Habib Mahakian on leadership, AI, and South Africa’s technology future

How Blu Label Unlimited reinvented itself

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.

AI in healthcare_ Transforming patient safety, access, and quality of care

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.

Nico van der Merwe on ethical accounting and building South Africa’s financial future

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.

Habib Mahakian on leadership, AI, and South Africa’s technology future

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.

Dillan Fernando on putting customer-first technology at the heart of Tracker

In this episode of What’s Next, Aki Anastasiou speaks to Dillan Fernando – Chief Executive Officer at Tracker about how the company is redefining itself as a technology business built around customer care. Dillan explains why being in front of customers, understanding their real challenges, and delivering tailored data-driven solutions sits at the heart of Tracker’s strategy. From B2C vehicle tracking to complex B2B fleet solutions, he shares how the company’s expanded product portfolio is shaped directly by customer needs. The conversation explores innovations such as AI-powered analytics, advanced camera systems, in-cab alcohol detection, engine and fuel monitoring, and fully integrated end-to-end solutions. Dillan outlines his vision for Tracker as a technology-led organization that combines predictive intelligence, IoT capabilities, and meaningful data insights — while staying firmly committed to face-to-face engagement and a customer-first culture.