, and his personal journey and achievements as a healthcare actuary. The conversation also dives into Barry’s personal reading list, exploring both fiction and non-fiction authors that inspire his approach to leadership, systems thinking, and problem-solving. Barry’s diverse interests reflect a curious mind constantly seeking new perspectives. Tune in to hear insights on business, personal growth, and the books that have shaped this leader’s outlook. Barry’s author picks: Dr. Dan Ariely Edwards Deming Nassim Nicholas Taleb Eliyahu M Goldratt Muhammad Yunus Terry Pratchett Connect with Barry Childs & Insight Group on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrychilds/Insight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barry.childs.9 X: https://x.com/barrychilds Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, sits down with Costa Economou, the President of the Actuarial Society of South Africa and founder of Colourfield Liability Solutions. Costa, a highly accomplished actuary with an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a CFA, CAIA and CQF Charter holder, shares his remarkable professional journey and leadership insights. In this episode of Open Books, Costa shares his experiences of growing up as the son of Greek immigrants, begging for his first job on hands and knees (literally!) and the leap of faith he took into entrepreneurship. Costa also delves into how literature serves as both an intellectual challenge and a form of escapism amidst his demanding roles as CEO, President of the Actuarial Society, non-executive director of insurers, and father of twins. Tune in to discover Costa's favourite reads, his thoughts on the evolving actuarial profession, and how books and stories continue to inspire his leadership and vision for the future. Whether you’re a bibliophile, an actuarial professional, or simply curious about what drives an industry leader, this conversation offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration. Costa’s book picks: A Gentleman In Moscow by Amor Towles Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela Rafa My Story by Rafael Nadal Connect with Costa Economou on these platforms Email: costa@colourfield.co.za or president@actuarialsociety.org.za LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/costa-economou-b555361b/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

Join us for another episode of the Open Book series on "In Focus with Insight," where host Pamela Hellig dives into the world of books with leaders from the actuarial and insurance community. In this episode, Pamela sits down with Darren Behrendt, CEO of Investec Life (and holder of a PhD in Mathematics), to discuss his career journey, from academia to co-founding businesses across South Africa, Canada, and Europe. Darren shares his love of reading, the great adventure of fatherhood, and how the books he loves have shaped his leadership and vision for Investec Life. Darren’s book picks: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand Fooled by Randomness, Antifragile, Skin in the Game and The Black Swan by Nassim Nicholas Taleb The Lessons of History by Will Durant and Ariel Durant The Body by Bill Bryson The Undoing Project and The Big Short by Michael Lewis The 100-Year Life by Lynda Gratton and Andrew Scott The World Atlas of Coffee by James Hoffmann Connect with Darren Behrendt on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-behrendt-108b41b6/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

In this episode, we have an insightful conversation with Soshan Soobramoney, an accomplished actuary, lecturer at the University of Johannesburg, and co-founder of the Actuaries in the Making virtual vacation work programme. Soshan takes us through his remarkable journey – often reflected in the books he has read – from a successful corporate career to full-time academia. We cover the trauma that can be caused by actuarial studies (a topic Soshan is currently researching); the importance of being allowed to make mistakes; and the beauty of mathematics – a subject in which Soshan is currently pursuing his PhD. Throughout our discussion, we touch on the books that have significantly shaped his thinking and marked milestones and eras of his life. Soshan’s story offers a deep dive into education, personal development, and the power of fostering environments where independent thought thrives. Soshan’s book picks: The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling The Magic of Reality by Richard Dawkins The Promise That Changes Everything by Nancy Kline What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey & Bruce D. Perry Connect with Soshan Soobramoney & Insight Group on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soshan-soobramoney-8463704/ University of Johannesburg: https://www.uj.ac.za/members/soshan-soobramoney/

Join us in this episode of In Focus with Insight as Head of Insight Life Solutions, Pamela Hellig, sits down with Stefanus van der Linde, the Product Owner for Funeral business at MMH. Stefanus shares his insights into the funeral cover market, explaining the key differences between funeral cover and life cover, and unpacking the trends and challenges faced by insurers offering these products and their clientele. Going hand-in-hand with his passion for the market he serves and solving societal problems, is Stefanus’ leadership journey. He also delves into the importance of company culture, collaboration, and creating a psychologically safe work environment. Stefanus' reflections on leadership, team motivation, and the parallels with South Africa's economic landscape provide valuable lessons for both industry professionals and aspiring leaders. Don't miss this conversation that connects the dots between funeral insurance, leadership, and societal challenges in South Africa. Connect with Stefanus van der Linde on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanus-van-der-linde-042689325/ 🔗 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insightactuaries LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

In this episode of the Insight Podcast "In Focus," we welcome Dr. Michael Gone from Kenya to discuss his fascinating journey in the healthcare sector. Recorded at the Board of Health Funders Conference 2024, Dr. Gone shares his experiences and the significant strides Rwanda has made in its public healthcare system. Dr. Gone provides an overview of Rwanda's healthcare framework, highlighting the success of the Community-Based Health Insurance (CBHI) scheme, which covers over 80% of the population. He explains the critical aspects that led to CBHI's success, such as compulsory enrolment and public sector service provision. Dive deep into the specifics of Rwanda's healthcare reforms, including the move towards capitation payment mechanisms and the role of the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) in managing funds and claims. Dr. Gone also discusses private sector engagement and the collaboration between public and private entities to enhance healthcare delivery in Rwanda. Join us for an enlightening conversation on the transformation of Rwanda's healthcare system and the lessons it offers for other nations. Connect with Dr. Michael Gone on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michael-gone/ 🔗 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insightactuaries LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

In this episode of In Focus with Insight, Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, hosts a special edition of the Open Books series. This episode marks the celebration of Insight's 10th anniversary, with special guest Christoff Raath, CEO of Insight Actuarial Solutions. Christoff Raath, a renowned health actuary with over 20 years of experience, shares some of his life and career journey through the books that he has read and loved. Join the conversation as Christoff delves into his reading habits, from science fiction, fantasy and computer programming in high school to business literature and philosophy in his adult life. Don't miss this engaging discussion on Life, the Universe and Everything, all while celebrating a decade of Insight. Christoff's book picks: The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck Fooled by Randomness by Nassim Nicholas Taleb Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson A Conflict of Visions by Thomas Sowell Bad Blood by John Carreyrou Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams Connect with Chistoff Raath and Insight on these platforms: Christoff's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christoff-raath-66336a3/ Insight LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight-actuaries-&-consultants/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insight_za/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insightactuaries/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

Welcome to In Focus with Insight! Hosted by Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, the Open Books series delves into the inspiring stories of actuaries and the books that have shaped their professional and personal lives. In this episode, Pamela is joined by Rosanne Harris, a distinguished healthcare actuary with a rich career in the actuarial profession. Rosanne studied at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), where she still teaches, and she qualified as an actuary in 1996. Throughout her career, Rosanne has made significant contributions to the actuarial community. She has chaired numerous committees, including the Health Committee, Transformation Committee, Tuition Committee, and the Education Board of the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA). Notably, she served as ASSA president from 2016 to 2017 and was the president of the International Actuarial Association (IAA) in 2022. Currently, Rosanne heads the Policy and Regulatory Affairs Unit at Discovery Health and serves as an adjunct professor in the School of Statistics and Actuarial Science. Join Pamela and Rosanne as they explore Rosanne's career journey, her work on phenomena such as Covid and NHI, and the books that have influenced her along the way. This episode offers a blend of professional insights and literary inspiration, perfect for anyone interested in how actuaries can contribute to solving societal problems, healthcare, or a love of reading. Roseanne's book picks: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman Justice: A Personal Account by Edwin Camerom Animal Farm by George Orwell Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell Connect with Roseanne Harris on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roseanne-harris-73175112/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Open Books podcast on In Focus with Insight! Hosted by Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, this series explores the lives and careers of fascinating individuals in the actuarial and insurance communities through the lens of the books that have influenced them. In this episode, Pamela sits down with Elsa Beytell, Head of the Internal Consulting Unit at Old Mutual. She has a wealth of experience in the global financial sector, having worked in SA and the UK. She started her career in South Africa before moving to the UK where she predominantly worked at Old Mutual Plc and at Swiss Re. After 12 years in the UK Elsa return to South Africa where she was the Managing Director of OMART, a cell captive life insurer, before she joined the Internal Consultancy at the end of 2021. Join us as Elsa shares insights into her career, her passion for books, and how literature has shaped her professional journey. From her early love of reading to the impactful leadership lessons drawn from classics like Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning" and Edith Eger's "The Choice", Elsa's story is one of resilience, growth, and eternal curiosity. Don't miss this episode as we delve into Elsa's experiences, her approach to leadership, and the innovative projects keeping her busy at Old Mutual. Whether you're an avid reader, an insurance professional, or someone interested in personal development, this conversation promises to be enlightening and inspiring. Elsa’s book picks: Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl The Choice by Edith Eger Books by Jim Collins and Clayton Christianson When breath becomes air by Paul Kalanithi Think again by Adam Grant Daring Greatly by Brené Brown Connect with Elsa Beytell on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elsa-beytell-558a96/ Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

In the latest episode of our Open Books series on the In Focus with Insight podcast, viewers are in for a treat as host Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, picks the brain of Louis Rossouw, an esteemed figure in the actuarial community. Louis, serving as the Segment Head of Research and Analytics at Gen Re, as well as on the ASSA Council, brings a wealth of expertise and curiosity to the table. Many in the actuarial community are familiar with Louis's engaging presentations showcased at conventions and seminars, where he shares his ground-breaking research and insights. Join us as we delve into Louis Rossouw's literary journey, uncovering the books that have shaped his perspectives and inspired his remarkable contributions to the field. Louis' book picks: The Foundation Universe by Isaac Asimov Middle Earth by JRR Tolkien The Discworld Series Terry Pratchett The Space Odyssey series by Arthur C Clarke Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder Connect with Louis Rossouw on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisrossouw/ Twitter or X: https://twitter.com/lrossouw Blog: https://unsupervised.online/ GitHub: https://github.com/lrossouw Gen Re website: https://www.genre.com/us/knowledge/contributors/louis-rossouw Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

Welcome to The In Focus Podcast brought to you by Insight, hosted by Nicole Kriek and featuring guest Andrew Le Roux. Andrew shares insights from his diverse career, spanning from his time at Old Mutual to his current venture in the health-tech sector. He discusses the broader impact actuaries can make beyond traditional roles and also reflects on his experience on the Council of the Actuarial Society of South Africa. The conversation explores the importance of mental health advocacy, highlighting Andrew's involvement in a startup focusing on employee well-being. Lastly, Andrew sheds light on his role in a tech company in the mining industry, emphasising the value of business expertise in complementing technical skills. Join them for a discussion on career diversification, societal impact and finding your personal niche. Connect with Andrew Le Roux on these socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-le-roux/ Twitter or X: https://twitter.com/andrewmleroux Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewmleroux/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@andrewmleroux Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/

Welcome to the latest episode of Open Books – a series of the In Focus with Insight podcast. In this instalment, Pamela Hellig, Head of Insight Life Solutions, gets to know NED, author, executive coach, speaker and actuary, Marjorie Ngwenya, through the books she has read and loved. Marjorie is known in actuarial circles for, amongst many other things, having been the youngest person and first person of colour to serve as President of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, and for being an external member of the Prudential Regulation Committee of the Bank England. In this episode of Open Books, we learn more about her passion for mentoring, coaching, and, of course, reading, by looking at her career journey through the lens of the books she considers to have been most influential in her life. Marjorie is not only a reader, but also a published author. We talk about her new book, "Empowered Evolution”, which aims to empower individuals to shape their mindsets, discover their purpose, and thrive with momentum. Marjorie’s book picks: • A Course in Miracles by Helen Schucman • The Courage to be Disliked by Fumitake Koga and Ichiro Kishimi • A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry • Dune by Frank Herbert • Letting Go by David Hawkins Connect with Marjorie Ngwenya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjoriengwenya/ Visit her website: https://aboutmarjorie.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmarj/ Buy Marjorie’s book, “Empowered Evolution”: https://www.amazon.com/Empowered-Evolution-Mindset-Discover-Momentum/dp/1948382741 Visit our website: https://www.insight.co.za/