In this episode of InFocus with Insight, host Pamela Hellig is joined by CEO Old Mutual Life and Savings, Prabashini Moodley, for a deeply insightful conversation about leadership, identity, and the role of growth in shaping South Africa’s future. Together, they explore Prabashini’s journey from being the youngest of four sisters growing up in a small town to a dazzling career which has seen her taking the helm of one of South Africa’s largest insurers. Prabashini shares some of the books that have shaped her life and outlook, from Yuval Noah Harari’s 21 Lessons for the 21st Century, which highlights the importance of humility and resilience in an uncertain world, to Joanne Joseph’s Children of Sugarcane, a powerful exploration of ancestry, identity, and the enduring spirit of South Africa’s people. Prabashini’s book picks: Little Women by Louisa M Alcott A splendid exchange, How Trade shaped the world by William Bernstein 21 lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari Innovators Dilemma by Clayton Christensson Children of Sugarcane by Joanne Joseph Connect with Prabashini Moodley on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prabashini-moodley-254b513b/ 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 Lubalethu Dube at Foresight Dialogues 2024 as we celebrate a decade of impact and dive into a vital conversation with Yanga and Shelly-Ann. In this episode of In Focus, we unpack the role of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in shaping the future of South Africa’s healthcare system. From defining what health economics really means to exploring how HTA can reduce resource duplication and improve access to life-saving innovations, this conversation highlights the urgent need for a more unified and evidence-based approach to funding healthcare technologies. We also explore the vision of an independent HTA exchange, the challenges smaller funders face, and the ambition to bring transparency, equity, and efficiency into decision-making across the public and private sectors. Connect with Yanga and Shelly-Ann on these platforms: Yanga LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanga-nokhepheyi-msc-b33423143/ Shelly-Ann LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-mcgee-bb172913/ 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 award-winning financial journalist and author Maya Fisher-French (Maya on Money) to explore the intersections of money, media, and meaning. Join us to unpack the realities of money, media, and retirement in South Africa. From the dangers of TikTok financial advice and online scams to lifestyle inflation, abusive credit insurance, and the myths around retirement, Maya shares insights from decades of experience helping South Africans make smarter money decisions. We explore lessons from books like The Behaviour Gap, The Daily Stoic, and The Psychology of Money—and why financial rules of thumb often fail women due to longevity gaps and systemic bias. Maya also talks about her fight against abusive credit insurance, why the lottery is entertainment not a plan, and how financial education through TV, podcasts, and social media can truly change lives. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:01 - Introducing Maya Fisher-French 00:08:55 - Book 1: The Psychology of Money 00:13:07 - Financial Education and Planning 00:15:40 - Book 2: The Behaviour Gap 00:18:59 - Maya's Journey from Economics to Journalism 00:23:04 - The Misconceptions of Being a Celebrity 00:26:40 - Book 3: The Daily Stoic 00:31:21 - Maya's Interest in the Retirement Gap 00:31:32 - High Income Earners and Retirement 00:34:06 - Insurance and Credit Insurance 00:36:36 - Underwriting and Pooled Risk 00:41:46 - Maya's Book Recommendations 00:46:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Maya’s book picks: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel The Behaviour Gap by Carl Richards The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday Kings of Shanghai by Jonathan Kaufman A Gentleman in Moscow by Novel by Amor Towles Connect with Maya Fisher-French on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayaff/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayaonmoney/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MayaOnMoney YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mayaonmoney4043 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, Barry Childs sits down with Andrew Donaldson — economist, former National Treasury official, and academic — to unpack South Africa’s complex journey with health financing reform. Drawing on decades of experience in public finance and health policy, Andrew reflects on the lessons of the Taylor Committee, the stalled momentum of institutional reforms, and the challenge of balancing bold policy visions like National Health Insurance (NHI) with the practical realities of implementation. We explore how South Africa’s health financing debates have evolved since the 1990s, the milestones and reform efforts that shaped the conversation, and why progress toward universal healthcare has slowed over time. We also unpack the risks of chasing “big ideas” without delivery, and highlight the importance of trust, experimentation, and partnerships in building a stronger, more equitable healthcare system. Connect with Chris Watney on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://saldru.uct.ac.za/contacts/andrew-donaldson 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 powerful episode of the In Focus Podcast, Lubalethu Dube sits down with the dynamic Dr. Michael Mol to unpack his talk from Insight’s 10-Year Celebration. They explore what it really means to avoid a slow death, why healthspan matters more than lifespan, and how small, consistent habits can radically transform your life. From confronting the overwhelming health advice on social media to understanding the five simple pillars of well-being—eating real food, sleeping well, moving daily, cultivating connection, and finding your why—Dr. Mol reminds us that being healthy is easier than we think. This episode is more than just health tips—it’s a heartfelt conversation about loss, legacy, and choosing life with intention. Whether you're navigating your 20s or planning for your 80s, this one will leave you reflecting on what truly matters. Connect with Dr. Michael Mol on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmol/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.michaelmol 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 Pamela Hellig in this episode of In Focus with Insight: The Open Book Series as she sits down with Amogelang Kgaladi — Group Chief Actuary at Guardrisk, MBA graduate, and one of Mail & Guardian’s 200 Young South Africans (2020). Amo takes us on his journey from starting his actuarial career at EY, leading corporate actuarial at First National Bank, and pivoting into strategy and M&A at McKinsey, to his current leadership role at Guardrisk. He shares the books, ideas, and experiences that have shaped his approach to leadership, strategy, and high-performing teams. Amo reveals how conscious decisions, courageous conversations, and psychological insights can drive success, offering practical advice on building trust, giving feedback, and leading with clarity and empathy. This episode is packed with actionable insights for aspiring leaders, Amogelang’s book picks: No Rules Rules by Erin Meyer and Reed Hastings 10 Golden Stars to Leadership Excellence by Dr Tom Dreyer Strategy Beyond The Hockey Stick by Chris Bradley, Martin Hirt, and Sven Smit Take Charge by Nyimpini Mabunda Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara Connect with Amogelang Kgaladi on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amogelang-kgaladi-fassa-mba-3bbbbba0/ 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 In Focus with Insight episode at Foresight’s 10th anniversary, host Lubalethu Dube chats with healthcare consultant Shannon Phillips about the power of collaboration between South Africa’s public and private healthcare sectors. Shannon shares real-life stories of how the Voula app is bridging the gap—connecting primary care providers with specialists, streamlining referrals, and ensuring patients get the right care at the right time. From faster diagnoses to seamless transitions between sectors, this conversation reveals how technology can transform healthcare delivery. Connect with Shannon Phillips on these platforms: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-phillips-61b1081a9/ 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 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/

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/

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/

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/

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/