Shapers Podcast

In this episode of Shapers Podcast, host Benjamin Shaw is joined by Habib Noorbhai – professor, entrepreneur, author and former Mr South Africa. Together, they bring us an intriguing conversation about the human body as "the most sophisticated piece of technology we'll ever work with". Habib shares how he has built his career at the intersection of science and innovation, translating biomechanics and performance research into real-world applications through entrepreneurship and collaboration with startups. This delves into African leadership, peer-to-peer learning and what it takes to move knowledge out of journals and into products, platforms and everyday lives. Presented by EXEO Capital

What does the future of agriculture look like when you blend risk, branding and bold thinking? In this crossover episode, Shapers co-host Riël Mallan joins Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie on the Lucentlands Podcast to reflect on three decades of hard-earned lessons in agri-business, brand building and navigating change in a deregulated market. From his early days trading in a shifting post-90s environment to building premium fruit export brands and shaping investment strategies in private equity, Riël brings his signature blend of wisdom, wit and candour to the conversation. This episode dives into: The realities of deregulation and what it taught farmers about risk Why product quality alone won't cut it in a brand-driven world How private equity changed his outlook on scale, succession and sustainability Whether you're in farming, finance, or just fascinated by how bold ideas take root – this is an unmissable listen. 🎧 Available on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of Shapers, host Benjamin Shaw sits down with Professor Japie Greeff – electronic engineer, AI educator and one of South Africa's leading minds in gamification and serious game design. With over two decades of experience spanning RF design, embedded systems, software development and academia, Japie brings a compelling perspective on how play, purpose and technology intersect. From his early days in product manufacturing to his current role as Deputy Director of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems at North-West University, Japie shares how he's turned his passion for persuasive design into powerful learning tools that impact people on a deeply human level. This conversation sheds light on: How gamification can replace drudgery with meaning The psychology behind motivation and reward systems Why serious games are more than just fun And how the future of education and capability-building may well be game-shaped If you've ever wondered how games can change the world – start here. Presented by EXEO Capital

In this episode of Shapers, host Benjamin Shaw is joined by Bernard Laurendeau – a trailblazing entrepreneur and founder of Laurendeau & Associates. With roots in Ethiopia and France, and over 15 years of experience advising Fortune 500 companies, Bernard shares his unique journey from Silicon Valley to Addis Ababa and Tokyo. They discuss the launch of Enkopa Lab Japan, a new advisory firm empowering Japanese businesses to expand into African markets, and the broader implications of tech, data and partnerships in shaping Africa's economic future. This conversation offers critical insights into market development, intercultural strategy and what it takes to execute impactful change across continents. Presented by EXEO Capital

In the final episode of Shapers for 2024, Co-Hosts Riël Mallan and Benjamin Shaw reflect on an extraordinary season filled with insights from leaders like Prof Nkuhlu, Dion Chang and Caitlin Nash. They also highlight key trends shaping the future and share holiday cheer while looking ahead to what 2025 has in store. Perfect for a reflective moment during the festive season!